Rivals of Aether II is adding another heavyweight to its roster, and this time it’s a character born from the community itself. La Reina, known as “The Crowd Magnet,” makes her official debut on January 6, 2026, as the fifth free character update for the platform fighter. Developer Aether Studios revealed the character during the EVO 2026 Announcement Show, complete with a trailer showcasing her moves and fighting style.
From Fan Creation to Official Fighter
La Reina has an interesting origin story that sets her apart from typical DLC characters. She won the Rivals Workshop Character Creation Contest, a competition Aether Studios launched in 2023 to find community-made fighters worthy of joining the official roster. Created by modders Sa-v and Onyx, La Reina beat out hundreds of other submissions to secure her spot in the game. The winning creators received $5,000 and handed over the character rights to Aether Studios, who then worked with them to refine her design for Rivals II.
The contest judged submissions based on three criteria: gameplay mechanics (worth up to 10 points), visual design (up to 5 points), and character background including lore and elemental fit (up to 5 points). La Reina clearly impressed the developers across all categories, earning her place as the first community-created character to join the sequel’s roster.
Meet the Gladiator
La Reina hails from La Gran Colina, a hollow mountain city on the western edge of the Archai Mountains. At the heart of this city sits the Arena de Campeones, a gladiatorial stage where disputes, gang wars, and even international conflicts were historically settled. The city’s motto, “Truth Through Strength,” guided these battles for generations.
When mining pressures from the Air Armada, Flame Imperium, and Water Trade Company led to dangerous shortcuts and the decay of Gran Colina’s proud culture, one worker decided enough was enough. La Reina donned her mask and entered the ring to remind her people of their indomitable spirit. She fights to defend her title, promote Gran Colina’s strength, and preserve the honor of her homeland.
What to Expect
The January 6 update won’t just add La Reina to the playable roster. Aether Studios confirmed this will be a major patch that includes gameplay changes affecting the entire cast. The developer has kept specific details about La Reina’s moveset under wraps, but the reveal trailer hints at a wrestler-inspired fighting style befitting her gladiator background.
Voice actress Paola Del Castillo was selected through an open casting call to bring La Reina to life. Players can follow her work on social media as the character’s launch approaches. True to Aether Studios’ promise, La Reina will be completely free for all players who own Rivals of Aether II, continuing the developer’s commitment to never charge for additional fighters.
Platform Fighter Evolution
Rivals of Aether II represents a significant evolution from the original 2017 game. The sequel ditched the pixel art aesthetic for 3D models rendered in a 2.5D perspective, while adding mechanics like shields, grabs, and ledge attacks. The game launched in 2024 with 10 characters, and Aether Studios has steadily expanded the roster with free updates.
La Reina marks the fifth post-launch addition and demonstrates the developer’s willingness to embrace community creativity. With all future fighters confirmed to be free, Rivals II stands out in a genre often criticized for expensive season passes and character monetization.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does La Reina release in Rivals of Aether II?
La Reina launches on January 6, 2026, as part of the game’s fifth free character update.
Do I have to pay for La Reina?
No. La Reina is completely free for all Rivals of Aether II players. Aether Studios has committed to making all post-launch characters free.
Who created La Reina?
La Reina was created by community modders Sa-v and Onyx. She won the Rivals Workshop Character Creation Contest in 2024.
What is La Reina’s fighting style?
La Reina is a gladiator wrestler from the Arena de Campeones. Her moveset draws inspiration from her background as a masked fighter defending her city’s honor.
Who voices La Reina?
Voice actress Paola Del Castillo was selected through an open casting call to provide La Reina’s voice.
Will there be more community-created characters?
Aether Studios hasn’t announced plans for another Workshop Character Creation Contest yet, but they’ve expressed interest in running similar competitions in the future.
What else comes in the January 6 update?
Beyond La Reina, the update includes gameplay changes affecting the entire roster. Specific balance adjustments haven’t been detailed yet.
Looking Ahead
La Reina’s addition proves that Rivals of Aether II is more than just a platform fighter. It’s a platform for community creativity. By elevating fan-made characters to official status, Aether Studios has created a unique relationship with its player base. The Workshop Character Creation Contest winner shows what happens when developers trust their community’s vision and talent.
As Rivals II continues to grow its roster throughout 2026, La Reina sets a precedent for how fighting games can integrate community feedback and creativity. Her journey from workshop mod to official character is a win for both the creators who brought her to life and the fans who championed her design. Mark your calendars for January 6 when The Crowd Magnet steps into the ring.