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Blizzard Entertainment’sOverwatchhas been the face of the hero shooter genre in video gaming since the release of the game in 2016. But withOverwatch 2(OW2)’s release, this grip in the industry loosened a bit with some mishandling from Blizzard. Now there is a new challenger with the launch ofMarvel Rivals.
This free-to-play game from NetEase Games has exploded into the hero shooter genre getting over 10 million players within 72 hours of its December 6 launch. If early impressions are any indication,OW2will lose its place as the go-to hero shooter and that’s not something Blizzard can afford.
Overwatch 2Has Some Big Time Competition Now
The overwhelming success ofMarvel Rivalsis because of its unique selling points and polished execution. Featuring 33 playable Marvel heroes at launch, it capitalizes on the established popularity of the Marvel universe. Players can play as iconic characters from the IP like Iron Man, Spider-Man, and Doctor Strange.
🎉 In just 72 hours, we’ve reached an incredible milestone of 10 million players worldwide! 🎉We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you. 🫶Let’s ignite the battle together! 💖#MarvelRivalspic.twitter.com/5njTulx24e
The game’s launch was nothing short of spectacular. With a peak of nearly 481,000 concurrent players on Steam during its opening weekend, it ranks among the platform’s top performers. Its integration of beloved Marvel characters, coupled with team sizes of six and a ban-pick system,sets it apart fromOverwatch 2.
One Extremely Aggressive Feature in Overwatch 2 Is Why Marvel Rivals Is Killing Them With Their Player Count Spike
OW2is facing its lowest player engagement since launching on Steam. Recent data shows its concurrent player count dipping below 17,000, a big contrast toMarvel Rivals‘ new success. While you can attribute a large part of this success to the game’s ‘honeymoon’ launch period,the numbers are still massive.
Blizzard’s challenges withOW2are largely self-inflicted. The shift to a 5v5 team structure was something that a lot of the OG disliked, and monetization strategies, such as paywalled story missions were big problems. A big portion ofOverwatchveterans feel betrayed by the company’s pivot from its original player-first philosophy.
Blizzard’s Battle Pass and Skin Selling Shenanigans Won’t Do Anymore
A major factor inMarvel Rivals’success lies in its reception by the gaming community. With over 77% of reviews on Steam being positive, the game has carved out a reputation as a worthy successor to the originalOverwatch. Many players view it as a modernized take on the hero shooter formula.
Despite any of these comparisons,Overwatch 2still has a dedicated player base and a strong foundation to build upon.The season 14 update releaseson December 10 and could provide a much-needed boost in player engagement. Adding meaningful content, addressing player grievances, and reconsidering its monetization model are essential steps for Blizzard to regain its footing.
Overwatch 2’s Newest Tank Hero Looks So Bad That Players Have Rejected Him Even Before the Playtests Begin
WhileMarvel Rivalsis enjoying the spotlight of early success, sustaining player interest over time will be its true test. Live-service games often experience an initial surge followed by challenges in maintaining engagement. Blizzard, as a veteran in the genre, has the expertise to weather such storms.OW2has an established infrastructure that could support a comeback if Blizzard seizes the opportunity.
The competition betweenOverwatch 2andMarvel Rivalsultimately benefits players, pushing both titles to innovate and improve. With competition as a driving force, both games stand to benefit. And for fans, this rivalry might just deliver the innovation and excitement the genre desperately needs.
Do you think Blizzard is ready to do more forOverwatch 2‘s player base? Let us know your thoughts!
Daniel Royte
Gaming Writer
Articles Published :1370
As part of the FandomWire team, Daniel has followed the hero-shooter genre closely with a focus on titles like VALORANT, Apex Legends, and Marvel Rivals. you’re able to also find him providing insight on the latest AAA titles from Elden Ring to GTA 6 and exploring the world of gacha games like Genshin Impact and Wuthering Waves. With more than 1,000 articles under his belt, you’ll need to look no further for a unique insight into every situation.If he’s not looking for the latest video game news, you’ll find him cheering on Ferrari in the race tracks of Formula 1 or at the theatres for the latest MCU releases.
