Marvel Rivals Receives Pre-Season 1 Balance Patch with Buffs and Nerfs

NetEase has deployed a balance patch for Marvel Rivals ahead of Season 1's January 10th launch. The update features adjustments to numerous characters and team-up abilities, addressing community feedback and preparing the game for its upcoming content drop.

Marvel Rivals, a popular hero-shooter released late in 2024, blends iconic Marvel characters with team-based gameplay. Season 1, focused on the Fantastic Four, is on the horizon, but this pre-emptive patch introduces significant changes to the existing roster.

The patch includes both nerfs and buffs across all hero categories. Several Duelists, including Black Panther, Hawkeye, Hela, and Scarlet Witch, received minor nerfs. However, Black Widow, Magik, Moon Knight, Wolverine, and Winter Soldier all received enhancements, ranging from increased health to shorter ability cooldowns. A particularly welcome adjustment is the buff to Storm, previously considered underpowered. Her Bolt Rush now deals 80 damage (up from 70), and her Wind Blade projectile speed has increased to 150m/s (from 100m/s).

Vanguards also see adjustments. Captain America and Thor receive health boosts, while Venom's Feast of the Abyss deals more damage. Among the Strategists, Cloak & Dagger, Jeff the Land Shark, Luna Snow, Mantis, and Rocket Raccoon all received tweaks. For instance, Cloak & Dagger's Dagger Storm cooldown is reduced, and Jeff's Joyful Splash heals more effectively. Rocket Raccoon's repair mode now offers a faster repair rate.

The patch also fine-tunes various team-up abilities. Some passive abilities have been adjusted, while others—providing offensive or defensive advantages—have seen cooldown reductions or damage adjustments. For example, Hawkeye and Black Widow's team-up bonus is reduced, as are bonuses for Hela, Thor, and Loki. Conversely, the Rocket Raccoon, Punisher, and Winter Soldier team-up now has a shorter cooldown.

Marvel Rivals Season 1 Balance Patch Notes (Summary):

Duelists: Significant changes to Storm, including increased damage and projectile speed. Other Duelists received targeted buffs and nerfs to balance gameplay.

Vanguards: Health increases for Captain America and Thor. Venom's ultimate ability is more potent.

Strategists: Improvements to healing and cooldown times for several Strategists.

Team-Up Abilities: Various adjustments to cooldown times and damage output for multiple team-up combinations. Several team-up bonuses have been reduced.

The full patch notes detailing individual character adjustments are available [link to full patch notes would go here]. This pre-Season 1 update promises a more balanced and engaging Marvel Rivals experience.