In the world of game development, player feedback is crucial. But sometimes, a survey question comes along that makes you wonder if the developers have been living under a rock. Enter NetEase Games and their recent survey for Marvel Rivals closed beta players.
The survey, which aimed to gather feedback on various aspects of the game, included one question that has left the community scratching their heads and reaching for their wallets—just to make sure they’re still there!
Marvel Rivals Survey: A Multiple-Choice Misadventure
A recent post on the r/marvelrivals subreddit has brought attention to what might be the most tone-deaf survey question in recent gaming history:
Survey people, remember that this is the only good option
byu/Maneaterx inmarvelrivals
Many players feel that it’s as if NetEase Games is asking how much they want to pay for content that should be free in a competitive hero shooter?
Naturally, the community’s response was swift and predictable:
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Indeed, it’s hard to imagine any player willingly choosing to pay for heroes in a game where character variety is key to the experience. Not to mention, Marvel Rivals— like Overwatch 2—allows for active hero switching in the middle of a match.
But some players see a more cynical motive behind the question:
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inmarvelrivals
This survey question feels like a throwback to the early days of microtransactions, when companies were still testing the waters to see just how much players would tolerate. In 2024, with the gaming community more savvy and vocal than ever, it’s surprising to see such a tone-deaf approach.
One can’t help but wonder if NetEase genuinely expected anyone to choose the paid options, or if this is some elaborate joke we’re all not quite getting. Still, the potential for Marvel Rivals microtransactions looms large, and players are understandably wary.
Beyond the Survey: Marvel Rivals’ Potential Shines Through
While the survey question has become the butt of jokes, it’s worth noting that Marvel Rivals itself has been earning praise for its gameplay. Some closed beta participants have even suggested it might give Overwatch a run for its money—ironic, considering the game has often been labeled an Overwatch knock-off.
The game’s generous helping of fan service is attracting not only hero shooter fans, but also Marvel fans from both the comics and MCU crowds. It seems NetEase has nailed the feeling of playing as your favorite Marvel heroes — now if only they could nail the concept of not locking those heroes behind a paywall!
It’s worth noting that Blizzard faced a similar backlash when they initially locked new heroes in Overwatch 2 behind the seasonal Battle Pass. Four months ago, they finally saw the light and announced that all future heroes would be free at launch starting from Season 10.
Perhaps NetEase could take a page from Blizzard’s book and skip the “anger the entire player base” step of the process?
What do you think about NetEase’s survey question and the potential for Marvel Rivals microtransactions? Are you excited about the game despite this misstep? Let us know in the comments below!
