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Marvel Rivals

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Marvel Rivals
Item: Marvel Rivals
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Fighting, Strategy, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableDec 6, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperNetEase Games

Overview

Marvel Rivals is an hero shooter video game developed and published by NetEase Games in collaboration with Marvel Games. The game is free-to-play with a current line up of 26 characters from Marvel Comics.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Marvel Rivals" impresses with its ambitious multiversal concept, uniting heroes and villains against Doctor Doom, but critics are split on its execution. While some praise its engaging seasonal storyline and character interactions, others find the narrative shallow and poorly written, serving mainly as a backdrop for gameplay. Overall, the game appeals more to gameplay enthusiasts than those craving a deep, immersive story, leaving a divide in player expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of "Marvel Rivals" has garnered some positive recognition from critics, particularly for its ambitious multiversal premise. Reviewers like Meristation and XboxEra highlight the exciting concept of Marvel heroes and villains from various realities uniting against Doctor Doom and his counterparts, creating a cosmic conflict that appeals to fans of the franchise. TechRadar Gaming also notes the inclusion of an overarching seasonal storyline and character interactions, which adds depth and engagement for Marvel enthusiasts. CD-Action and Gameliner appreciate that the narrative serves as a backdrop for the character roster and gameplay mechanics, suggesting that the game effectively integrates its story with its core gameplay experience. On the flip side, several critics express dissatisfaction with the story's execution. God is a Geek and The Jimquisition emphasize the minimalistic nature of the narrative, describing it as lacking depth or engagement, which detracts from the overall gaming experience. Eurogamer criticizes the writing and character interactions as poor, with bland dialogue that fails to captivate players. Furthermore, GamesRadar+ points out that while the game features a story involving character collisions, it doesn't develop beyond simply setting up battles, leaving it feeling underwhelming. This sentiment is echoed by other critics who feel that the story serves primarily as an excuse for gameplay rather than a compelling narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while "Marvel Rivals" boasts an intriguing multiversal premise, its narrative execution falls short of expectations. Many reviewers, such as Digital Trends and GamingBolt, acknowledge the potential of the comic book-inspired lore but lament the lack of depth and engaging storytelling. Critics like God is a Geek and The Jimquisition reinforce the notion that the game prioritizes gameplay over story, which may appeal to some players but leaves others desiring a more substantial narrative experience. Ultimately, "Marvel Rivals" seems to cater more to gameplay enthusiasts than those seeking a rich and immersive story, reflecting a divide in player expectations.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Marvel Rivals impresses with its chaotic, team-focused gameplay and a diverse roster of 33 heroes, drawing comparisons to Overwatch and Team Fortress 2. Critics praise its accessibility and strategic depth, but significant issues like character imbalance, overwhelming chaos for newcomers, and a lack of originality hold it back. While it has potential, the game struggles with balancing and innovative mechanics, resulting in a fun but flawed experience in the hero shooter genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Marvel Rivals has garnered a range of positive feedback, particularly for its engaging and chaotic nature. Many critics, including CD-Action and LevelUp, appreciate the game's emphasis on teamwork and strategic play, which is reminiscent of successful titles like Overwatch and Team Fortress 2. The diverse roster of 33 heroes, as highlighted by TechRadar Gaming and Shacknews, allows for unique team compositions and synergies, enhancing the multiplayer experience. Additionally, the introduction of unique mechanics, such as Group Abilities noted by LevelUp, adds depth to team strategies, making the gameplay feel dynamic and varied. Critics like Gamer.no and IGN France also commend the accessibility and enjoyment of the gameplay, suggesting that it can be engaging for both new and experienced players. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant issues that detract from the overall experience. Critics such as Gameliner and Metro GameCentral have raised concerns about character balance, with some heroes being perceived as overpowered, leading to an uneven gameplay experience. The chaotic nature of the gameplay, while engaging, can also be overwhelming for new players, as noted by Gamer.no and Eurogamer. Furthermore, IGN and PC Games emphasize a lack of tactical depth, suggesting that the gameplay often devolves into a damage race rather than fostering genuine team collaboration. This sentiment is echoed by multiple critics who feel that the gameplay lacks originality, with many elements feeling familiar and standardized. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Marvel Rivals offers a fun and engaging hero shooter experience, it is marred by balancing issues and a lack of depth in strategic gameplay. Many reviewers, such as The Jimquisition and GamesRadar+, note that although the game has the potential to be a standout in the genre, it currently suffers from an identity crisis, relying heavily on established mechanics from other successful titles. The combination of chaotic gameplay and a diverse hero roster is appreciated, yet the need for better balance and more innovative gameplay mechanics is a recurring theme in the critiques. In summary, Marvel Rivals presents a promising multiplayer experience that requires refinement to truly shine in the competitive hero shooter landscape.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Marvel Rivals boasts vibrant, comic book-inspired graphics praised by critics for their stunning visual presentation and character design. While some reviewers flagged issues with readability and a cluttered user interface that may hinder gameplay, the overwhelming consensus is that its artistic style and dynamic environments create a visually captivating experience that overshadows the negatives.