Marvel Rivals, the popular new team-based shooter has been drawing comparisons to Overwatch ever since its reveal. But not all these comparisons are flattering. Just like Overwatch 2, Marvel Rivals seems to have a problem with how players approach team roles.
Namely, many players stick to Duelist characters (which are essentially high-damage characters like Overwatch’s DPS heroes) while ignoring Strategist characters who are the support role in the game. This has led to debates online about balancing and gameplay dynamics, with some calling it a hurdle that developer NetEase Games cannot overlook, and are hoping that Strategists are buffed up to do more damage and be more viable in a firefight, and also add more characters of this class.
Marvel Rivals Players Prefer Duelists, Leaving Strategists in the Dust
The problem in Marvel Rivals comes down to a familiar issue in other hero shooters. Duelist characters deal far more damage and feel more rewarding for many players. This leads to a lack of Strategist or Suppor/Healer players, even though they provide vital support in matches.
Strategists like Rocket Raccoon or Mantis, play a huge part in keeping the team alive via healing, quick respawn mechanics, and turning the tide of battles. Yet, many players avoid them because they don’t do as much direct damage.
Replying to a recent post on X which praised strategists, many players shared both their support and concerns. A lot of players called them the real heroes of matches, however, the community quickly pointed out some frustrations.
I try to, but almost every game there are 4 duelists who just do not care
— GreenCrush💚 (@GreenCrush_x) December 7, 2024
Some mentioned that it’s hard to enjoy playing Strategists in NetEase Games’ hero shooter when almost everyone picks Duelists, leaving them overwhelmed and unable to protect themselves when needed.
Same goes for any hero shooter. No one wants to play support because the dps units have such an overwhelming advantage. But they have even more of one with a good support
— Chip-Flip #SaveTheAcolyte (@ChipFlip8) December 7, 2024
Adding to the challenge is how Duelists often dominate due to their versatility. Players argue that this creates an uneven playing field, as good support characters can make Duelists even stronger, but they don’t get much recognition for their efforts.
I've unintentionally became a Mantis main vs all these Duelists lol
— Pradip Choudhary (@pradipchtn) December 8, 2024
One user also joked about unintentionally becoming Strategist mains because no one else picks them.
It’s hard out here solo healing as rocket cause there’s a target on my back all the time
— Pradip Choudhary (@pradipchtn) December 8, 2024
Some players suggest adding more incentives for playing Strategists, such as unique mechanics or better rewards for fulfilling their role. Others believe rebalancing and Strategist buffs are needed, as Duelists currently feel too advantageous compared to other roles.
For more Thumb Wars Marvel Rivals coverage, check out this handy guide for everyone’s favorite wall-crawler, or this complete know-it-all for the God of Thunder.
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Suhaib is a Writer at Thumb Wars. Besides Movies, TV, and Video Games, there’s not much else that interests him. Some of his favorites include The Irishman, No Country for Old Men, Heat, Succession, It’s Always Sunny, and The Sopranos.
