Marvel Rivals Patch Notes: Major Support Buffs and New Content in Latest Update

Marvel Rivals patch notes image showing updated heroes and event visuals

The Marvel Rivals community is buzzing with excitement following the release of the latest Marvel Rivals patch notes. This comprehensive update delivers long-awaited support hero buffs, new balance changes, and fresh cosmetics, all while responding to player feedback from Season 2. In this article, we'll break down the key changes, highlight the biggest winners and losers, and link you to essential resources for deeper insights.

Major Support Buffs: Strategists Take Center Stage

Support players in Marvel Rivals, often known as Strategists, have felt underpowered for weeks. The new patch directly addresses this by increasing the damage output of heroes like Cloak & Dagger, Luna Snow, and Mantis. Adam Warlock also received a powerful tweak—his critical hits now reduce the cooldown of Avatar Life Stream, boosting his healing potential. These changes make support roles more rewarding and competitive in the current meta.

For a firsthand breakdown of these improvements and the community’s reaction, check out the Polygon article on NetEase’s plans to save Strategist players. The post explores how these changes aim to relieve pressure on support players and shake up team compositions.

Hero Balance Changes: Buffs and Nerfs Across the Board

The latest Marvel Rivals patch notes bring balance adjustments to several heroes:

  • Vanguard Nerfs: Captain America’s base health drops from 650 to 600, and Groot’s Ironwood Wall is less durable, now boasting only 600 health instead of 700. These tweaks make tanks less dominant and vulnerable to focused fire.
  • Duelists: Spider-Man’s Amazing Combo damage radius shrinks, forcing more precision. Winter Soldier benefits from an upgraded Tainted Voltage, with two charge levels enhancing his attack potential.
  • Strategists: As discussed above, multiple buffs ensure supports can hold their own.
  • Team-Ups: The Stars Aligned synergy between Captain America and Winter Soldier now offers a 50 bonus health boost to allies within range, adding depth to team strategies.

For a full list of hero changes, visit the detailed GameSpot roundup of the Season 2 balance update. This resource breaks down every buff and nerf in the latest patch notes.

New Skins and the Hellfire Gala Event

Beyond balance updates, this Marvel Rivals patch introduces exciting cosmetics. Two premium skins—Winter Soldier: Thunderbolts (inspired by the upcoming Marvel film) and Black Panther: Damisa-Sarki—arrive as new unlockables. The much-anticipated Hellfire Gala Moments event launches soon, offering a free Wolverine skin and exclusive rewards like an Emma Frost emote and voting tokens for future skins.

For a full event breakdown, including new skins and mission details, read the SI.com coverage of Marvel Rivals April 30 Patch Notes. The article also explores the update’s impact on the evolving meta.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Marvel Rivals?

The April 30 update marks a major step forward for Marvel Rivals, promising a more balanced and engaging experience for all roles. NetEase’s approach to gradual and targeted corrections signals its dedication to ongoing improvement.

Players can expect more regular content drops, with Ultron set to join the hero roster in the upcoming mid-season update, and new events and skins planned for the months ahead.

Stay tuned for the next round of Marvel Rivals patch notes and be sure to participate in events for a chance to shape future updates!

Want to stay ahead of every meta shift? Bookmark the detailed Marvel Rivals patch notes at SI.com and connect with the community for the latest tips and strategies.