PC users will be able to play once the clock strikes midnight, but only if they pre-load the game early.
Pre-loading is currently available on Steam, and because it’s a free-to-play game, no pre-ordering is required.
Unfortunately for console players, Marvel Rivals won’t be available to download and install until the servers go live at midnight.
Indeed, don’t be surprised if the game experiences server issues at launch, as thousands potentially login at the same time to start playing.
Once the game servers go live, players will be able to try out all of the game’s heroes and villains for free.
This includes well known characters such as Hulk, Iron Man, Captain America and Loki, as well as lesser known types like Jeff the Land Shark, Cloak and Dagger, Squirrel Girl and Namor.
Other playable characters include Adam Warlock, Black Panther, Black Widow, Doctor Strange, Groot, Hawkeye, Hela, Iron Fist, Luna Snow, Magik, Magneto, Mantis, Moon Knight and Peni Parker.
That’s on top of Psylocke, Rocket Raccoon, Scarlet Witch, Spider-Man, Star-Lord, Storm, The Punisher, Thor, Venom, Winter Soldier and Wolverine. It’s a pretty decent line-up.
The game will launch with three game modes, including Convoy, Domination, and Convergence. Expect more to be added at a later date.
There are also one or two interesting features that could make Marvel Rivals stand out from the crowd.
For starters, Marvel Rivals will feature destructible environments, which will provide additional cover and makeshift new weapons.
I also like the sound of the Dynamic Hero Synergy feature, which sees characters combine skills for new strategies.
This includes the ability for Rocket Racoon to ride on Groot’s back, as well as using Hulk’s Gamma energy to charge Iron Man’s armour.
According to the developer, the only monetisation elements involve cosmetics. There will also be a Battle Pass containing various skins and items for your characters.
