Let’s be real, Marvel Rivals isn’t just another hero shooter; it’s a visual spectacle. Flipping through The Art of Marvel Rivals and seeing the sheer depth of the character and costume designs confirms what we’ve all felt: this game has an “East meets West” design sensibility that is just pure eye candy. The art director and the entire team at NetEase Games have been praised for their unwavering push for artistic excellence.
The goal here isn’t just to make familiar heroes, like Iron Man, Star-Lord, and Storm, instantly recognizable, but also to make them both familiar and fresh in this new timeline, known as the Chronoverse. And honestly, they nailed it.
The Character Art is Fire
The design process for the heroes goes deep. They don’t just stop at the default skins; the alternate costumes are serious business. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next convention or just a killer new desktop background, the art book gives us some serious contenders.
Take Adam Warlock, for instance. His cosmetic variety includes a golden mask and red cloak, reminiscent of Victorian attire, giving him a look that is part divine and part vampire hunter. Then there’s Iron Man‘s design, which is all about channeling his rebellious nature in fiery red and dazzling gold armor. His alternate look, the Superior silver armor, showcases Tony’s unique elegance with nanoliquid metal. Doctor Strange, the Sorcerer Supreme, has a look that features a white robe with three eyes, weaving in a unique style inspired by Nordic mythology.
Black Widow gets a Wild West twist in her cosmetic variety, becoming a feared assassin in the 1872 universe, complete with a sleek cowboy outfit and steampunk-style Widow Bite Gauntlets. This one is begging for a full cosplay build! Finally, Hela‘s cosmic costume blends Norse mythology with the aesthetic of the cosmos, making her body resemble an “ever-flowing universe.” Good luck building that for cosplay!
The Most Popular, and Most Adorable, Rivals
Speaking of fan favorites, the online community has definitely crowned its champions. Examining the characters that are most popular online and often top-tier lists reveals that the game’s art is a significant part of its appeal.
Luna Snow, the K-pop star/super hero, is a consistent favorite, often seen as an S-Tier or A-Tier Strategist pick. Her futuristic 2099 elements, combined with K-pop style, create a representation of the superstars of the future. Rocket Raccoon is another highly popular and often S-Tier Strategist; he’s a genius engineer and tactical expert who heals allies and boosts damage. And of course, there’s Jeff the Land Shark. The adorable baby land shark is a fan favorite who loves to spread joy and heal his friends with bubbles and water.
Halloween Costumes and Rivals Beyond
The folks over at Marvel Rivals clearly love their themed events, and the upcoming Halloween skins are a great example of the creative potential the developers tap into. Peni Parker and her mech have a Day of the Dead-themed outfit. Scarlet Witch gets a frightening look inspired by Marvel Zombies. Namor is also set to receive a Dia de Muertos-inspired costume. Of course, we can’t add the Enigmatic Moon Knight to the lineup.
This art book confirms what players already know: the attention to detail is what makes Marvel Rivals‘ look so unique. It’s a visual and narrative odyssey built on boundless passion and creativity, exploring much of the vibrant character roster and their various forms. Though, of course, this is not an all-inclusive list of rivals! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to find some high-res art of Magneto’s incredible Supreme Magnus look, because that is going straight to my wallpaper rotation.
