Whether you're just diving into the action-packed universe of Marvel Rivals or looking to refine your strategy, having a few key tactics up your sleeve can make all the difference. With a roster full of iconic heroes and villains, dynamic teamplay, and a fast-paced environment, it's easy to get overwhelmed. But don't worry — here are 21 tried-and-true tips that can help you get the upper hand in every match.
1. Master Two Mains, Not TenInstead of spreading your time across every hero, pick two characters and learn their abilities inside-out. Knowing their cooldowns, strengths, and counters makes all the difference in clutch moments.
2. Positioning Wins FightsAlways think about your spacing. High ground, cover, and line-of-sight are crucial elements, especially for ranged heroes like Iron Man or Storm.
3. Communication > Raw SkillUse voice or ping systems to coordinate with teammates. Even casual callouts like “push left” or “Ult ready” can swing a fight.
4. Learn the CounterpicksEvery character in Marvel Rivals has someone that can shut them down. If someone’s dominating as Loki, learn which heroes can deal with his tricks.
5. Rotate, Don’t ChaseChasing down enemies might feel rewarding, but it often leaves you out of position. Stick with your team and rotate together to objectives.
6. Use VerticalitySome maps are designed with multiple levels — use heroes with mobility to exploit those vertical paths. It’s great for flanking or escaping.
7. Keep an Eye on CooldownsA wasted ultimate can cost you a fight. Be deliberate with ability use and try to bait enemy skills before committing.
8. Know When to Back OffNot every fight is winnable. Retreating to regroup is smarter than feeding the enemy team ultimate charge.
9. Experiment with Team CompsSome team comps have natural synergy. Combining crowd control with burst damage, for example, creates great win conditions.
10. Use Custom Matches to TrainDon’t just rely on matchmaking to get better. Create custom matches with friends or AI to work on specific skills.
11. Focus the SupportIn most scenarios, taking out the healer first makes it much easier to finish the rest of the enemy team.
12. Practice Map AwarenessKnowing where health packs are, where fights tend to break out, and how spawns work gives you a constant edge.
13. Don’t Ignore CostumesWhile they don’t offer gameplay advantages, equipping Marvel Rivals costumes can actually help you keep better visual track of allies and enemies in chaotic fights. Also, let’s be honest — style matters.
14. Watch the Kill FeedIt’s easy to miss, but the kill feed gives vital info. If your team is losing numbers, consider retreating or playing defensively.
15. Optimize Your SettingsTweak your graphics, mouse sensitivity, and keybindings until everything feels smooth and natural. It’s worth the time investment.
16. Pay Attention to Patch NotesBalance changes can shift the meta quickly. What worked last week might be weaker now. Stay updated and adapt.
17. Use Movement to Your AdvantageStrafing, jumping, and crouching mid-combat makes you harder to hit — especially important in 1v1s.
18. Don’t Underestimate SynergySome abilities combo incredibly well. For example, combining crowd-control with AoE damage can delete a grouped-up team.
19. Prioritize Objectives Over KillsChasing kills might pad your stats, but smart teams play around control points, payloads, or capture zones to win the game.
20. Test Out BundlesIf you’re new or just want a head start, buy Marvel Rivals bundles that offer value across multiple heroes and cosmetics. They can save you time unlocking key content.
21. Review Your Own GameplayIf you’re truly looking to improve, record your matches and review them. You’ll be surprised how much you learn just by watching your own decisions unfold.
Marvel Rivals is still evolving, and the skill ceiling is higher than it looks at first glance. With teamwork, game sense, and a bit of style (don’t skip out on those Marvel Rivals costumes), you can make the leap from casual to competitive in no time. Just remember — everyone starts somewhere, but it’s those who learn that win the most.