How to Develop a Game Like Marvel Rivals?

Marvel Rivals is a fast-paced, 6v6 team-based shooter title that features popular Marvel characters like Iron Man, Loki, and Black Panther. Its mix of superhero powers, dynamic environments, and competitive gameplay has made it one of the most talked-about multiplayer games of 2025.

If you are a game entrepreneur or business looking to build a similar hero shooter, here is a simple and practical guide to help you get started.

What is Marvel Rivals Game?

Marvel Rivals is a third-person team shooter game. This title is a joint creation by NetEase Games and Marvel. In this game, players form teams of six and choose from iconic heroes and villains, each with unique powers. The game focuses on team synergy, fast reflexes, and special combos between characters.

It features:

• Destructible environments
• Cross-platform multiplayer
• Hero-specific abilities
• Real-time PvP action

Why Are Games Like Marvel Rivals Popular in 2025?

Team-based shooters with known characters create immersive gameplay and attract more players. Here is why this genre is trending so much:

• Familiar Characters Attract Global Audiences

Games like Marvel Rivals feature iconic heroes such as Iron Man, Loki, and Spider-Man. This instantly draws in millions of fans and builds strong emotional connections.

• Cross-Platform Support Increases Accessibility

These games can be played on PC, consoles, and even cloud services. It makes them more accessible to a wider player base across different devices.

• Fast-Paced PvP Combat Keeps Players Hooked

Real-time player-versus-player battles create excitement and competition. The quick action and short match durations help players stay engaged for longer.

• Team-Based Strategy Encourages Social Play

Players must work together by using different hero abilities to win the game. This teamwork promotes community-building and increases player retention.

• In-Game Purchases Boost Revenue

These games offer cosmetic skins, emotes, and battle passes. In-game monetization makes them financially rewarding for developers and publishers.

What are the Key Features of a Marvel Rivals-Type Game?

To build a game like Marvel Rivals, your game should have the following core features:

• Character-based gameplay: It provides unique skills, weapons, and playstyles per hero.
  
• 6v6 Team Battles: This feature balances maps for fair and competitive gameplay.
  
• Destructible Arenas: The real-time destruction adds excitement and strategizes competition.
  
• Hero Combos: The players can trigger special combo moves with allies.
  
• Multiplayer & Voice Chat: It is a social feature that enables real-time teamwork and communication.
  
• Live Events & Tournaments: Game events and tournaments boost engagement and community interaction.

Step-by-Step Blueprint to Build a Game Like Marvel Rivals in 2025

Here is a step-by-step process to develop a game like Marvel Rivals in 2025:

1. Define the Game Concept

First, start by deciding what type of hero shooter you want to build. Will your characters be based on original stories or inspired by existing superheroes?

• Choose a setting like a futuristic city or an alien world
• The gameplay style (first-person or third-person)
• Core features like team battles, special powers, or environmental destruction.

Also, define your target audience and platform, like PC, console, mobile, or cloud gaming.

2. Select the Right Game Engine

Choose a game engine. Unreal Engine 5 is ideal for high-end 3D graphics and large multiplayer maps. Unity is more lightweight and works well for mid-level games with cross-platform support. The choice depends on your budget, game size, and platform needs.

Game Engine	Best For
Unreal Engine 5	AAA-level games with real-time physics & large maps.
Unity	Indie to mid-size games with quick development cycles.

3. Build the Core Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay must be fun and responsive. Design character movement, aiming, shooting, jumping, power usage, and environmental destruction. Each element should feel smooth and intuitive. Start with a playable prototype and refine the game through internal playtests to avoid bugs or unfair advantages during live battles.

4. Create Unique Characters with Abilities

In a hero shooter like Marvel Rivals, characters are the heart of the game. Design each character with a backstory, unique costume, and special abilities. Try to make each character feel distinct so players develop preferences and strategies.

Character Element	Description
Role	Tank, DPS, or Support
Powers	2–3 unique skills per hero
Personality	Backstory, appearance, voiceovers

5. Build Multiplayer Infrastructure

A strong backend is essential for smooth multiplayer experiences. Use reliable cloud servers like AWS GameLift, Photon, or PlayFab. Integrate real-time matchmaking, leaderboards, live chat, and anti-cheat mechanisms. To handle a large number of users, use low-latency servers and auto-scaling so that there is no performance drop during traffic spikes.

6. Plan the Monetization Strategy

Revenue generation is also important. This benefits game owners. But, make sure players don’t need to spend much without disrupting game balance.

Monetization Method	Description
Skins & Outfits	Cosmetic-only character changes
Battle Pass	Timed rewards and unlockables
Loot Boxes	Random gear or visual items
Paid Upgrades	Remove ads or unlock faster rewards

7. Test with Beta Users and Launch Strategically

Before release, test your game with a beta group and work on their feedback. Find and fix bugs. After improvements, test the game at full settings with more players. Once the game is stable and ready, launch it officially and market it.

8. Roll Out Regular Post-Launch Updates

Refresh the game content regularly to retain players. Add new characters, seasonal themes, limited-time game modes, and tournaments. Fix bugs quickly and listen to community feedback to keep the game fresh.

What is the Cost to Develop a Game Like Marvel Rivals in 2025?

The cost to develop a game like Marvel Rivals is not fixed and is actually dependent on a variety of factors. Here is the estimated cost breakdown to build a game like Marvel Rivals. 

Stage	Estimated Cost (USD)
Game Design & Prototyping	$50,000 ~ $3,00,000
Core Development	$3,00,000 ~ $10,00,000
Server & Multiplayer Setup	$50,000 ~ $2,00,000
Post-Launch Updates (Yearly)	$50,000 ~ $5,00,000
Total Estimated Cost	$4,50,000 ~ $3,000,000

The overall development cost highly depends on the game complexity, graphics quality, and size of the team. Using original characters instead of licensed Marvel IP can reduce costs significantly. If you are unsure about your project cost, you can contact the AAA Game Development agency.

What is the Technology Stack Used to Develop Marvel Rivals like Game?

Here are the tools and technologies that are used to make games similar to Marvel Rivals:

Component	Tools/Platforms
Game Engine	Unreal Engine 5 or Unity
Programming Language	C++, C#, Python
Multiplayer Backend	Photon, PlayFab, AWS GameLift
Graphics & Assets	Blender, Maya, Adobe Substance
Monetization SDKs	Unity Ads, Google Play Billing, Xsolla

Why Choose BR Softech to Develop a Game Like Marvel Rivals?

As a prominent video game development company, BR Softech specializes in making high-end multiplayer games using Unreal and Unity. Our professional developer team delivers the best of:

• Cross-platform game apps (PC, console, mobile)
• Advanced AI integration
• Custom character and combat design
• Ongoing support & updates
  

Whether you want to develop an original hero shooter or something that is inspired by Marvel Rivals, we will help turn your vision into a scalable and exciting game. Get in touch with us today by filling in the query form on the screen.

Final Words

Marvel Rivals stands out by combining fast-paced strategy, iconic Marvel heroes, and visually rich gameplay. Frequent updates and fresh content keep players hooked. The game is easy to learn and has competitive features that make it highly popular among the masses, including both casual gamers and pro-level players. The game continues to lead the way in team shooter standards.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)