Samurai Shodown III : Blades of Blood
Bust Ukyo Strategy Guide
version 3.0
April 27, 1996
send comments/corrections/suggestions/ASCII art :) to
Jeff Leung (JefLeung@cory.EECS.Berkeley.EDU)
This guide and future versions of it can be found at
WWW: http://www-scf.usc.edu/~edju/Ukyo.html
http://styx.ios.com/~damone/ss3page.html
http://www4.NCSU.EDU/eos/users/j/jzyang/www/ukyo.html
http://leonardo.gprep.pvt.k12.md.us/~mehdim/ukyo.html
FTP: ftp://ftp.southwind.net/users/b/bchapman
NOTE: Anyone posting this guide on an FTP server or WWW page, please mail me
the URL so that I can add it to the above list.
Future versions of this guide will also be available via newsgroup
rec.games.video.arcade
and will be mailed to the mailing list
neogeo.dhp.com
This guide is PUBLIC DOMAIN and should be distributed FREELY as filename:
BustUkyo.SS3
Table of Contents
==============================================================================
Revision History
Acknowledgements/Credits
Introduction
Why Play Bust Ukyo?
Ukyo's Transition From SS2 to SS3
Bust Ukyo Character Info (taken from TAPFAQ and KGSS3CFAQ)
- Ukyo's Historical Background
- Stage description
- Poses
- Ending
Ukyo's Normal Moves
Bust Ukyo's Special Moves
General Strategy
Combos
- The "Approved" Combo List
Dream Mist - the Counterstrike
- About the Dream Mist
- Dream Mist Target Table
- Dream Mist Strategy
Musouzankouka - the Power Special
- About the Musouzankouka
- Musouzankouka Strategy
- Musouzankouka FAQ
Specific Character Strategies (vs. humans)
- Haohmaru
- Shizumaru
- Ukyo
- Nakoruru
- Rimururu
- Galford
- Hanzo
- Kyoshiro
- Genjuro
- Gaira
- Basara
- Amakusa
- Zankuro
vs. CPU strategies
Notes After The Fact
==============================================================================
Revision History
==============================================================================
1.0 (08Jan96): Just started it. I got no art, I got no sites, somebody help
me! Still far from complete, so any feedback (and other help)
would be greatly appreciated.
2.0 (17Jan96): Added some sites where updates of this guide could be found.
Also added a PD disclaimer if anyone cares, and made some
revisions.
2.1 (26Jan96): Lots of revisions, added some more info and another site.
2.2 (06Feb96): Added more stuff from "research." Check out the Dream Mist
table, which still needs a LOT of work.
3.0 (27Apr96): Added an FTP site. Added a combos list. Reformatted and added
a lot of material to specific character mini-guides. Added
more material to other parts of guide, made revisions to some
parts. Also added section for CPU strategies.
==============================================================================
Acknowledgements/Credits:
==============================================================================
Many thanks to...
- Red Fox (RedFox08@aol.com) for answering many questions and testing out
some moves for me. I also used pieces of his KGSS3CFAQ (Kafuin Gaira's
Samurai Shodown 3 Complete FAQ).
- Shawn Holmes (shawnh@csn.net). I used some of his TAPFAQ in this, too.
- Scott Fujimoto (SFUJIMOTO@DELPHI.COM) because he thinks Ukyo is cool too!
Also made plenty of corrections and I used his Character History Guide
(at first without knowing it. Sorry about that!).
- Kenneth Hsu (e3321942@student.uq.edu.au). I used his SS2 Nakoruru guide as
a model.
- Edward Ju (edju@chaph.usc.edu) for putting this guide up on his SS3 Endings
page.
- Damone (damone@ios.com) for putting this guide up on his grand ol' SS3 page.
- Jin Yang (jzyang@eos.ncsu.edu) for putting this up on his Ukyo (!!!) page.
- Mehdi Malekzandi (mehdim@gprep.pvt.k12.md.us) for putting this up on HIS
Ukyo page.
- NeoKage (kage@wichita.fn.net) for putting this up on his FTP site.
- Patrons of the NEOGEO mailing list and rec.games.video.arcade (especially
Anthony Cho (achau@usc.edu) and Peter Young (fayhung@ix.netcom.com), who
have thoroughly amused me with their verbal abuse of each other on the
game).
- All the guys that frequent the SS3 machine at the Underground at Berkeley.
Without competition and getting my butt whupped every now and then, where
would I be?
