NetEase Games' Marvel Rivals has significantly outpaced Sony and Firewalk Studios' Concord in beta player numbers. The difference is dramatic.

Marvel Rivals Dominates Concord in Beta Player Count

A Massive Disparity: 50,000 vs. 2,000

Within just two days of its beta launch, Marvel Rivals boasted over 50,000 concurrent players, dwarfing Concord's peak of 2,388. Marvel Rivals' player base continues to grow rapidly.

As of July 25th, Marvel Rivals' Steam peak reached 52,671 concurrent players. It's important to remember this figure excludes PlayStation players, a potentially substantial portion of the total. However, the disparity highlights significant concerns regarding Concord's prospects, especially with its August 23rd release date approaching.

Marvel Rivals Flourishes While Concord Struggles

Even after its closed and open beta phases, Concord continues to underperform, lagging behind numerous indie titles on Steam's most-wishlisted chart. This low wishlist ranking reflects the lukewarm reception of its beta tests. Conversely, Marvel Rivals enjoys a strong position, ranking within the top 14 alongside titles like Dune: Awakening and Sid Meier's Civilization VII.

Concord's struggles are compounded by its $40 Early Access beta price tag, although PS Plus subscribers had free access. The open beta, available to all players, only saw a thousand-player increase in peak concurrent users.

In sharp contrast, Marvel Rivals is free-to-play. While its closed beta required sign-up, access was readily granted.

The competitive hero shooter market is already saturated. Concord's high price point likely deterred many potential players.

Many gamers express skepticism towards Concord due to its lack of a distinct identity in a crowded market. Unlike Marvel Rivals, which benefits from a strong, recognizable IP, Concord struggles to establish its own unique appeal.

While initially described as a blend of Overwatch and Guardians of the Galaxy, many feel it lacks the charm of either franchise.

However, the success of titles like Apex Legends and Valorant proves a strong IP isn't always necessary. Conversely, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League's peak of 13,459 players demonstrates that a powerful IP alone doesn't guarantee success.

Comparing Concord to Marvel Rivals might seem unfair given the latter's established IP. However, both being hero shooters highlights the intense competition Concord faces.