Swarm, the highly anticipated multiplayer action-strategy game, has taken the gaming world by storm since its release. With its unique blend of fast-paced combat, team-based objectives, and a diverse roster of characters, Swarm offers endless hours of entertainment. One of the most sought-after characters in the game is Riven, a powerful and versatile hero with a rich backstory and devastating abilities. If you’re looking to unlock and master Riven in Swarm in 2025, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about unlocking Riven, her playstyle, and tips to dominate the battlefield.
Who is Riven in Swarm?
Riven is a fan-favorite character in Swarm, known for her agility, high damage output, and ability to outplay opponents. She wields a massive energy blade that can slice through enemies with precision. Her kit is designed for players who enjoy a mix of melee combat and strategic positioning. Riven’s abilities allow her to dash across the battlefield, shield herself from incoming damage, and unleash devastating combos that can turn the tide of any match.
In Swarm, Riven is classified as a Duelist, meaning she excels in one-on-one combat and can quickly eliminate high-priority targets. However, mastering her requires practice, timing, and a deep understanding of her abilities.
How to Unlock Riven in Swarm (2025)
Unlocking Riven in Swarm is a rewarding experience, but it requires some effort. Here are the steps to add her to your roster:
1. Reach Player Level 15
- Riven is locked behind a player level requirement. You’ll need to reach Level 15 to unlock her. This ensures that you have a basic understanding of the game’s mechanics before diving into her complex playstyle.
- To level up quickly, focus on completing daily missions, participating in matches, and earning experience points (XP).
2. Complete the “Blade of the Exile” Questline
- Once you hit Level 15, a special questline titled “Blade of the Exile” will become available. This questline is dedicated to Riven’s backstory and serves as a tutorial for her abilities.
- The questline consists of 5 missions:
- Defeat 50 enemies using melee attacks (any character).
- Win 3 matches in the “Duel” game mode.
- Deal 10,000 damage in a single match.
- Complete a match with at least 5 kills and 2 assists.
- Play 10 matches as a Duelist (any Duelist character).
- Completing these missions will reward you with Riven’s unlock token.
3. Purchase Riven with In-Game Currency
- If you prefer a faster route, you can unlock Riven using in-game currency. She costs 5,000 Credits or 750 Gems (premium currency).
- Credits can be earned by playing matches, completing challenges, and leveling up. Gems, on the other hand, are purchased with real money or earned through special events.
4. Participate in Seasonal Events
- Swarm frequently hosts seasonal events that offer exclusive rewards, including character unlocks. Keep an eye out for events that feature Riven as a reward. These events often require you to complete specific tasks or climb the leaderboard.
Riven’s Abilities and Playstyle
Once you’ve unlocked Riven, it’s time to master her abilities. Here’s a breakdown of her kit:
Passive: Runic Blade
- Riven’s abilities charge her blade, empowering her next basic attack. Each charge increases her damage and range, making her a deadly threat in close combat.
Ability 1: Broken Wings
- Riven dashes forward, slashing enemies in her path. This ability can be used up to three times in quick succession, with the final strike knocking back enemies.
- Use this ability to close gaps, escape danger, or reposition during fights.
Ability 2: Ki Burst
- Riven unleashes a burst of energy, damaging and stunning nearby enemies. This is a great tool for interrupting enemy abilities or setting up combos.
Ability 3: Valor
- Riven dashes in a targeted direction and gains a temporary shield. This ability is perfect for mitigating damage and staying alive in the heat of battle.
Ultimate: Blade of the Exile
- Riven empowers her energy blade, increasing her damage and range for a short duration. During this time, she can unleash a powerful shockwave with Wind Slash, dealing massive damage to all enemies in a line.
- Use this ultimate to finish off low-health enemies or turn the tide of team fights.
Tips for Playing Riven in Swarm
Riven is a high-skill-cap character, but with practice, you can dominate the battlefield. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Master Her Combos
- Riven’s strength lies in her ability to chain attacks and abilities together. Practice combos like:
- Broken Wings → Ki Burst → Basic Attack → Valor → Wind Slash
- These combos maximize her damage output and keep enemies on their toes.
2. Use Valor Wisely
- Valor is not just a defensive tool; it’s also great for repositioning. Use it to dodge enemy attacks or close the gap for a kill.
3. Focus on Squishy Targets
- As a Duelist, Riven excels at taking down high-priority targets like enemy damage dealers and supports. Use your mobility to flank the enemy team and eliminate key players.
4. Communicate with Your Team
- Swarm is a team-based game, and Riven works best when coordinating with her allies. Let your team know when you’re going in for a kill or need backup.
5. Farm Efficiently
- Riven relies on items and upgrades to reach her full potential. Focus on farming minions and objectives to stay ahead of the curve.
Best Builds for Riven in Swarm (2025)
To maximize Riven’s potential, you’ll need the right build. Here are some recommended items and upgrades:
Core Items
- Blade of the Exile (Signature Item)
- Increases attack damage and ability power.
- Phantom Dancer
- Boosts attack speed and movement speed, making Riven even more agile.
- Guardian Angel
- Provides a second chance in battle with its revive passive.
Situational Items
- Maw of Malmortius: Great against magic-heavy teams.
- Black Cleaver: Reduces enemy armor, making Riven’s attacks even deadlier.
- Death’s Dance: Converts a portion of damage taken into a damage-over-time effect, keeping Riven alive longer.
Conclusion
Riven is a formidable character in Swarm, offering a unique blend of mobility, damage, and outplay potential. Unlocking her requires dedication, but the payoff is well worth it. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Riven and dominating the battlefield in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to Swarm, Riven’s dynamic playstyle is sure to keep you engaged and coming back for more.