The latest cooperative ability in Marvel Rivals, while visually impressive, appears to be a source of frustration for some players. Those controlling Human Torch are reportedly using it to unintentionally (or intentionally) launch their teammate, The Thing, off the game map, leading to unfortunate eliminations.
NetEase`s superhero shooter is commemorating the debut of Marvel Studios` Fantastic Four: First Steps with various in-game additions. This includes new skins and cosmetic items inspired by the film for all four playable Fantastic Four characters. Furthermore, a new “First Steps” team-up ability has been introduced for Human Torch and The Thing, directly mirroring a scene from the movie. This ability sees Human Torch grasp Ben Grimm, fly him through the air while engulfed in flames, and then slam him onto the ground, causing area damage to foes and briefly immobilizing their movement.
However, The Thing`s experience with this ability is highly dependent on the Human Torch player, who retains full control. This has led to numerous frustrating, albeit sometimes humorous, instances where Human Torch users deliberately prank their Thing teammates. They initiate the “First Steps” ability only to quickly hurl The Thing off the map, resulting in an untimely demise.
When utilized correctly, “First Steps” proves to be an effective cooperative skill, ideal for securing objectives or engaging enemy players with a strong dive. This stands in contrast to some other team-up abilities, which vary wildly in effectiveness from overpoweringly strong to nearly useless. For instance, Hulk and Wolverine`s “Fastball Special” is another ability where Hulk throws Logan, but it is considered less impactful.
Marvel Rivals Season 3 began on July 11th, introducing Jean Grey (Phoenix) to the game`s expanding character roster, with Blade scheduled to join later in the season. The update also launched a summer event featuring various swimsuit skins for characters such as Luna Snow, Thor, and The Thing.
While Marvel Rivals will incorporate content inspired by new Marvel Cinematic Universe films and series, NetEase has clarified that the game`s development and content release schedule will primarily be dictated by its internal universe and seasonal narratives, rather than directly by MCU timelines.
The cast of Fantastic Four: First Steps recently participated in a play session of Marvel Rivals, embodying their respective characters. During this, they shared their reactions to the game`s alternate costumes, including the Fantastic Four`s wedding-themed outfits and Invisible Woman`s more revealing Malice skin, which actress Vanessa Kirby humorously suggested might appear in a future film.
Fantastic Four: First Steps – In-Game Cosmetics
The game also offers a variety of Fantastic Four-themed skins and cosmetics, including the aforementioned wedding skins and various character-specific cosmetic items, allowing players to customize their heroes in styles inspired by the film.