## Hit-Monkey: The Next Big Thing in Marvel Rivals?
Marvel Rivals has successfully introduced players to lesser-known Marvel characters, catapulting some into unexpected stardom. Jeff the Land Shark, previously a relative obscurity, has become a fan favorite due to his charming personality and engaging gameplay. However, his reign as the game’s beloved mascot might be challenged by a recently leaked character: Hit-Monkey.
Several characters have been leaked for future inclusion in Marvel Rivals, including confirmed additions like the Fantastic Four and rumored additions such as Ultron, Deadpool, Captain Marvel, and Jean Grey. Each offers unique gameplay potential. However, Hit-Monkey’s appeal lies in his similarity to Jeff: he’s a relatively unknown, quirky character with high potential to win over players.
Hit-Monkey’s origin story is compelling. A clan of Japanese macaques encounters a wounded assassin, with one monkey meticulously studying and mastering the assassin’s skills. Following the clan’s tragic demise, Hit-Monkey embarks on a violent quest for revenge, encountering prominent Marvel characters like Bullseye and Deadpool along the way. He even joined the Howling Commandos, showcasing his versatility within the Marvel universe. This backstory, coupled with his appearance in the 2021 animated series, lends itself to rich character development within the game.
His in-game potential is equally exciting. Hit-Monkey’s martial arts expertise and deadly accuracy with dual handguns could translate into a unique and engaging kit. Furthermore, his macaque form provides a clever advantage: the absurdity of a hitman monkey makes him surprisingly difficult to detect, adding another layer to his strategic gameplay.
The similarities between Hit-Monkey and Jeff the Land Shark are striking. Both are relatively obscure Marvel characters, both are animals, and both appeal to players who appreciate cute but deadly characters. While Jeff’s success stems partly from his ability to swallow and launch enemies, Hit-Monkey might require a similarly memorable and unique gameplay mechanic to achieve comparable popularity.
Marvel Rivals could capitalize on Hit-Monkey’s strengths in several ways. His small stature, similar to Rocket Raccoon, could be paired with exceptional mobility, leveraging his primate agility and martial arts skills. An ultimate ability reminiscent of Reaper’s Death Blossom in Overwatch 2 could create spectacular team wipe opportunities, establishing him as a powerful and memorable character. Ultimately, the combination of a charming animal persona and a fun, strategic kit could be the recipe for Hit-Monkey’s triumph in Marvel Rivals.