NetEase Games and Marvel Games have unveiled the details for the anticipated Marvel Rivals Season 3.5 titled “The Abyss Awakens,” set to launch on August 8. This update will add a new playable character, Blade, a new map named the Throne of Knull, and introduce a game mode called Resource Rumble. In addition, improvements to team-up abilities, competitive systems, and community tools are part of this major update. Marvel Rivals, a free-to-play title, is currently accessible on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam.
Blade, known as the Daywalker, joins the game as a Duelist-class hero. He excels in mid-to-close range combat, utilizing a combination of a shotgun and vampiric sword abilities to weaken opponents and disrupt their defenses. His skills include the Ancestral Sword and the ability to wield the formidable Sword of Dracula, making him a powerful melee combatant effective against groups of enemies. The game’s character and gameplay reveal trailer highlights Blade’s aggressive combat style.
The new Resource Rumble game mode will be introduced on August 22, set within the freshly revealed Throne of Knull map. Initially, this mode will be available in Quick Match to gather player feedback before it becomes accessible in Competitive playlists. This update aligns with the ongoing storyline in Marvel Rivals, emphasizing the emergence of Knull and the transformation of the battlefield due to the Phoenix Force.
Season 3.5 also features revisions to Team-Up abilities, with some popular combinations phased out while new team-ups such as Duality Dance and Vibrant Vitality are being launched. Additionally, existing team-ups will see new characters introduced, enhancing the gameplay experience.
To ensure fair play, NetEase is implementing stricter penalties for players quitting Competitive matches, leading to larger point deductions and extended matchmaking bans. In contrast, players who remain until the end will earn point compensation. Furthermore, if a player disconnects, fewer votes will be required for surrender options to be accepted.
On the community side, the developers are amplifying their anti-toxicity measures, with automated screening for voice chat and a new customizable text chat filter, empowering players to block specific words.
Overall, this update promises to enhance the gameplay experience while fostering a more positive and engaging community atmosphere. As players gear up for this new content, there’s excitement surrounding the introduction of Blade and the new game modes, offering fresh strategies and challenges. Stay tuned for more insights and coverage on Marvel Rivals.