Marvel Rivals brings together a stellar cast of Marvel characters, but some heroes and villains stand out, dominating the pick rates due to their strength, fun factor, or sheer fan appeal. Whether you're a strategist keeping your team alive, a vanguard absorbing damage, or a duelist going for the kill, certain characters are almost guaranteed picks in every match. Here's a rundown of the top 10 most-picked heroes in Marvel Rivals, ranked from least to most selected. If you're seeing these names frequently, it's no mystery why.
The Punisher

The Punisher brings no-nonsense firepower to the battlefield. Players gravitate toward him for his straightforward approach—shooting enemies with a rifle or shotgun, using a grappling hook for quick repositioning, and deploying a smoke grenade for cover. His turret mode turns him into a formidable stationary threat, making him a staple in hero shooters akin to those in popular titles like Call of Duty.
Mantis

Mantis may not dazzle with flair, but her healing prowess is unmatched. Her ability to provide both burst and consistent healing, coupled with damage boosts for herself and teammates, makes her a crucial asset. Additionally, her sleep grenade offers a defense against aggressive opponents, ensuring her team's survival and success.
Winter Soldier

Winter Soldier is all about eliminating threats with precision. His grapple arm yanks foes in for devastating uppercuts, his explosive shotgun excels in close combat, and his ultimate can chain into itself with each kill, leading to rampages. His "AGAIN!" voice line is a signal of his high-risk, high-reward style, appealing to players who enjoy mastering challenging characters.
Magneto

Magneto's versatility as a vanguard is unmatched, making him a popular choice. He can shield allies, deal massive area-of-effect damage, and synergize with Scarlet Witch for powerful attacks. His ability to absorb projectiles with his ultimate adds a layer of counterplay, fitting seamlessly into various team compositions as both an offensive and defensive powerhouse.
Moon Knight

Moon Knight's high skill ceiling doesn't deter players; it attracts them. His dynamic movement, powerful attacks, and combo potential with his ankh make him a thrilling choice. While mastering him takes time, the sense of progression and the ability to carry games make him a favorite among those who relish the challenge.
Luna Snow

Luna Snow combines the elegance of ice skating with robust healing capabilities. She can deal significant damage while simultaneously healing herself and her team. Her ultimate grants temporary invincibility, offering crucial protection in high-stakes scenarios. Support players adore her for her active role in battles while ensuring team longevity.
Doctor Strange

Doctor Strange's strategic dominance is clear. He can block ultimates, teleport, and control the battlefield with his spells. His shield absorbs massive damage and regenerates quickly, making him nearly unkillable. This resilience, combined with his control over the game's flow, has made him a go-to tank in ranked matches.
Invisible Woman

Invisible Woman's inclusion post-launch naturally boosted her pick rate, but her strength is undeniable. Her barriers, stealth, and supportive abilities make her an excellent strategist pick. Her well-rounded design appeals to both casual and competitive players, offering utility and protection.
Cloak & Dagger

Cloak & Dagger's unique dual-character mechanic sets them apart. Players can switch between Cloak's stealthy crowd control and Dagger's high-damage support, offering unparalleled versatility. This adaptability, combined with their ability to impact the game in multiple ways, makes them a highly sought-after choice.
Rocket Raccoon

Rocket Raccoon tops the list as the most-picked hero, and it's easy to see why. As a DPS-strategist hybrid, he excels in damage, healing, and utility. His healing bubbles, ammo stations, and revive ability make him indispensable in any team. Coupled with his engaging personality, Rocket offers everything players could want in a hero.