NetEase is making major changes to Storm’s new Sacred Skies swimsuit skin in Marvel Rivals following criticism from players over how the character’s cosmetics have been handled.
Storm’s Sacred Skies costume was originally positioned as an Epic-tier skin, prompting complaints from parts of the community that Storm was receiving less elaborate cosmetics than other female heroes in the Summer Festival lineup. Some players went further, accusing NetEase of showing bias toward the character.
In brief
- Storm’s Sacred Skies swimsuit skin will be upgraded to Legendary for free
- NetEase is adding new lobby, MVP, and Ultimate effects
- The skin will remain priced at $16
- More Legendary Storm costumes are planned for later in 2026
Storm’s Sacred Skies Skin Is Getting a Legendary Upgrade
NetEase confirmed that Sacred Skies will be upgraded to Legendary tier at no additional cost in the near future. The upgraded version will feature an entirely new lobby animation as well as an updated MVP animation.
Despite the Legendary upgrade, NetEase says the costume will continue to sell at its current $16 price. Anyone who purchases the costume will also receive a free upgrade adding a new effect to Storm’s Ultimate ability.
The Sacred Skies costume is part of Marvel Rivals’ latest Summer Festival swimsuit collection alongside Scarlet Witch’s Seaside Sorceress and Magik’s Soul Surfer skins, which became available on August 13.
NetEase Responds to Storm Cosmetic Complaints
The controversy largely centered on the perception among some fans that Storm had once again received less attention than other characters. Discussion intensified after players noticed her swimsuit cosmetic was Epic tier while criticizing its animations and comparing it with the more elaborate cosmetics given to other female heroes.
NetEase says this will not be the last major cosmetic Storm receives either. The developer confirmed that more Legendary-tier Storm costumes are planned throughout the rest of the year.
At the same time, NetEase addressed the more hostile side of the backlash. While acknowledging that players are passionate about Marvel Rivals, the studio said harassment directed toward developers and community moderators is unacceptable.
The upgrades do not currently have a confirmed release date, with NetEase asking players to be patient while the additional animations and effects are developed.