==============================================================================
Introduction
==============================================================================
First off, if you are the kind of person that played Ukyo in SS2, but not in
SS1, chances are this guide is not for you. This guide is for people who are
loyal to the Ukyo we saw a few years ago in the original Samurai Shodown
because he was, and still is, the coolest fighting personality in the fighter
genre :). If you are the win-at-all-cost-cheezy-exploit-overpoweredness type
of player, stop reading now; you're wasting your time. Generic SS2 Ukyo
players relied heavily on the fact that he was overpowered, and that he really
wasn't too challenging to play. For challenge, I play upper grade, although I
doubt people who just want to win will want to follow. If you actually play
the game so that you're expected to lose but try to win anyhow, ie. play for
the challenge (which is what I do), and happen to like Ukyo (or SS2 Jubei),
read on.
Second, I am not including any strategies on playing against the CPU. I have
had extremely little experience against the computer, and I must say, it does
seem quite impossible to beat the CPU on upper grade. This guide is pretty
much completely devoted to beating up on your friends (and making them look
bad :). Sorry, but if you want to beat the game, I am probably not the best
source for that.
I am about to ramble about how I play Bust Ukyo, or some strategies I employ
when playing Bust Ukyo. If you are even remotely interested in using Bust
Ukyo, you're in luck. If you want to play UPPER GRADE Bust Ukyo, you are in
even more luck; I have done lots and *LOTS* of playing with upper grade Bust
Ukyo and have gotten experienced enough to take out medium grade Naks on a
regular basis with him (for those of you who play frequently, you know that's
not an easy task), and have lots to share with everyone else. Tips explicitly
for use with upper grade will be denoted with a "*UG!*," like this:
*UG!* These tips are not only for upper graders; they work for medium grade,
too, but a lot of these tips require a full POW meter.
Please keep in mind that I am not an employee of SNK and so am not absolutely
sure of everything I cite in this text (but I'm quite sure of most of it). If
you spot any errors, please feel free to mail me and tell me I am wrong, and
I will add it to the guide. Once again, send any comments, suggestions, or any
feedback about this guide to JefLeung@cory.EECS.Berkeley.EDU.
==============================================================================
Why Play Bust Ukyo?
==============================================================================
One question a novice SS3 player might ask would be "why play Bust Ukyo?"
There are many answers, but I prefer to answer aesthetically. Actually, to
sum it up, it's because he's so COOL. First, he fights with his back turned to
his opponent. Such disrespect, such arrogance, I love it! Second, he fights
with his weapon sheathed, showing his extreme confidence in his speed. Again,
such arrogance, I love it! And when he wins a match, he's surrounded by women.
You don't see Haohmaru surrounded by women, do you? And his Power Special is
so classy, and his animation frames include how he resheathes his sword after
each slash, and how he shuts his eyes when he performs a Sasame Yuki, and how
he makes the opponent feel so stupid when he connects a Dream Mist, etc, etc.
Anyhow, the point of playing Ukyo is the reward of winning, at least to me.
Even better is if you play upper grade Bust Ukyo, because then you can say,
"hey, I didn't even block!" Consider it.
==============================================================================
Ukyo's Transition From SS2 to SS3
==============================================================================
Most everyone will tell you that Ukyo has been severely downgraded from SS2.
I tend to agree, but must say that this is only in the case of Slash Ukyo, a
character that I do not regularly play. Bust Ukyo, if you'll notice, is not
anywhere close to the Ukyo people have been complaining about over the net in
SS2, but he shouldn't be regarded as the downgraded Ukyo people have been
describing either. If anything, Bust Ukyo is closer to a mix of SS2 Jubei and
SS1 Ukyo; he has pretty much the same normal moves as he did in SS1, but no
longer has the AI attack, and has two of Jubei's bread and butter moves (and
some of his strike priority) incorporated into his arsenal. If you played SS2
Ukyo and depended on the TG projectile and/or the AI attack, forget it. Those
pattern players have either bit the dust or have moved on to Nak :(. Ukyo's
transition into SS3 isn't really a bad one, just an unfamiliar one. However,
if you played SS1 Ukyo, but NOT SS2 Ukyo, the transition will be much easier;
the only difference you will see is that the TG has lost its firebird, and
some new moves. I can't say that playing SS3 Ukyo is just like playing SS1
Ukyo, but it's a lot closer than from SS3 to SS2. To sum up the differences
between SS2 Ukyo and SS3 Bust Ukyo...
- No more AI attack (no more SS2 cheese).
- Lost firebird from TG (see above).
- EVERYONE has a ground-to-air attack now (see above again).
- TG does less damage, greater lag.
- Missed standing slashes given much more lag time.
- A and B slashes no longer do much more damage than they should.
