Scottle did a rock solid job of giving a condensed (but effective) analysis of the third in conjunction with the recommendations for who to fit the role. Here’s an expanded version:
Nova/Frank is an excellent shell, and they do a nice job of giving part of what the other needs (Frank gives Nova lockdown and a midscreen coverage, whereas Nova helps him extend and has a 200k damage DHC). However, there’s a lot of things that they both want to round out the third spot, so finding an an anchor is difficult. Here’s some of those wanted qualities.
Frank wants:
1 a backup plan to level in case nova doesn’t get the job done (either multiple ones or one-two very good ones. Either way, you want it so that if you land a hit, you’re getting chainsaws).
2 a neutral assist to help him get hits if on point, and to strengthen his offense when he has chainsaws (he’s good, but good assists make him godlike)
3 a character who can use shopping cart in case you decide to change the order.
Nova wants:
1 a coverage assist from full screen help his approach and compliment shopping cart
2 an assist with durability
Both want:
1 a good DHC/THC
2 An anchor that can comeback
3 Overall compatible synergy.
This is a tall order, and there’s honestly no character who fits the bill entirely. Your best bet in a character for the anchor spot is to find a combination of one who fits the most criterion in conjunction with ones you place value on. Wesker doesn’t really fit the bill; he pretty much is a comeback mechanic, a bit of an extender (though neither Nova or Frank need OTGs), and is pretty much like putting a big “If Nova doesn’t level Frank Dark Wesker is my only shot” sticker on your back.
Dante, Ammy, Vergil, Arthur, and Raccoon fit the bill the best in my opinion, all with various strengths and weaknesses. I use Raccoon because I emphasize neutral game, and if Nova/Frank do their job properly, Raccoon’s big weakness (comeback potential) never comes into play.
