Marvel Rivals’ New Mode Sparks Overwatch Comparisons

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Marvel Rivals, the popular hero shooter from NetEase Games, has unveiled its Spring Festival event, drawing immediate comparisons to Overwatch‘s Lúcioball mode. The event, which launches on Jan. 23, introduces a new limited-time mode called Clash of Dancing Lions, featuring 3v3 soccer gameplay with Marvel heroes in lion-themed skins.

The mode, reminiscent of Overwatch’s Lúcioball and Rocket League, tasks players with scoring goals using characters like Star-Lord, Iron Fist, and Black Widow. While the mechanics appear similar, Marvel Rivals adds its own twist, including a soccer ball that players can carry and unique hero abilities. The event also includes MVP animations and rewards tied to Chinese New Year celebrations.

Overwatch fans have noted the striking similarities, especially given the timing of Overwatch’s Lunar New Year event, which coincides with the game’s return to China on Feb. 19. Overwatch director Aaron Keller recently announced a slew of returning cosmetics and new Chinese mythology-themed skins for the upcoming season.

Marvel Rivals’ Spring Festival event offers players the chance to earn exclusive rewards, including the Star-Lord Lion’s Mane costume, a nameplate, and a spray. Additional skins, such as Iron Fist Lion’s Gaze and Black Widow Lion’s Heartbeat, are expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

Despite the comparisons, NetEase emphasizes that Clash of Dancing Lions is a unique experience tailored to Marvel Rivals’ gameplay. The event is part of a broader effort to engage the game’s growing community, which is also anticipating a major update later this month.

As the gaming world watches, the question remains: Will Marvel Rivals’ new mode carve out its own identity, or will it continue to draw comparisons to its predecessors? Players will have their chance to decide when the event goes live on Jan. 23.