NetEase Games' surprising layoff of US-based developers working on the successful Marvel Rivals game has sent shockwaves through the industry. This article delves into the details of the layoffs and the upcoming Season 1 update.

NetEase's Strategic Shift Impacts North American Studios

Unexpected Layoffs at Marvel Rivals

On February 19, 2025, Thaddeus Sasser, director of Marvel Rivals, announced on LinkedIn that he and other California-based developers had been laid off by NetEase Games. This news came as a surprise, given the game's recent success. Sasser highlighted the team's significant contribution to launching a successful new franchise, only to be met with job losses.

Undeterred, Sasser took to LinkedIn to actively promote his former team members to potential employers, showcasing their talents and experience. He specifically highlighted Garry McGee, the game's technical designer, praising his skills and offering a strong recommendation.

NetEase's Controversial North American Actions

Marvel Rivals was a collaborative effort between development teams in China and Seattle. While Sasser's team played a crucial role in game and level design, their contributions didn't prevent them from being affected by the broader industry layoffs.

NetEase has remained silent on the reasons for the layoffs. However, industry speculation suggests a potential retreat from the North American market. This is supported by NetEase's previous actions, including withdrawing funding from Worlds Untold in November 2024 and ending its partnership with Jar of Sparks in January 2025.

Marvel Rivals Season 1 Update: Second Half

New Content and Balance Changes

Despite the internal turmoil, Marvel Rivals continues to receive updates. The second half of Season 1, announced on the game's YouTube channel on February 19, 2025, introduces new heroes (The Thing and Human Torch, completing the Fantastic Four), a new map (Central Park, featuring Dracula's castle), balance adjustments, and tournaments.

Balance adjustments focus on addressing the meta, including increasing the energy cost for characters with rapid ultimate recharge and altering the survivability and mobility of various Vanguard characters. A planned rank reset was later reversed due to player feedback.