Marvel Rivals' Success Doesn't Stop NetEase From Firing Director and Other US Devs

NetEase Games' recent layoff of US-based developers working on the successful Marvel Rivals game has sent shockwaves through the industry. Despite the game's positive reception, the company has let go of key personnel, including the game director. Read on to discover more about this surprising development and the exciting new content coming in the second half of Marvel Rivals' Season 1.

NetEase's Strategic Shift Impacts North American Studios

Marvel Rivals US-Based Devs Laid Off

On February 19, 2025, Thaddeus Sasser, director of Marvel Rivals, announced on LinkedIn that he and other California-based developers had been laid off by NetEase Games. In a poignant post, Sasser highlighted the team's success in launching a new franchise with Marvel Rivals, only to face unexpected job losses. Despite the setback, Sasser is actively seeking new opportunities for his former team members, showcasing their talents and skills on LinkedIn, offering endorsements and actively pitching them to potential employers. He specifically highlighted Garry McGee, the game's technical designer, praising his skills and recommending him highly.

NetEase's Controversial North American Moves

Marvel Rivals was developed collaboratively by teams in China and Seattle. While Sasser's team played a crucial role in game and level design, the layoffs underscore a broader trend affecting the industry. NetEase has not publicly commented on the layoffs, but industry speculation suggests a potential strategic retreat from North America. This follows previous events such as the withdrawal of financial support for Worlds Untold studio in November 2024 and the termination of the partnership with Jar of Sparks in January 2025.

Marvel Rivals Season 1 Update: Second Half

New Heroes, Maps, and Balance Adjustments

Despite the behind-the-scenes turmoil, Marvel Rivals continues to roll out new content. The second half of Season 1, announced on the game's YouTube channel on February 19, 2025, introduces exciting new features, including the highly anticipated addition of The Thing and Human Torch, completing the Fantastic Four roster. A new map, Central Park, featuring Dracula's castle, adds a spooky new location.

Lead combat designer Zhiyong detailed balance adjustments implemented following the first half of Season 1, concluding February 21, 2025, at 12:00 AM (PDT). These changes address the current meta, including adjustments to energy costs for characters with quick ultimate recharges, and modifications to the survivability of certain Vanguard characters. Overpowered heroes like Storm and Moon Knight will also receive nerfs.

One planned change, a rank reset, was met with negative player feedback and subsequently removed from the update. For more details on this reversal, further reading is recommended.