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Marvel Rivals characters: Full roster and abilities

Read up on all 33 Marvel Rivals heroes and their abilities

Three Marvel Rivals characters posing side-by-side. From left to right: Hela, Psylocke, Wolverine.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Looking for some help understanding the full roster of all 33 Marvel Rivals characters?Marvel Rivals has hit the ground running since its launch, eating into the hero shooter territory with a very fair free-to-play model which allows new players to instantly choose between all 33 heroes from day one. That's a great thing, but it also means quite a learning curve for newcomers.

Characters in Marvel Rivals are divided into three easy to understand roles: there are the Vanguards, big beefy heroes who soak up lots of damage and protect the team. There are Strategists, who excel at healing and supporting their teammates. And the rest are Duelists, who love to deal damage and pick off enemies. In this guide, we'll walk you through the full roster of Marvel Rivals heroes, exploring the abilities, strengths, and weaknesses of each one. To help those of you who are coming over from the other big hero shooter of the age, we'll explain each of the 33 characters by comparing them to their equivalent Overwatch heroes.

Marvel Rivals characters: Full roster

Here's the full list of all 33 Marvel Rivals characters currently in the game:


Want to better understand the current Marvel Rivals meta, and see how each character stacks up against one another? Our Marvel Rivals tier list of best characters was made for exactly that purpose.

Adam Warlock (Strategist)

Adam Warlock in Marvel Rivals poses in front of the camera, cape billowing behind him.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Group resurrection- Low health
+ Strong team healing- Low mobility
Play this character if: You're looking for a well-rounded hero who can turn losing fights into winning fights with a well-timed resurrect/heal combo.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Quantum MagicNormal AttackLMBLaunch quantum energy to deal damage.
Cosmic ClusterSecondary AttackRMBGather quantum energy into a cluster and then swiftly launch it at the enemy.
Soul BondActive 1ShiftForge a soul bond with allies, granting Healing Over Time and distributing damage taken across the bond.
Avatar Life StreamActive 2ETarget an ally for a bouncing stream of healing energy, which also heals himself upon casting; self-targets if no ally is selected.
Karmic RevivalUltimateQAwaken the karma of allies to revive them. Allies revived have lower health but enjoy a brief period of Invincibility.
Regenerative CocoonPassiveN/AOnce his body perishes, Adam Warlock can freely move as a soul and reforge his body at a chosen spot.
Soul PerseveranceTeam-UpN/AAdam Warlock enhances the rebirth power of Star-Lord and Mantis, granting them the power of cocooned revival.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Adam Warlock's abilities are very reminiscent of Mercy (healing and resurrection), but his punchy primary and secondary attacks are more akin to Zenyatta.


Black Panther (Duelist)

Black Panther in Marvel Rivals leaps towards the camera, claws extended.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Hard to pin down- Sub-par damage for a Duelist
+ Good horizontal mobility- Easily burst down
Play this character if: You like to sow confusion by constantly dashing through vulnerable enemies.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Vibranium ClawsNormal AttackLMBSlice Vibranium Claws forward.
Spear TossSecondary AttackRMBToss a Vibranium energy spear forward, creating a Vibranium Force Field and attaching a Vibranium Mark to enemies in its radius.
Spirit RendActive 1ShiftLunge forward and deal damage to enemies. Vibranium Mark produces Bonus Health and refreshes the ability.
Spinning KickActive 2ESpiral forward and attach a Vibranium Mark to enemies hit.
Subtle StepMobilitySpaceHold Space to run on a wall; perform a jump after detaching from the wall.
Bast's DescentUltimateQSummon Bast, pouncing forward, dealing damage, and attaching a Vibranium Mark to enemies hit while refreshing Spirit Rend.
Panther's CunningPassiveN/ADeal higher damage when at low Health.
Wakandan MasterTeam-UpN/AWhen Magik is on the field, Black Panther and Psylocke can tap into Limbo to rewind a few seconds back to a previous position; after passing through Limbo, Black Panther and Psylocke will gain Bonus Health based on missing health.

Overwatch equivalent(s):Black Panther feels a lot like Genji - highly mobile and powerful at close range - although Black Panther is purely melee.


Black Widow (Duelist)

Black Widow in Marvel Rivals aims her Red Room rifle off-screen in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Huge burst potential- Weak in melee range
+ Last resort kick for keeping enemies at distance- Requires consistently good aim
Play this character if: You enjoy clicking on heads at a distance.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Widow's Bite BatonNormal AttackLMBStrike with the enhanced electric batons.
Red Room RifleNormal Attack 2LMBAttack with the Red Room Rifle.
Straight ShooterSecondary AttackRMBSwitch the Red Room Rifle to Sniper mode to fire high-energy rounds.
Fleet FootActive 1ShiftDash forward and enable a powerful jump.
Edge DancerActive 2EUnleash a spinning kick to Knock enemies airborne. Landing the hit will allow her to zip to the target with a grappling hook for a second kick.
Electro-Plasma ExplosionUltimateQSwitch the Red Room Rifle to Destruction mode and unleash an electro-plasma blast, damaging enemies within range and leaving plasma on the ground to Slow nearby enemies.
Supersensory HuntTeam-UpCHawkeye can share his Hunter's Sight with Black Widow, enabling her to catch sight of and damage afterimages of enemies.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Black Widow is very, very, very comparable to Widowmaker.


Bruce Banner (Vanguard)

Hulk in Marvel Rivals poses in front of the camera, gamma energy radiating from his hands.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Leap allows hit-and-run attacks- Overly complex skillset
+ World Breaker can one-shot some heroes- Not as tanky as most Vanguards
Play this character if: You enjoy dive tanks and for some reason don't want to pick Venom.

Abilities:

Bruce Banner:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Gamma Ray GunNormal AttackLMBFire with a Gamma Ray Gun.
Gamma GrenadeActive 1ShiftLaunch a Gamma Grenade to inflict damage and Launch Up enemies.
Puny BannerUltimateQTransform from Bruce Banner into Hero Hulk.
Gamma BoostTeam-UpN/AHulk charges Doctor Strange and Iron Man with gamma radiation. When Doctor Strange uses Maelstrom of Madness, he unleashes Gamma Maelstrom. When Iron Man uses Armor Overdrive, he will initiate a gamma upgrade.

