Season 3 has been out for less than a week in Marvel Rivals, and we already have our first big update. However, this is more of a peculiar one, as only one character is at the receiving end of what is a substantial nerf.
Those who’ve been keeping up with Marvel Rivals might have already guessed the name of the character. Season 3 is all about Phoenix (and Blade when he arrives later), but Wolverine has been grabbing all the limelight instead. In fact, he found a new favorite target for his Adamantium claws: the opposition’s Vanguards.
Thankfully, Vanguard mains (myself included) will now be able to breathe a sigh of relief.
Marvel Rivals Season 3’s Wolverine nerf was badly required
Earlier on July 15, NetEase sent out a small but essential patch note about the recent update. The developers informed fans that Wolverine has been handed a significant nerf as part of the latest balance changes. The nerfs affect his abilities, and the assistance he received from Phoenix. Let’s quickly take a look at the changes.
Here’s the complete set of changes made to Wolverine’s abilities.
- Increased Berserk Claw Strike base damage from six to eight. Reduced percentage damage per attack at maximum Rage from 4.5% to 3.5%.
- Increased Regenerative Healing Factor cooldown from 90 seconds to 105 seconds. Increased cooldown reduction from 10 seconds to 12 seconds when participating in KOs.
Here’s the complete set of changes applicable to his Team-Up ability with Phoenix.
- Reduced Lifesteal gained during Phoenix Warrior from 33% to 25%.
Wolverine has always been strong against Tanks (aka Vanguards) in Marvel Rivals. However, he is vulnerable like all Duelists are. However, his Team-Up with Phoenix, combined with her own powers, made the duo a devastating opposition to Vanguards. While Phoenix was still able to be countered, Wolverine became almost invincible (as long as its player knew what they were doing).
Today’s balance update specifically targets his survivability, and especially, the buff he received from Phoenix. He will still get Lifesteal, but the amount has been reduced from nearly one-third to one-fourth. The cooldowns for his healing have also been nerfed for both normal situations and when he participates in KOs.
All players have to do is update the game, and Vanguard mains should be the ones doing it first. While they should still be wary of Wolverine, he will be far more manageable to take down now in Season 3.
