Fans of Marvel Rivals are drawing comparisons between the game's hero Magik and Overwatch 2's newly introduced character Vendetta, citing similarities in sword-based combat and mobility. This latest clash highlights the ongoing rivalry between the two hero shooters, with accusations of copying going both ways. Despite the fan debates, many note that the concept of a female sword-wielder is not unique to either game.
Background on the Rivalry
Marvel Rivals, developed by NetEase, launched in December 2024 and quickly faced accusations of borrowing elements from Blizzard's Overwatch series, including gameplay modes and hero abilities. Overwatch 2, which shifted to a free-to-play model in 2022, has long been a benchmark for the hero shooter genre. As both titles continue to update, fans have increasingly pointed fingers at perceived influences crossing between them.
Vendetta's Introduction and Comparisons
Overwatch 2 recently unveiled Vendetta, a hero featuring a sword-focused fighting style and enhanced mobility skills. Marvel Rivals enthusiasts quickly highlighted resemblances to their game's Magik, who also wields a large sword. Social media reactions erupted around November 20, 2025, with users sharing gameplay clips and memes. For instance, one tweet stated, "Literally Magik gameplay 😭," while another quipped, "copy my homework, just dont make it obvious."
Counterarguments emphasized the commonality of such archetypes. A fan remarked, "Yeah because Rivals totally invented the 'woman with big sword' concept. Marvel Rivals players are SO stupid it's unreal." Others advocated for mutual inspiration, noting, "I think its fair that overwatch can steal from rivals seeing as they stole more than half of their heroes from overwatch."
Broader Context
This isn't isolated; recent additions like Marvel Rivals' Gambit have drawn parallels to Overwatch 2's Wuyang, despite earlier leaks. The pattern mirrors rivalries in other genres, such as Call of Duty and Battlefield, where innovations often appear similar due to shared industry trends. Development timelines for Overwatch 2's content, which can span years, further complicate copycat claims.