Hero Hulk:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Heavy BlowNormal AttackLMBSwing fists forward to punch enemies.
Gamma BurstSecondary AttackRMBEmit gamma-ray bursts to inflict damage.
Indestructible GuardActive 1ShiftGenerate gamma shields for Hero Hulk and nearby allies, absorbing and converting damage into energy for HULK SMASH.
Radioactive LockdownActive 2EEmit gamma energy to irradiate enemies and render them immobilize and immune to all ability effects. Using Heavy Blow or Gamma Burst will prematurely remove this status.
Incredible LeapMobilityRHOLD Space to perform a charged leap that allows Hero Hulk to Knock a flying enemy to the ground.
Hulk Smash!UltimateQUnleash stored gamma energy, transforming from Hero Hulk into Monster Hulk for a limited time period.

Monster Hulk:

NameTypeKeyDescription
World BreakerUltimateQGrab and smash the enemy in front.
Gamma FastballTeam-UpCWolverine and Hulk can interact with each other. Once both parties confirm, Hulk can lift Wolverine and press C to hurl him forward.

Overwatch equivalent(s): The way tanky Hulk turns into tiny Bruce when his health is depleted is very reminiscent of D.Va. Otherwise, his dive-focused skillset feels a bit like a melee Winston.


Captain America (Vanguard)

Captain America in Marvel Rivals holds his shield up in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Can chase down and finish wounded enemies- Vulnerable to flank attacks
+ Very hard to kill when he's facing you- Hard to protect the whole team
Play this character if: Your team needs a well-rounded tank that can soak damage without being too much of a target.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Sentinel StrikeNormal AttackLMBGet up close to strike enemies. Landing the second hit enables a shield throw that can ricochet four times.
Super-Soldier SlamSituational AttackLMBSlam down from the sky onto the targeted area, Launching Up enemies.
Living LegendSecondary AttackRMBRaise the shield to deflect incoming projectiles, sending them ricocheting in random directions.
Leading DashActive 1ShiftBoost speed and enable Fearless Leap to leap into the air.
Vibranium Energy SawActive 2EHurl the energy-charged shield to strike enemies in a path.
Liberty RushActive 3FRaise the shield and charge forward.
Freedom ChargeUltimateQShield held high, carve a path forward, granting both himself and allies along the path continuous Bonus Health and Movement Boosts. Using Living Legend or Leading Dash while this ability is active can Launch Up enemies.
Charged AegisTeam-UpCThor infuses Thorforce into Storm and Captain America, granting them an electrifying enhancement. With an electrifying enhancement, Storm can unleash a lightning barrage. With an electrifying enhancement, Captain America gains a Movement Boost, and his shield is imbued with thunder power, electrocuting nearby enemies.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Cap's charge-focused tank playstyle will feel familiar to Mauga, but Cap's shield offers some ranged poke damage which puts me more in mind of Orisa's Javelin.


Cloak And Dagger (Strategist)

Cloak And Dagger in Marvel Rivals both pose together in front of the camera, firing off blasts of their respective magic.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Dark Teleportation is extremely clutch- Healing is outclassed by other Strategists
+ Highly versatile Strategist- Quite complex to learn
Play this character if: You need the versatility of heals, decent DPS, buffing, debuffing, damage amplification, damage nullification... The list goes on.

Abilities:

Cloak:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Darkforce CloakNormal AttackLMBInflict continuous damage on an enemy.
Dark TeleportationSecondary AttackRMBEnshroud nearby allies in the Darkforce Dimension, plunging them into the Phased state, making them untargetable and invisible to enemies and granting them a Movement Boost.
Light's EmbraceActive 1ShiftSwitch to Dagger.
Terror CapeActive 2EDeploy a Veil of Darkforce to damage enemies upon touch, applying Blind to narrow their sight and Vulnerability to amplify damage received.
Eternal BondUltimateQPerform three rapid dashes, healing allies and damaging enemies along the path.
From Shadow To LightTeam-UpN/ACloak And Dagger can inject light and dark energy into Moon Knight to create a Light And Dark Realm where Moon Knight can become Invisible.

Dagger:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Lightforce DaggerNormal AttackLMBUnleash a bouncing Lightforce Dagger to damage enemies and heal nearby allies.
Dagger StormSecondary AttackRMBLaunch a volley of daggers, creating a Healing Over Time field in the impact area.
Shadow's EmbraceActive 1ShiftSwitch to Cloak.
Veil Of LightforceActive 2EDeploy a Veil of Lightforce to heal allies upon touch and grant them a Healing Boost.

Overwatch equivalent(s): The closest comparison is Moira thanks to the balance of heals and damage, but Cloak And Dagger is one of the few heroes that isn't that similar to any Overwatch character.


Doctor Strange (Vanguard)

Doctor Strange in Marvel Rivals casts a sorcery with his hand in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Very strong team-wide protection- Requires team cohesion to excel
+ Portal allows powerful team repositioning for clutch plays- Vulnerable if focused hard
Play this character if: You want to set up strong pushes while keeping the entire team protected.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Daggers Of DenakNormal AttackLMBCast Daggers of Denak forward.
Shield Of The SeraphimSecondary AttackRMBCreate a protective barrier against damage.
Cloak Of LevitationActive 1ShiftAscend and then enter a brief state of sustained flight.
Maelstrom Of MadnessActive 2ERelease Dark Magic to deal damage to nearby enemies.
Pentagram Of FarallahActive 3FOpen portals between two locations, enabling all units to travel through them.
Eye Of AgamottoUltimateQSeparate nearby enemies' Souls from their bodies. Damage dealt to these Souls is transferred to their physical bodies.
Price Of MagicPassiveN/ADark Magic accumulates with every hit on an enemy. If Dark Magic peaks for too long, Doctor Strange will be cursed with Anti-Heal.
Gamma MaelstromTeam-UpEHulk charges Doctor Strange and Iron Man with gamma radiation. When Doctor Strange uses Maelstrom of Madness, he unleashes Gamma Maelstrom. When Iron Man uses Armor Overdrive, he will initiate a gamma upgrade.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Doctor Strange acts as a clear cross between Reinhardt and Symmetra, with his team-wide shield and portal-based repositioning ability.