- Dodging introduced in SS3; Ukyo can't turtle as well anymore.
- Low C slash (diving) slides you farther forward again and
doesn't hit low anymore.
- Jumping B now strikes down; jumping C does not.
- Has improved (debatable) version of Jubei's counterstrike.
- Has a ground projectile (similar to Jubei's).
- New move: Skylark Slice. See moves list below.
- Faster running speed.
- Sasame Yuki now traps opponent if it connects one hit.
- Much cooler looking and more effective Power Special.
==============================================================================
Bust Ukyo Character Info (taken from TAPFAQ, KGSS3CFAQ, and the
Character History guide)
==============================================================================
"Master, friends, and fans -- rest in peace. I shall avenge you..."
TACHIBANA UKYO
"Hmmph!"
Ukyo's Historical Background (from Character History guide)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Based on Sasaki Kojiro Genryu (1572--1612), Musashi's skilled rival. Genryu
wielded a VERY long sword called the "Drying Pole". He was reputed to be
the most skilled swordsman around, and could slice swallows in mid-air,
according to Yoshikawa. The preface to the Book of Five Rings says that
he developed a sword technique inspired by the movement of a swallow's
tail in flight. This is the basis of Ukyo's "swoop swallow slice". Genryu
even named the school of swordsmanship he founded Tsubame Gaeshi.
Despite his skill, during their duel Musashi killed him in one blow (two,
according to some accounts). Just like Ukyo and Haohmaru (in SS2), Musashi
and Genryu fought on an isle off of the coast of Japan, and Musashi showed
up late for the duel as a psychological tactic (this could explain
why Ukyo and Haohmaru are at the same place, but totally different
times). After he defeated Genryu, the island was renamed Genryu Isle
("Gairyu Isle"), although it's actually by Shimonoseki and not where the
SS map says it is. Note that this was Musashi's most famous duel, and is
pretty much a cultural reference in Japan.
In the book "Musashi", Genryu comes off as a totally selfish and arrogant
person. Yoshikawa made him the symbol of a swordsman gifted with "mere"
technical virtuosity, to contrast him against Musashi's spiritual
strength. He's not a womanizer either. However, later Murakami Genzo
wrote a best-selling novel about Sasaki Kojiro, depicting him in a more
heroic light. This Genryu was an aristocratic, dignified swordsman, who
was a hearthrob with the ladies. His amorous affairs, fancy clothes, and
sophisticated air were contrasted sharply with Musashi's rough-and-tumble
look and attitude. He also had a sense of -aware-, a Japanese word meaning
a deep understanding of both the briefness and sweetness of life. This is
probably the portrayal of Genryu that Ukyo is based on. However, neither
Yoshikawa's nor Murakami's Genryu had blue hair :-)
Note on Ukyo's sword and fighting style: I strongly suspect that these
two aspects of his design are not based on Genryu, but instead the blind
swordsman Zato Ichi, a character in a series of popular movies. For one,
Ukyo's unusual sword looks EXACTLY like Zato's "cane sword." Zato kept
the blade sheathed in his cane most of the time, but could draw it at
lightning-quick speeds to dispatch his enemies, just like Ukyo. Being
blind, he used sound to locate his enemies. Ukyo is obviously not blind,
but his quirky style of facing away from his enemy may be inspired by
Zato's blind technique.
Historically, during the duel with Musashi, Genryu was wearing an
-iga-bakama- (skirt) and straw sandals, just like Ukyo.
Incidentally, a tachibana is a type of mandarin orange.
Stage description...
--------------------
Raft -- Swamp: Fight takes place on a raft floating on a green river,
with a thick forest in the background. Rotten trees and dead weeds
scroll by in the foreground--several layers of parallax. Occasionally
bodies float by in the river (looks sort of like a Hanzo riddled with
arrows?!?!). During desperation, the background turns black and filtered
blue light flows in, while flourescent green polyps flash on the black
background.
Poses...
--------
Character Select Screen: Pulls sword out, spins it around before
re-sheathing it.
Before Round One: Bows and grabs sword, the end of the scabbard glows
momentarily as he pulls his sword out a little, and then he re-sheathes
it.
1st Win: Stands upright as the wind blows through his hair and clothes.
2nd Win: Stands upright, runs his hand through his hair as a group of
women surround him. (Slash doesn't have this. A good reason to play Bust
instead of Slash!)
Unarmed Victory: Runs hand through hair and then humphs.
Loss To Time: Falls to the ground and begins to cough repeatedly.
Stalemate: Coughs once and covers face.
Dizzy: Lies down and coughs.
