Marvel Rivals' Success Doesn't Stop NetEase From Firing Director and Other US Devs

NetEase Games' Layoffs Despite Marvel Rivals' Success: A Strategic Shift?

NetEase Games recently laid off US-based developers from the successful Marvel Rivals, sparking controversy within the industry. This article explores the details of the layoffs and the upcoming Season 1 update.

NetEase's North American Restructuring

Thaddeus Sasser, Marvel Rivals' director, announced on LinkedIn (February 19, 2025) his layoff, along with other California-based team members. Despite the game's strong performance, the team was let go, prompting Sasser to actively seek new employment opportunities for his former colleagues on the platform. He highlighted the skills and contributions of individual team members, such as Garry McGee, the game's technical designer, offering strong endorsements.

NetEase's decision remains unexplained, but industry speculation points to a broader strategic retreat from North America. This follows previous actions, including the withdrawal of funding from Worlds Untold (November 2024) and the termination of the partnership with Jar of Sparks (January 7, 2025).

Marvel Rivals Season 1 Update: Part Two

The second half of Marvel Rivals' Season 1 is launching with significant additions. As announced on the game's YouTube channel (February 19, 2025), players can expect new heroes (The Thing and Human Torch, completing the Fantastic Four), a new map (Central Park, featuring Dracula's castle), balance adjustments, and tournaments.

Lead combat designer Zhiyong detailed the balance changes, addressing the current meta by increasing the energy cost for characters with rapid ultimate recharge (e.g., Cloak & Dagger, Loki). Adjustments also include reducing the survivability of certain Vanguard characters (Doctor Strange, Magnet) while enhancing others. Overpowered heroes like Storm and Moon Knight are also receiving nerfs. Notably, a planned rank reset was scrapped following negative player feedback.