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Marvel Rivals is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its vibrant and engaging aesthetic. Reviewers from outlets like LevelUp and Metro GameCentral highlighted the game's stunning visual presentation, noting its comic book art style and well-designed characters that enhance the gaming experience. Gamer.no commended the graphics as beautiful, while IGN and IGN France emphasized the strong artistic direction and dynamic environments that draw inspiration from the Marvel universe. Critics like Digital Trends and The Jimquisition also noted the unique blend of comic book and anime styles, which contributes to the game's distinct visual identity. However, not all feedback was entirely favorable. Some critics pointed out issues with readability and user interface design. CD-Action criticized the overly complicated UI, which may detract from the gameplay experience, while TechRadar Gaming echoed similar sentiments about clarity during chaotic moments. Eurogamer also mentioned that unclear map structures and indistinct character abilities could lead to confusion in fast-paced battles. Additionally, several reviewers, including XboxEra and Oyungezer, noted that while the visuals are impressive, the UI can sometimes be cluttered, impacting the overall experience. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics is that Marvel Rivals excels in its graphics and visual design, with the majority expressing admiration for its artistic style and character designs. Critics like God is a Geek and PC Games noted the appealing environments and character animations that add depth to the gameplay. The game’s ability to balance comic book aesthetics with modern design elements has resonated well with many reviewers, leading to a strong overall impression. While there are valid concerns about readability and UI complexity, the positive aspects of the visual presentation significantly outweigh the negatives, making Marvel Rivals a visually captivating experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Marvel Rivals has a split reception for its sound design and music. Critics praise its "superb" music and solid voice acting that capture character essence, enhancing immersion. However, many highlight flaws like repetitive voice lines and chaotic sound design that muddle gameplay. The overall verdict is mixed: while the game has potential for an engaging audio experience, execution issues detract from player enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Marvel Rivals have garnered a mix of praise from various critics. God is a Geek commends the music as "superb," highlighting the solid voice acting despite some repetitive call-outs. Similarly, TheXboxHub appreciates the well-executed voice lines that capture the essence of each character, contributing to the game's charm. Meristation also notes the epic and heroic soundtrack, which aligns well with the game's theme, suggesting that it enhances the overall experience. Additionally, GamingBolt praises the voice acting for its fidelity to comic book counterparts, indicating a strong connection to the source material. These positive remarks suggest that the game has successfully integrated music and voice work that resonates with players, enhancing immersion and character engagement. However, several critics have pointed out significant flaws in the sound design. The Jimquisition criticizes the sound design for its repetitive and annoying voice lines, which detract from the overall experience. Digital Trends echoes this sentiment, mentioning that the sound design lacks the crispness of other games like Overwatch, with chaotic and overwhelming sound bites that can muddle gameplay. GameSpot also notes that while the audio design is functional, it can become noisy, especially with character callouts and distinct sounds for abilities. Eurogamer describes the sound design as "lightweight and flimsy," contributing to a chaotic battle atmosphere without clear audio cues, which can hinder player experience. These criticisms highlight a recurring theme of repetitiveness and chaos that undermines the otherwise engaging aspects of the game's audio. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the sound design and music of Marvel Rivals is mixed. While there are commendable elements such as the music and character voice acting, the repetitive nature of voice lines and chaotic sound design detracts from the overall experience. Critics like God is a Geek and TheXboxHub emphasize the strengths of the music and character portrayals, while others like The Jimquisition and Digital Trends point out the significant shortcomings in sound clarity and repetitiveness. This duality suggests that while Marvel Rivals has the potential for an engaging audio experience, it struggles with execution, leading to a disparity in player enjoyment based on individual tolerance for sound repetition and chaos.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Marvel Rivals voice acting gets mixed reviews: some critics praise its quality and character-specific lines as enhancing gameplay, while others find it repetitive and bland, risking player engagement. Notably, the lack of Spanish dubbing raises accessibility issues. Overall, the voice work shows promise but has significant flaws that could dampen the game's impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Marvel Rivals has garnered a mix of praise, with several critics highlighting its contribution to the game's overall experience. God is a Geek commends the voice acting as "generally solid," suggesting that it enhances the gameplay. Similarly, Digital Trends appreciates the voice lines for adding flavor to character interpretations, particularly noting the inclusion of fan-favorite characters like Jeff the Land Shark. TheXboxHub echoes this sentiment, stating that the voice acting is "spot-on" and that unique lines depending on team composition positively contribute to the game's atmosphere. Meristation also points out the high quality of English voice acting, which, despite some limitations, reflects a commitment to maintaining a standard that resonates with players. However, not all reviews are as favorable. The Jimquisition expresses frustration with the voice acting, describing it as "repetitive and irritating," which can lead to annoyance over time. Eurogamer shares a similar sentiment, criticizing the voice acting as bland and lacking personality, with uninspired lines that fail to engage players. This perspective highlights a significant concern regarding the potential for voice lines to become tiresome and detract from the immersive experience. Meristation's note on the absence of Spanish dubbing also raises an important point about accessibility and immersion for Spanish-speaking players, which could alienate a segment of the audience. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided sentiment regarding the voice acting in Marvel Rivals. While some, like God is a Geek and TheXboxHub, find the voice acting to be a positive aspect that enhances the game, others, such as The Jimquisition and Eurogamer, point out significant flaws that detract from the experience. The varying opinions suggest that while there are commendable elements, such as character-specific lines and high-quality English performances, the repetition and lack of diversity in voice lines may hinder the game's overall impact. This duality indicates that while the voice acting has strengths, it also presents challenges that developers may need to address in future updates or installments.