The TikTok ban has made waves across the digital landscape, but few expected its effects to extend beyond the social media giant. In a surprising turn, Marvel Snap, the popular digital card game, has also been swept up in the controversy. Here’s why Marvel Snap is banned in the US and how it ties back to the broader issues surrounding ByteDance and the TikTok ban.
Why Is Marvel Snap Banned in the US?
The ban on Marvel Snap stems from the U.S. government’s enforcement of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, a law targeting apps with ties to foreign companies deemed a security risk. While Marvel Snap was developed by Second Dinner, its publisher, Nuverse, is a subsidiary of ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok.
Because of this connection, Marvel Snap was caught in the crossfire alongside TikTok and other ByteDance-owned apps. On January 19, 2025, the game was removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in the U.S. Players attempting to log in are greeted with a message stating:
“Sorry, MARVEL SNAP isn’t available right now. A law banning MARVEL SNAP has been enacted in the US. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use MARVEL SNAP for now. Rest assured, we’re working to restore our service in the US.”
What Other Apps Were Affected?
The TikTok ban has extended its reach to several other ByteDance-associated apps, including:
- CapCut (a video editing tool)
- Land of Empires: Immortal
- Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
- One Punch Man: The Strongest
For fans of Marvel Snap, the ban came as a complete surprise. The game, known for its fast-paced card battles featuring Marvel heroes and villains, has been a fan favorite since its release in October 2022.
How Did Marvel Snap Get Caught in the Ban?
The connection between Marvel Snap and ByteDance lies in its publisher, Nuverse. Although ByteDance reportedly divested from Nuverse in 2023, it seems the company retained some ties to the game. This connection placed Marvel Snap under the same regulatory scrutiny as TikTok, ultimately leading to its removal.
Second Dinner, the game’s developer, expressed shock at the ban. In a public statement, the studio said they were not informed in advance and are actively working with Nuverse to restore the game for U.S. players.
What Happens to Players’ In-Game Transactions?
One of the most pressing concerns for players is the potential loss of their in-game investments. Many Marvel Snap fans have spent significant amounts on in-app purchases, which are now inaccessible.
Apple has clarified that while apps already installed on devices will remain functional for now, they won’t receive updates or allow new purchases. This raises concerns about long-term compatibility and whether players’ progress will eventually be lost if the ban persists.
Will Marvel Snap Return to the US?
The future of Marvel Snap depends on ByteDance’s ability to navigate U.S. regulations. Outgoing President Joe Biden left enforcement of the ban to President-elect Donald Trump, who has indicated a willingness to explore a potential deal.
However, under current law, ByteDance must divest its ownership of affected apps to lift the ban. Until then, Marvel Snap and other apps like TikTok and CapCut will remain unavailable in the U.S.
TikTok Ban and ByteDance’s Expansive Influence
The Marvel Snap ban highlights the far-reaching impact of ByteDance’s operations beyond TikTok. From social media to gaming, the company’s influence has drawn scrutiny from governments concerned about data security and foreign influence.
The U.S. government’s actions have sparked debates about the risks of concentrated tech ownership. Critics argue that companies like ByteDance wield too much control over diverse digital ecosystems, potentially compromising user data and national security.
Marvel Snap in Limbo (Not Magik’s)
The banning of Marvel Snap in the U.S. is an unexpected consequence of the TikTok ban, leaving players and developers scrambling for answers. As negotiations continue, fans can only hope for a resolution that restores access to their favorite game.
This situation serves as a stark reminder of how interconnected digital platforms have become and the challenges of regulating multinational tech giants.
