Blade, Human Torch, The Thing headed to Marvel Rivals

Three new heroes are coming to Marvel Rivals as NetEase Games announces new updates for the popular 6v6 shooter.

NetEase will launch the Season 1.5 patch on 21 February, featuring two new playable characters, a new map, and a variety of in-game balance changes. The two new characters are Fantastic Four members Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Ben Grimm/The Thing.

The Human Torch is a Duelist character who throws fireballs at enemies while flying around the map. His kit also includes the ability to dive down on opponents from above and create a wall of fire to control crowds and keep enemies at bay. His ultimate ability allows him to unleash a flaming tornado, which can be combined with Storm’s ultimate ability to create an even larger and more mobile fiery storm.

Being the FF’s powerhouse, The Thing will serve as a Vanguard character as he fights with his fists, using abilities that allow him to charge up a haymaker or run into enemy lines and slam onto the ground for area-of-effect (AoE) damage. He can also leap into battle or throw Wolverine at enemies using “Fastball Special”. Thing's ultimate enables him to slam down on the ground with enough might to launch enemies up into the air.

Marvel Rivals’ new map, Central Park, is an alternate version of New York City ruled by Dracula. The map also hints at another upcoming playable character in the form to the Daywalker himself, Blade.

NetEase Games was recently involve in massive layoff of its U.S. staff including its game director, Thaddeus Sasser.