Groot (Vanguard)

Groot in Marvel Rivals poses in front of the camera sitting down and holding a glowing green seed in his hand.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Walls can buy you time and protection- Comparatively high micromanagement
+ Ult into a Thornlash Wall for high damage- Fairly low damage
Play this character if: Constantly throwing up walls to obnoxiously counter flanks and hold chokepoints appeals to you.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Vine StrikeNormal AttackLMBLaunch vines to attack enemies.
Spore BombSecondary AttackRMBThrow an explosive Spore Bomb that splits into multiple small explosive spores.
Thornlash WallActive 1ShiftTarget a location and grow a Thornlash Wall. When Awakened, it strikes nearby enemies attacked by Groot and his allies.
Ironwood WallActive 2ETarget a location and grow an Ironwood Wall. When the wall is Awakened, damage dealt by Groot and nearby allies grants Groot Bonus Health.
Furious FloraMeleeVPerform a combo with his arms, and the third strike will slightly Launch Up the hit enemy airborne.
Strangling PrisonUltimateQFire a massive vine cluster that pulls nearby enemies to its center and Imprisons them.
Friendly ShoulderTeam-UpN/AJeff the Land Shark and Rocket Raccoon can ride on Groot's shoulders, receiving Damage Reduction.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Groot's wall erecting abilities is similar in some ways to Mei. But his Ultimate? Think more towards Zarya's Graviton Surge.


Hawkeye (Duelist)

Hawkeye in Marvel Rivals aims his bow in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Strongest single-target damage- Very weak to single-target damage himself
+ Ult enables easy kills against weak foes- Some parts of skillset are substandard
Play this character if: Your aim is unerring, and you want more options at close range than Black Widow.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Piercing ArrowNormal AttackLMBShoot a powerful arrow.
Blast ArrowNormal Attack 2LMBShoot three explosive arrows.
Crescent SlashActive 1ShiftUnsheathe a katana and slash forward, launching up enemies hit.
Hypersonic ArrowActive 2EShoot a Hypersonic Arrow, dealing two instances of damage to enemies in its path and inflicting them with Slow. This ability can Knock Down flying heroes.
Ronin SlashMeleeVSwing a wakizashi to strike frontal enemies, deflecting all incoming projectiles.
Skyward LeapMobilitySpacePerform a double jump in the direction of movement.
Hunter's SightUltimateQCapture Afterimages of enemies in his view. Damage dealt to an Afterimage is transferred to the corresponding enemy.
Archer's FocusPassiveN/AAim at an enemy to improve focus, enhancing the damage inflicted by Piercing Arrow.
Supersensory VisionTeam-UpN/AHawkeye can share his Hunter's Sight with Black Widow, enabling her to catch sight of and damage afterimages of enemies.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Clear Hanzo comparison here. Both long-ranged bow-based snipers.


Hela (Duelist)

Hela in Marvel Rivals poses menacingly in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ High damage from multiple sources- Mobility options are mediocre
+ Time-delay attacks can catch foes unawares- Vulnerable while using Ultimate
Play this character if: You want a high-DPS Duelist and can rely on teammates to keep you alive.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Nightsword ThornNormal AttackLMBThrow Nightsword thorns.
Piercing NightSecondary AttackRMBFire multiple Nightsword thorns that detonate after a delay.
Astral FlockActive 1ShiftTransform into a Nastrond Crow to glide forth, press again to undo the transformation.
Soul DrainerActive 2EProject an explosive Hel sphere to Stun nearby enemies..
Hel's DescentMobilitySpaceHold Space to fall slowly.
Goddess Of DeathUltimateQSoar into the sky and unleash Nastrond Crows from each hand at will.
Nastrond CrowstormPassiveN/ADefeating an enemy will generate a Nastrond Crow, exploding after a duration.
Queen Of HelTeam-UpN/AWhen Hela lands a final hit in defeating an enemy, she can instantly resurrect Loki and Thor in the respawn phase, or grant them Bonus Health if they are still alive.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Hela functions a fair bit like Ashe, with punchy attacks that do great damage at decent range. When she Ults, it's a bit more like Pharah.


Iron Fist (Duelist)

Iron Fist in Marvel Rivals summons a dragon of green energy with his punch towards the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Powerful and durable at close range- Combos can be learnt, baited, and countered
+ Highly mobile- Can easily overextend yourself
Play this character if: You want to get up in the faces of enemy Duelists and Strategists, tank their attacks, and burst them down fast before retreating.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Jeet Kune DoNormal AttackLMBStrike the targeted enemy with Jeet Kune Do, reducing the cooldown of Block and Strike with every hit.
Yat Jee Chung KuenSituational AttackLMBDash forward to pursue the targeted enemy and unleash a flurry of attacks.
Dragon's DefenseSecondary AttackRMBAssume a defensive stance with a boost of Chi to block incoming attacks and gain Damage Reduction, then strike back with Yat Jee Chung Kuen.
K'un-Lun KickActive 1ShiftDash forward, delivering a flying kick when hitting an enemy or reaching full range, dealing damage to nearby enemies. Damage increases with lower enemy health.
Harmony RecoveryActive 2ECross legs and channel Chi, slowly gaining Bonus Health.
Crane LeapMobility 1SpacePerform up to three consecutive jumps while airborne.
Wall RunnerMobility 2SpaceRun horizontally along the walls.
Living ChiUltimateQBecome living Chi to boost his speed, damage, and attack range, delivering stronger punches while reducing the cooldown of Dragon's Defense.
Chi AbsorptionPassiveN/AAssists in taking down enemies allow him to absorb their Chi and gain Bonus Health.
Dragon's ChillTeam-UpN/AIron Fist channels the Chi of Shou-Lao into Luna Snow, transforming her ice power into a Chi-infused frosty ring that radiates from her. This ring can knock back enemies with chilling damage and applies a slowing effect, while simultaneously healing her allies.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Iron Fist's melee focus and damage-blocking skills make him very comparable to Doomfist.


Iron Man (Duelist)

Iron Man in Marvel Rivals fires off a repulsor blast towards the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Very high damage potential- Low HP and weak to snipers
+ Ultimate is devastating when unleashed- Very predictable in the air
Play this character if: You have a dedicated healer who can keep you alive while you rain damage from the sky.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Repulsor BlastNormal AttackLMBFire nano pulse cannons forward.
UnibeamSecondary AttackRMBFire a unibeam forward.
Hyper-VelocityActive 1ShiftActivate Hyper-Velocity state for swift forward flight.
Armor OverdriveActive 2EActivate Armor Overdrive state, enhancing the damage of Repulsor Blast and Unibeam.
Micro-Missile BarrageActive 3FWhen Hyper-Velocity or Armor Overdrive is used, Iron Man can launch a missile bombardment.
Invincible Pulse CannonUltimateQFire a devastating pulse cannon in the targeted direction, delivering catastrophic damage to the targeted area upon impact.
Gamma OverdriveTeam-UpEHulk charges Doctor Strange and Iron Man with gamma radiation. When Doctor Strange uses Maelstrom of Madness, he unleashes excess gamma energy. When Iron Man uses Armor Overdrive, he will initiate a gamma upgrade.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Iron Man is most akin to Pharah - he's a glass cannon who deals massive damage from above. But his movement in the air and Unibeam secondary attack are much more like Echo.


