Marvel Rivals’ Monetization Model is a Breath of Fresh Air
NetEase has released a blog on how their free-to-play hero shooter Marvel Rivals will be monetized, and their model has been very consumer-friendly. Notably, all battle passes are permanent additions to the game, removing the “fear of missing out” that many other live service games have used for their MTX items. Here’s a breakdown of how the game will handle their cosmetic shop on release.
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No Time Limit on All Season Passes
One of the more reasonable aspects of the game’s MTX structure is that all season passes will remain in the game permanently. Usually, most season passes in other live-service games like Overwatch and Apex Legends have a time limit of around 4-6 months before they’re removed from the game. This model creates a sense of artificial scarcity and creates FOMO in the player base, incentivizing them to buy the season pass early.
With Marvel Rivals, once a player purchases the Luxury version of a season pass, the rewards will remain in the game even when the season expires. This allows players who have less time on their hands to complete the pass without worrying about it going away. Many gamers have noted that this move has made the game far more consumer-friendly, especially when stacked up against its direct competitor, Overwatch.
Epic-Tier Skins and UNITS on the Free Pass
Most season passes usually contain lackluster rewards on the free version while teasing players with the prospect of far superior skins on the paid version. Marvel Rivals’ free pass offers more generous rewards with one Epic quality skin and the premium currency, Units.
Product Quantity and Pricing
Most of the skins can be bought solo, however, they’ll also come packaged as part of a bundle that includes an MVP animation, spray, emote, and nameplate related to the skin. Bundles will be discounted at 25% off.
Free Items for Achievements and Events
NetEase has promised free skins and other cosmetics for completing certain achievements and in-game events, stating that players should be rewarded for putting in hard work in mastering the game.
