Marvel Rivals, the hero-based shooter developed by NetEase Games in partnership with Marvel Games, has launched a major update to celebrate its first anniversary. This update, which became available on November 27, 2025, introduces a chaotic new game mode and several free rewards for players. The highlight of this update is the 18v18 Annihilation mode, marking the largest player-versus-player format the game has seen to date.
The 18v18 Annihilation mode allows two teams of 18 players each to engage in intense battles over a single capture point. This limited-time Domination match takes place on a new map named Grand Garden, designed to accommodate large-scale confrontations while encouraging both long-range skirmishes and close-quarters action. Players can experience a constant push-and-pull dynamic as 36 players unleash their hero abilities, creating a lively and chaotic atmosphere.
Rewards and Events Enhance Player Experience
To coincide with the anniversary, the event titled Rivals’ Day 2025 offers players a chance to earn up to 2,500 Units for free. This reward structure is designed to encourage player engagement throughout the celebration, rather than overwhelming them with everything at once. Players can accumulate 1,500 Units simply by logging in over a period of seven days.
Additionally, the event features the Rivals Assemble! challenge, which rewards players with up to 600 Units for teaming up with friends. Following this, from December 4, the Times Square Countdown event and other Phase 2 activities will provide the remaining Units along with a special title. This multi-step approach fosters a sense of progression as players work through the various challenges.
Another notable addition is the free Legendary skin for Jeff the Land Shark, titled “Business Shark.” Players can unlock this cosmetic by participating in the Jeff’s Break Time event, which involves collecting V-Tokens during matches. The vibrant skin is expected to be popular, especially as players showcase it in the new Times Square social hub. This hub accommodates up to 100 players, providing a space for social interaction without combat, offering a reprieve from the game’s usual action-packed gameplay.
Returning Content and Future Prospects
For those who may have missed earlier content, the Season 1 Battle Pass has made a temporary return and will be available until December 11, 2025. This return is particularly beneficial for newer players who may have missed out on exclusive items during the initial release.
Since its launch in December 2024 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, Marvel Rivals has built a narrative around a “timestream entanglement” resulting from a clash between Doctor Doom and his 2099 counterpart. This storyline pulls various heroes and villains from across the Marvel Multiverse into a single unpredictable battleground, making the introduction of large-scale modes such as the 18v18 Annihilation feel fitting.
The anniversary update presents a blend of celebration, nostalgia, and innovative gameplay. While the 18v18 Annihilation mode may initially overwhelm players with its sheer scale, it demonstrates the game’s commitment to exploring ambitious new ideas. Coupled with generous rewards and the return of beloved content, the event promises an engaging experience for both veteran players and newcomers alike.
As the celebration unfolds, players are encouraged to take advantage of the diverse offerings available, ensuring that the first anniversary of Marvel Rivals is marked by excitement and community engagement.
