"Marvel Rivals" is taking its gameplay to the next level with a new spin. Players can experience the recently unveiled Ultron's Battle Matrix Protocol, a game mode that turns the classic hero shooter genre on its head between June 6 and June 23.
NetEase Games introduced the limited-time mode alongside the mid-season content drop, which also added Ultron as a playable Strategist.
The update comes hot on the heels of the Season 2.5 expansion hype, with a tide of fresh content that's getting Marvel gamers excited.
What Is Ultron's Battle Matrix Protocol?
Unlike the typical chaotic battles of "Marvel Rivals," this new mode features a strategy-first, turn-based battlefield experience. According to GameRant, players will select a team of heroes and position them on a tactical grid, plotting each move in advance. Rather than quick reflexes, clever synergy, and module combinations will be the key to the winner.
Ultron's Battle Matrix is more than just a strategy fest, as there are free rewards crammed in there, too. Players can earn in-game emojis and sprays for playing throughout the event period. It's a huge departure from the usual format, providing a welcome respite for players craving more depth.
Emma Frost Crowned Gala Star: Free Skin Coming in 2026
At Hellfire Gala Moments, "Marvel Rivals" fans could vote for their favorite Vanguard. Once all the votes were counted, Emma Frost was the victor. She's now going to get a free skin shortly, though players will have to wait until 2026 to lay their hands on it.
Though the wait is long, there is high anticipation, and Emma's victory supports her popularity among the Marvel Rivals community.
New Skins For Wolverine and Jeff the Land Shark
The cosmetics launch is ongoing with new skins going live on June 5 at 7 PM PDT. Fan favorite Wolverine will receive his legendary Weapon X skin based on a beloved Marvel Comics storyline. Jeff the Land Shark is also basking in the sunlight in a Sunshine Land Shark costume.
They're not alone as Squirrel Girl and Rocket Raccoon join them in wearing their beach-inspired "Sunshine" skins, ideal for the warmest months of the year. Price points remain unconfirmed, but the noise around these drops is already enormous.
Leaked Future Content: Are Gambit and Rogue Coming?
Season 2.5 is just around the corner, and so are the leaks about Gambit and Rogue. NetEase might be teasing us about what's coming next. Recent rumors indicate that the two mutants might be added to the roster. Dataminers revealed voice lines associated with the fan-favorite X-Men heroes, fueling rumors of their imminent arrival in future updates.
In case these two get confirmed, they would be added as part of the expansion to the emerging Marvel Rivals universe and would attract even more players to the game.
