NetEase Games' Layoffs Despite Marvel Rivals' Success: A Strategic Shift?
NetEase Games recently laid off US-based developers from the successful Marvel Rivals project, sparking controversy within the industry. This article explores the details of the layoffs and the upcoming Season 1 update.
Layoffs Hit Marvel Rivals' US Team
On February 19, 2025, Marvel Rivals director Thaddeus Sasser announced on LinkedIn that he and other California-based developers had been laid off by NetEase Games. This news came as a surprise, given the game's recent success. Sasser highlighted his team's contributions to launching a successful new franchise and expressed his commitment to helping his former colleagues find new employment opportunities, actively endorsing their skills and experience on LinkedIn. He specifically praised Garry McGee, the game's technical designer, highlighting his problem-solving abilities and technical expertise.
NetEase's Shifting North American Strategy
Marvel Rivals was developed collaboratively by teams in China and Seattle. While the Chinese team handled the majority of development, Sasser's US-based team played a significant role in game and level design. Despite this, the layoffs underscore a broader trend within NetEase's North American operations. Reports suggest a strategic withdrawal from the region, evidenced by previous decisions such as withdrawing financial support from Worlds Untold and ending the partnership with Jar of Sparks. NetEase has yet to officially comment on the reasons behind the layoffs.
Marvel Rivals Season 1 Update: New Content and Balance Changes
Despite the layoffs, Marvel Rivals continues to receive updates. The second half of Season 1, announced on the game's YouTube channel on February 19, 2025, introduces new heroes (The Thing and Human Torch), a new map (Central Park featuring Dracula's castle), balance adjustments, and tournaments. Lead combat designer Zhiyong detailed balance changes, including energy cost increases for characters with rapid ultimate recharge and adjustments to Vanguard character survivability and mobility. A planned rank reset was later scrapped due to player feedback.
The update highlights the ongoing development of the game, even amidst the recent restructuring and layoffs within NetEase's North American operations. The contrasting narratives – the game's continued success and the significant layoffs – raise questions about the future of NetEase's presence in the North American gaming market.
