Marvel Rivals has introduced a new item in its latest event, Galacta’s Gift, that allows players to skip the penalty for losing ranked matches. This change has stirred debate among the community, as it challenges the idea that the ranked mode accurately reflects player skill.
The new item, the Chrono Shield Card, can be earned up to eight times during the event. Players can use these cards to avoid losing rank after a defeat, effectively letting them decide which losses count. This is a departure from the existing system, where the Chrono Shield automatically activates to prevent demotion but does not give players direct control.
Many players have expressed concern that this mechanic undermines the competitive integrity of the ranked ladder. Some fear it will urge unsportsmanlike behavior, such as intentionally throwing matches without consequence, and that rank will become more about time spent playing than actual skill.
Streamer Eskay summed up the frustration, saying, “Why do I even play ranked? This rank means nothing; it’s just whoever plays the most every season!” Meanwhile, Reddit user Snowi5 warned that the system might invite trolls to exploit the mechanic by repeatedly throwing matches.
Okay so they are free and you get 8 of them.. 8?????? why do i even play ranked this rank means nothing it's just whoever plays the most every season!! 45% win rate eternity players, coinflip games, forced to flex for trashcan players, lagging so bad i can't aim, teleworking…
— eskay (@EskayOW) May 14, 2025
Marvel Rivals’ ranked mode has faced criticism, especially regarding matchmaking and rank resets. Players have noticed inconsistencies, such as high-ranked players facing opponents far below their skill level. While the developers have eased up on harsh rank resets, the perception remains that climbing the ranks depends more on playing a lot than improving.
Introducing Chrono Shield Cards may blur the line between ranked and casual play even further. Allowing players to ignore losses selectively could disrupt the matchmaking system’s ability to group players by skill, making ranked matches feel less meaningful.
Given the community’s reaction, it wouldn’t be surprising if the developers reconsider this feature, as they have previously reversed unpopular decisions. The debate continues about what ranked play should represent in Marvel Rivals.
New Item:
Chrono Shield Card pic.twitter.com/PSPTDqJOQX
— X0XLEAK (@X0X_LEAK) May 14, 2025
What do you think about the Chrono Shield Cards? Do they make ranked play more accessible or take away from its challenge? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
