Summary

• The Season 1 update for Marvel Rivals has eliminated the ability to use custom-made mods.
• NetEase has emphasized that using mods violates the game's terms of service.
• The ban on mods likely aims to protect Marvel Rivals' profitability through in-game purchases.

The latest update for Marvel Rivals, released with Season 1, has reportedly removed the functionality for players to use custom-made mods. Since its launch, fans have enjoyed creating and using bespoke character skins, but following the Season 1 update on January 10, 2025, these mods no longer seem to work.

Marvel Rivals enjoyed a successful and highly profitable launch in early December. The Season 1 content introduced The Fantastic Four as playable heroes, with Mr. Fantastic and the Invisible Woman already available, while the Thing and the Human Torch are set to join later, likely in late February. This new season also includes a fresh Battle Pass, new maps, and a new Doom Match game mode.

However, a significant unannounced change has left players unable to use their mods, forcing characters back to their default appearances. NetEase Games has always stated that using mods, even those that are purely cosmetic, violates the game's terms of service and could result in bans. The Season 1 update appears to have implemented hash checking, a technique that verifies the authenticity of data, effectively blocking mod usage without the need for bans.

Marvel Rivals Eliminates Mod Use

This move against mods was not entirely unexpected within the Marvel Rivals community. NetEase has been clear about its stance in the game's terms of service and has previously taken action against specific mods, such as banning a mod that replaced Captain America's head with that of Donald Trump. Despite this, the decision has impacted players who enjoyed the customization options, with some mod creators sharing their unreleased works on platforms like Twitter.

Some mods have also stirred controversy with provocative content, such as nude hero skins, prompting player complaints. However, the primary reason behind NetEase's decision to block mods is likely financial. As a free-to-play game, Marvel Rivals relies on in-game purchases for revenue, particularly through character bundles that include new skins, sprays, and other cosmetic items. Allowing free cosmetic mods could undermine the game's profitability by reducing the incentive for players to buy these items.