NetEase Games’ superhero shooter introduces Gambit as a Strategist-class character who uses kinetic cards to heal allies and damage enemies. The Times Square map supports up to 100 players for social interactions outside matches.
Cross-platform progression launches with Season 5, while a new 18 vs 18 Conquest mode arrives November 27 alongside anniversary celebrations. Players can earn 2,500 Units and a free Legendary Jeff costume during anniversary events.
The development team confirmed additional PvE content planned for 2026 and a placement system for Competitive mode starting this season.
Here is an overview of the Season 5 in Marvel Rivals, via NetEase Games.
After the Timestream Entanglement interrupted their dream wedding, Gambit planned a honeymoon full of surprises for Rogue to make up for the disruption. But as their journey leads to a world built by the Elders of the Universe, can their love survive the ultimate cosmic test?
Gambit is a master Strategist, blending kinetic energy control with his iconic playing cards, agile movement, and expert combat skills to create a unique playstyle. In battle, he can combine his Chronovium-enhanced cards to unlock kinetic shifting to heal allies, cleanse negative effects, or deal damage: knocking back enemies and applying anti-heal. When teammates need help or foes rush in, Gambit can channel energy into his staff, using nimble movement and martial arts to take down threats. When activating his Ultimate Ability, Gambit launches kinetic-charged aces at all nearby allies, supercharging their jump abilities and adding explosive power to their attacks!
For Season 5, Marvel Rivals brings the grand debut of New York’s Times Square map, which launches on November 14 as a non-combat map that can host up to 100 players. Players can hang out, dance, watch videos, read books, and let their imagination run wild. After seeing so many fun, friendly meetups in the Doom Match Sanctum Sanctorum map, the Marvel Rivals team wanted to give everyone a dedicated space for socializing, relaxing, and sharing cool moments outside of battle.
Season 5 also introduces a thrilling new mode: 18 vs 18 Conquest (Annihilation), where 36 players will clash in the all-new Grand Garden map, promising epic chaos and unforgettable fun. This new mode goes live on November 27. There will also be a placement system added to Competitive mode starting in Season 5, with more details coming soon. Season 5 also launches the game’s cross-platform progression feature. The Marvel Rivals team has also announced plans to continue development on the PvE mode that was recently launched with Marvel Zombies. In 2026, players can expect more PvE content, with more details to come. Finally, the costume trial program for university students will continue for Season 5 with a new batch of 10 costumes and MVPs. University students can unlock these perks by verifying their school email address.
Season 5 marks the first anniversary of Marvel Rivals, a milestone for the team and for all of our players. After the November 27 update, players can join anniversary events to earn 2,500 Units and a free Legendary Jeff costume. There also will be a series of exclusive anniversary costumes, from Marvel Rivals-style looks to community-inspired outfits and even Cake Party-themed costumes.
