While theplayable heroesare the face of any team shooter, the maps can make or break a game, andMarvel Rivalsis no exception.
The game launches with eight maps available in its objective-based game modes. A ninth is available for its arcade Deathmatch mode, but we’re not including that as it’s nothing more than a battle arena for superheroes to battle in.
Best 10 Hero Shooter Games To Play in 2024
We’re holding out for a hero ‘til the end of the night
8Yggsard - Royal Palace
Domination
Royal Palace feels cramped, crowded, and downright unfun. Its game mode, Domination, doesn’t help either, as the objective point remains static during each round.
The enclosed environment means certain heroes (Iron Man) are downright bad on this map, and it can be challenging to poke enemies from the backline.
Overall, playing Royal Palace is a frustrating experience. Given the opportunity, I would skip it every time. It’s the only terrible map in the game.
7Hydra Chateris Base - Hell’s Heaven
Another cramped indoor Domination map, but this one relies ondynamic and moving environmentsto help it stand out.
Is it gimmicky? Sure, but at least I have to be on my toes to succeed constantly.
Ultimately, though, it can’t follow through on its potential. It’s a shame that the only Hydra base map is at the bottom of the pack. I won’t skip it, but I’ll never seek it out.
6Tokyo 2099 - ShinShibuya
Convergence
It may be more confined than the other outdoor maps, but that’s not a bad thing.
The layout and design work well together, given the game mode (a combination of Domination and Convoy).
I can’t help but feel like there’s a lot of missed potential here, though. Most of the map feels like it’s there for eye candy and not part of the actual gameplay.
5Tokyo 2099 - Spider-Islands
Ironically, Spider-Islands addresses the issues with the previous Tokyo 2099 map. Instead of being set dressing, the environment drastically alters the gameplay experience.
Well-placed destructible environments can be perfect vantage points or excellent distractions as you advance into enemy lines.
Best of all, the map’s verticality comes into play here, adding another element to the match. It’s a really good map, but the others are also that strong.
10 Best Boomer Shooters To Play in 2024
Your modern sensibilities aren’t welcome here.
4Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda - Birnin T’Challa
Other Domination maps inMarvel Rivalssuffer from the same problem: they feel cramped and uninspired.
While the Hydra map relies on gimmicks to be enjoyable, Birnin T’Challa breaks the mold, instead excelling in its layout and design.
Having a Domination map that allows for long rage play and close-up encounters is refreshing, meaning you’re able to have your snipers and support sit back while the bruisers engage at the choke points.
It’s become clear on this list that I’m not the biggest fan of the Domination maps, but this is definitely the exception.
3Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda - Hall of Djalia
One of the best parts of Hall of Djalia is how the map progresses from taking place outdoors to finishing up inside, yet it always provides nonstop action.
Usually, there’s a break in the action during this transition, but instead, thanks toMarvelRivals’ proactive gameplay loop, it only amps things up.
The choke points are truly memorable here. At times, they deliver tense action that results in a constant state of tension in an evenly matched fight.
2Yggsard - Yggdrasil Path
Excellent sightlines, varied gameplay thanks to the destructible environments, and a good range of locales all come together in this fantastic convoy map.
This is where the power of destroying the map’s terrain really shines through, as it can greatly alter the tide of battle.
Sometimes, the best strategy is to alter the world around you rather than to deal with the enemies head-on.
1Klyntar - Symbiotic Surface
I love everything about this map. From being funneled into a pit arena to capture the initial objective to battling over the convoy in a wide variety of arenas, it’s an absolute blast to play.
Its best feature is how, no matter how wide open or enclosed things feel, no hero feels gatekept from being effective.
Exploring every inch of the map will reward you, whether you’re looking for a proper vantage point to camp or sneaking behind enemy lines to capture the objective.
