The excitement around Marvel Rivals is palpable as its roster expands, signaling a commitment to diversity in its character lineup. The developers have expressed an eagerness to incorporate a wide range of figures from the Marvel universe. While the anticipated hero shooter is set to be launched on December 6 with 25 free-to-play heroes, including major characters like Captain America and lesser-known figures such as Jeff the Land Shark, the potential for new additions after the initial release is vast.
During a discussion with VG247, executive producer Danny Koo highlighted that the development team has no restrictions on character choices as long as they originate from the Marvel universe. The primary requirement is for these characters to possess unique traits, offering engaging gameplay and contributing positively to the game's character ensemble.
Koo further emphasized that the range of available characters is extensive, boasting over 9,000 options. This vast selection requires careful consideration to determine which characters are suitable for the game. The focus lies on how these characters integrate with both the game environment and their existing lore within Marvel Rivals.
The developers at NetEase are meticulously evaluating the individuality of each character in relation to those already in the game while ensuring a balanced blend of iconic heroes and unique personalities. Although most of the roster tends to feature familiar names, an effort is being made to include surprising choices, evident in the selection of Luna Snow, a character with limited comic book appearances.
This broad strategy means a plethora of characters spanning Marvel’s extensive history can potentially be included. Whether it’s Howard the Duck, Cosmo, or even a more obscure reference like Peter Parker's landlord's daughter from Spider-Man 2, the possibilities seem endless. Previously, data mining efforts indicated around 39 characters for Marvel Rivals, but the future holds infinite potential for new surprises.
However, while the roster has generated enthusiasm, early previews have noted that Marvel Rivals may struggle to compete effectively with established titles like Overwatch. The balance between a star-studded lineup and the overall gameplay experience remains to be fully evaluated.