Reader Opinion Policy

The Experience welcomes Letters to the Editor and Guest Columns. All members of the LMC community — students, faculty and staff — are encouraged to write.

If you are interested in expressing your opinions, bring your submissions to room CC3-301. You may also send them electronically through the [email protected].

Letters and columns must be typed, signed and include a phone number for verification. They may be edited for clarity, content taste and length at the editor’s discretion.

This poll has ended.

Do you agree that the mass deportation will affect the U.S.?

Sorry, there was an error loading this poll.

‘Marvel Rivals’ is yet to reach its full potential

Superhero game gains popularity in spite of short flaws

Michael Pacheco, Staff Writer

February 24, 2025

Screenshot from trailer of the third person hero shooter game “MArvel Rivals” which released Dc. 5 last year.

“Marvel Rivals,” has proven it deserves its popularity in the hero shooter genre. However, as much as people sing the game’s praises there are an equal number of issues that prevent it from reaching its full potential.

Developers NetEase Games use their vision in tandem with Marvel’s IP to release one of the most popular live service games in recent memory but that does not come without its shortcomings.

The optimization leaves a great deal to be desired. For starters, owning a solid state drive is almost a necessity since players without one are likely to spend minutes loading into a game. It’s especially taxing for casual players as quick matches don’t wait for all players to load into the game like competitive does.

Aside from long loading times there are rampant frame issues, as certain abilities such as Doctor Strange’s portal are incredibly taxing to computers. The issues were so bad that modders took it upon themselves to create their own optimization modifications to the game.

In spite of all the game’s issues “Rivals” has managed to gather a player base significantly greater than what is left of competitor “Overwatch.” “Rivals” launched with three core game modes that are cycled between each other in Quick Match and Competitive—Domination, Convoy and Convergence, which play similarly to “Overwatch’s” Control, Escort and Hybrid.

Gameplay-wise “Rivals” has surpassed my expectations for what a good hero shooter should be. The duelist role has a wide array of characters giving players a variety of playstyles to choose from. Strategist is perfect for players who want to take on a more supportive role giving their teammates the tools they need to dominate the enemy.

“Rivals” also brings something unique to its game: Team-Up abilities. Skills that are only accessible with two or more specific combinations of characters are put on a team together, keeping the game fresh.

Is the game perfect? No, not even close, but it’s something we need in today’s gaming landscape. Players should not feel afraid to share criticism when it comes to games like this, otherwise developers will feel comfortable leaving games in mediocrity. Given the right feedback, I am confident that the Hero Shooter genre as a whole can make great strides to improve play.