Jeff The Land Shark (Strategist)

Jeff The Land Shark in Marvel Rivals poses smiling and panting in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Ult allows you to kamikaze whole teams off the map- Dies quickly to consistent DPS
+ Strong healing and damage- Enemies will try to pick you off first
Play this character if: You want a strong healer with surprisingly good damage and a potentially team-killing Ultimate.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Joyful SplashNormal AttackLMBUnleash a healing splash.
Aqua BurstSecondary AttackRMBLaunch a high-speed water sphere that bursts upon impact, dealing damage to enemies within range.
Hide And SeekActive 1ShiftDive into the scene with only his dorsal fin exposed, granting himself a Movement Boost. Jeff can heal while submerged and gains the wall-crawl ability.
Healing BubbleActive 2ESpit a bubble that heals the ally who collects it, granting them Healing Boost and Movement Boost while also launching up nearby enemies.
It's Jeff!UltimateQDeep dive into the scene and resurface to swallow both enemies and allies within range, activating Hide and Seek for a brief duration before ejecting the swallowed heroes forward.
Oblivious CutenessPassiveN/AReduce damage taken from critical hits.
Frozen SpitballTeam-Up 1XLuna Snow infuses ice energy into Namor and Jeff the Land Shark, who then can tap into the ice energy to power up abilities at will.
New FriendsTeam-Up 2CJeff the Land Shark and Rocket Raccoon can ride on Groot's shoulders, receiving Damage Reduction.

Overwatch equivalent(s): While they function differently, Jeff's burrow ability makes him immediately comparable to Venture. Combine that with Moira's Biotic Grasp and orbs for a decent idea of Jeff's focus.


Loki (Strategist)

Loki in Marvel Rivals poses with a smile in front of the camera, wreathed in green magic.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Can use every ability in the game- Healing isn't the best
+ Illusions can sow confusion- Very hard to master
Play this character if: You want a versatile and extremely high skill ceiling hero, and/or the enemy team features some game-changing Ultimates for you to steal.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Mystical MissileNormal AttackLMBFire Mystical Missiles to heal allies or deal damage to enemies.
DeceptionSecondary AttackRMBBecome Invisible and conjure an Illusion to deceive enemies.
Regeneration DomainActive 1ShiftUse Rune Stones to create a magical field that provides allies Healing and converts incoming damage into further healing.
DoppelgangerActive 2EProject an Illusion that can cast some of Loki's abilities.
Devious ExchangeActive 3FSwap with the selected Illusion.
BackstabMeleeVPull out a dagger to stab enemies, dealing extra damage when attacking an enemy from behind.
God Of MischiefUltimateQShapeshift into a targeted ally or enemy hero and use all their abilities except any of their Team-Up Abilities.
Laufeyson RebornTeam-UpN/AWhen Hela lands a final hit in defeating an enemy, she can instantly resurrect Loki and Thor in the respawn phase, or grant them bonus health if they are still alive.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Loki combines the confusion of Sombra with the ability-stealing Ultimate of Echo.


Luna Snow (Strategist)

Luna Snow in Marvel Rivals poses in front of the camera with her eyes closed and one hand pointing in the air.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Good multiple-target healing- Lacks the versatility of Cloak & Dagger
+ Ultimate can render allies nigh-invulnerable- Low survivability when jumped on
Play this character if: Your team needs a strong and far-reaching healer who can also make up for a DPS deficit.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Light And Dark IceNormal AttackLMBFire ice shots that damage enemies or heal allies.
Absolute ZeroSecondary AttackRMBCast a clump of ice to Freeze the hit enemy and restore Health.
Ice ArtsActive 1ShiftFire ice shards for a short duration, damaging enemies or healing allies while restoring her own Health.
Share The StageActive 2EAttach Idol Aura to an ally. Allies with Idol Aura also restore Health when Luna Snow is healing others.
Fate Of Both WorldsUltimateQTake center stage and start dancing! Press to toggle between two performances: Heal allies or grant them Damage Boost.
Cryo HeartPassive 1N/AAutomatically restore Health when casting Ice Arts or Absolute Zero.
Smooth SkatePassive 2N/AKeep moving forward to start ice skating and enable higher jumps.
Icy DiscoTeam-Up 1N/ALuna Snow infuses ice energy into Namor and Jeff the Land Shark, who then can tap into the ice energy to power up abilities at will.
Frozen ChiTeam-Up 2CIron Fist channels the Chi of Shou-Lao into Luna Snow, transforming her ice power into a Chi-infused frosty ring that radiates from her. This ring can knock back enemies with chilling damage and applies a slowing effect, while simultaneously healing her allies.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Luna's Ultimate turns her into a souped up Lucio with her toggling between different AoE buffs. But her attacks are much more like Zenyatta.


Magik (Duelist)

Magik in Marvel Rivals poses in front of the camera, wielding her greatsword in one hand.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Very tanky for a Duelist- Slow attacks and movement
+ Powerful melee attacks- Abililties can feel underwhelming
Play this character if: You like to inexorably approach a target and chop them down with strong attacks, while soaking up damage like no other Duelist.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
SoulswordNormal AttackLMBSlash forward with the Soulsword.
Eldritch WhirlSituational Attack 1LMBSpin while swinging the Soulsword after exiting a Stepping Disc.
Magik SlashSecondary AttackRMBStrike forward and air slash.
Demon's RageSituational Attack 2RMBSummon a Limbo demon that attacks enemies after exiting a Stepping Disc.
Stepping DiscsActive 1ShiftJump through a Stepping Disc, teleporting a short distance in the direction of movement. Become Invincible while teleporting.
Umbral IncursionActive 2EDash forward and launch up enemies.
DarkchildUltimateQTransform into Darkchild, gaining enhancements to all her abilities.
Limbo's MightPassiveN/AConvert damage inflicted on enemies into Bonus Health to herself.
Disc MasterTeam-UpN/AWhen Magik is on the field, Black Panther and Psylocke can tap into Limbo to rewind a few seconds back to a previous position; after passing through Limbo, Black Panther and Psylocke will gain Bonus Health based on missing health.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Magik feels like Brigitte to me - close-range and surprisingly tanky.


