Marvel Rivals, the superhero shooter developed by NetEase, is gearing up for its most ambitious update yet as Season 6, themed "Night at the Museum," launches on January 16, 2026. With anticipation at a fever pitch in the gaming community, the arrival of the fan-favorite antihero Deadpool is stealing the spotlight—but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This season promises a slew of gameplay changes, new features, and quality-of-life improvements that are set to shake up the competitive landscape and keep players coming back for more.
According to ComicBook.com, the headline addition is Deadpool, also known as the Merc with a Mouth, who is making his debut as the first-ever triple-role character in Marvel Rivals. This means players can choose to play Deadpool as a Vanguard, Strategist, or Duelist, with the flexibility to swap roles mid-game upon respawning. This versatility is a first for the game and is expected to bring a dose of chaos and creativity to team compositions. Deadpool will be voiced by Alejandro Saab, whose previous credits include characters in popular anime and video games such as Genshin Impact.
Deadpool’s unique gameplay mechanics are already generating buzz. As a Duelist, he wields dual swords and pistols for aggressive play. As a Vanguard, he can provide shields to his teammates using a unicorn plushie—because, of course, he would. And as a Strategist, he’s able to heal allies or deal damage with his signature weapons. Deadpool’s ultimate ability even charges faster based on style points, rewarding players for flashy, skillful combat. In a nod to his unpredictable persona, Deadpool also teams up with Jeff the Land Shark in the new Mr. Pool’s Interdimensional Toy Box Team-Up. When activated, Jeff spits out toys that heal allies and create distracting visual effects, keeping enemies guessing and the battlefield lively.
But Deadpool isn’t the only new face this season. As detailed by Prima Games, Season 6 will also introduce a brand-new convoy map, the Museum of Contemplation, set to open on January 29. This map will offer fresh tactical opportunities and is expected to become a favorite for players who enjoy objective-based gameplay. Meanwhile, Times Square is getting a creative upgrade with the addition of Photo Mode, allowing players to capture their most heroic (or hilarious) moments with adjustable camera angles, filters, and emotes.
Competitive players will be pleased to hear about the expansion of the hero proficiency system. The new system offers a wider array of rewards, such as Dynamic Avatars, exclusive sprays, nameplates, titles, badges, and in-game currency. This means there’s more incentive than ever to master your favorite characters and show off your achievements. In addition, a fresh batch of accessories is being rolled out for a variety of heroes, including Deadpool, Rogue, Doctor Strange, Blade, Squirrel Girl, Iron Man, Captain America, Daredevil, Black Panther, and Storm. These accessories offer new ways for players to customize their heroes and express their personal style.
Another highlight is the opening of The Clobberin’ Club in Times Square on January 29. Here, players can challenge each other to duels, and for a fee, even have their battles broadcast on the big screen for all to see. It’s a playful addition that’s sure to fuel rivalries and create memorable moments within the community.
Team dynamics are also receiving an overhaul. Two new Team-Ups have been added: the Parker Power-Up (featuring Peni Parker and Spider-Man) and Mr. Pool’s Interdimensional Toy Box (Deadpool and Jeff the Land Shark). Meanwhile, some Team-Ups are being retired, including Ever-Burning Bond (Spider-Man and Human Torch) and Peni Parker’s involvement in the Rocket Network Team-Up. These changes are designed to keep gameplay fresh and encourage new strategies.
Of course, no major update would be complete without a round of buffs and nerfs. As outlined by ComicBook.com and Prima Games, several heroes are set for significant adjustments. Hulk, Captain America, Doctor Strange, Iron Fist, Blade, and Cloak & Dagger will all receive buffs to help them stay competitive. For instance, Doctor Strange’s mobility and damage are being increased, while Hulk and Captain America are getting tweaks to keep pace with the evolving roster. Namor is receiving a mix of buffs and nerfs—his ultimate is being toned down, but his other abilities are being strengthened to make him less reliant on his signature move.
On the flip side, Angela, Daredevil, Gambit, and Invisible Woman are all being nerfed. Angela’s flight and shield abilities are being brought in line, Daredevil’s effectiveness is being "appropriately nerfed," and Gambit’s healing output from his ultimate is being reduced. Invisible Woman’s Guardian Shield and self-healing are also getting toned down, a move likely aimed at balancing her defensive potential. According to NetEase, the full official Balance Patch Notes will be released ahead of the season’s launch, giving players time to strategize and adapt.
Resource Rumble, a popular Quick Match mode, is being temporarily removed for reworking. The developers plan to bring it back in a future season with improvements inspired by the 18v18 matches. Meanwhile, the long-running Marvel Zombies PvE mode is being retired starting January 16. But don’t worry—a new PvE mode is already in the works and is expected to arrive in the first half of 2026, promising to keep co-op fans engaged.
For those looking ahead, NetEase has teased even more content for Season 6.5, including the introduction of Elsa Bloodstone as a playable character, new maps, events, and a variety of skins. This forward-looking approach is keeping the community engaged and speculating about what’s next.
As reported by multiple outlets, including ComicBook.com and Prima Games, fans are also being encouraged to take advantage of leveling boosts and unlock free skins for Magneto and Iron Man. These incentives are part of a broader effort to reward player engagement and keep the game’s vibrant community thriving.
Speculation and excitement are at an all-time high, with fans discussing the potential impact of Deadpool’s arrival and the sweeping changes coming in Season 6. While some fake patch notes have circulated online, the official details reveal a commitment by NetEase to balance innovation with competitive integrity. As the January 16 launch date approaches, players across the globe are preparing to dive into what may be Marvel Rivals’ most dynamic season yet.
With Deadpool leading the charge and a host of new features on the horizon, Marvel Rivals Season 6 looks set to deliver the thrills, surprises, and superhero spectacle that fans have been craving.
