Rhiannon (she/her) is the Deputy News Lead and Chief Reporter at TheGamer. You may have heard her on the BBC or read her words at TechRadar Gaming and TechRaptor. She won MCV’s Journalism Impact for Women in Games in 2025.
At TheGamer, you will often find her chatting to game developers, writers, and actors about their crafts. This includes a deep dive into Cyberpunk 2077’s narrative, and a series on the making of the Fable trilogy.
She also follows industrial action and existential threats to its workers, particularly the use of generative AI. As part of this, she’s explored how AI Darth Vader sets a dangerous precedent, and was one of the first reporters to look into generative AI dating companions.
At The Game Awards, it was confirmed that Deadpool was finally coming to Marvel Rivals. He’ll join the roster next season alongside Elsa Bloodstone, and judging from the reveal trailer, it looks like they were both Duelists.
So, it was no surprise when Deadpool appeared on the in-game Marvel Rivals roster in the Duelist section, hyping up his release next month. But now, an update to the game has suddenly listed him as a Vanguard instead, and some fans think this is a deliberate move.
Could Deadpool Be The First Marvel Rivals Character To Have Multiple Roles?
This change was spotted shortly after the latest update went live. As you can see in-game, Deadpool is now listed as a Vanguard rather than a Duelist.
There are a few theories floating around. The more mundane explanation is that he was never supposed to be a Duelist, and this has correctly placed him in Vanguard. Or, putting him in Vanguard is the mistake, and another update will pop him back where he’s supposed to be.
However, there are some more creative ideas among the playerbase. One is that this is a way to keep us on our toes, and his role will keep being moved around until it’s time to reveal what kind of character he really is. Another theory is that Deadpool will actually be able to fulfil every role, albeit not at the same time. Instead, you would pick whether you want to play as a Vanguard, Duelist, or Strategist Deadpool. Up to three Deadpools on a team? No thanks.
I’ve also seen it be suggested that the devs have a Deadpool for every role ready to go, and will drop him in whichever role is getting played the least. Based on my experience, that means we’d be getting Vanguard Deadpool, because my team always leaves me solo-tanking.
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Whatever the case, we’ll find out for sure soon enough, as Deadpool joins Marvel Rivals next month.
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!
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