Magneto (Vanguard)

Magneto in Marvel Rivals telepathically swings his purple sword towards the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Balance of tankiness and team protection- Enemies will learn to avoid damaging your Bulwarks
+ Very strong with Scarlet Witch- Team protection outmatched by Doctor Strange
Play this character if: You have Scarlet Witch on the field, and/or you like the sound of a Vanguard that lacks Strange's team protection but deals more damage.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Iron VolleyNormal AttackLMBFire a volley of magnetic orbs forward. The range of the resulting explosion increases based on distance flown.
Mag-CannonSecondary AttackRMBConvert the iron rings on Magneto's back into a Mag-Cannon and launch a metallic mass forward. Higher stacks of rings increase damage, and full stacks knock back enemies.
Metallic CurtainActive 1ShiftChange the magnetic field around to form a metallic curtain, blocking all incoming projectiles.
Metal BulwarkActive 2EConjure a metal shield around a chosen ally. Damage taken will transform into rings on Magneto's back.
Iron BulwarkActive 3FConjure an iron shield around himself. Damage taken will transform into rings on Magneto's back.
Magnetic DescentMobilitySpaceHold Space to fall slowly.
Meteor MUltimateQDraw in all materials around to forge an iron meteor that deals massive damage upon impact. Absorbing enemy projectiles can enhance the meteor's power, yet overloading will cause it to self-destruct.
Metallic FusionTeam-UpCScarlet Witch can infuse Chaos Energy into Magneto to enchant his greatsword. Upon receiving the Chaos Energy, Magneto can unleash its full force, striking down enemies with his enchanted greatsword.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Magneto's equivalent in OW is clearly Zarya - his Bulwarks are very similar to Zarya's bubbles, and he feeds off the repelled damage like Zarya.


Mantis (Strategist)

Mantis in Marvel Rivals fires a blast of Life Energy from her hand in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Spore Slumber is situationally brilliant- Low HP and mobility
+ Decent healing and damage- Healing and damage are both outmatched by other Strategists
Play this character if: You're confident in your (and your team's) ability to keep a low HP healer alive while she sedates, heals, and picks off other low-health heroes.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Life Energy BlastNormal AttackLMBFire an energy thorn and regain one Life Orb after a critical hit..
Healing FlowerSecondary AttackRMBConsume Life Orbs to grant allies Healing Over Time.
Spore SlumberActive 1ShiftThrow a spore to Sedate the nearest enemy.
Allied InspirationActive 2EConsume Life Orbs to grant allies a Damage Boost.
Natural AngerActive 3FConsume Life Orbs to grant herself a Damage Boost.
Soul ResurgenceUltimateQRelease energy around her while moving, providing Healing Over Time and Movement Boosts for surrounding allies. Excess healing converts to Bonus Health.
Nature's FavorPassiveN/AReceive a Movement Boost when not injured and Healing Over Time when consuming Life Orbs.
Nature's SoulTeam-UpN/AAdam Warlock enhances the rebirth power of Star-Lord and Mantis, granting them the power of cocooned revival.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Thematically Mantis feels like Lifeweaver, but she plays much more like Kiriko with her accurate attacks and reliance on crits.


Moon Knight (Duelist)

Moon Knight in Marvel Rivals glides towards the camera with his moon-shaped cape.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ High multi-target damage- Weak to snipers and high burst damage
+ Several mobility options- Tricky combos
Play this character if: You want a mobile Duelist who can deal high consistent damage to the whole enemy team at once.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Crescent DartNormal AttackLMBUnleash Crescent Darts forward that can bounce between enemies and Ankhs, dealing damage to enemies.
Moon BladeSecondary AttackRMBLaunch forward a Moon Blade that can bounce between enemies and Ankhs, dealing damage to enemies.
Night GliderActive 1ShiftHold SHIFT to glide.
Ancient AnkhActive 2EFire an Ankh to launch up enemies within its radius towards the center.
Moonlight HookActive 3FLaunch a frontal grappling hook that pulls Moon Knight towards it.
Triple EclipseMeleeVPerform a combo with his truncheon, and the third strike will launch up the enemy hit slightly.
Rising LeapMobilitySpacePerform a double jump.
Hand Of KhonshuUltimateQOpen a portal that allows Khonshu to bombard enemies with his talons.
Full MoonTeam-UpN/ACloak And Dagger can inject light and dark energy into Moon Knight to create a Light And Dark Realm where Moon Knight can become Invisible.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Moon Knight has no strong Overwatch equivalents thanks to his ricocheting attacks, but I spose you could argue his flight draws similarities to Echo.


Namor (Duelist)

Namor in Marvel Rivals slashes towards the camera with his trident.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Benefits greatly from critical hits- Low DPS for a Duelist
+ Monstro Spawn can be annoying- Underwhelming Ultimate
Play this character if: You and your team can keep your enemies from picking off your Monstro Spawn long enough for them to become useful.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Trident Of NeptuneNormal AttackLMBThrow the trident forward, reducing Aquatic Dominion's cooldown upon enemy impact. Critical hits cause Monstro Spawn to enter a berserk state, gaining increased Attack Speed.
Wrath Of The Seven SeasSecondary AttackRMBLaunch the trident forward to damage nearby enemies, then direct all Monstro Spawn to perform an enhanced attack on the nearest hit enemy. When the trident hits an enemy, Monstro Spawn to enter a berserk state, gaining increased Attack Speed.
Blessing Of The DeepActive 1ShiftSummon a protective barrier while flying upwards.
Aquatic DominionActive 2ESummon a Monstro Spawn that can autonomously attack enemies.
Horn Of ProteusUltimateQSummon Giganto to leap atop enemies within range, disabling their mobility abilities.
Frozen SpawnTeam-UpN/ALuna Snow infuses ice energy into Namor and Jeff the Land Shark, who then can tap into the ice energy to power up abilities at will..

Overwatch equivalent(s): Namor's clear equivalent is Torbjorn, as both supplement their damage with turrets.


