When it comes to working with a powerhouse like Marvel, especially operating under the watchful eye of Disney, it’s no surprise that licensing and creative control can be a complicated process. Developers often face tight restrictions on which intellectual properties (IP) can be used, with lengthy negotiations and strict approvals. However, the hero shooter Marvel Rivals developed by NetEase, appears to be an exception to the rule.
In a recent interview with VideoGamer, Game Director Guangyun Chen revealed that Marvel has granted NetEase access to its entire character library for use in Marvel Rivals without exception. This means that every character ever created throughout Marvel’s extensive 85-year history is now fair game for inclusion in the game.
Chen emphasised that this unprecedented licensing freedom gives the team the creative liberty to not only feature iconic and mainstream heroes like Iron Man, Spider-Man, and Captain Marvel, but also to shine a spotlight on Marvel’s more obscure and lesser-known characters. This strategy is already being reflected in the current roster, which includes unexpected picks like Jeff the Land Shark and Squirrel Girl, characters beloved by fans but rarely seen in mainstream Marvel media.
How Marvel Rivals Benefit From Full Access
According to Chen, this approach enables Marvel Rivals to carve out a unique identity within the superhero gaming space by striking a balance between familiarity and fresh, surprising choices. It’s a decision that could greatly enhance the game’s depth and longevity, especially for longtime Marvel fans eager to see underrepresented characters get their time to shine.
While NetEase has yet to disclose which lesser-known Marvel characters might be featured in future updates, the door is now wide open. With access to over eight decades of Marvel lore, the possibilities for the Marvel Rivals roster are virtually limitless.
This move marks a significant level of trust and collaboration between Marvel and NetEase, and could set a new precedent for how licensed IPs are handled in large-scale games going forward.
