Marvel Rivals Unveils Exciting New Game Mode

Marvel Rivals, the popular team-based hero shooter developed by NetEase Games, is set to launch its Season 2.5 update on May 30, 2025. This mid-season refresh introduces significant additions, including the debut of Ultron as a playable character and a new experimental game mode titled "Ultron's Battle Matrix Protocol."

Ultron Joins the Roster

Ultron enters Marvel Rivals as a Strategist-class hero, marking the game's first flying support character. Equipped with energy beam attacks and healing capabilities, Ultron can navigate the battlefield with agility, providing both offensive and defensive support to his team. His ultimate ability summons drones that simultaneously attack enemies and heal allies, potentially redefining support strategies within the game. 

Ultron's Battle Matrix Protocol: A New Game Mode

Launching on June 6, 2025, "Ultron's Battle Matrix Protocol" is an experimental, limited-time game mode that introduces auto-chess mechanics to Marvel Rivals. In this solo tactical mode, players assemble a team of six heroes and villains, customizing them with various stat-enhancing cards. Once the team is set, players strategically place their characters on the board to engage in automated battles, with the option to control Ultron for additional support. This mode offers a fresh, strategic experience, allowing players to explore new character combinations and abilities. 

Revamped Team-Up Abilities and New Map

Season 2.5 also brings updates to the game's Team-Up Abilities, introducing six new combinations and removing four existing ones. Notable additions include "Symbiote Shenanigans" with Venom and Jeff the Land Shark, and "Jeff-Nado," a water tornado ability from Storm and Jeff. The update also unveils a new map, Arakko, transformed into Ultron's mechanical headquarters, providing a fresh battleground for players.

Enhanced Customization and Future Plans

Players can look forward to new customization options, including hero proficiency avatars, moods, and emojis, allowing for greater personalization. Additionally, NetEase Games announced that future seasons of Marvel Rivals will adopt a shorter, two-month cycle, aiming to deliver content updates more frequently. 

With the introduction of Ultron and the innovative "Ultron's Battle Matrix Protocol," Marvel Rivals continues to expand its gameplay offerings, providing players with new strategies and experiences in the Marvel universe.