Marvel’s legendary Swimsuit Special makes its triumphant return this summer, bringing with it an exciting crossover opportunity for Marvel Rivals players. The highly anticipated Marvel Swimsuit Special: Friends, Foes & Rivals #1 hits comic stores on July 9, 2025, featuring not only stunning artwork of beloved Marvel characters in beach attire but also an exclusive digital bonus for the popular multiplayer hero shooter game.
This special edition comic represents more than just nostalgic fan service – it’s a strategic collaboration between Marvel Comics and Marvel Rivals that bridges the gap between traditional comic storytelling and modern gaming experiences. Written by Tim Seeley and Tony Fleecs with artwork by superstar artist Nick Bradshaw, the one-shot features an overarching story starring Janet Van Dyne (the Wasp) as Earth’s Mightiest fashion designer. The comic showcases breathtaking imagery from top-tier artists, including Mirka Andolfo, Mahmud Asrar, Joshua Cassara, and many others, creating a visual feast that celebrates Marvel’s rich character roster.
What makes this release particularly exciting for Marvel Rivals enthusiasts is the inclusion of a bonus digital redeem code that unlocks “The Unlimited Thing” skin within the game. This crossover initiative demonstrates Marvel’s commitment to creating interconnected experiences across different media platforms, allowing fans to engage with their favorite characters in both traditional comic format and interactive gaming environments. The comic also serves as a preview platform for upcoming Marvel Rivals content, showcasing designs for new costumes that will soon appear in the game, making it essential reading for dedicated players who want to stay ahead of upcoming cosmetic releases.
Understanding the Marvel Swimsuit Special Comic
The 2025 Marvel Swimsuit Special revival brings back the iconic annual one-shot that originally fascinated fans in the 1990s with its unique blend of superhero glamour and beach aesthetics. This year’s edition features a cohesive storyline following Janet Van Dyne as she orchestrates a fashion photo shoot across the globe, bringing together heroes like Scarlet Witch, Cyclops, Human Torch, and Black Panther in elegant summer wear.
Swimsuit Special Skin (Image via Getty)The comic’s narrative includes a subplot involving Roxxon Comics attempting to publish an unauthorized swimsuit book, giving Wasp additional motivation to unite the heroes under the official Marvel banner. This storytelling approach provides meaningful context for the stunning pin-up artwork while maintaining the playful spirit that made the original Swimsuit Specials so beloved.
How to Redeem the Unlimited Thing Skin
Obtaining the exclusive Marvel Rivals skin requires purchasing the physical print edition of the comic, as the redeem code is not available in digital-only copies unless accessed through the Marvel Unlimited app. Here’s the step-by-step redemption process:
Purchase Requirements: Buy the print edition of Marvel Swimsuit Special: Friends, Foes & Rivals #1 from participating comic retailers when it releases on July 9, 2025.
Locate the Code: Find the included digital redeem code printed inside the physical comic book. Each code is single-use, meaning one copy grants access to one skin.
Redeem in Game: Enter the code within Marvel Rivals to unlock “The Unlimited Thing” skin for your character collection.
Upcoming Swimsuit Skins and Season 3 Content
While the comic includes the Unlimited Thing skin code, it also serves as a preview platform for additional swimsuit-themed content coming to Marvel Rivals. Based on promotional materials and leaks, several characters are expected to receive summer-themed cosmetics, including Black Widow, Spider-Man, Psylocke, Black Panther, and Iron Man.
Already Leaked Summer Skins include Squirrel Girl, Jeff the Land Shark, The Thing, and Rocket Raccoon. These cosmetics are expected to arrive during Season 3 of Marvel Rivals, coinciding with the comic’s July release window.
The collaboration represents a broader trend of cross-media integration, with Marvel Rivals Executive Producer Danny Koo confirming that more cosmetics connected to both comics and game events will arrive in the game’s store during the July-August timeframe.
