That sense of synergy with Marvel has been a hallmark of Contest of Champions since its inception. The game’s roster additions and in-game events have consistently mirrored significant developments in Marvel’s expansive universe, spanning film, television, and comic books. However, it is the vibrant community surrounding the game that plays a pivotal role in its sustained success. Developers are acutely aware that the ongoing engagement and enthusiasm of this community are key to the game’s longevity, setting it apart from many other mobile offerings.
“The community itself is a game team member,” explains principal creative writer Tyler Nicol. “Their presence is the reason we can continue to build, grow, and celebrate this 11-year journey. It’s their support that fosters our unique hand-in-hand relationship.”
A Thriving and Growing Community
Community truly embodies the essence of Marvel Contest of Champions, as evidenced by the enthusiastic turnout at this year’s Summoners Fest. The rapport between attendees and developers reflects a deep-rooted camaraderie that has flourished over the years. Notably, several members of the Kabam team began their journey as players and fans of the game, including Sim, who has been part of the community since its launch.
“I’ve worked in various companies and met many industry professionals, but the actual community leaders have joined our company, and we collaborate closely,” shares Sim. “The Kabam team places immense value on the community. Internally, we share daily updates on community sentiments. Each week, we assess whether these sentiments are improving or declining, exploring the reasons behind these changes and identifying which aspects resonate with players. This process is crucial to our development.”
Events like Summoners Fest not only celebrate Contest of Champions but also provide developers with insights that playtesting alone cannot offer. Observing dedicated fans who have honed their skills through countless hours of gameplay allows developers to appreciate the game’s intricacies from a fresh perspective. This understanding informs their approach to expanding the roster with new Champions and refining existing elements, ultimately delivering exciting surprises for long-time players.
“Our players have taught us so much about the game,” admits RPG designer Stuart Urquhart. “They’ve uncovered numerous interactions that we’ve formalized into actual rules. As this process has evolved, we’ve learned how to create more engaging Champions. We also recognize that our existing Champions still resonate well, prompting us to revisit and enhance them.”
