Loot Boxes May Be Coming to Marvel Rivals, According to New Datamine
A new datamine suggests that Marvel Rivals may soon introduce loot boxes, referred to internally as “Mysteries.” The information comes from RivalsInfo on X, who uncovered references to the system in Season 4’s game files. As reported by GameReactor, this discovery indicates that NetEase could be preparing to reintroduce mechanics tied to randomized rewards.
The data references several components under the “Mysteries” codename, including entries such as “cosmic mysteries number” and “BOX_OPEN_HISTORY_CHANGE”, strongly suggesting the framework for a loot box-style system. RivalsInfo also shared images that appear to show what the system may have looked like during earlier development stages.
It is important to note that this does not confirm loot boxes will launch with Season 4 on September 12, 2025. Instead, the files point to the possibility of their introduction in a future update. If implemented, it remains unclear whether “Mysteries” will be exclusively tied to real-money purchases or whether they will also be obtainable through standard gameplay progression, as seen in many other free-to-play models.
Loot boxes could be coming to #MarvelRivals at some point in the future:
— RivalsInfo (@RivalsInfo) September 7, 2025
In Season 4, logic for the "Mysteries" player component was reintroduced. "Mysteries" is the codename for loot boxes. Within this component, there are multiple references to mystery box logic, such as… pic.twitter.com/QjYru0AmI3
If NetEase does proceed, the structure of the rewards and the monetization strategy will be under heavy scrutiny. Loot boxes are often criticized for placing high-tier or cosmetic rewards behind randomized drops, leading to concerns about fairness and player spending. Community backlash has historically influenced studios to scale back or even cancel such systems, so player sentiment could play a decisive role in whether “Mysteries” remain a permanent fixture in Marvel Rivals.
With Season 4 just days away, all eyes will be on how NetEase communicates its plans for monetization. Whether the studio leans into loot boxes or opts for alternative systems may determine the community’s long-term trust in the game.
Do you think loot boxes could work in Marvel Rivals if balanced fairly, or should NetEase avoid them entirely?
