Get ready for an electrifying update in Marvel Rivals as Season 2.5 introduces the formidable Ultron and a host of exciting new features. Dive in to discover the new playable hero and what's in store for fans in this upcoming season.
Marvel Rivals Season 2.5 Updates
The Rise of Ultron
Marvel Rivals is set to thrill players with the addition of Ultron in the Season 2.5 update, scheduled for release on May 30 following maintenance. Announced via a Twitter (X) post by NetEase Games on May 23, Ultron promises to bring a new strategic dimension to the game.
As detailed in Marvel Rivals’ Dev Vision Vol. 06, Ultron is classified as a Strategist, capable of providing consistent healing to allies. His unique primary weapon, combined with his ability to fly, sets him apart as the only Strategist who can take to the skies, opening up new aerial strategies. Ultron's basic attacks deliver three low-damage bursts, culminating in a high-damage finale, while his healing mechanism involves attaching a drone to allies. This drone not only heals but can also overheal the attached hero and nearby teammates. His Ultimate ability is a game-changer, simultaneously dealing damage and healing allies within the targeted area.
Alongside Ultron, Season 2.5 will unveil two new skins: Ultron’s X-Tron skin, inspired by his takeover of Cerebro and subsequent power boost, and Groot’s Norse Mythology-themed Yggroot skin. These skins will be available post-maintenance, though pricing and bundle details are yet to be disclosed by NetEase.
Season 2.5 Coming on May 30
Mark your calendars for May 30 when Marvel Rivals Season 2.5 goes live after a maintenance period of 2-3 hours, starting at 2 AM PDT / 9 AM UTC. Below is a timetable to help you know when the update kicks off in your region:
This update isn't just about Ultron; it includes a series of balancing adjustments aimed at refining gameplay. Heroes like Captain America will see a reduction in health, while Doctor Strange gets a damage boost and Emma Frost enjoys an increased range. These changes are designed to counteract the prevailing "dive meta," where aggressive heroes like Iron Fist and Psylocke dominate by quickly closing gaps and targeting key enemy roles.
In addition to these updates, Season 2.5 introduces the new Arrako map, a sister-island to Krakoa that Ultron has claimed as his stronghold following his attack at the Hellfire Gala. Players will rally with Krakoa to reclaim Arrako from Ultron's grip.
The season also brings back the Cerebro Database event, running from May 30 at 9:00 AM UTC to June 27, offering players a chance to earn the free Hawkeye – Binary Arrow costume by completing various missions.
Team-Up Adjustments, New Experimental Mode, and More!
Season 2.5 will see the addition of 6 new team-ups, the removal of 4, and various adjustments to existing ones. Highlights include Rocket Network by Rocket Raccoon and Peni Parker, Stark Protocol by Iron Man and Ultron, and the fan-favorite Jeff-Nado by Jeff and Storm. Creative Director Guangguang notes that over 50% of Team-Up abilities have evolved since Season 0, and he's eager for community feedback.
A new limited-time experimental mode, "Ultron’s Battle Matrix Protocol," launches on June 6. In this mode, players can customize their hero lineups, build unique strategies, and enhance their heroes’ traits to battle others in a quest for victory. Guangguang likens it to auto-chess game modes like Teamfight Tactics and Hearthstone Battlegrounds, describing it as a "streamlined, strategic, numerical-based solo tactical play."
NetEase also announced that starting from Season 3, the duration of seasons will be shortened from 3 months to 2, with new hero releases occurring monthly instead of the previous 2 heroes per season.
Marvel Rivals continues to evolve, expanding its roster with Ultron and refining gameplay through balance adjustments and innovative new modes. The game is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay tuned for more updates by checking out our dedicated article!
