In an eagerly awaited update, NetEase Games is set to launch Marvel Rivals Season 1: Eternal Night Falls this week. This three-month-long season introduces a wealth of new content, including fresh characters, maps, and game modes. The Fantastic Four will join the fray against Dracula, who seeks to plunge New York City into darkness using the power of Chronovium. Alongside these additions, players can look forward to engaging events, Twitch Drops, and a revamped battle pass system.

The season also brings significant changes to the competitive ranking system, introducing a new "Celestial" rank and resetting player rankings. With all these updates, Marvel Rivals aims to enhance gameplay and offer an immersive experience for both newcomers and seasoned players alike.

Fantastic Four and New Maps Enrich Gameplay

The introduction of the Fantastic Four marks a pivotal moment in Marvel Rivals' storyline. Starting January 10, 2025, Mister Fantastic and Invisible Woman will be available as playable characters, with Human Torch and The Thing joining later in the season. These heroes bring unique abilities that promise to diversify strategic gameplay and elevate the tier list. Additionally, three new maps will debut, each offering distinct environments and challenges that will test players' skills.

New York City's iconic locations come to life in these maps. Sanctum Sanctorum opens the season, providing a convoy-style map filled with narrow corridors and hidden pathways. Midtown, featuring H.E.R.B.I.E robot escorts and Recursive Destruction mechanics, adds a dynamic twist. Central Park rounds out the roster, promising lush landscapes and tactical opportunities. Together, these maps expand the game's world and provide endless possibilities for intense battles.

Innovative Game Modes and Competitive Updates

Season 1 introduces Doom Match, an arcade mode where factions of 8-12 players compete on a single map. This mode emphasizes teamwork and strategy, with the top 50% of players declared winners. Another highlight is the Midnight Features event, which offers various tasks for rewards such as outfits, galleries, and nameplates. Twitch Drops return, rewarding viewers with exclusive items like the Hela: Will of Galacta spray and costume.

The Eternal Night Fall Luxury Battle Pass, priced at 990 Lattice, includes numerous rewards like costumes, sprays, and emotes. Players can still progress through the free tier, earning 600 Lattice and Units. Moreover, the competitive ranking system introduces the "Celestial" rank between Grandmaster and Eternity. Rankings will reset, but not uniformly; Platinum 1 players from season 0 will start at Silver in season 1. These changes aim to balance competition and reward dedicated players.