The highly anticipated release of the Human Torch in Marvel Rivals has been met with unexpected controversy.  Even before officially joining the roster, some players are voicing concerns about the character's potential to disrupt game balance.

Released in late 2024, Marvel Rivals quickly garnered a massive player base, exceeding 40 million users and achieving critical acclaim.  Developer NetEase plans to expand the hero shooter's roster with the addition of the Human Torch and The Thing on February 21st.

The contention revolves around the Human Torch's abilities, particularly Pyro Prison.  This area-of-effect ability deals continuous damage to trapped enemies, combined with the character's high mobility and flight, leading some players to believe he is excessively powerful. A recent social media post by content creator Cozy showcasing the Human Torch in action quickly gained traction, further fueling the debate.

A popular Marvel Rivals Captain America Skin Wish List highlights the continued interest in character customization.  Captain America recently received a well-received cosmetic, leaving fans eager for more. However, the upcoming Human Torch and The Thing will also have alternate skins available for purchase. NetEase recently unveiled the Negative Zone Gladiator costume for the Human Torch, priced at 1,600 Units.

Despite Marvel Rivals’ success, NetEase recently conducted layoffs affecting US-based developers.  This decision sparked community concern and speculation, particularly given the game's strong performance.  NetEase attributed the layoffs to “optimizing development efficiency” and reaffirmed their commitment to delivering high-quality content throughout Season 1. The long-term impact of these layoffs remains to be seen.