Survive with intent
Blocking is the default. Layer movement, fast buttons, and resource escapes only after identifying the gap, throw, or mix-up you want to answer.
Hold back to block mids and highs; hold down-back to block mids and lows. Overheads must be blocked standing, lows crouching, and throws require a movement or throw-specific answer. Blocking gives you time to recognize a sequence, but repeated guard raises R.I.S.C., so eventually you must create space or challenge a known gap.
| Layer | Use it when | Cost / danger |
|---|---|---|
| Normal block | You do not yet know the sequence. | Chip from specials, rising R.I.S.C., and eventual throw/mix. |
| Faultless Defense | You want to prevent chip and increase pushback. | Consumes Tension; excess pushback may change your punish timing. |
| Fast P / K mash | You verified a gap or reset that your button reaches in time. | Counter-hit if the sequence was a frame trap. |
6P | The opponent approaches from the air or extends a vulnerable upper hurtbox. | Loses to altered jump timing, lows, and some angle-specific attacks. |
| Jump / backdash | You expect a throw or want to leave a gap. | Jump startup can be hit; backdash recovery is punishable. |
| Invincible reversal | You own the move/meter and have a hard read on continued offense. | Large punish if blocked; availability is character-specific. |
Use during hitstun or blockstun to force space. Delay it, vary it, and notice routes where the opponent can jump-cancel or RC to bait it. Burst is disabled during certain throws, Overdrives, Counter Blitz hits, and wall-stick states.
Use while guarding to cover blockable high/low/cross-up pressure and push the attacker far away. It prevents chip and R.I.S.C. gain while active, but a whiff leaves recovery.
Use during blockstun to stop the attacker and reset momentum. If they predict and block it, you are punishable, so do not make it your only answer.
The lowest-commitment metered layer. Use short FD blocks on key hits to alter spacing rather than holding it through every sequence.
Block. Observe whether the first attack is high, low, throw, or delayed.
Continue blocking or use an invincible/resource option. A normal button will lose before it becomes active.
Jump, backdash, tech, or use a throw-invulnerable option. Practice the timing against a recording.
Challenge with your verified fastest-reaching answer, not whichever button feels emotionally satisfying.
Take the free block and let their delay surrender pressure. Defense succeeds when you return to neutral, not only when you land a punish.
6P, and one resource escape.