Marvel Rivals Developer Says Designing Melee-Based Heroes Has Been “One of Our Greatest Challenges”

Marvel Rivals is shaping up to be an exciting entry into the hero shooter genre, thanks in part to its well-established branding and the unique capabilities it brings to the table. The game boasts an impressive lineup of playable characters, each equipped with diverse moves and skills. However, this variety has presented some hurdles for the development team at NetEase Games.

In a recent discussion with GamingBolt, the developers revealed that balancing the experience while ensuring every character feels distinct has been a significant challenge—especially concerning melee-heavy heroes like Thor, Spider-Man, and the Incredible Hulk. If not properly handled, the dynamic of close-quarters combat could lead to chaotic gameplay that might detract from the enjoyment.

The developers articulated their struggle, emphasizing that crafting a diverse set of melee combatants was a top priority. They noted that mishandling these characters could result in battles lacking substance, ultimately compromising the gaming experience.

Yet, the unique abilities of the Marvel roster also presented exciting opportunities for the developers. They explained how the Hulk's impressive leaping ability was designed to impact aerial foes, adding an interesting layer to his play style. Venom's symbiotic traits were expanded to allow for mid-range attacks, while Spider-Man’s agility enables fluid transitions between melee and ranged encounters.

By focusing on each hero's strengths, the team aims to create a captivating gameplay experience that highlights each character’s unique mechanics.

Marvel Rivals is currently under development for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, with no confirmed release date available at this time.