Marvel Rivals has emerged as a significant success for the House of Ideas, captivating both longtime fans and newcomers alike with its rich array of classic characters from the extensive Marvel Comics universe. One standout feature of the game is its exceptional cosmetics system, offering players a plethora of alternate skins for their favorite heroes drawn from various media.
Despite its strong launch, there is always room for enhancing the gameplay experience. Numerous iconic costumes from Marvel’s illustrious history remain absent and would undoubtedly resonate with fans eager to see these beloved designs make their debut in the captivating realm of Marvel Rivals.
10. Hulk: Ultimates
First Appearance: Ultimate Invasion #2 by Jonathan Hickman & Bryan Hitch
Marvel’s reimagining of the Ultimate Universe breathes new life into classic characters, with the Hulk of Earth-6160 showcasing one of the most intriguing transformations. This version of Bruce Banner, residing in K’un-Lun, exhibits complete mastery over his Hulk persona, having reached a state of “enlightenment” that positions him as the spiritual leader of this alternate reality while fulfilling the dark ambitions of the Maker’s Council.
His new monk-like robes starkly contrast with his formidable physique, creating a visually compelling design that would elevate the Hulk’s character roster in Rivals. A skin based on this iteration promises to be both imaginative and beloved among fans.
9. Cloak & Dagger: Negative Influence
First Appearance: Spider-Island: Cloak & Dagger by Nick Spencer & Emma Ríos
Cloak and Dagger have quickly established themselves as essential Strategist characters, and the addition of a new skin could enhance their popularity further. Their designs, influenced by the notorious villain Mister Negative, would introduce exciting gameplay dynamics.
During their encounter with Mister Negative, Cloak experienced an unfamiliar light-based power while Tandy was engulfed by darkness. Although they eventually reverted to normal, this transformative moment not only makes for a visually appealing redesign but also presents a unique gameplay twist, capturing the imagination of Rivals players.
8. Magneto: Trial of Magneto
First Appearance: Uncanny X-Men #200 by Chris Claremont & John Romita, Jr.
Magneto boasts an array of iconic costumes, but his redesign during the Trial of Magneto starkly deviates from his traditional look. Sporting a helmet-less, all-purple ensemble with a bold “M” on his chest, this new appearance illustrates his evolution from foe to ally among the X-Men.
Having recently been showcased in X-Men ’97 (2024), this design remains fresh in the minds of fans. Given the developers’ adeptness at animating Magneto’s flowing hair, this intriguing design could offer players a visually stunning representation on the battlefield.
7. Wolverine: Tan & Brown
First Appearance: Uncanny X-Men #139 by Chris Claremont & John Byrne
Wolverine, an iconic figure in Marvel Comics, boasts a range of striking designs throughout his publication history. One of his notable looks is the brown-and-tan costume, which emerged shortly after The Dark Phoenix Saga.
Currently, Wolverine’s skins in Rivals do not reflect his comic-based appearances, as his Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) version serves as a placeholder for his classic yellow and black design. Introducing the brown-and-tan costume would appeal to X-Men fans, old and new, eager to unlock this unforgettable look.
6. Warlock: Magus
First Appearance: Strange Tales #178 by Jim Starlin
The Magus represents the dark counterpart to Adam Warlock, crafted from an alternate timeline where Chaos aimed to create a being powerful enough to oppose Thanos. Their confrontations have made the Magus one of Warlock’s most enduring adversaries.
With his striking purple skin and contrasting white hair, the adaptation of Magus into Rivals would present a stark departure from the game’s usual aesthetics. In addition, the opportunity for unique voice lines paired with this new skin would provide an enticing gameplay element.
5. Star-Lord: Annihilation Conquest
First Appearance: Annihilation: Conquest – Star-Lord #1 by Keith Giffen & Timothy Green II
Before the formation of the Guardians of the Galaxy, Star-Lord led a motley crew against formidable foes like Ultron. This era introduced a memorable redesign, featuring the first iteration of his iconic helmet.
Inspired by early 20th-century military attire, this look encapsulates Peter Quill’s background as a soldier and tactician, distinguishing him from the existing skins available in Marvel Rivals. Omitting this pivotal costume would be a missed opportunity for the game’s diverse character roster.
4. Spider-Man: Future Foundation
First Appearance: FF #1 by Jonathan Hickman & Steve Epting
Following the loss of the Human Torch, the Fantastic Four underwent a transformation, rebranding themselves as the Future Foundation. Spider-Man stepped into the role previously held by Johnny Storm, receiving a stylish new suit that is well-suited for Marvel Rivals.
With the emphasis on the Fantastic Four in Season 1 and the upcoming release of Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025), it makes perfect sense for Spider-Man’s Future Foundation design to join the game, appealing to fans of Marvel’s First Family.
3. Storm: Regent of Arakko
First Appearance: X-Men Red #1 by Al Ewing & Stefano Caselli
Designed by Russell Dauterman, Storm’s look in X-Men Red has quickly become a fan favorite, marrying elements from her past iconic designs. The reinterpretation of her mohawk to reflect textured hair has been especially well-received.
Incorporating Storm’s Regent of Arakko look into Rivals would not only resonate with long-time fans but also introduce players unfamiliar with her design evolution to one of her most celebrated appearances.
2. Captain America: Classic
First Appearance: Captain America Comics #1 by Joe Simon & Jack Kirby
Captain America remains one of the most popular characters in Marvel Rivals, yet there is a noticeable absence of his classic look within the game. The current design, which features a significantly revamped high-tech aesthetic, stands in stark contrast to his timeless comic book costume.
A return to his traditional attire, which has endured for nearly a century, would be a nostalgic addition catering to fans desiring a faithful representation of this heroic icon.
1. Jeff: Venomized
First Appearance: Extreme Venomverse #5 by Kelly Thompson & Gurihiru
Jeff the Landshark has captured the hearts of fans and offers abundant opportunities for unique alternate skins within Marvel Rivals. One notable absence is his adorable Symbiote redesign from Extreme Venomverse #5, which showcases his charming yet menacing appearance.
Marvel has a penchant for connecting various characters to Symbiotes, and showcasing a Venomized version of Jeff the Landshark would undoubtedly bring joy to fans, making him an irresistible addition to the character roster.
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