How to Play Marvel Zombies Mode in Marvel Rivals

The first-ever PvE mode has arrived in Marvel Rivals, offering an entirely new gameplay experience. Marvel Zombies is unlike any other mode in the game, so here’s a guide to help you get started.

What is Marvel Zombies?

Marvel Zombies is a PvE mode, meaning you team up with three allies to fight NPC enemies instead of other players. In this mode, zombies have overrun the city, and it’s your job to eliminate them and restore order.

Marvel Zombies Gameplay

The mode unfolds over nine phases. Most phases involve defeating waves of zombies to progress. Some phases feature unique objectives: two focus on defeating special zombie bosses, and one requires protecting a special statue. Otherwise, your goal in each phase is to eliminate all zombies.

Characters in Marvel Zombies

You can choose from five special characters, each with exclusive abilities designed for this mode:

  • The Punisher
  • Magik
  • Thor
  • Blade
  • Jeff the Land Shark

Since the mode is four-player, you’ll have three teammates per match. Multiple players can pick the same hero, so a team of all Jeffs is possible. For tips on choosing the best heroes, check out guides on their abilities and strengths.

Bosses in Marvel Zombies

You will face two bosses:

  • Zombie Namor – appears in the fifth phase
  • Zombie Scarlet Witch (The Queen of the Dead) – appears in the ninth and final phase

Defeating Scarlet Witch is the most challenging part of the mode, so plan your strategy carefully.

Upgrading Characters

To enhance your heroes:

  1. Go to the Events page
  2. Select the Marvel Zombies tab
  3. Open the Prepare section
  4. Choose a character to upgrade
  5. Enhance their traits or abilities

Traits improve character effects, while abilities can be swapped for alternative options.

Difficulty Levels

Marvel Zombies features seven difficulty levels. You start with Normal, and clearing it unlocks the next level. Progress through the challenges in order:

  1. Normal
  2. Hard
  3. Extreme
  4. Nightmare I
  5. Nightmare II
  6. Nightmare III
  7. Nightmare IV

Availability

Marvel Zombies is a limited-time event, running from October 23 to November 13, 2025. You have just over three weeks to experience all it offers.

If you want a break from zombie battles, consider completing other in-game activities such as The Defenders, Prank of Monkey King, and Blueprints Supreme to earn additional rewards.