Doctor Strange: Who is Doctor Strange in Marvel Rivals?

Doctor Strange in Marvel Rivals ^[1] functions as a hybrid between a tank and a ranged support hero. Similar to characters like Sigma from Overwatch 2, he combines a powerful shield, long-range attacks, and clever positioning tools. His portal ability, the Pentagram of Farallah, offers exceptional team mobility, while his personal survivability relies on careful Dark Magic management. 

However, unlike sturdier Vanguards such as Groot, Doctor Strange has to play carefully, as his lower health and vulnerability to healing penalties can make him an easy target if not managed well.

Doctor Strange’s attacks in Marvel Rivals

Normal Attack

Doctor Strange’s primary attack fires enchanted daggers that travel further than most Vanguard attacks. These projectiles deal solid damage and are relatively easy to land, building up Dark Magic with every hit. The more damage you deal, the faster your Dark Magic meter fills, which plays directly into Strange's risk-reward playstyle.

Doctor Strange abilities in Marvel Rivals

Price of Magic

This passive ability adds a dangerous twist to Strange’s playstyle. Every successful hit with Daggers of Denak builds up Dark Magic, which limits his ability to receive healing if it accumulates too much. Without healing, Strange’s survival hinges entirely on his shield and defensive plays, making it crucial to manage Dark Magic buildup carefully.

Maelstrom of Madness

Releasing built-up Dark Magic, this area-of-effect spell damages all nearby enemies. The more Dark Magic accumulated, the more devastating the blast. Even when enemies aren’t nearby, it’s smart to use this ability to purge excess Dark Magic and restore your ability to be healed.

Shield of the Seraphim

Strange conjures a large, 800HP magical shield in front of him, blocking incoming attacks for both himself and his allies. The shield is wide and tall, providing substantial mobile cover during pushes or defensive stands. Coordinating movement with your teammates is essential, as dropping the shield unexpectedly can leave allies exposed to enemy fire.

Cloak of Levitation

With a swift motion, Doctor Strange takes flight, either hovering in place or dropping to reposition. This ability adds crucial mobility, helping Strange escape danger or reposition to protect his team. However, using it carelessly can leave nearby allies vulnerable, as they may have relied on you for cover.

Pentagram of Farallah

Strange opens a portal between two locations, allowing instant travel for himself, his teammates, and even their attacks. Whether it’s for regrouping after a team wipe, giving snipers an unexpected line of sight, or creating flanking routes behind enemy lines, the Pentagram of Farallah is a versatile tool. Be cautious, though. The portal works both ways, and enemies can follow through if left open.

Team-Up Abilities

Gamma Maelstrom (with Hulk):  When teaming up with Hulk, Strange’s Maelstrom of Madness gains an extra burst of power by channeling Gamma Energy alongside Dark Magic. This enhances its damage output, making it even more punishing to enemies caught within its radius.

References

1. [1] "Official Marvel Rivals website". www.marvelrivals.com. Retrieved April 06, 2025