Marvel Rivals' Success Doesn't Stop NetEase From Firing Director and Other US Devs

NetEase Games' Layoffs Despite Marvel Rivals' Success: A Strategic Shift?

NetEase Games recently laid off US-based developers working on the successful mobile game, Marvel Rivals, prompting questions about the company's strategic direction in North America.

Layoffs Hit Marvel Rivals' US Team

On February 19, 2025, Thaddeus Sasser, the game's director, announced on LinkedIn that he and other California-based developers had been laid off. This news came as a surprise, given the game's strong performance. Sasser expressed his disappointment but immediately began actively promoting his former team members, highlighting their skills and experience on LinkedIn to assist them in finding new employment. He specifically praised Garry McGee, the game's technical designer, emphasizing his problem-solving abilities and technical expertise.

NetEase's Shifting North American Strategy

Marvel Rivals was a collaborative effort between teams in China and Seattle. While Sasser's team played a crucial role in game and level design, the layoffs suggest a broader shift in NetEase's North American strategy. While NetEase hasn't commented publicly, industry speculation points to a potential withdrawal from the North American market. This is supported by previous events, including the termination of funding for Worlds Untold and the severed partnership with Jar of Sparks.

Marvel Rivals Season 1 Update: Second Half

Despite the layoffs, Marvel Rivals continues to receive updates. The second half of Season 1, announced on February 19, 2025 via the game's YouTube channel, introduces new heroes (The Thing and Human Torch, completing the Fantastic Four), a new map (Central Park, featuring Dracula's castle), and balance adjustments.

Lead combat designer Zhiyong detailed the balance changes, focusing on adjustments to energy costs for characters with fast ultimate recharges and modifications to Vanguard character survivability and mobility. Overpowered heroes like Storm and Moon Knight will also be nerfed. One initially planned feature, a rank reset, was later removed due to player feedback.