What are your go-to strategies for maximizing character abilities in Vampire Survivors?

I've been focusing on how to fully leverage character abilities in Vampire Survivors, and I'm interested in hearing what strategies work best for you all. Each character has unique strengths, and I’ve found that understanding their abilities can significantly change your approach to gameplay. For example, I love using Arca to take advantage of her healing and area damage, which allows me to survive longer in intense waves. I've also noticed that pairing characters with complementary items, like using Garlick with characters who benefit from close combat, can really amplify their effectiveness.

What are your favorite characters and how do you optimize their skills?
Do you have any specific item combinations or strategies that really help you maximize their potential?