NetEase cuts Marvel Rivals team despite game's success

NetEase Games has terminated its US-based Marvel Rivals developers despite the game's positive reception. Continue reading for details about this development and updates coming to Marvel Rivals' Season 1 Part 2.

NetEase Restructuring Affects North American Operations

NetEase Implements Layoffs for Marvel Rivals US Developers

Marvel Rivals director Thaddeus Sasser revealed via LinkedIn on February 19, 2025 that NetEase Games dismissed him along with other California-based team members.

"This industry never ceases to surprise," Sasser wrote. "Our outstanding team just delivered NetEase's successful new franchise Marvel Rivals...and now we're suddenly unemployed!"

Despite the setback, Sasser began advocating for his former colleagues' employment prospects. "Challenging times call for action - Let's help these talented professionals find their next opportunities."

Sasser specifically highlighted technical designer Garry McGee's qualifications: "Garry excelled throughout our project. As a skilled technical designer specializing in level design with innovative problem-solving abilities, he brings tremendous value."

The director offered strong professional endorsements, stating: "Given the chance, I'd rehire him immediately."

NetEase Shifts Strategy Despite Marvel Rivals' Achievement

Marvel Rivals was developed collaboratively between teams in China and Seattle, with Sasser's US team focusing on game and level design. However, their critical contributions didn't protect them from industry-wide workforce reductions.

While NetEase hasn't commented officially, sources suggest the company is scaling back North American operations. Previous indications include withdrawn funding from Worlds Untold studio in November 2024 and terminated partnership with Jar of Sparks in January 2025.

Marvel Rivals Season 1 Part 2 Updates Revealed

Exciting New Content Arriving Soon

The February 19, 2025 developer update introduced significant changes coming in Season 1's second half, including new characters, battlefield modifications, and competitive adjustments.

The update completes the Fantastic Four roster with The Thing and Human Torch, while adding Central Park as a new battleground featuring Dracula's castle.

Lead combat designer Zhiyong detailed balance adjustments effective February 21, 2025. Notable changes include increasing ultimate energy costs for quick-recharge characters like Cloak & Dagger and Loki.

The update also modifies Vanguard characters' survivability and movement capabilities while nerfing overpowered heroes Storm and Moon Knight.

A proposed seasonal rank reset system was abandoned following player feedback, demonstrating the development team's responsiveness to community input.