VOL. 1 · ISSUE 17 · APR 25 2026THE DISPATCHInstagramTikTokYouTubeX
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NEWS

Hawkeye Joins The ‘Marvel Rivals’ Roster, New Wakanda Map & Season 0 Updates

Marvel Rivals is almost here! Marvel Games and NetEase are ramping up excitement for the December 6 launch of Marvel Rivals, their upcoming team-based PVP shooter, by unveiling some major updates. Fan-favorite marksman Hawkeye has officially joined the launch roster, which will feature a total of 33 heroes available at release—completely free-to-play. The announcement also […]

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2 min

Marvel Rivals is almost here!

Marvel Games and NetEase are ramping up excitement for the December 6 launch of Marvel Rivals, their upcoming team-based PVP shooter, by unveiling some major updates. Fan-favorite marksman Hawkeye has officially joined the launch roster, which will feature a total of 33 heroes available at release—completely free-to-play.

The announcement also introduced a stunning new map set in Wakanda, details on Season 0: “Doom’s Rise,” and a sneak peek at the stylish Imperial Protocol costumes.

A Master Marksman Joins the Fight

Marvel Rivals: Hawkeye Joins the Roster with New Wakanda Map and Season 0 Updates
(Image credit: Marvel Games)

Clint Barton, better known as Hawkeye, might not have superpowers, but his unmatched precision has made him a staple of the Avengers. With his ability to dismantle an entire enemy fleet armed only with a quiver of arrows, Hawkeye’s arrival will add a new layer of strategy to Marvel Rivals.

As a bonus, fans can look forward to an upcoming reveal of his Wakanda-inspired “Imperial Protocol” costume.

Explore Wakanda’s Birnin T’Challa Map

Fans of Afrofuturism will be thrilled to dive into Birnin T’Challa, a vibrant Wakandan city blending high-tech vibranium architecture with traditional African tribal elements.

From holographic projections of Bast to towering vibranium skyscrapers, the map captures the imagination and energy of Wakanda’s intergalactic empire, providing a breathtaking backdrop for epic battles.

Season 0: “Doom’s Rise” Kicks Off at Launch

Season 0, titled “Doom’s Rise,” sets the stage for Marvel Rivals with 33 heroes, eight maps across Quick Match and Competitive modes, and a brand-new Practice Range. The story centers on the chaos unleashed by Doctor Doom’s time experiments, introducing a month-long event with a limited-time Battle Pass packed with costumes and cosmetics.

The Imperial Protocol costumes, designed around Wakanda’s intergalactic empire, will also debut during Season 0. Some standout features are Black Panther’s impressive “Galactic Claw” outfit and the high-tech designs for Captain America, Mantis, and Hawkeye.

Behind the Scenes of Marvel Rivals

Players curious about how this ambitious game came together can now watch the first installment of a behind-the-scenes video series, diving into the development process and offering insights into the creative journey.

More to Come

Marvel Rivals lets players pick heroes across three distinct roles—Vanguard, Duelist, and Strategist—teaming up to unleash powerful combos with innovative Team-Up Abilities. Developed by a global team at NetEase with deep experience in shooter games, the title promises dynamic action with some of Marvel’s most iconic characters.

Ready to join the fight? Wishlist Marvel Rivals now on Steam.

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