Marvel Rivals Patch Notes (May 15, 2025): Full Breakdown of Buffs, Nerfs, and Season 2 Changes

The latest update for Marvel Rivals (version 20250515), released on May 15, 2025, is one of the most significant patches since the game’s Closed Alpha. It introduces new content, competitive enhancements, key balance changes, and bug fixes. Whether you're a new player or a long-time fan preparing for Season 2, this patch has something for everyone.

Here’s a full breakdown of everything included.

Galacta’s Gift Event: Anniversary Rewards

To celebrate the first anniversary of Marvel Rivals' Closed Alpha, a limited-time event called Galacta’s Gift is now live. All players can earn free in-game items simply by participating in matches during the event window.

Rewards include:

• Exclusive Nameplates
• Sprays
• Chrono Shield Cards
• One free Costume Coin

No additional purchases are necessary to claim these. It's a great incentive for both new and returning players.

Season 0 Battle Pass Returns

The original Season 0 Battle Pass, themed Chronovium, is back for a short period, from May 15 to May 29. It features all 33 debut hero skins and cosmetic rewards from the game's launch phase.

Key details:

• Available for 590 Lattice (approx. USD 4.99)
• Includes classic cosmetics and themed collectibles
• Perfect for players who missed out during the Closed Alpha or want to complete their collection

New Character Bundles in Store

Two new bundles are now available for purchase in the in-game store:

• The Punisher – Dangan Ronin Bundle
• Namor – Retro X-Uniform Bundle

These bundles offer not just new visuals, but also themed animations and the option to toggle between default and bundle-specific sound effects through the new audio settings.

Advanced Ban/Pick Mode for Competitive Play

A major update to the custom game system introduces a Tournament (Advanced) Ban/Pick Mode, tailored for scrims and organized competitive play.

Key features:

• Alternate hero banning and selection for each team
• Available via Custom Game > Tournament Room
• Designed in preparation for the upcoming Marvel Rivals Ignite Tournament Series

This marks a significant step toward esports-standard match setups within the game.

Hero Buffs and Nerfs: Full Balance Breakdown

Marvel Rivals continues its commitment to balanced gameplay through a fresh round of hero tuning. These changes reflect insights from the official tracker, player feedback, and the March 20 patch adjustments.

Buffed Heroes:

• Winter Soldier: Increased damage output and better skill utility for improved teamfight potential.
• Doctor Strange: Enhanced cooldown efficiency and energy regeneration to strengthen his support role.
• Nerfed Heroes:
• Captain America: Slight reduction in shield durability to balance his defensive advantage.
• Groot: Healing output adjusted to shorten drawn-out battles.
• Spider-Man: Web-slinging mechanics revised to reduce escape frequency and excessive agility.

These changes aim to stabilize the current meta while allowing more hero diversity across matchups.

Bug Fixes and Gameplay Improvements

Several notable quality-of-life updates and bug fixes have been deployed in this patch:

• Fixed an issue where voiceover language settings didn’t apply correctly after the restart.
• Resolved map voids in Krakoa and Klyntar that could trap players.
• Addressed ability glitches for Hulk, Venom, Mister Fantastic, Adam Warlock, and Doctor Strange.
• Fixed a movement bug affecting The Thing’s Yancy Street Charge.

These changes should enhance overall game stability, especially for ranked and team-based play.

Looking Ahead: Season 2 and Tracker-Driven Updates

This patch also reflects a deeper integration with the Marvel Rivals tracker, a system used by developers to monitor hero pick rates, win/loss data, and matchmaking trends in real time.

Expect future updates to roll out more frequently, with a focus on:

• Live balancing
• Map and mode optimization
• Tournament-focused features

With Season 2 on the horizon, this patch sets the foundation for faster, data-informed development cycles.

Summary Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is this the latest Marvel Rivals update?
  Yes. The patch released on May 15, 2025, is the most recent version (20250515).
• What rewards can I get from Galacta’s Gift?
  You’ll receive nameplates, sprays, Chrono Shield Cards, and a free Costume Coin.
• Are there any gameplay changes?
  Yes. Several heroes have been buffed or nerfed, and a new competitive mode is now live.