Attack Range

Melee Heroes have little to no range, and must be close to enemies in order to attack them. Typically, Melee Heroes have Strength as their Main Attribute, as it allows them to tank damage easily, though there are exceptions.

Mechanics
Melee Heroes have an effective range of 128 units. They earn a base of 36 Experience when a nearby unit is Denied, as opposed to a Ranged Hero, which only earn 18. Melee Heroes also receive greater benefit from certain items, such as Vanguard. Additionally, some Skills and Abilities only affect Melee Heroes, such as Skeleton King's Vampiric Aura.

Cleave
Melee Heroes can use Cleave, which deals damage over an area around them on each attack. The damage from Cleave is determined from the attacking unit's damage, reduced by a percentage, and delivered to all enemies in the radius. It is not affected by armor value, only armor type. Cleave does not work for Ranged Heroes.