By Sagar V. Mankar 
Marvel Rivals has been a fan-favorite since its global release late last year, capturing attention with its stunning visuals and a roster filled with iconic superheroes. The launch of Season 1, titled Eternal Night Falls, has further boosted its popularity, propelling it to new heights on Steam. This update introduced exciting additions like the Fantastic Four, alongside significant gameplay enhancements that delighted fans.
On January 10, Marvel Rivals set a new record, reaching 580,000 concurrent players on Steam, far surpassing its previous launch-day record of 480,000 players. Just days later, it hit another peak with 644,269 concurrent players, making it the 14th highest-ranking game on Steam for all-time peak players, beating popular titles like Apex Legends and Path of Exile 2 on the weekend.
When factoring in other platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and the Epic Games Store, the total player count likely exceeds one million at peak times.
Modding Policy Changes
However, not all updates have been well-received. With Season 1, developer NetEase introduced a strict ban on mods, disappointing many players who enjoyed creating custom skins for characters. Mods featuring unofficial skins like Batman or Vegeta have been a fan favorite. According to NetEase, modifying game files can lead to security issues and violate their policies.
“It is not recommended to modify any game files, as doing so carries the risk of getting banned,” the company clarified in a statement to IGN. While the ban aims to ensure fair gameplay, it has sparked debate among players who value creative expression through mods.
Industry Impact
The game’s success challenges earlier skepticism from industry veterans, including former Blizzard executive Mike Ybarra, who predicted a decline in player interest. Instead, Marvel Rivals has still maintained strong player retention, keeping approximately 90% of its player base during its first month on Steam.
Looking Ahead, as Marvel Rivals continues to evolve, its record-breaking performance suggests a promising future for the superhero action game.
Sources: SteamDB Statistics