Peni Parker (Vanguard)

Peni Parker in Marvel Rivals poses in front of the camera sitting atop the shoulder of her mech.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Strong static defences- Needs the fight to stay in one place
+ Can deter flankers and block chokepoints- Low survivability for a Vanguard
Play this character if: You want to fortify a single area against attacks and give your team a home-ground advantage.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Cyber-Web ClusterNormal AttackLMBLaunch forward a Cyber-Web Cluster.
Cyber-Web SnareSecondary AttackRMBCast futuristic webbing that Immobilizes enemies or creates a Cyber-Web. While in the Cyber-Web, gain Healing Over Time and a Movement Boost. Excess healing converts into Bonus Health.
Bionic Spider-NestActive 1ShiftGenerate a Spider-Nest at a targeted area, periodically spawning Spider-Drones and creating Cyber-Webs. While in the Cyber-Web, gain Healing Over Time and a Movement Boost. Excess healing converts into Bonus Health.
Arachno-MineActive 2EDeploy Arachno-Mines that can be concealed within the confines of a Cyber-Web.
Cyber-BondActive 3FShoot a web strand that links to the targeted area or Cyber-Web. If stretched too far, it will trigger a pullback.
Wall CrawlMobilitySpaceHOLD Jump to crawl on vertical surfaces.
Spider-SweeperUltimateQEnhance the SP//dr suit, launching up enemies in its path and deploying Arachno-Mines, Spider-Drones, and Cyber-Webs repeatedly.
Armor ExpulsionTeam-UpCVenom shares a part of his symbiote with Spider-Man and Peni Parker, activating their symbiote abilities. Spider-Man and Peni Parker can convert the symbiotes into explosive spikes that inflict harm on nearby enemies and relentlessly drive them back.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Peni Parker's mines offer an easy comparison to Wrecking Ball's Minefield Ultimate, but she stands apart with her very static and defensive skillset.


Psylocke (Duelist)

Psylocke in Marvel Rivals prepares to strike with her sword in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Ultimate is powerful and hard to fight- Glass Cannon
+ High attack damage- Stealth doesn't always make for a good escape
Play this character if: You want to breach the enemy team's backline and quickly assassinate low-health foes.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Psionic CrossbowNormal AttackLMBUnleash bolts with psionic crossbows to damage enemies and reduce the cooldowns of all her abilities.
Wing ShurikensSecondary AttackRMBLaunch a volley of psionic shurikens that stick to enemies, dealing damage and granting herself Bonus Health. Press again to recall the shurikens.
Psi-Blade DashActive 1ShiftDash forward and slice through enemies along the path with psionic blades.
Psychic StealthActive 2EEnter stealth and gain a Movement Boost.
Dance Of The ButterflyUltimateQSlash nearby enemies with a psionic katana, dealing massive damage.
Psionic DiscTeam-UpCWhen Magik is on the field, Black Panther and Psylocke can tap into Limbo to rewind a few seconds back to a previous position; after passing through Limbo, Black Panther and Psylocke will gain Bonus Health based on missing health.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Psylocke's Ultimate and attacks feel very similar to Genji, but combined with the invisibility of Sombra.


Rocket Raccoon (Strategist)

Rocket Raccoon in Marvel Rivals launches himself towards the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Rebirth Beacon can change fights- Mobility often isn't enough to make up for low survivability
+ Ammo Invention is a powerful Team-Up ability- Better healing options elsewhere
Play this character if: You want to seriously boost the power of Winter Soldier and/or Punisher.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Bombard ModeNormal AttackLMBFire energy projectiles that deal damage.
Repair ModeSecondary AttackRMBShoot bouncing spheres to heal allies.
Jetpack DashActive 1ShiftDash forward.
B.R.B.Active 2EDeploy a Battle Rebirth Beacon that revives a fallen ally and periodically produces armor packs and rocket jet packs.
Wild CrawlMobility 1SpaceHold Space to run on a wall.
Flying AceMobility 2SpaceHold Space to fall slowly.
C.Y.A.UltimateQDeploy a Cosmic Yarn Amplifier that grants allies a Damage Boost.
Old FriendsTeam-Up 1CJeff the Land Shark and Rocket Raccoon can ride on Groot's shoulders, receiving Damage Reduction.
Ammo InventionTeam-Up 2ZRocket Raccoon throws an Ammo Overload device in the target direction. Upon entering the device's range, the Punisher and Winter Soldier receive the buffs of Infinite Ammo and Faster Firing.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Rocket can at times feel quite similar to Baptiste, with his healing projectiles and a Rebirth Beacon in place of an Immortality Field.


Scarlet Witch (Duelist)

Scarlet Witch in Marvel Rivals summons red chaos magic with her hand in front of the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Can buff Magneto- Hard to survive against dedicated attackers
+ Good if allowed to consistently damage enemy tanks- Other Duelists offer higher DPS
Play this character if: Magneto is your Vanguard, and/or you need consistent DPS against the enemy tank.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Chaos ControlNormal AttackLMBUnleash Chaos Magic on enemies to deal damage based on a percentage of their Max Health and restore Chaos Energy.
Chthonian BurstSecondary AttackRMBConsume Chaos Energy to fire explosive magic missiles, damaging enemies.
Mystic ProjectionActive 1ShiftEnter the Phased state for free-flight. Press again to exit early.
Dark SealActive 2ELand a hit on a target or the scene, or press E to generate a Force Field that periodically Stuns enemies within range.
TelekinesisMobilitySpaceHold Space to fall slowly.
Reality ErasureUltimateQEngage in free-flight while charging energy, then unleash it to deal massive damage.
Chaotic BondTeam-UpN/AScarlet Witch can infuse Chaos Energy into Magneto to enchant his greatsword. Upon receiving the Chaos Energy, Magneto can unleash its full force, striking down enemies with his enchanted greatsword.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Scarlet Witch enjoys the siphoning attack of Moira, and her Mystic Projection is a similar sort of escape tool to Moira's Fade. Her Ultimate is more like a D.Va Ult, though.


Spider-Man (Duelist)

Spider-Man in Marvel Rivals web-slings towards the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Extremely high mobility- Very hard to master
+ Can pull enemies into the void- Vulnerable to foes with air-counter abilities
Play this character if: You want a highly mobile, high skill ceiling Duelist who excels at picking off lone targets.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Spider-PowerNormal AttackLMBSwing fists forward to strike, dealing extra damage to the enemy with a Spider-Tracer.
Cyber-Web ClusterSecondary AttackRMBShoot a Web-Cluster that deals damage and attaches a Spider-Tracer to the hit enemy.
Web-SwingActive 1ShiftShoot a strand of webbing to swing..
Get Over Here!Active 2EShoot webbing to reel in the hit enemy. If the enemy is tagged with a Spider-Tracer, Spider-Man will get pulled to them instead.
Amazing ComboActive 3FLaunch an enemy upward, dealing extra damage to the enemy with a Spider-Tracer.
Thrip And FlipMobility 1SpacePerform a double jump.
Wall CrawlMobility 2SpacePress Space to wall crawl, and while crawling, left-click to sprint.
Spectacular SpinUltimateQLaunch Web-Clusters all around to damage and Stun enemies.
Spider-SensePassiveN/AGive a warning of enemies that have been around.
Suit ExpulsionTeam-Up 1CVenom shares a part of his symbiote with Spider-Man and Peni Parker, activating their symbiote abilities. Spider-Man and Peni Parker can convert the symbiotes into explosive spikes that inflict harm on nearby enemies and relentlessly drive them back.
Extra Web-FluidTeam-Up 2N/ASpider-Man gives Squirrel Girl a web bomb. She can slingshot it to unleash an explosion upon contact with the environment or an enemy, briefly ensnaring and damaging enemies caught in the blast.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Think of a mostly airborne Sombra and you're getting close. But Spider-Man can also grapple enemies like Roadhog, and his AoE Ultimate is a bit like a less-damaging Reaper Ult that also roots enemies in place.


