Marvel Rivals: 13 Hero Swap Strategies to Counter Any Team Comp
In Marvel Rivals, success isn’t just about mastering your favorite hero—it’s about knowing when to pivot and adapt. The game thrives on quick decision-making, especially when faced with a tough team comp. Whether you're pushing in competitive queues or just grinding with friends, understanding how to swap heroes mid-match can be the difference between a clutch win and a frustrating loss. Here are 13 tried-and-true hero swap strategies to help you counter any team comp and maintain your edge.
1. Swap Iron Man for Scarlet Witch Against Shield-Heavy Teams
If your enemy relies on defensive comps with characters like Hulk or Cloak, consider swapping Iron Man for Scarlet Witch. Her ranged area denial and reality-warping ult can pierce through shields and break fortified positions.
2. When Mobility Fails, Switch to Storm
Facing high-mobility enemies like Spider-Man or Black Panther? Storm’s vertical control and slowing tornadoes can ground fast-paced opponents. Her zoning abilities are excellent for disrupting momentum-heavy comps.
3. Daredevil Out, Rocket In vs. Sniper Pressure
If you’re getting pinned down by Hawkeye or Magneto from a distance, ditch close-range options like Daredevil and go with Rocket Raccoon. His traps and long-range harassment can help break sniper setups without exposing yourself.
4. Magneto Is a Must Against Heavy Melee Comps
When the enemy is stacking melee heroes like Hulk, Punisher, and Namor, bring in Magneto. His crowd control and magnetic terrain manipulation can scatter tight formations and punish reckless dives.
5. Don’t Underestimate Namor’s Sustain Against Burst Comps
If the enemy is stacking burst-heavy picks like Scarlet Witch, Loki, and Iron Fist, Namor’s regeneration and tankiness make him a fantastic anchor. Swap in Namor when you need to survive chaotic skirmishes.
6. Swap Spider-Man for Punisher When Push Comes to Shove
While Spider-Man excels at disruption and vertical mobility, sometimes you need sheer firepower. If the objective demands brute force, swap in Punisher to push back tanks and lock down squishier enemies with his punishing arsenal.
7. Black Panther for Flanks, Loki for Mind Games
If your flank plays aren’t working, try switching from Black Panther to Loki. Loki’s clone decoys and stealth allow you to sow confusion and open up new attack vectors—perfect for disrupting coordinated backlines.
8. Doctor Strange Shuts Down Dive Comps
Teams that rely on diving supports—think Hulk and Spider-Man combinations—are susceptible to Doctor Strange’s defensive tools. His portals and time reversal can peel for allies and undo aggressive plays.
9. Trade Star-Lord for Rocket in Tight Maps
On smaller maps with lots of corners, Rocket Raccoon’s traps are more useful than Star-Lord’s aerial poke. Make the switch if you find yourself unable to pressure grouped enemies or defend narrow chokepoints.
10. Use Hulk to Anchor Fragile Teams
If your team comp lacks frontline durability, and you’re getting steamrolled, sub in Hulk. His crowd control and bulk offer breathing room for glass cannon picks like Scarlet Witch or Iron Fist.
11. Counter Stealth with Scarlet Witch or Storm
Against sneaky enemies like Loki or Daredevil, Scarlet Witch’s AoE reveals and Storm’s control zones can expose flanks and prevent backline harassment. Swap to one of them if your team’s getting caught off-guard repeatedly.
12. Iron Fist for Objective Rush
When you need to make a fast play for control points or a surprise flank during overtime, Iron Fist’s mobility and burst can catch defenders off balance. Keep him in mind for tempo-based plays.
13. Always Consider Team Synergy Over Comfort Picks
Sometimes the best swap isn’t about countering the enemy directly—it’s about strengthening your own comp. If your teammates are running aggressive duelist-style picks, supporting them with Strange or Namor may work better than sticking to your usual main.
In Marvel Rivals, adaptation is everything. Don’t just play the hero you love—play the hero your team needs right now. With multiple heroes in your arsenal, knowing when to switch gives you a strategic edge that pure mechanical skill can't always provide.
If you’re still expanding your hero options, keep an eye out for Marvel Rivals bundles for sale. It’s a great way to unlock new characters quickly and get familiar with their playstyles. And if you're ready to broaden your tactical toolkit, now might be a good time to buy Marvel Rivals bundles to stay competitive in higher-tier matches.