The CEO of Netease almost erases Marvel rivals before its launch
A risk that it was worth it
Rivals marvel It was launched in December last year and quickly became a phenomenon in the video game sector. Inspired by OverwatchBut with a cast full of iconic characters by Marvel, the game managed to differentiate thanks to its work mechanics combined between Heroes.
However, according to the report, William Ding was skeptical about paying the Disney license for the characters. Instead, he ordered the development team to design original characters, which would have made the game a clone more than Overwatch Without a differential attraction. Finally, this attempt to replace it, cost millions of dollars to the company and reflected the sudden changes imposed by the notary’s direction.
Despite the initial concern for licensed investments, the results have shown that the decision to keep the Marvel characters was successful. Rivals marvel has exceeded the 20 million players A few weeks after its launch and generated approximately 135 million dollars In income. Currently, the title has more than 40 million players activity.
The paradox of Netease
Despite the commercial success of the game, Netease has implemented costs reduction measures. Recently, the company has fired its design team based in Seattle, justifying it as a strategy to “optimize development efficiency”.
In an official declaration, Netease said:
“We made the difficult decision to adapt the structure of the development team of Rivals marvel For organizational reasons and to improve efficiency. This led to the reduction of the design team to Seattle, which was part of a global design function. We appreciate the effort and dedication of the affected people and we will treat them with respect and recognition for their contributions.
The future of the Marvel rivals
Despite the layoffs, Netease guarantees that it will continue to invest in the growth of the game. An update in mid -season has recently been launched that introduces Human torch yfurther expanding the model of the characters.
One of the greatest attractions of the game is the possibility of checking Human torchA character who was fundamental in Marvel comics. His arrival at the game strengthens the concept of Dynamic and spectacular gameplaySince their fire skills allow devastating air attacks and combinations with other heroes. The inclusion of ThingWith its great resistance and power in mixed combat, it allows a greater variety of equipment strategies.
The impact of these characters also strengthens the differentiation of Rivals marvel In front of other games of the genre. While Overwatch Bet on an original universe, the inclusion of iconic Marvel characters gives the game a Commercial advantage and loyalty Among the players. The big question is now netease will continue to commit itself to its development or if the costs reduction measures will end up affecting the future of the game.
A game with infinite possibilities
The ability of Rivals marvel To offer unique experiences, it is also due to the effort of the developers in balance of the hero’s skills and the Foster Team strategy. The combinations between characters, such as the synergy between Doctor Strange and Scarlet Witch, were highlighted by the players as one of the most attractive innovations. This allowed any dynamic game and that strategies vary according to the selected equipment.
In addition, Netease has announced that the game will continue to expand with new updates and seasons. The more iconic characters are expected to join the castWith rumors indicating the arrival of Spider-Man and Magneto in future expansions. If the company manages to maintain the rhythm of the content and balance the gameplay, Rivals marvel It could be consolidated as one of the most successful titles inside the equipment equipment based on equipment.