Squirrel Girl (Duelist)

Squirrel Girl in Marvel Rivals poses smiling in front of the camera with her squirrel atop her head.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Best hero for splash damage- Tricky to make full use of Mammal Bond
+ Strong stun potential- Vulnerable to snipers and strong burst damage
Play this character if: You need an option for weakening the entire enemy team at once and picking off isolated Strategists/Duelists.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Burst AcornNormal AttackLMBShoot bouncing Burst Acorns.
Squirrel BlockadeSecondary AttackRMBLaunch an acorn to unleash Squirrel Guards, Imprisoning the first hit enemy.
Tail BounceActive 1ShiftRocket upwards with a bounce of her tail.
Mammal BondActive 2EReload Burst Acorns and can use an ability without cooldown once in a short duration.
Unbeatable Squirrel TsunamiUltimateQSummon a horde of squirrels to charge forward, dealing damage while bouncing against structures.
Webbed AcornTeam-UpCSpider-Man gives Squirrel Girl a web bomb. She can slingshot it to unleash an explosion upon contact with the environment or an enemy, briefly ensnaring and damaging enemies caught in the blast.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Squirrel Girl was clearly modelled after Junkrat, with her lobbing explosive attacks, vertical mobility, and stun. All she lacks is the burst damage of Junk's Ult.


Star-Lord (Duelist)

Star-Lord in Marvel Rivals jumps into the air in front of the camera, wielding two matching handguns.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Hard to pin down- Requires good ammo management
+ Decent in 1v1 fights- Mediocre sustained DPS
Play this character if: You like flanking and hit-and-run attacks with a highly mobile hero.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Element GunsNormal AttackLMBShoot enemies with dual Element Guns.
Stellar ShiftSecondary AttackRMBDodge in the direction of movement and swiftly reload.
Rocket PropulsionActive 1ShiftConsume energy to gain a Movement Boost and soar forward.
Blaster BarrageActive 2EFire a frenzy of shots, causing damage to enemies within range..
Galactic LegendUltimateQEngage in free-flight and lock onto enemies in sight.
Leader's SoulTeam-UpN/AAdam Warlock enhances the rebirth power of Star-Lord and Mantis, granting them the power of cocooned revival.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Star-Lord's weapons are pretty much exactly Tracer's. And both heroes are extremely mobile. But the lock-on Ultimate is more like Soldier: 76, and his Blaster Barrage is a small version of Reaper's Ultimate.


Storm (Duelist)

Storm in Marvel Rivals summons lightning with her hands while staring into the sky.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Ultimate can be situationally devastating- Low DPS for a Duelist
+ Can be tricky to escape her at close range- Slow and predictable
Play this character if: You have strong healing allies and your team could benefit from area-of-effect buffs.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Wind BladeNormal AttackLMBLaunch forward-piercing Wind Blades.
Bolt RushSecondary AttackRMBUnleash a lightning bolt forward.
Weather ControlActive 1ShiftSwitch the weather to empower allies: Tornado grants a Movement Boost; Thunder grants a Damage Boost.
Goddess BoostActive 2EChannel the power of the weather to empower Storm: Tornado grants a Movement Boost and inflicts Slow on enemies; Thunder grants a Damage Boost and summons lightning to inflict damage.
Omega HurricaneUltimateQTransform into a hurricane to draw in nearby enemies and deal damage.
Charged GaleTeam-UpCThor infuses Thorforce into Storm and Captain America, granting them an electrifying enhancement. With an electrifying enhancement, Storm can unleash a lightning barrage. With an electrifying enhancement, Captain America gains a Movement Boost, and his shield is imbued with thunder power, electrocuting nearby enemies.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Storm's ever-present buffing aura puts me in mind of Lucio, but her free flight and focus on damage adds a bit of Pharah into the mix too.


The Punisher (Duelist)

The Punisher in Marvel Rivals poses in front of the camera with both his guns pointed outwards.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ High DPS at any range- Vulnerable to flank attacks
+ Ult is very hard to face- Mobility options aren't great for escaping
Play this character if: You want a simple, high DPS hero who can slot into any team comp.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
AdjudicationNormal Attack 1LMBFire at enemies with Adjudication, his Automatic Rifle.
DeliveranceNormal Attack 2LMBFire at enemies with Deliverance, his Shotgun.
Scourge GrenadeSecondary AttackRMBThrow a smoke grenade forward to obscure enemy vision and leap backward.
Vantage ConnectionActive 1ShiftLaunch a hook to generate a cable that enables the Punisher to move rapidly by pressing F.
Culling TurretActive 2EDeploy a Culling Turret that grounds Punisher and blocks damage from the front while dealing massive damage.
Final JudgementUltimateQUnleash two Gatling guns and missiles to attack enemies.
Warrior's GazePassiveN/ARetain vision of enemies that disappear from view for a short duration.
Infinite PunishmentTeam-UpN/ARocket Raccoon throws an Ammo Overload device in the target direction. Upon entering the device's range, the Punisher and Winter Soldier receive the buffs of Infinite Ammo and Faster Firing.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Punisher's consistent DPS and static turret mode makes him a cross between Soldier: 76 and Bastion.


