Jeff the Land Shark is one of the most adored characters in Marvel Rivals, and, quite possibly, will remain in that position for a long time. More of a puppy than a ferocious shark, his animations, audio, and overall character design have made him a top attraction; he has even brought in many non-Marvel fans to the game. However, Jeff the Land Shark’s kit in Marvel Rivals is where all the action’s at, which includes an ultimate that has, almost single-handedly, made him a joy as well as a menace in matches.
The shark’s presence came as a surprise to many fans, especially considering his obscure origins and less popular adventures. This addition is another point that differentiates the game from its competitors, as it has shown that NetEase Games is not afraid of experimenting with lesser-known characters for Marvel Rivals’ massive roster. After all, it’s important to have a selection where the heroes actually play differently enough and create new experiences – though how unique NetEase gets could end up being influenced by the response to Jeff.
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Marvel Rivals: Who is Jeff The Land Shark?
Jeff the Land Shark is among the new faces arriving in Marvel Rivals’ closed beta, and he’s already won the hearts of many fans.
Jeff’s Presence In Marvel Rivals Sets Precedent For Unique Characters
Jeff the Land Shark’s meteoric rise in popularity through Marvel Rivals has shown that fans are open to niche characters, even in a roster that is packed with legendary names like Spider-Man and Wolverine. It isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, however, as Jeff’s ultimate is quite controversial. Not everyone is a fan of how overpowered it is, as the shark gobbles everything in sight even if his foes are flying above him, something that has caused many to call for a major nerf to his ultimate. This may very well happen in due time, but his uniqueness has already shown that new and distinctive ideas are the way forward, even if one ability has divided the player base.
Jeff’s Ultimate In Marvel Rivals Is Far From Unstoppable
Jeff the Land Shark’s ultimate in Marvel Rivals is an AoE attack that has him swallow everyone in the area. Players can spit out allies safely and either throw enemies off the map or jump out with them for a guaranteed team-wipe. It does have several issues plaguing fans: the ultimate’s radius is fairly big, there is a hit-box issue with out-of-range characters getting swallowed, and the duration of the ability is very long at eight seconds.
Jeff’s kit, especially his ultimate, makes him unique in Marvel Rivals. He’s naturally overpowered, but so are many others. For example, Iron Man’s Invincible Pulse Cannon, Scarlet Witch’s Reality Erasure, and The Punisher’s Final Judgement are on a similar level of effectiveness. Players can even go further and use various team-up abilities in Marvel Rivals or come up with new move combinations, like combining Jeff’s ultimate with Scarlet Witch’s. They can, alternatively, use the ultimates of Cloak and Dagger, Groot, Adam Warlock, and more to counter.
Having a potentially controversial mechanic shouldn’t be the reason why a developer skips characters that break the mold. Heroes who are more linear and “safe” may seem the better choice at the moment, but roster additions that feel refreshing is key to a hero shooter’s longevity.
Why Marvel Rivals Should Go All In On Unique Characters
New Marvel Rivals characters with potentially controversial ultimates may seem like a risk at the moment. However, such abilities add flavor to gameplay, allowing for new metas to take shape. For example, Susan Storm’s potential ultimate could make her team invisible while enhancing melee damage and movement speed. This could make enemies more susceptible to attacks and wary about rushing in. Alternatively, an earlier version of Professor Xavier could come with a particularly unique ultimate: one that makes enemies look like allies and forces players to risk damaging their teammates.
Having too many controversial characters would bad for business, but there’s still room for positive engagement. Marvel Rivals has been on a steady rise since its official launch, and its varied roster is perhaps the biggest reason why. That variety should continue to be prioritized going forward, with more bold additions like Jeff. After all, kits can be successful even if they’re hotly debated, so long as there are enough characters around to create new and engaging plays.
Marvel Rivals is a Super Hero Team-Based PVP Shooter!
Assemble an all-star Marvel squad, devise countless strategies by combining powers to form unique Team-Up skills and fight in destructible, ever-changing battlefields across the continually evolving Marvel universe!
A Deep and Varied Marvel Roster
Choose from a vast array of fan-favorite and cult-classic Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains from across the Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, X-Men, and many more from across the Marvel Multiverse.
Fast and Fun 6v6 Action with Ever-Changing Game Dynamics
With intricate environments, fast-paced gameplay, and ever-changing battlefields, there’s never a dull moment in Marvel Rivals! Battle as Super Heroes and Super Villains with incredible abilities and combine your powers to bring unexpected fun to the battlefield in a matter of seconds.
Dynamic Hero Synergy
Coordinate unique combinations between characters to ignite surprising Team-Up Skills! Unleash the synergy of combined superpowers and invent new tactics that can turn the tide of combat. Ride on Groot’s back as Rocket Raccoon to take on your enemies as a dangerous duo, unleash Gamma energy as Hulk to charge Iron Man’s armor for massive damage, and so much more!
Creative Environment Destruction
Tear your way through iconic Marvel worlds across destructible environments! From Asgard to the Tokyo of 2099, use superpowers to alter these environments, reshape the terrain, and craft a strategic advantage on the battlefield! Take cover to dodge attacks or use makeshift weapons to strike down enemies. Players will find countless ways to utilize the environment to claim victory!
Continually Evolving Universe and Robust Post-Launch Updates
The Marvel Multiverse brings infinite possibilities! Each seasonal drop will introduce new Super Heroes to the battlefield along with challenging and diverse maps! Unlock new content to implement across various gameplay strategies while experiencing thrilling action and endless possibilities in these adventurous team battles!