First hour

Getting Started

Map comfortable controls, learn the five attack buttons, and build one tiny game plan before worrying about long combos.

Map actions, not controller folklore

Strive lets you remap controls, so this guide names actions rather than assuming a pad, stick, leverless controller, or keyboard layout. Put the five attacks where they feel distinct, then give Dash, Roman Cancel, Burst, and Faultless Defense macros accessible buttons if your device and preferences allow.

NotationNameBeginner job
PPunchFast interruption and low-commitment check.
KKickFast starter that often routes into 2D.
SSlashClose Slash starts pressure; Far Slash controls midrange.
H / HSHeavy SlashSlower, larger commitment and reward.
DDust5D is a universal overhead; 2D is a low sweep.

Read numpad notation in sixty seconds

7 ↖8 ↑9 ↗4 ←5 neutral6 →1 ↙2 ↓3 ↘

Directions always assume your character faces right; reverse left and right after switching sides. A sequence such as 236S means down, down-forward, forward, then Slash. [4]6H means hold back, then press forward plus Heavy Slash. c.S > 2H > 236K means cancel one action into the next.

Your first playable game plan

  1. Pick the fighter you want to see on screen

    Motivation beats a theoretical “easy” pick. If you need a filter, start with an official Balance type such as Sol, Ky, Ramlethal, Anji, Giovanna, Baiken, Bridget, Sin, or Lucy.

  2. Learn three buttons

    Find one long grounded poke, one fast close button, and 6P for airborne approaches. Confirm their ranges in Training.

  3. Learn one knockdown

    For many fighters, a Kick into 2D is a practical first route. Use Training mode to confirm the exact route for your character.

  4. Learn one safe follow-up

    After the knockdown, time a meaty attack or character-specific setup. On block, end safely or reset instead of repeating forever.

  5. Play short sets and write one question

    After three to five games, record only the situation that beat you most often. Reproduce that situation in Training before adding another combo.

First-session checklist