The latest update to Marvel Rivals has put an end to support for PC mods that alter the game’s hero appearance. The move was made after asset hash checking, a new feature introduced by NetEase, detected and blocked any modified files. This means players will no longer be able to install custom mods, such as turning Iron Man into Vegeta or Mantis into a goth.
The game’s creator, MerryJoyKey, has postponed updates to the mod manager until a solution is found. The change was not announced in advance and caught players off guard. NetEase had previously warned against modifying game files due to the risk of getting banned, but mods continued to be popular among players.
Thousands of mods were shared and downloaded on NexusMods before the update, including custom skins based on US presidents. However, the site has since removed these mods due to its rules against sociopolitical content. The decision is not surprising, as online multiplayer games often take a hard stance against mods to maintain fair play.
With the end of PC mod support, players will now have to purchase skins from the in-game shop, marking the end of an era for custom hero appearances.
Source: https://www.polygon.com/news/507447/marvel-rivals-netease-disables-mod-support