Mastering Hawkeye in Marvel Rivals is about more than just pinpoint accuracy. This bow-wielding hero, Clint Barton, may seem like an underdog in the Marvel universe, but his skillset makes him a formidable Duelist capable of turning the tide of battle. With sharp aim and clever tactics, players can lead their team to victory. This guide explores how to harness Hawkeye’s potential, offering tips to dominate the battlefield.
Choosing Your Playstyle with Hawkeye
Hawkeye can be played in two distinct ways, depending on a player’s preferences and skill level. One approach is to stick close to the team, positioning behind tanks to apply steady pressure on opponents. This style focuses on targeting enemy Strategists and Duelists with precise shots whenever openings appear. Using the Crescent Slash ability, players can disrupt enemy divers attempting to flank the backline, creating opportunities for the team to eliminate them. For close-range threats, firing explosive arrows at point-blank range maximises damage through their cluster effect, making it a powerful tool to clear nearby foes.
Alternatively, players can adopt a riskier but potentially more rewarding flanker role. By taking high ground or off-angles, Hawkeye can snipe enemy backline targets for quick eliminations. However, this approach requires self-sufficiency, as healers may not always have a clear line of sight. Players must locate health packs to stay in the fight, as Hawkeye struggles against divers when isolated. Despite the risks, a well-executed flank can secure key kills before regrouping with the team.
Unleashing Hawkeye’s Ultimate
Hawkeye’s Ultimate, Hunter’s Sight, is a game-changer when used effectively. Upon activation, it creates after-images of enemies that players can shoot to deal stacked damage to the target. Firing a Hypersonic Arrow through a dense group of enemies and their after-images delivers devastating results. Players can then follow up with Piercing Arrows on remaining after-images or single targets, as Archer’s Focus remains at maximum during the Ultimate, boosting Piercing Arrow’s damage to lethal levels. However, shields can block this ability by hiding after-images, so timing is critical to avoid wasting the Ultimate.
Understanding Hawkeye’s Abilities
Hawkeye’s toolkit is versatile, offering options for both offensive and defensive play. Here’s a breakdown of his abilities:
- Piercing Arrow (Primary Attack): This is Hawkeye’s signature move, delivering massive damage when Archer’s Focus is fully charged, especially with headshots. A well-aimed shot can eliminate most enemies instantly, and even body shots deal significant damage.
- Blast Arrow (Alternate Primary): These explosive arrows fire in a three-arrow spread, ideal for close-range combat or during the Ultimate for maximum impact.
- Crescent Slash: A defensive ability that knocks back divers like Magik or Black Panther, giving players breathing room to land follow-up shots.
- Hypersonic Arrow: This piercing arrow deals damage twice, slows enemies, and knocks down flying heroes. It’s particularly effective against shielded groups or during the Ultimate, as it amplifies damage through after-images.
- Ronin Slash: A melee attack that deflects projectiles, though its strict timing requires practice to master.
- Skyward Leap: A double jump for improved mobility and positioning.
- Archer’s Focus (Passive): Aiming at nearby targets increases Piercing Arrow’s damage, reaching a cap of 100, where headshots become deadly.
- Supersensory Vision (Team-Up Passive): When paired with Black Widow, she gains a scaled-down version of Hawkeye’s Ultimate, enhancing team synergy.
Tactical Tips for Success
To excel with Hawkeye, players must combine sharp aim with smart positioning. When playing with the team, focus on staying behind tanks to maintain a safe distance while landing consistent shots. As a flanker, prioritise high ledges for clear shots at enemy backlines, but always have an escape plan to avoid being overwhelmed by divers. The Ultimate should be saved for moments when enemies are grouped, maximising the impact of Hypersonic Arrows and after-image damage. Practising Ronin Slash’s timing can also turn the tables against projectile-heavy foes, adding a layer of defence to Hawkeye’s arsenal.