Bucky Barnes is ready to dominate the battlefield once again, this time with a brand-new, sleek look. The Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin is arriving in Marvel Rivals, and trust me, it’s not just another cosmetic — it’s a statement. As a long-time fan of both the character and the game, I can confidently say that this is one of the most exciting skins we’ve seen so far. But how do you get your hands on it? Let me guide you through everything you need to know to unlock this exclusive skin and stand out in every match.
Why the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts Skin Is a Must-Have
If you’re like me, you appreciate when a skin captures the essence of a character while adding that extra flair. The Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin does exactly that. Inspired by Marvel’s upcoming Thunderbolts movie, this skin transforms Bucky Barnes into a tactical powerhouse with a modern twist — blue jumpsuit, black gear, utility belt, and those iconic combat boots. And let’s not forget, Bucky goes maskless, showing off the gritty determination that fans love.
But what really sold me? The exclusive MVP animation. Picture this: after carrying your team to victory, Bucky swerves on a motorcycle, removes his sunglasses, and a car explodes in the background. If that’s not peak style, I don’t know what is.
Release Date and Time for Winter Soldier Thunderbolts Skin
Mark your calendars because the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin will officially drop on Thursday, May 1, 2025, just ahead of the Thunderbolts movie premiere. Here’s when you can expect it, depending on your region:
| Region | Release Time |
|---|---|
| PT | 7:00 PM |
| CT | 9:00 PM |
| ET | 10:00 PM |
| Brazil | 11:00 PM |
| CET | 4:00 AM (May 2) |
| JST/KST | 11:00 AM (May 2) |
If you’re as impatient as I am, you’ll probably be hovering over the store tab minutes before launch.
How to Get the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts Skin in Marvel Rivals
Now, let’s talk business. Getting this skin is straightforward but requires some preparation:
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Head to the Marvel Rivals Store
Once the skin is live, you’ll find it featured in the Store tab on the game’s home screen. -
Check Your Units Balance
Based on past premium skins, it’s safe to assume this will be a paid cosmetic. If you’ve been saving your Units, great! If not, now’s the time to top up. -
Purchase the Bundle
It’s likely that the skin will come bundled with a few extras:-
Winter Soldier Nameplate: Featuring Bucky’s face.
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Winter Soldier Spray: A vibrant image of Bucky riding a motorcycle, splashed with purple and orange hues.
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Equip and Flex
After purchasing, head to your customization tab, equip the skin, and get ready to turn heads in your next match.
Tips Before You Buy
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Watch for Bundle Discounts: Sometimes, Marvel Rivals offers launch bundles with a slight discount if you grab everything at once.
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Daily Challenges: If you’re short on Units, grind out those last-minute challenges before May 1.
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Limited-Time Availability: While not confirmed, many skins tied to movie promotions are limited. Don’t wait too long!
What Makes This Skin Special Compared to Other Marvel Rivals Skins?
In my opinion, the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about timing and relevance. With the Thunderbolts movie hype building, this skin is a collector’s dream. Plus, Bucky has always been a top-tier pick in Marvel Rivals, so giving him a fresh look feels like a reward for dedicated players.
The custom MVP animation is another standout feature. Not every skin comes with unique animations, making this one even more desirable.
FAQs
When will the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin be available in Marvel Rivals?
It will release on May 1, 2025, at 10:00 PM ET.
How much will the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin cost?
While the exact price hasn’t been confirmed, expect a premium price similar to other exclusive skins in Marvel Rivals.
Can I earn the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin for free?
Unfortunately, this will be a paid skin available through the in-game store.
Is the MVP animation included with the skin?
Yes, purchasing the Thunderbolts skin includes the unique motorcycle-themed MVP animation.
Will the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin be available permanently?
There’s no official word yet, but since it’s tied to a movie release, it may be a limited-time offer.
What else comes with the Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin?
You’ll also receive a themed Nameplate and Spray.
Conclusion
The Winter Soldier Thunderbolts skin in Marvel Rivals is more than just a cosmetic—it’s a celebration of one of Marvel’s most beloved anti-heroes. With its tactical design, exclusive animations, and tie-in to a major cinematic release, this is one skin you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a die-hard Bucky fan or simply someone who loves to stand out in the arena, now’s the time to prepare. Stock up on Units, set your alarm for May 1, and get ready to ride into battle in true Thunderbolts style.