Marvel Rivals isn't like other hero shooter games where there are roles that you need to choose with each one having a specific rank. Instead, Marvel Rivals distributes its heroes into three categories:
- Vanguards
- Duelists
- Strategists
With each category featuring specific gameplay characteristics that set them apart. In this article, we'll explore what makes each category unique and all the heroes that fall under each classification.
Also Read: Top 5 Team-Ups to Use in Marvel Rivals (2025)
Vanguards

Vanguards are basically the tanks of Marvel Rivals, they are heroes designed to be at the frontline thanks to their huge health, allowing them to stay alive longer while absorbing a lot of damage from the other team. These serve as the backbone of any well-balanced team, creating space for their allies while disrupting enemy formations.
To increase their survivability, each of these characters has at least one method of blocking or mitigating damage. Their durability makes them ideal for contesting objectives and drawing fire away from more vulnerable teammates. While they may not deal the highest damage, their presence on the battlefield is invaluable for controlling the flow of combat.
Hero | Release Date |
Dr. Strange | 10 May 2024 |
Groot | 10 May 2024 |
Hulk | 10 May 2024 |
Magneto | 10 May 2024 |
Peni Parker | 10 May 2024 |
Venom | 23 Jul 2024 |
Thor | 27 Jul 2024 |
Captain America | 6 Dec 2024 |
The Thing (Upcoming hero) | 21 Feb 2025 |
Understanding the specific defensive mechanics of each Vanguard is key to maximizing their effectiveness.
Also Read: Can You Play Marvel Rivals on PS4? All You Need to Know
Duelists

Duelists have the biggest hero pool in-game, with over 15 heroes to choose from. They are more like ADCs in League of Legends, they deal so much damage, but they have to position themselves properly to avoid being eliminated. They have low HP compared to Vanguards making them more vulnerable, they're like any kind of DPS.
These damage-focused characters excel at taking down opponents quickly but require careful management to avoid being caught out of position. While they lack the durability of Vanguards, they make up for it with their offensive capabilities.
Hero | Release Date |
Black Panther | 10 May 2024 |
Iron Man | 10 May 2024 |
Magik | 10 May 2024 |
Namor | 10 May 2024 |
Scarlet Witch | 10 May 2024 |
Spider-Man | 10 May 2024 |
Star-Lord | 10 May 2024 |
Storm | 10 May 2024 |
The Punisher | 10 May 2024 |
Hela | 10 May 2024 |
Black Widow | 6 Dec 2024 |
Hawkeye | 6 Dec 2024 |
Iron Fist | 6 Dec 2024 |
Moon Knight | 6 Dec 2024 |
Psylocke | 6 Dec 2024 |
Squirrel Girl | 6 Dec 2024 |
Winter Soldier | 6 Dec 2024 |
Wolverine | 6 Dec 2024 |
Mister Fantastic | 10 Jan 2025 |
Human Torch (Upcoming hero) | 21 Feb 2025 |
Successful Duelist players must master the art of dealing maximum damage while minimizing risk through proper positioning and movement.
Also Read: Marvel Rivals: How Old is Peni Parker? (2025)
Strategists

Strategists are more like supports and considered backline the same as Duelists, they have low HP compared to Vanguards but have a huge impact on the game's route. They primarily assist and support their teammates by healing them.
These heroes are perfect for controlling the team fights through utility abilities, healing capabilities, and strategic positioning. Though they might not secure the most eliminations themselves, a skilled Strategist can completely turn the tide of battle through well-timed support actions.
They also buff their teammates by giving them increased damage and other unique buffs. From speed enhancements to damage amplification, Strategists provide the critical advantages needed for their team to secure objectives and victories.
Hero | Release Date |
Loki | 10 May 2024 |
Luna Snow | 10 May 2024 |
Mantis | 10 May 2024 |
Rocket Raccoon | 10 May 2024 |
Adam Warlock | 23 Jul 2024 |
Jeff the Land Shark | 27 Jul 2024 |
Cloak & Dagger | 6 Dec 2024 |
Invisible Woman | 10 Jan 2025 |
Mastering the Strategist class requires not just skill with the hero's abilities, but a strong game sense and awareness of your team's needs. While they may not grab the spotlight like Duelists or Vanguards, a team without a Strategist often struggles to maintain momentum throughout a match.
Final Words
Understanding Marvel Rivals' class system is essential for building effective team compositions and mastering your preferred heroes. While Vanguards hold the frontline with their durability, Duelists deliver devastating damage, and Strategists provide crucial support and tactical advantages. Each class contributes uniquely to the team dynamic, and the best squads will feature a balanced mix of these roles.
As the roster continues to expand with new heroes across all three classes, mastering the fundamentals of each category will give you a significant advantage in this action-packed superhero shooter.
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