Marvel Rivals Fans Face Bans for Post-clampdown Modding

Despite a Season 1 crackdown, Marvel Rivals players continue to risk account bans by using mods. Since the game's December launch, mods creating custom skins—like transforming Iron Man into Vegeta or Mantis into a goth—have been popular. A mod even turns Jeff the Land Shark into Pochita from Chainsaw Man.

NetEase, the developer, implemented asset hash checking with Season 1, explicitly stating in their terms of service and to IGN that mods, cheats, bots, hacks, and unauthorized third-party software are prohibited. Warnings about potential bans were issued, yet a workaround is now widely available.

Modder Prafit, who shared a workaround on Nexus Mods, cautioned users about the risk of bans, noting that while no permanent bans are known, NetEase could still take action. This workaround, while more complex, allows continued modding, particularly evident with new mods featuring the Fantastic Four. Ercuallo's mod, transforming Mister Fantastic into Luffy, boasts over 5,000 downloads in just two days.

A tweet from @RivalsLeaks highlights the continued modding activity. The lack of reported bans so far doesn't guarantee future safety.

NetEase's motivation for banning mods likely stems from potential revenue loss from skin sales, intellectual property concerns, gameplay balance disruption, and potential performance issues. Prafit even suggests the workaround requires a high-performance PC.

For those interested in official game information, the Season 1 patch notes, pick and win rates, and the latest codes are available. A community tier list allows voting on the strongest characters.