The Contenders
Marvel Rivals bursts onto the scene with the weight of the Marvel Multiverse behind it. Developed by NetEase Games, this free-to-play superhero team-based PVP shooter assembles an all-star Marvel squad. Players combine powers to form unique Team-Up skills, battling across destructible, ever-changing battlefields. With a vast roster of fan-favorite Marvel characters, it promises fast-paced 6v6 action and dynamic hero synergy.
Gigantic: Rampage Edition, on the other hand, is a revival of the original 5v5 MOBA hero shooter. It emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and quick reflexes. Players choose from a diverse lineup of 23 heroes, each with unique abilities, to engage in dynamic battles. The objective? Control the map, protect your team’s Guardian, and defeat the enemy’s Guardian.
The Similarities
Team-Based Gameplay: Both games thrive on team dynamics. Whether you’re coordinating with fellow Marvel heroes or battling alongside Gigantic’s diverse cast, teamwork is essential.
Battlefields: Marvel Rivals features dynamic "ever-changing" environments, and Gigantic Rampage Edition has more whimsical environments. From iconic Marvel worlds to fantastical stages in Gigantic, players must adapt for victory.
Unique Abilities: Heroes in both games possess distinct abilities.
The Crucial Differences
Brand Recognition
Marvel Rivals wields the mighty Mjolnir of brand recognition. The Marvel universe is a cultural juggernaut, drawing fans from comics, movies, and TV shows. Gigantic, while enjoyed by its community, lacks the same global recognition. Marvel will have higher expectations.
Price Model
Marvel’s decision to go free-to-play mirrors Gigantic’s original approach. By removing the paywall, Marvel Rivals opens its doors wider, potentially attracting a larger player base. Gigantic, despite its revival, must contend with this competitive pricing strategy. On the bright side, Gigantic Rampage Edition has no microtransactions.
The Verdict
While Gigantic has a player base, complaints are still there when it comes to wait times. This brings up concerns about how long the player base will last. Marvel Rivals could be the proverbial Thanos snap that tips the scales, but will it have what it takes to survive? It appears to have accessibility, synergy-rich gameplay, and Marvel rep makes it a formidable contender. Will Gigantic Rampage Edition, withstand this superhero onslaught? To be determined.