NetEase Games Issues Warning: Marvel Rivals Modders Face Bans
NetEase Games, developer and publisher of the popular team shooter Marvel Rivals, has issued a stern warning to players utilizing modifications (mods). The company explicitly stated that any form of modding, from cosmetic changes to performance-enhancing add-ons, violates the game's terms of service and risks permanent account bans.
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 via asset hash checks, workarounds have emerged. One such mod, available on Nexus Mods, bypasses these checks, as reported by IGN. The mod's creator, Prafit, acknowledges the risk of bans and recommends it only for users with high-performance PCs. Another mod, circulating on social media, even allows players to transform Mister Fantastic into One Piece's Luffy.
While the extent of any bans issued by NetEase Games remains undisclosed, the company has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy regarding modifications, cheats, and hacks. Although some mods have been removed from platforms like Nexus Mods, Prafit's workaround continues to be available, boasting over 500 downloads.
Despite past instances of erroneous bans, NetEase Games has clearly defined the consequences of violating the terms of service. The future actions of NetEase Games in response to ongoing modding remain to be seen. The game, launched in December 2024, has been a significant success, even earning a nomination for Online Game of the Year at the upcoming DICE Awards 2025.