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Marvel Rivals shines on PS5 and Xbox Series X with smooth performance and quick load times, earning praise for stability and gameplay. However, PS5 faces character balance issues and matchmaking woes, while Xbox Series X suffers from camera glitches. The PC version, plagued by crashes and lag, drags down overall impressions despite some positive notes. Critics agree that while the game has promise, it needs more refinement and optimization to deliver a consistently enjoyable experience across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Marvel Rivals has garnered a mix of praise and criticism across different gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 5, several reviewers noted positive aspects, including Games.cz, which highlighted the game’s exceptional performance with no lag or crashes and quick loading times. IGN France echoed this sentiment, stating that the game performs well technically across platforms, providing stable matchmaking and smooth gameplay. TechRadar Gaming also lauded the PS5 Pro experience for its flawless performance and high visual sharpness, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience. On the Xbox Series X, both Digital Trends and Meristation reported a smooth live service launch with no server problems and stable performance at 60 FPS, showcasing effective optimization on Unreal Engine 5. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out for each platform. On the PS5, CD-Action and Shacknews mentioned issues related to character balance and technical feedback, indicating that while the game runs well, certain mechanics could use refinement. Gamer.no also pointed out matchmaking issues that suggest some underlying technical shortcomings. For the Xbox Series X, TheXboxHub reported camera glitches that detracted from the experience, while some minor queue errors were noted by XboxEra. On the PC front, the situation appears more problematic, with Gamersky and Oyungezer highlighting significant technical issues such as crashes, lag, and optimization problems that impact gameplay. GINX TV mentioned clunky movement and screen clutter, which further complicates the experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Marvel Rivals performs well on the PS5 and Xbox Series X, particularly in terms of stability and smooth gameplay, the PC version suffers from more severe technical issues that hinder the overall experience. Critics like IGN Italia and Multiplayer.it praised the PC version for its smooth frame rate and stable servers, but these positives are often overshadowed by the bugs and performance inconsistencies mentioned by others. The mixed reviews indicate that while the game has a solid foundation, it requires further refinement and optimization across all platforms to fully realize its potential and provide a consistently enjoyable experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Marvel Rivals impresses critics with its diverse roster of 33 heroes and a free-to-play model that boost replay value. Daily challenges and content updates keep players engaged. However, concerns over character balance, progression issues, a steep learning curve, and bugs could undermine long-term interest. While it has promise, the game's future success hinges on addressing these flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Marvel Rivals is notably positive among critics, who highlight several key strengths that contribute to its appeal. Many reviewers, such as Gameliner and TechRadar Gaming, emphasize the game’s extensive roster of characters, with 33 unique heroes that encourage players to experiment with different team compositions and strategies. The free-to-play model, as noted by IGN and Meristation, enhances accessibility and allows players to engage without upfront costs, further boosting replayability. Additionally, the presence of daily challenges and ongoing content updates, as mentioned by IGN France and Gamer.no, creates a dynamic environment that incentivizes players to return for fresh experiences. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics point out significant flaws that could hinder long-term engagement. Issues with character balance and progression systems are frequently cited, with reviewers like Hobby Consolas and Games.cz expressing concerns that these factors may detract from the overall enjoyment and replayability of the game. The steep learning curve, highlighted by Gameliner, and the limited number of game modes, as noted by Shacknews and The Jimquisition, also pose challenges for new players and could lead to a repetitive experience over time. Furthermore, critics like Eurogamer and PC Gamer emphasize that while the game has potential, its current state is marred by bugs and balance issues that need addressing. In summary, while there is a strong consensus that Marvel Rivals offers a solid foundation for replay value through its character diversity and free-to-play model, critics remain cautious about its long-term viability due to balance and progression concerns. The game is seen as enjoyable and engaging, as noted by reviewers like LevelUp and Oyungezer, but the limitations in modes and the potential for frustration with matchmaking may deter sustained interest. Overall, the game holds promise, but its success in maintaining player engagement will depend on future updates and improvements to address the highlighted issues.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Marvel Rivals is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, diverse character roster, and appealing visual style. Reviewers like CD-Action and IGN highlight the game's fun factor and character variety, suggesting that it successfully captures the essence of a hero shooter. Critics such as Gamer.no and God is a Geek appreciate the game's refreshing take on the genre, noting its potential for growth and community engagement. The free-to-play model is also seen as a significant advantage, making the game accessible to a broader audience, as pointed out by PC Games and TechRadar Gaming. However, several reviewers have raised concerns about Marvel Rivals's shortcomings, particularly regarding balance issues and a lack of originality. Gameliner and GamesRadar+ emphasize that while the game shows promise, it struggles to carve out a unique identity amidst a crowded genre, often drawing comparisons to established titles like Overwatch. Critics like Eurogamer and Oyungezer point out technical problems and chaotic gameplay that detract from the overall experience. The need for improved balancing and additional game modes is a recurring theme, with many reviewers suggesting that these elements are crucial for the game's long-term success. In summary, while Marvel Rivals is generally regarded as a solid entry into the hero shooter genre, it faces challenges that could hinder its potential. The consensus among critics is that the game is fun and engaging, with a strong foundation built on its character roster and gameplay mechanics. However, the need for better balance, originality, and technical stability remains a significant concern, as highlighted by critics like Shacknews and PC Gamer. If the developers can address these issues, Marvel Rivals has the potential to evolve into a more competitive and satisfying experience for players.

