Marvel Rivals' Success Doesn't Stop NetEase From Firing Director and Other US Devs

NetEase Games' surprising layoff of US-based developers working on the successful Marvel Rivals game has sent shockwaves through the industry. This article delves into the details of the layoffs and the upcoming Season 1 update.

NetEase's Strategic Shift Impacts North American Studios

Marvel Rivals US Team Laid Off

Marvel Rivals director Thaddeus Sasser announced on LinkedIn (February 19, 2025) that he and other California-based developers were unexpectedly let go by NetEase Games. Despite the game's considerable success, the team found themselves unemployed. Sasser's LinkedIn post highlights the team's contributions and actively seeks new employment opportunities for his former colleagues. He specifically championed Garry McGee, the game's technical designer, showcasing his skills and recommending him highly to potential employers.

NetEase's Controversial North American Decisions

Developed by teams in China and Seattle, Marvel Rivals saw its US-based team, responsible for game and level design, impacted by the layoffs. While NetEase remains silent on the reasons, industry speculation points to a potential withdrawal from the North American market. This is supported by previous events, including the withdrawal of funding from Worlds Untold and the termination of the partnership with Jar of Sparks.

Marvel Rivals Season 1 Update: Part Two

New Heroes, Maps, and Balance Changes

The second half of Season 1 brings exciting additions to Marvel Rivals, as announced on the game's YouTube channel (February 19, 2025). The Thing and Human Torch join the roster, completing the Fantastic Four. A new map, Central Park, featuring Dracula's castle, adds a spooky new location.

Balance adjustments, effective February 21, 2025, at 12:00 AM (PDT), target the triple-strategist meta, increasing energy costs for quick ultimate recharges. Vanguard character survivability is being tweaked, with some receiving buffs and others nerfs (e.g., Storm, Moon Knight). A planned rank reset was announced but later reversed due to player feedback.

The unexpected layoffs, coupled with the Season 1 update, paint a complex picture of NetEase's strategic direction and its impact on the North American game development landscape.