Marvel Rivals, the highly anticipated superhero shooter from NetEase Games, aimed to offer its players a new feature with its latest update: costume customization. However, instead of generating the expected excitement, this innovation has led to major disappointment and harsh criticism from the gaming community. Players are deeply annoyed by the fact that they are being charged again for content they have already purchased and the limited customization options offered.
Limited Customization, High Cost
The new system currently only offers alternative color palettes for certain costumes for certain characters (Luna Snow, Winter Soldier, Magik, and Psylocke). Players must first own the costume in order to use these color changes. However, the real controversy is that these simple color changes come at an additional cost. Customizations made through a new in-game currency called “Unstable Molecules” can only be traded one-for-one with another premium currency called “Lattice.” This means that players will have to spend an additional $20 if they want to make a color change for costumes that cost over $6. Players are describing this as paying twice for the same item.
Criticism of the Definition of “Privatization”
Another point that drew players’ ire was the fact that the system was presented under the title of “customization.” The fact that the only option offered was a different color palette did not meet players’ expectations. The community thinks that calling this limited change “customization” is misleading. Social media platforms and gaming forums are filled with both ironic and critical comments from players about this situation. Many players question the irrationality of this system and NetEase Games’ money-making strategy.
Future Regulations Awaited
Following the backlash, NetEase Games announced that Season 3 will add new ways to earn “Unstable Molecules.” However, this announcement has not been enough to dispel the negative atmosphere created by the current pricing model. The community is hoping that the development team will take this feedback into consideration and rework the customization system to be more fair, user-friendly, and truly “personal.” Otherwise, this controversial system could have a lasting negative impact on Marvel Rivals’ player base.
