Marvel’s Avengers by Crystal Dynamics received a mixed response following its launch. While some players were captivated by the campaign and character-driven storytelling, others found the Destiny-style multiplayer grind less appealing. Still, a dedicated fanbase continues to enjoy the mission-based co-op structure and invest time in powering up their favourite heroes.
If you’re diving in – or returning after some time – you might find the levelling system overwhelming at first. This guide breaks it all down and offers effective strategies to level up your heroes efficiently.
Understanding Character Progression
There are two main systems to understand when levelling in Marvel’s Avengers:
Hero Level
This reflects your chosen hero’s skill development. As you earn experience (XP), your Hero Level increases up to a cap of 50. Each level grants one skill point, which you can spend across three trees:
- Primary
- Specialty
- Mastery
These skill trees unlock new abilities and improve existing ones, allowing you to fine-tune your hero’s playstyle.
Power Level
Your Power Level is based on the gear equipped to your hero. Gear drops frequently and can be swapped out for better stats. There are six gear rarities:
- Common (grey)
- Uncommon (green)
- Rare (blue)
- Epic (purple)
- Legendary (yellow)
- Exotic (orange)
Each piece of gear increases your overall Power Level. As you progress, gear caps can be increased through upgrades using in-game materials. Initially, the soft cap is 130, which can be raised to 140 through upgrades, and even further using powerful artifacts.
Note: As of recent updates, the absolute Power Level cap has been raised beyond 150, allowing players to push into higher-level endgame content.
Efficient Ways to Level Up
1. HARM Rooms
The Holographic Augmented Reality Machine (HARM Room) is a training simulator located in the Chimera’s lower deck. While primarily designed for practising combat, it also provides steady XP. However, it can feel repetitive, so it’s best used for early levelling or challenge completion.
2. Hero Missions
Each time a new Avenger joins your team in the campaign, a Hero Mission Chain becomes available via the War Table. Completing these missions rewards XP, gear, and story content tailored to that hero. They’re an excellent way to build up new characters.
3. Focus on One Hero
To maximize efficiency, consider focusing on a single hero early on. While the campaign forces you to play as multiple Avengers, many missions offer flexibility in hero choice. Sticking to one allows you to reach high levels faster and gear up for tougher multiplayer content.
4. Explore the Environment
Levels are often larger than they seem, with hidden paths, chests, and side objectives. Use the in-game radar to track question marks and always investigate side paths for extra rewards, gear, and collectable resources.
5. Gear Perks and Catalyst Boosts
Most gear (excluding Common) includes perks that enhance various attributes like damage, defence, or status effects. For levelling, Catalyst perks are especially valuable. Look for perks such as the Prismatic Catalyst, which boosts XP gain and helps rank up Factions more quickly.
6. Villain Sectors
These missions pit you against campaign bosses like Taskmaster or Abomination and are excellent for farming XP and gear—especially near the level cap. They refresh daily and are available under Faction missions. They’re essential for late-game progress and resource farming.
Whether you’re a solo player enjoying the narrative or diving deep into the co-op multiplayer scene, Marvel’s Avengers offers a layered progression system that rewards dedication. Mastering the levelling mechanics and smartly managing your time will ensure you get the most out of your squad of superheroes.
Got your own tips or stories to share? Join the community and let your voice be heard – Avengers, assemble!
