What is Bussing in Marvel Rivals, and How Is It Affecting Player Count?
By Elijah | May 8th, 2025 | Categories: Marvel Rivals
Marvel Rivals is facing a few problems that have caused its player count to plummet. Two main factors are making the game lose its playability: bussing and smurfing. And, if NetEase doesn’t want to lose any more players, they’ll need to think of something fast to combat these issues.
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What is Bussing in Marvel Rivals?
Bussing, not to be confused with bussin’, is a new option, besides throwing or griefing, when choosing why you reported a player. The term refers to when one player intentionally joins a team using cheats to boost their rankings.
How is Bussing Affecting Marvel Rivals?
Bussing has been affecting the game’s player count, reaching an all-time low, dropping concurrent players by over 50%. Although bussing isn’t the sole cause, issues such as smurfing and flawed balance changes to certain heroes have made the game unplayable for some. Strategist mains even conducted a strike to show players that support roles are valuable in a hero shooter. These issues players are facing can only be solved if NetEase addresses them.
Can Marvel Rivals’ 2.5 Update Save the Low Player Count?
Since the launch of Marvel Rivals, NetEase has listened to players and their grievances. With a developer who wants to keep the game in the future for more than 10 years, they’ll surely listen to their players. The issues of bussing, smurfing, and balance changes could be addressed in the 2.5 update. NetEase has shown its priority over the game’s enjoyment and player satisfaction.
With the 2.5 update coming soon, expect Ultron to take the stage and change the gameplay as the new Strategist Hero. Based on NetEase’s track record, the future of Marvel Rivals is in good hands, and they’ll listen to their players for the game to prosper for years to come.