Thor (Vanguard)

Thor in Marvel Rivals smashes his lightning-infused hammer towards the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Good damage while Awakened- Deceptively complex toolkit
+ Storm Surge is good for closing distance- Mobility and survivability make diving risky
Play this character if: You have good resource management and need a Vanguard that balances offence and defence.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Mjolnir BashNormal AttackLMBWield Mjolnir to strike enemies. When Awakened, Thor can launch lightning arc waves to deal damage.
Hammer ThrowSecondary AttackRMBThrow Mjolnir forward which then returns.
Storm SurgeActive 1ShiftHold to spin Mjolnir before dashing forward and knocking back enemies.
Lightning RealmActive 2ESummon lightning that restores Thorforce based on the number of hit enemies.
Awakening RuneActive 3FConsume Thorforce to enter the Awakened state, granting Bonus Health and enhancing Mjolnir Bash.
God Of ThunderUltimateQSoar upwards and smite the ground after charging for a duration, inflicting damage on enemies within range.
ThorforcePassiveN/AConsume Thorforce to gain Bonus Health. Landing Mjolnir Bash on an enemy instantly recharges Thorforce.
Odinson RebornTeam-Up 1N/AWhen Hela lands a final hit in defeating an enemy, she can instantly resurrect Loki and Thor in the respawn phase, or grant them bonus health if they are still alive.
Thunderous DeityTeam-Up 2N/AThor infuses Thorforce into Storm and Captain America, granting them an electrifying enhancement. With an electrifying enhancement, Storm can unleash a lightning barrage. With an electrifying enhancement, Captain America gains a Movement Boost, and his shield is imbued with thunder power, electrocuting nearby enemies.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Thor is a mix of multiple OW tanks. His Storm Surge acts a bit like Doomfist's Rocket Punch, but his charge-into-melee playstyle is reminiscent of Reinhardt.


Venom (Vanguard)

Venom in Marvel Rivals reaches towards the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Highly mobile- Venom Swing can be finicky
+ Highly survivable- Mediocre left-click damage
Play this character if: You want a mobile and tanky Vanguard, and you have a good healer on-hand.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Dark PredationNormal AttackLMBUnleash tentacles forward to attack enemies.
Cellular CorrosionSecondary AttackRMBUnleash tentacles to Slow enemies within reach. Enemies unable to break free in time will suffer damage.
Venom SwingActive 1ShiftLaunch webbing forward, allowing for a singular swing in the desired direction.
Symbiotic ResilienceActive 2EGenerate Bonus Health against damage. The lower Venom's Health, the greater the Bonus Health generated.
Frenzied ArrivalActive 3FDash to the target location from a certain height. Upon landing, damage nearby enemies, launching them up toward the landing point.
Alien BiologyMobilitySpacePress Space to wall crawl, and while crawling, left-click to sprint.
Feast Of The AbyssUltimateQBurrow underground for free movement. After a duration or by left-clicking, devour enemies above to deal damage based on the enemy's current health and generate equivalent Bonus Health.
Touch Of KlyntarTeam-UpN/AVenom shares a part of his symbiote with Spider-Man and Peni Parker, activating their symbiote abilities. Spider-Man and Peni Parker can convert the symbiotes into explosive spikes that inflict harm on nearby enemies and relentlessly drive them back.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Venom's proclivity for diving in and out of the enemy team's backline makes him very similar to Winston.


Winter Soldier (Duelist)

The Winter Soldier in Marvel Rivals aims his gun towards the camera.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Extreme single-target burst damage- Easily burst down
+ Potentially team-killing Ultimate- Limited mobility options
Play this character if: You want a strong sniper with massive Ult potential and more margin for error than other snipers.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
RotersternNormal AttackLMBFire explosive rounds with his blaster, Roterstern, damaging the target hit and enemies behind them.
Bionic HookSecondary AttackRMBCharge up and launch a hook with his bionic arm, reeling in the first target hit and enemies lurking behind.
Trooper's FistActive 1ShiftDash forward, seizing enemies along the path and launching up enemies at the end of the dash.
Tainted VoltageActive 2ECharge up and launch a powerful electrical punch with the bionic arm in the target direction, dealing damage to enemies within range and Slowing them. This ability can Knock Down flying heroes.
Kraken ImpactUltimateQLeap high, then dash forward and slam down with the bionic arm, dealing damage to enemies in range, marking them for Culling. Marked enemies will perish instantly if their health falls below a certain threshold, recharging the bionic arm for another Kraken Impact within a short period.
Ceaseless ChargePassiveN/ARoterstern reloads automatically while the bionic arm is in action, granting Bonus Health to the Winter Soldier.
Infinite GritTeam-UpN/ARocket Raccoon throws an Ammo Overload device in the target direction. Upon entering the device's range, the Punisher and Winter Soldier receive the buffs of Infinite Ammo and Faster Firing.

Overwatch equivalent(s): Combine Cassidy's punchy damage and Roadhog's grapple with an Ultimate more like a repeating Doomfist Meteor Strike.


Wolverine (Duelist)

Wolverine in Marvel Rivals slashes towards the camera with his claws.
Image credit: Rock Paper Shotgun/NetEase Games

Strengths and weaknesses:

StrengthsWeaknesses
+ Decently tanky for a Duelist- Can't quite match Iron Fist's toolkit
+ Good at chasing down foes- Requires Rage to become truly strong
Play this character if: You want a flexible melee Duelist who can quickly close gaps and punish isolated foes.

Abilities:

NameTypeKeyDescription
Savage ClawNormal AttackLMBSlash with Adamantium claws for a Claw Strike. Unleashing Feral Leap will enhance it to Berserk Claw Strike for a brief period.
Vicious RampageSecondary AttackRMBDash forward and unleash a Claw Strike.
Feral LeapActive 1ShiftLeap like an animal to snatch the first enemy upon impact and Smash them to the ground. Unleashing this ability will enhance his normal attack to Berserk Claw Strike for a brief period.
Undying AnimalActive 2EUnleash a fierce howl to briefly reduce incoming damage.
Last StandUltimateQKnock enemies ahead airborne and spiral through the air, sweeping up enemies along the path and delivering a devastating impact at the landing point.
Regenerative Healing FactorPassive 1N/ABegin to heal and rise with a hefty Bonus Health, shaking off all debuffs. After a brief moment, any remaining Bonus Health morphs into a one-off heal, zeroing out his Rage. Assists in KOs reduce this cooldown.
Berserker RagePassive 2N/ARage builds when Wolverine attacks or takes hits, boosting the damage of his Claw Strikes and the Bonus Health from his regenerative healing factor.
Metal CannonballTeam-UpCWolverine and Hulk can interact with each other. Once both parties confirm, Hulk can lift Wolverine and press the key to hurl him forward.

Overwatch equivalent(s): This link is more tenuous, but Wolverine's close range combos and mobility make him comparable to Genji.

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Ollie Toms avatar
Ollie Toms: Ollie is sheriff of Guidestown at RPS, and since joining the team in 2018, he's written over 1,000 guides for the site. He loves playing dangerously competitive games and factory sims, injuring himself playing badminton, and burying his face in the warm fur of his two cats.
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