Marvel Rivals' first round of additional content features the Phoenix Force version of Cyclops, but his classic costume was not included with the character or the Ultimate Edition; all players must purchase it separately. This sales arrangement has sparked debate, as some players had hoped the classic look would launch alongside the character.
Some players had previously anticipated Cyclops joining the game but did not expect his default form to be the Phoenix Force version. Ultimate Edition players also believed that the first year of additional content might include this classic appearance. However, the Ultimate Edition product description only listed the first-year additional characters and did not promise extra costumes.
New content released on November 2 includes Classic and Legacy costumes for Phoenix Force Cyclops, as well as Hulk's Joe Fixit outfit. Each costume comes in eight color variations, and both Joe Fixit and Classic Cyclops have corresponding online lobby avatars.
The debate also involves how the costumes themselves are presented. Some players dislike the continued presence of Phoenix Force effects on the Classic and Legacy outfits, comparing it to how fighting games like Street Fighter 6 handle classic costumes. The dissatisfaction mainly focuses on costume design and additional payment arrangements, rather than indicating that the official team violated the Ultimate Edition's product description.