Nearly two months after the release of Marvel Rivals, Arc System Works continues to expand the game's content. Phoenix Force Cyclops has been confirmed as the first DLC fighter, scheduled to arrive in Fall 2026. The game director recently explained why the team chose not to include the standard version of Cyclops.
The game director stated that Cyclops has always been a character Arc System Works wanted to include in the roster. However, the team also wanted to challenge themselves with a new design different from past interpretations, ultimately choosing the version empowered by the Phoenix Force from the Avengers vs. X-Men storyline.
In terms of combat design, the Phoenix Force allowed the development team to incorporate Phoenix elements into Cyclops' existing abilities, adding more variety to his moves and gameplay. This is one of the main reasons the team felt this version offered greater creative potential.
The character selection is also tied to narrative arrangements. Phoenix Force Cyclops will stand opposed to other X-Men members, so he could not be included in the base roster as part of the X-Men team. The developers believed that introducing him as a DLC character would allow players to experience a different side of Cyclops.
Once Phoenix Force Cyclops is released, he will become the sixth major fighter associated with the X-Men in the game. Current members of this faction include Wolverine, Magik, Storm, Rogue, and Deadpool.
Arc System Works also plans to add three more characters within the following year, but has not yet announced who they will be.