Marvel Rivals Monetization Explained

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As a seasoned gamer with countless hours spent on both free-to-play and pay-to-win games, I must say that Marvel Rivals has caught my attention with its intriguing monetization strategy. It’s like they’ve taken the best of both worlds and crafted a unique gaming experience.

As a gamer, I’m well aware that free-to-play games often subtly try to extract every last cent from me without me even noticing. And that’s precisely the expectation many of us gamers have for NetEase’s highly anticipated Marvel Rivals – we know it might be trying to make a profit, and we’re ready for it!

Starting this week, Marvel Rivals is set to be unveiled, and the creators have shared details about their strategy for generating revenue by encouraging players to invest in appealing in-game cosmetics.

Monetization in Marvel Rivals

As stated on the official website, the game charges solely for cosmetic items which offer only aesthetic modifications without any impact on stats or pay-to-win advantages. Consequently, all other components of the game such as characters, maps, and gameplay aspects are entirely free to access.

Essentially, it operates similarly to Overwatch 2, with payments applied solely for cosmetic items. Yet, there’s a mechanism enabling players to accrue points, which they can utilize to buy these decorative add-ons.

The two types of currency in the game are:

  • Lattice (gold currency) – Lattice is the premium currency of the game and is obtained with actual money.
  • Units (blue currency) – Units are the free in-game currency and can be earned in limited quantities via the Battle Pass, Achievements, and Events. They can also be exchanged with Lattice for 1:1 ratio.

According to numerous online predictions, the standard rate for Lattice is set at 100 Lattice equating to USD 0.99, however, players can benefit from a discount when they invest USD 99.99, receiving 11,680 Lattice in return (approximately saving USD 16.80).

Buying Things at the Store

When buying cosmetics from the in-game shop, they often come grouped together as Packages. These packages not only include a skin but also other cosmetic items that match or enhance it. The cost of these packages depends on their classification, which includes Epic, Epic MCU, and Legendary quality bundles.

The pricing system is as follows:

  • Standard Epic-Quality Bundle: 1,600 UNITS (Standard value: 2,200 UNITS, -28% discount
  • Standard Epic-Quality MCU Bundle: 1,800 UNITS (Standard value: 2,400 UNITS, -25% discount)
  • Standard Legendary-Quality Bundle: 2,400 UNITS (Standard value: 3,300 UNITS, -28% discount)

Battle Pass Perks

Instead of the store being where you find specific items, consider the Battle Pass as a way to acquire unique cosmetics without breaking the bank. The premium version of this pass, referred to as the Luxury Battle Pass, will set players back 490 Lattice and is said to offer a whopping total value of 8000 Units’ worth of items.

Battle Pass rewards consist of 5 outfits and associated accessories, and your advancement is indicated by Chrono Points, which you earn from completing tasks and continuing to play the game.

It’s important to mention that one advantage of the Battle Pass in Marvel Rivals is its perpetual nature. Unlike most Battle Passes which expire by the end of the season they’re introduced, the one from NetEase allows players to finish their Battle Passes beyond the season’s end, removing the need for rush completion within a specific timeframe.

Absolutely, there’s a complimentary Battle Pass available for players as well, which doesn’t require any investment. This is where they can amass their Units, a currency used within the game to acquire various in-game items.

Marvel Rivals is now available for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.

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2024-12-09 13:12