Some Marvel Rivals Players Are Risking Bans

NetEase Games Issues Warning: Marvel Rivals Modders Face Potential Bans

NetEase Games, developer and publisher of the popular team shooter Marvel Rivals, has issued a stern warning to players utilizing mods. The company explicitly stated that any modification of the game, regardless of whether it's cosmetic or provides gameplay advantages, violates the game's terms of service and risks a permanent ban.

This announcement follows the release of Marvel Rivals Season 1, which introduced new playable characters (Invisible Woman and Mister Fantastic from the Fantastic Four) and adjustments to existing heroes. Despite attempts in Season 1 to prevent modding through asset hash checks, workarounds have emerged. A mod on Nexus Mods, created by user Prafit, bypasses these checks, though the author acknowledges the risk of account bans. Another mod, transforming Mister Fantastic into One Piece's Luffy, has also gained traction.

While NetEase Games hasn't publicly confirmed any bans for modding yet, the company has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards modifications, cheats, and hacks. Although some mods, including one featuring US President-elect Donald Trump, have been removed from Nexus Mods, Prafit's workaround remains available, boasting over 500 downloads.

The situation highlights the ongoing conflict between modding communities and game developers. NetEase Games' stance is clear: modding in Marvel Rivals carries significant risk. The future actions of NetEase Games in response to ongoing modding remain to be seen. The game, nominated for Online Game of the Year at the upcoming DICE Awards 2025, continues to enjoy popularity despite these challenges.