Summary
- Marvel Rivals' closed alpha test sparks controversy over a non-disparagement clause for content creators, restricting negative criticism.
- Streamer Brandon Larned exposed the contract clause that bans critical comments, causing backlash in the gaming community.
- Developer NetEase issued an apology and promised to revise contract terms, welcoming constructive feedback from players and creators.
Following the launch of Marvel Rivals' closed alpha test, concerns have been raised about a controversial requirement to access it. Players can gain access to Marvel Rivals' alpha through the game's Content Creator program, though controversy has been kicked up due to the contract restricting the ability for fans to negatively criticize Marvel Rivals.
Marvel Rivals is Marvel's latest attempt in the gaming space, with this game being a third-person team shooter that gives players access to the abilities of many of the brand's iconic heroes. Developed by NetEase, Rivals is a 6v6 third-person shooter, similar to games like Overwatch or Paladins. With the alpha test underway, some streamers have requested access to the game via its Content Creator program, but the conditions are concerning for some.
Marvel Rivals Reveals Hela Gameplay and Abilities
Marvel Rivals reveals Hela's abilities, and gives players a preview of what the Goddess of Death's gameplay will be like in the 6v6 shooter.
This concern was first raised by streamer Brandon Larned, who shared a screenshot of the clauses in Marvel Rivals' closed alpha contract. He specifically points out the "non-disparagement" clause, which prohibits players from making satirical or malicious comments about the game or its material, with comparisons between Marvel Rivals and other games being viable grounds for breaking the contract. While clauses like this are fairly common for sponsorship agreements, streamers are asked to do this in order to just get access to the game, and are not being paid to promote the game.
Marvel Rivals' Controversy and Apology, Explained
With such a broad scope on what counts as "disparagement," this has caused quite a stir among the community, with some players being banned without realizing the terms of this contract. The developers released a statement addressing these terms, with NetEase saying it is aware of the "inappropriate and misleading terms" regarding the non-disparagement clause to access Marvel Rivals' closed alpha, and apologized for any miscommunication. The developers state that they are open to both suggestions and criticisms about the game, wishing to make Marvel Rivals better and satisfy gamers.
The conditions of the contract are also going to be revised, with progress being shared with every content creator. Regarding the closed alpha codes for Marvel Rivals, they can be obtained by reaching out to the developers, with the team hoping more players and creators will join the community. This statement was shared by Sadot The Gamer, who says he was unbanned from the program after the apology.
Currently, Marvel Rivals has no release date beyond the Closed Alpha. Marvel Rivals' roster features 19 playable characters, including iconic Marvel heroes like Spider-Man and Iron Man.
Marvel Rivals
- Released
- December 6, 2024
WHERE TO PLAY
Marvel Rivals is a Super Hero Team-Based PVP Shooter!
Assemble an all-star Marvel squad, devise countless strategies by combining powers to form unique Team-Up skills and fight in destructible, ever-changing battlefields across the continually evolving Marvel universe!
A Deep and Varied Marvel Roster
Choose from a vast array of fan-favorite and cult-classic Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains from across the Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, X-Men, and many more from across the Marvel Multiverse.
Fast and Fun 6v6 Action with Ever-Changing Game Dynamics
With intricate environments, fast-paced gameplay, and ever-changing battlefields, there's never a dull moment in Marvel Rivals! Battle as Super Heroes and Super Villains with incredible abilities and combine your powers to bring unexpected fun to the battlefield in a matter of seconds.
Dynamic Hero Synergy
Coordinate unique combinations between characters to ignite surprising Team-Up Skills! Unleash the synergy of combined superpowers and invent new tactics that can turn the tide of combat. Ride on Groot's back as Rocket Raccoon to take on your enemies as a dangerous duo, unleash Gamma energy as Hulk to charge Iron Man's armor for massive damage, and so much more!
Creative Environment Destruction
Tear your way through iconic Marvel worlds across destructible environments! From Asgard to the Tokyo of 2099, use superpowers to alter these environments, reshape the terrain, and craft a strategic advantage on the battlefield! Take cover to dodge attacks or use makeshift weapons to strike down enemies. Players will find countless ways to utilize the environment to claim victory!
Continually Evolving Universe and Robust Post-Launch Updates
The Marvel Multiverse brings infinite possibilities! Each seasonal drop will introduce new Super Heroes to the battlefield along with challenging and diverse maps! Unlock new content to implement across various gameplay strategies while experiencing thrilling action and endless possibilities in these adventurous team battles!
- Developer(s)
- NetEase Games
- Publisher(s)
- NetEase Games
- Franchise
- Marvel
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC
- Genre(s)
- Third-Person Shooter, Action, Multiplayer