TL;DR

Marvel Rivals receives mostly positive feedback for its engaging gameplay, diverse characters, and vibrant visuals, with critics praising its fun factor and community potential. However, concerns about balance, originality, and technical issues persist, drawing comparisons to established titles like Overwatch. While the free-to-play model broadens accessibility, improvements in balancing and additional modes are crucial for its long-term success. If these challenges are addressed, Marvel Rivals could become a standout in the hero shooter genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

77 reviews found

100

Try Hard Guides

Dec 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals has successfully rekindled the reviewer's interest in the hero shooter genre with its diverse character roster, engaging gameplay, and stylish presentation.

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100

GameGrin

Jan 13, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is praised as an outstanding team-based shooter that defies expectations, offering fun and innovative gameplay with a diverse character roster.

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Meristation

Xbox Series X

Dec 10, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is an outstanding game that excels in gameplay, graphics, stability, and potential for long-term enjoyment, setting a new standard in the hero shooter genre.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jan 6, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is described as a well-designed, enjoyable hero shooter that pays homage to the Marvel Universe, with a promising future ahead.

GINX TV

Dec 10, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is seen as a promising hero shooter with fresh ideas and potential to become a strong competitor in the genre.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Dec 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is a fresh entry in the hero shooter genre with a great roster and engaging gameplay, but it needs more modes to fully utilize its potential.

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GamingBolt

Dec 10, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is well worth jumping into, offering a familiar yet distinct experience in the hero shooter genre, with potential for future updates to enhance the gameplay experience.

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GameSpot

Xbox Series X

Jan 15, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is praised as a strong contender in the hero shooter genre, combining a large roster, engaging gameplay, and a unique visual style, making it a fun multiplayer experience.

TechRadar Gaming

PlayStation 5

Dec 27, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is a strong entry in the free-to-play market, providing a fun and engaging experience with room for growth.

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IGN France

PlayStation 5

Dec 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Marvel Rivals is a fun and accessible hero shooter that, while not revolutionary, offers a solid experience with a rich roster and engaging gameplay. It has the potential to thrive in the free-to-play market.

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