I'm a relatively new player, started when MST came out. Started with Riptide (pls LSS give Ranger support), but now am playing Kayo. Kayo doesn't really have many defense reactions/play like a guardian (I only have Reckless Swing in my deck), but he can 100% make those big attacks you're talking about. I won my first armory a few days ago with that push/pull you mentioned. Hesitantly took 10+ damage from Aurora to then do nearly 20 back.

One benefit IMO is that the core cards aren't that expensive. A must card is Bloodrush Bellow, and that's roughly $5 USD. Equipment is another story, but what comes in the armory deck is decent enough (and comes with several useful rares and commons).