Marvel Rivals: Does Marvel Rivals Have Crossplay? Guide to Crossplay, Cross-Progression and Game Features
Key Takeaways
- Marvel Rivals will include crossplay at launch, though its functionality differs between casual and competitive modes.
- Cross-progression is not available, meaning players cannot carry their progress across platforms.
- The game offers a rich roster of Marvel characters, multiple game modes, and accessibility on various platforms, excluding mobile.
Marvel Rivals, the latest entry into the hero shooter genre, is bringing Marvel’s iconic heroes and villains into the world of fast-paced, team-based PvP gameplay. Developed by NetEase, the game promises to deliver thrilling battles, diverse gameplay modes, and an ever-expanding roster of characters. Whether you’re a fan of classic Marvel heroes like Iron Man or villains like Loki, there’s something here for everyone.
But beyond the flashy gameplay and superhero stardom, players are asking critical questions about how they’ll be able to enjoy Marvel Rivals with their friends. Is crossplay supported? Can progress be carried across devices? What platforms is the game even available on? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Marvel Rivals and its features.
Does Marvel Rivals Have Crossplay?
Yes, Marvel Rivals supports crossplay, allowing players across different gaming platforms to team up or face off. However, there’s a catch: crossplay functionality depends on the game mode. Here’s how it works:
Crossplay in Casual Modes
Players on all platforms PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and MacOS can enjoy crossplay in the following non-competitive modes:
- Quick Match
- Conquest
- Custom Game (non-competitive only)
- Practice
In these modes, players can team up with friends or battle against opponents from other platforms without restrictions.
Crossplay in Competitive Modes
Competitive play introduces limitations. Players are grouped exclusively with others on the same platform, meaning console players won’t compete against PC players. This separation ensures fairness, as PC players may have advantages such as faster aiming with a mouse and keyboard.
This restriction has sparked mixed reactions from the community. Some console players prefer not to face PC opponents due to perceived advantages like precision aiming, while others are disappointed that they can’t team up with friends on different devices for ranked matches.
Why Crossplay Matters
Crossplay is a game-changer for multiplayer games, allowing players to connect with friends regardless of their gaming setup. Marvel Rivals’ partial implementation is a step in the right direction, but its competitive limitations might leave some players wanting more.
Does Marvel Rivals Have Cross-Progression?
Unfortunately, Marvel Rivals does not support cross-progression at launch. This means that players cannot carry their progress, unlocked characters, or cosmetics between platforms. For example, if you start playing on a PlayStation 5 and later decide to switch to a gaming PC, you’ll have to start from scratch.
Why Cross-Progression Matters
Cross-progression has become a highly sought-after feature in modern games. It offers players the flexibility to switch platforms without losing their progress, which is especially helpful for those who play on different devices depending on their schedules. Imagine playing a few rounds on your PC at home, then continuing your progress on a portable device like a Steam Deck during your commute. Sadly, that’s not an option with Marvel Rivals at this time.
For players who like to invest heavily in games, whether through time or microtransactions, the lack of cross-progression can be a major drawback. Hopefully, this feature will be added in future updates.
What Platforms Is Marvel Rivals Available On?
Marvel Rivals is accessible on several major platforms, making it widely available to players across different systems. Here’s where you can play:
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X|S
- PC (via Steam)
- MacOS
No Mobile Support
One notable omission is mobile devices. While many modern hero shooters, such as Apex Legends Mobile, have embraced portable gaming, Marvel Rivals is currently focused on traditional gaming platforms. Players hoping for a mobile version will have to wait or look elsewhere.
Game Modes: Exploring Marvel Rivals’ Gameplay
Marvel Rivals offers a variety of game modes, each catering to different playstyles. From casual fun to intense competitive matches, here’s what you can expect:
Quick Match
This is the go-to mode for casual players. Quick Match features various objective-based rounds, including:
- Convoy: Escort or defend an objective as it moves across the map.
- Domination: Capture and hold key areas to earn points.
- Convergence: Work with your team to complete specific objectives.
Quick Match supports full crossplay, so you can enjoy these modes with friends across all platforms.
Conquest
In this mode, the focus is on combat. Teams battle it out to score the most knockouts, making it a pure test of skill and strategy.
Competitive Matches
For players seeking a challenge, competitive matches offer ranked gameplay. These matches feature the same objectives as Quick Match but are played in a best two-out-of-three format. Unfortunately, crossplay is restricted in this mode, grouping players by platform.
Practice Mode
New to the game? Practice Mode lets players hone their skills against AI opponents before jumping into real matches.
Monetization: What to Expect
NetEase has revealed that Marvel Rivals will include microtransactions, which is standard for free-to-play games in this genre. While specific details are still scarce, players can expect to spend money on:
- Cosmetic items: Skins, emotes, and more to customize characters.
- Battle Passes: Likely offering tiered rewards for regular play.
Thankfully, early reports suggest the monetization will be player-friendly, focusing on optional cosmetics rather than pay-to-win mechanics.
Marvel Rivals’ Roster and Future Updates
Marvel Rivals boasts a robust roster of iconic Marvel heroes and villains at launch, with more characters expected in future updates. Leaks suggest that fan-favourites like Blade could join the game soon, and players can look forward to regular content drops to keep the experience fresh.
FAQs About Marvel Rivals
1. Will Marvel Rivals add cross-progression in the future?
While there’s no official word, player demand for cross-progression is high, and NetEase may consider adding it in future updates.
2. Can I play Marvel Rivals on my Steam Deck?
Yes, Marvel Rivals is available on Steam, which means it can be played on the Steam Deck. However, remember that cross-progression is not supported.
3. Is Marvel Rivals free-to-play?
Yes, Marvel Rivals follows the free-to-play model, with optional microtransactions for cosmetics and battle passes.
4. Does Marvel Rivals have a story mode?
No, Marvel Rivals is focused entirely on PvP gameplay and does not include a single-player campaign or story mode.
5. Will the game be released on other platforms, like mobile or Nintendo Switch?
As of now, there are no plans for a mobile or Nintendo Switch release, but future announcements could expand platform availability.
