
Stepping up to bat
Marvel rivals, is now released to high praise and is widely considered a perfect blend of storytelling, action, and fun game mechanics.
For Marvel lovers, new avenues and possibilities are being opened and the hope for a flagship AAA franchise beyond the well known Spider-Man titles have never been stronger .
Popularity & Impact
After the huge success of iconic games like Tekken, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, Overwatch, and Fortnite, Marvel Rivals released at the most optimal time & has grown wildly in popularity as a result.
For the longest, DC ruled thes superhero niche within the gaming space with an iron fist for more than 10 years before this; however, Marvel seems to be giving them tougher competition by adding Rivals to it’s IP arsenal, with every intention to turn it into a modern flagship title overtime.
Core Game plot
The game features exciting 6-on-6 team battles where players have the liberty to choose their favorite characters from the available characters of the Marvel universe and work in a team to achieve victory.
Payload Escort = A team has to move an object (the payload) to a specific point while the other team tries to stop them from achieving the same.
Point Capture: Both teams fight to control certain areas on the map and score points by holding them longer.
These modes are quite known in the gaming area, but they’re given a twist with the implementation of superpowers and opportunities for creative teamwork, making every match action-packed and exciting.
Character Plots
Just like any battle story, the game has it’s fighting classes:
Vanguard = The first line of defense in the game; they are there to provide a shield, built to take damage, and protect the other team members from the onslaught.
Duelist = They are like two-edged swords that can be used in mid-level fights and also help in guarding the team.
Strategist = The brains of the operation, chalking out strategies and clever game moves to level the playing Field & accumulate damage.
Key Characters and Abilities
The game features iconic Marvel characters with unique abilities and signature moves:
Venom = At this time Venom is one of the most popular characters within the game & has some of the most unique skins available for customization. Venom within Rivals has become favored for his signature venom swing, his strength , and his tank like build, making him perfect for dealing Frontline damage.
Adam Warlock = Is one of if not the MOST versatile character in marvel rivals as he’s incredibly well-rounded and able to operate within all fighting classes. Warlock's Ultimate does major damage, he can revive himself, divide damage between allies using his soul bond which makes your team unkillable for up to 6 seconds.
Scarlet Witch = Another well-loved character bringing in the charm of her powerful spellcasting, superb tracking , temporary flight, temporary invisibility/ invulnerability, and excellent speed.
The Punisher: A relentless gunman with high DPS and heavy suppression tactics making him a great choice for short and long range attacks.
Jeff the Shark: A surprising powerhouse with playful yet deadly with his ultimate ability which allows him to swallow up enemies and spit any teammates out. Additionally, Jeff can heal overtime underground, climb up walls, and has an amazing ability to penetrate through enemies and deliver massive heals your team in bad spots.
With a wide array of characters available at launch numbering up to 33, the game becomes more than just another entertainer and has the potential to become even more of a must play experience when more characters are added in this year. ( Fantastic 4 , Blade , Ultron , Deadpool , Hit Monkey , The Hood , Knull, Jean Grey , & Emma Frost etc. However, fans are also hoping to get Gambit, Black cat, Ghostwriter, Ant Man , Thanos , , Green Goblin, Task master, Mystique, Cyclops, & Carnage )
Map Design and Environmental Interaction
The maps in Marvel Rivals are more than just battle arenas.
The game features alterable environments, meaning participants can use their strategic creativity and break through walls and alter the result of a round except for some areas where it feels a bit cramped and hard to maneuver.
Despite this, the overall design is well thought out and engaging. The mix of creativity and functionality keeps each match fresh and exciting.
Monetization and Inclusivity
Unlike other games currency and monetization is not the center of the makers they have given free access to all the heroes there are no play walls and no locked heroes & a lifetime battle pass. This inclusivity ensures that everyone regardless of how much they pay has full access to all of their favorite heroes at launch.
The customization though available is completely optional and cosmetic-focused.
As the Marvel Universe continues to expand, one thing is certain, the Marvel brand will continue to gain ground & Bloom in other areas even if the cinematic universe is struggling. This game if nothing else, is a breath of fresh air & without a doubt a step in the right direction.
🌺🍵 Special thanks to Nitika Aora who's been an excellent collaborator and an even better Ghostwriter. I'm very proud of the contributions she's made here and I hope she continues to progress in her writing journey.
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https://medium.com/storyflow-network/genesis-of-the-freelance-soldier-pt-4-15b1a3e9d24c
I’m not a video game player, but I think it’s so fascinating to see the character and story arcs in games I can watch other people play! Thanks for sharing these insights! 😁🎮