Marvel Rivals brings together some of the most iconic characters from the Marvel universe, but not all heroes and villains are created equal in terms of popularity. Some characters consistently top the pick rate charts due to their strength, fun factor, or sheer fan appeal. Whether you need a strategist to keep the team in check, a vanguard to absorb damage, or a duelist to secure kills, certain heroes are essential in nearly every match. Here’s a rundown of the 10 most-picked heroes in Marvel Rivals, ranked from least to most selected. If you're seeing these names frequently in your matches, here's why.
The Punisher
The Punisher may not boast flashy powers or high-tech gadgets, but his straightforward approach of shooting things appeals to many players. His grappling hook enables quick repositioning, his smoke grenade offers cover, and his turret mode turns him into a formidable force. Equipped with both a rifle and a shotgun, he's versatile across different ranges. Essentially, he's the quintessential COD-style character found in every hero shooter.
Mantis
Mantis may lack the flashiest abilities, but as a healer, she's crucial to winning games. Her healing capabilities blend burst and sustained healing, making her an excellent choice for keeping the team alive. Additionally, she can boost damage for herself or her teammates, enhancing her offensive utility. Her sleep grenade adds a layer of defense against divers, incapacitating opponents temporarily.
Winter Soldier
Winter Soldier is all about eliminating threats, not healing or protecting the team. His grapple arm yanks enemies in for devastating uppercuts, his explosive shotgun is lethal at close range, and his ultimate can chain into itself upon securing a kill, enabling him to go on rampages. The "AGAIN!" voice line is a telltale sign of his destructive potential. As a Duelist, he appeals to players who enjoy high-risk, high-reward gameplay, offering a decent skill ceiling that allows for continuous improvement.
Magneto
Magneto's versatility as a vanguard is why he's so popular. He can shield himself and allies, deal massive area-of-effect damage, and synergize with Scarlet Witch for devastating sword slashes. His ultimate can absorb projectiles, countering other ultimates like those of The Punisher and Star-Lord. Magneto excels at both offense and defense, fitting into almost any team composition. He's not just a tank but a disruptor, perfect for players who enjoy causing chaos while staying nearly unkillable.
Moon Knight
Moon Knight boasts one of the highest skill ceilings in the game, yet his popularity remains high. With exceptional mobility, powerful attacks, and a versatile ankh that enables complex combos, he's a force to be reckoned with. Skilled Moon Knight players can carry games, though beginners may struggle. His high pick rate reflects his fun, flashy nature and immense strength when mastered, offering a rewarding progression as players improve.
Luna Snow
Luna Snow combines healing with an ice-skating flair, making her a dynamic addition to the battlefield. She excels at both offense and defense, dealing significant damage while simultaneously healing herself and her team. Her ultimate grants temporary invincibility to herself and her teammates, a game-changer in critical situations. Support players love her for her active role in fights while keeping the team alive.
Doctor Strange
Doctor Strange is not just powerful but a strategic mastermind. He can block ultimates, teleport, and control the battlefield with his spells. His high pick rate stems from his fun gameplay, immense power, and the game-breaking potential of his shield, which absorbs massive damage and regenerates quickly. His survivability is top-notch, allowing him to disengage and heal up swiftly. He's become a go-to tank in Ranked matches due to these strengths.
Invisible Woman
Invisible Woman, one of the first new heroes post-launch, naturally saw an inflated pick rate. Her barriers, stealth, and supportive abilities make her an excellent strategist. While part of her popularity is due to her novelty, her well-designed kit offers team utility, protection, and sneaky plays, appealing to both casual and competitive players.
Cloak & Dagger
Cloak & Dagger stand out as one of the most unique characters in Marvel Rivals, and players love that uniqueness. The ability to switch between Cloak, who excels at stealth and crowd control, and Dagger, a high-damage support, offers unmatched versatility. This flexibility makes them highly picked, as they can fulfill multiple roles, from shutting down enemies to healing the team. Essentially two characters in one, they're a powerful choice.
Rocket Raccoon
Rocket Raccoon is the most-picked hero in Marvel Rivals, and for good reason. As a DPS-strategist hybrid, he not only deals damage but also supports his team with healing bubbles, ammo stations, and a revive ability. Rocket's versatility is unmatched; he can heal, provide utility, and dish out damage. Coupled with his engaging personality, it's no wonder he's a fan favorite and a staple in every team composition.
