Marvel Rivals Season 1 Update Cracks Down on Mods
The Season 1 update for Marvel Rivals has reportedly disabled the use of custom-made mods, a popular pastime among players since the game's launch. While not explicitly announced, players discovered their mods no longer function, reverting characters to their default appearances.
This move, though impacting the modding community, aligns with NetEase's terms of service, which prohibit mod usage. The company has previously issued bans for individual mods, including one featuring Donald Trump's likeness. The Season 1 update likely employs hash checking—a data verification method—to prevent mod functionality.
The introduction of the Fantastic Four as playable characters (Mr. Fantastic and Invisible Woman initially, with Thing and Human Torch to follow), a new Battle Pass, maps, and a Doom Match mode, highlights Season 1's substantial content additions. However, the simultaneous elimination of mods has sparked debate.
The decision isn't surprising, considering NetEase's previous actions and the game's free-to-play business model. Marvel Rivals relies heavily on in-game purchases of character bundles containing cosmetic items. Free, custom-made mods directly compete with this revenue stream, potentially jeopardizing the game's profitability. While some players express disappointment over the loss of customizable content, and creators mourn unreleased mods, NetEase's move is a calculated business strategy to safeguard its revenue. The presence of provocative mods, including nude skins, may have also contributed to the decision, but the primary driver is likely financial.
