Comics

Everything You Need to Know About Groot in Marvel Rivals

Discover how Groot grew from a minor comic book character to a one of the most popular heroes within the Marvel Universe.

Groot #1 cover
Image: Marvel Comics
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By: William AndersonFeb 10, 2025, 8:00 AM

Marvel Rivals brings together the most powerful and beloved characters in the Marvel Universe, and few heroes are as iconic and endearing as Groot. As a sentient tree-like being from Planet X, Groot is known for his incredible strength, resilience, and ability to regenerate, making him one of the toughest members of the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Though his vocabulary is limited to "I am Groot," his actions speak louder than words. Groot’s loyalty, compassion, and raw power make him both a fearsome warrior and a gentle protector. In Marvel Rivals, he serves as a Vanguard, capable of shielding allies, dealing massive damage, and controlling the battlefield with his ability to create walls.

This article explores Groot’s origins, powers, and how he plays in Marvel Rivals, giving fans a deeper look at the heart of the Guardians.

Rocket Raccoon and Groot #1 coverImage: Marvel Comics

Who is Groot?

Groot first appeared in Tales to Astonish #13 (1960), created by Stan Lee, Larry Lieber, and Jack Kirby. Originally introduced as a villainous alien tree, he was later reimagined as a heroic and kind-hearted member of the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Hailing from Planet X, Groot is part of a species known as the Flora Colossi, a race of highly intelligent, tree-like beings with a unique language that humans and most species cannot understand. While his speech is limited to "I am Groot," his fellow Guardians—especially Rocket Raccoon—have no problem understanding him.

Character Lore

The Last of His Kind?

Groot’s past is shrouded in mystery, but some versions of his story depict him as one of the last surviving members of his species. Others suggest he was exiled from Planet X for protecting innocent creatures, demonstrating that his compassion has always set him apart.

Joining the Guardians of the Galaxy

Groot’s life changes when he meets Rocket Raccoon, the one being who can fully understand him. The two became inseparable partners, working as bounty hunters before eventually joining Star-Lord’s newly formed Guardians of the Galaxy.

Since then, Groot has fought in cosmic wars, battled celestial beings, and even sacrificed himself multiple times to protect his friends. Thanks to his regenerative abilities, he always finds a way to return, stronger than before.

A Warrior of Many Forms

Over the years, Groot has gone through various forms, including:

  • Classic Groot – A towering, powerful warrior with full control over his abilities.
  • Baby Groot – A smaller, more innocent version who had to regrow after sacrificing himself.
  • King Groot – In some versions, Groot has fully embraced his royal heritage, making him a ruler of nature itself.
Groot learning how to readImage: Marvel Comics

Groot’s Powers and Abilities

Superhuman Strength & Durability

  • Groot’s wooden body makes him highly resistant to physical damage.
  • He can lift massive objects and overpower enemies in melee combat.
  • His resilience allows him to survive extreme conditions, including space.

Regeneration & Rebirth

  • Groot can regrow lost limbs and even regenerate from a single twig.
  • If completely destroyed, he can be replanted and reborn, returning with new potential.

Plant Manipulation

  • Groot can extend his limbs, turning them into deadly vines, shields, or weapons.
  • He can trap enemies in roots or create barriers to protect allies.

Symbiotic Bond with Rocket Raccoon

  • Groot and Rocket fight as a team, with Rocket often riding on Groot’s shoulder for tactical advantages.
Baby Groot stepping out into the worldImage: Marvel Comics

Groot’s Story in Marvel Rivals

Groot, stranded on Klyntar with the Guardians, wandered away from their crashed ship and into a strange jungle where the plants spoke in fear and suspicion. Realizing they were partially symbiotic in nature, Groot reached out with kindness, introducing them to the concept of trust. But as a fire from the ship graveyard threatened to consume the jungle, Groot acted swiftly, using his immense strength to uproot wrecked ships and create a massive firebreak, saving the plants. In gratitude, the jungle informed him that Rocket was in danger, trapped within a burning complex. Rushing to his friend's aid, Groot tore through the symbiotic creatures attacking Rocket, only to find himself overwhelmed—until his newfound plant allies intervened, proving that they, too, had learned the value of helping others.

With Rocket safe, Groot learned that Quill was also in trouble, and together, they hurried back to the Milano. Along the way, Rocket salvaged an energy barrier that could help repair the ship, all while relishing the idea of outsmarting Quill. Though Rocket scoffed at the idea of trusting a symbiote to guide them, Groot knew better—he had not only made new allies but had also helped them understand the power of friendship. As they returned to the Milano, Groot felt a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing that even in a world filled with darkness, his light had helped something new grow.

I Am Groot #1 coverImage: Marvel Comics

Essential Groot Comics

For those wanting to explore Groot’s greatest stories, here are some must-read comics:

Annihilation: Conquest (2007-2008) by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning

  • Groot and Rocket team up for the first time, laying the groundwork for their legendary friendship.

Guardians of the Galaxy (2008-2010) by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning

  • This series establishes Groot as a core member of the modern Guardians, showcasing his combat skills and dynamics with the rest of the team, especially Rocket.

Rocket Raccoon & Groot (2016) by Skottie Young

  • This is a more lighthearted, fun series focusing on the chaotic adventures of the galaxy’s best duo.

I Am Groot (2017) by Christopher Hastings

  • This solo Groot story follows him on a cosmic adventure of self-discovery.

Groot is more than just a talking tree—he is a warrior, a protector, and one of Marvel’s most beloved heroes. His inclusion in Marvel Rivals allows players to experience his massive strength, regenerative abilities, and plant-based combat techniques, making him a unique and powerful tank character.

Whether he’s smashing enemies, shielding allies, or growing stronger with every fight, Groot proves that words aren’t necessary when your actions speak for you.

TAGGED: Marvel Comics, Marvel Rivals
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