If you've been keeping tabs on Marvel Rivals, the recent superhero-themed hero shooter from NetEase Games, you've likely noticed its meteoric rise to the top of Steam and Twitch charts since its December launch. Packed with beloved characters like Spider-Man, Wolverine, and the Fantastic Four, the game has captured the hearts of fans worldwide, drawing hundreds of thousands of daily players on Steam alone (per SteamDB). However, beneath the surface of its glowing reviews lies a growing concern among players: the presence of bots in Quickplay matches.
Quickplay, intended as a casual mode where players can jump into matches with others, has become a battleground for suspicion. Many users have reported encountering what appear to be AI-controlled players, especially after experiencing multiple losses. While the game's developers argue this system prevents frustration and ensures quicker matchmaking, the lack of transparency has left players frustrated. Social media platforms are buzzing with theories and evidence, ranging from repetitive in-game behaviors to oddly formatted team names and restricted career profiles for enemies.
One Reddit user succinctly expressed the sentiment shared by many: “I know people may feel differently, but playing against bots in Quickplay just doesn’t feel good at all to me. AI should be in AI modes and that’s it.” Another user highlighted the frustration of not knowing whether they're truly improving their skills or simply benefiting from free wins handed out by bots.
While the use of bots in multiplayer games isn’t unprecedented, the lack of an opt-out feature has sparked calls for greater control. Some players advocate for toggling bots on or off, while others demand their complete removal. Still, a segment of the community acknowledges the potential benefits, using bot matches as opportunities to earn achievements or practice with specific heroes.
Despite these concerns, NetEase remains silent on the matter. The company has yet to address these issues publicly, leaving players to speculate and share experiences. Meanwhile, Marvel Rivals gears up for a busy year ahead, starting with the Fantastic Four’s debut in Season 1: Eternal Night Falls. Creative Director Guangyun Chen has promised regular updates, including at least one new hero per half-season, and upcoming releases include Peter Parker’s Advanced Suit 2.0 from Marvel’s Spider-Man.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the conversation around Marvel Rivals extends beyond its gameplay mechanics to the very heart of how multiplayer experiences are shaped—and how developers engage with their communities.
