Every Marvel Rivals hero fits one of three roles. A balanced team wins far more often than six Duelists.
Vanguard (tank)
Vanguards take space and protect the team. Shield tanks like Doctor Strange and Magneto hold the line. Dive tanks like Venom and Hulk jump into the back line. Good first picks: Captain America and Groot.
Duelist (damage)
Duelists secure kills. Hitscan heroes like Hela punish from range. Divers like Spider-Man, Black Panther and Psylocke chase weak targets. Good first picks: Iron Man and Wolverine.
Strategist (support)
Strategists keep the team alive. Luna Snow, Mantis and Rocket Raccoon are straightforward healers, and Loki and Invisible Woman add utility. Good first picks: Rocket Raccoon and Luna Snow.
The usual team
Two Vanguards, two Duelists and two Strategists is the standard. Check your team composition before you lock in a sixth damage hero.
Use Team-Ups
Certain heroes unlock bonus Team-Up abilities when they play together. Check the hero select screen for active Team-Ups.