Ending (sorry to spoil it)...
-----------------------------
Ukyo. 18-years-old.
"The world is nothing...
a barren dream it seems."
20-years-old.
"Knowing you, life's murky
waters have cleared."
25-years-old.
"I remember the beautiful
face of an evil goodness."
"I cannot go with you...
I shall die alone boo hoo."
==============================================================================
Ukyo's Normal Moves:
==============================================================================
If the move is not obviously blocked high or low (like air attacks),
MBBL = must be blocked low, MBBH = must be blocked high, and UB = unblockable.
I am not going to bother with punches here. They are all just palm pushes, at
different speeds and damages, and they all look the same.
STANDING FAR: STANDING CLOSE:
A: straight slash scabbard whip
(great priority vs. air attacks)
B: straight slash upwards slash
(longer lag than A) (easily interrupted, comboable)
(also cancellable)
C: straight side slash up/down double slash
(hits 2x) (hits 2x)
CROUCHING FAR: CROUCHING CLOSE:
A: straight slash scabbard punch
(quick, possibly comboable)
B: straight slash low stab/upward slice
(hits 2x)
C: diving low slash one-handed overhead slash
(not MBBL!) (good air defense)
JUMPING STRAIGHT UP JUMPING DIAGONALLY
A: scabbard swipe scabbard swipe
B: upwards slash down slash
(excellent close priority)
C: straight slash straight slash
(delayed arc, long ranged)
RUNNING
A: straight slash
B: diving slash
(not MBBL! Sends opponent crashing into wall if hit)
C: up/down double slash
(UB, minimal damage, long wind-up, hits 2x)
HOP CRUSHES
-O + BC: hopping diving slash
(MBBH)
-O + BC: short jump kick forward
(unarmed) (MBBH)
KICKS
standing D: forward kick
-O + D: sliding foot sweep
(MBBL)
| + D: low leg kick
O (MBBL)
\ + D: high leg lick
O
running D: sliding foot sweep
(MBBL)
jumping D: side kick
==============================================================================
Bust Ukyo's Special Moves:
==============================================================================
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- CONCEALED SABRE SWALLOW SLICE (Tsubame Gaeshi):
(jump) / | \ -O + slash OR / | \ -O O + slash
O O O O O O /
Swings sword in circular motion, hits for fire damage, lag time after move
hits or is blocked. Anything terrible I have said before about this move, I
take it back. Of course, you still get whupped if you get this move blocked
or if you miss, but it CAN do damage! Corresponding to the button strength
of course. I suggest using this if you happen to dizzy one of the ninjas
(wouldn't want them to pop out a Musouzankouka, would we?), and as the last
hit in the BHFLC combo (see combos) instead of the low C. If you are going
for all the marbles late in the round and your opponent turtles up, try
running at them and doing a standing TG with C. Great damage!
Pro: Good air priority, does good damage, GREAT damage as a counter!
Con: Horrid lag times for B and C if blocked, no longer has a projectile,
no longer a unique ground-to-air move, reduced damage, can be air
blocked (yikes!!!).
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- CONCEALED SABRE DREAM MIST (Counterstrike):
\ | / O- -O + C
O O O
Holds out scabbard to block for a half second. If opponent attacks and
connects with a normal standing or jumping slash, Ukyo will block with the
scabbard, and then slash the opponent, hitting usually for 50+% at UG. Can
be done relatively instantaneously, and sometimes can be done right after
one is missed. This move is so cool, it has an entire section devoted to it
below!
Pro: Does massive damage!!! Has ultimate priority over normal standing and
jumping slashes.
Con: Only counters about 15% of all moves in the game. If missed, you'll
probably end up doing a Snowfall Slash Flash, which would be bad.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- CONCEALED SABRE HEAT FLASH:
-O | \ + C
O O
Fires a low arc-like projectile. Using A comes out faster, but does less
damage. If Heat Flash hits, the opponent is pushed back very late after
the hit, stunning for a but, so it is REALLY good for comboing. I always
use A for this move, though C seems to travel slower and makes it less prone
to being dodged. Lag time is independent on which slash you use, only the
initial throw time depends on that.
Pro: Gives excellent stun time if opponent is hit.
Con: Comes out very slow.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- CONCEALED SABRE SKYLARK SLICE:
O- -O + A
Ukyo jabs outward with his sheathed sword. Does very little damage, but
stuns the opponent for a bit, comes out almost instantaneously, and has
great combo ability.
Pro: Stuns opponent if hit. Hits up to three times. Comes out quick.
Great for comboing. Not too shabby lag time.
Con: Does very little damage. Often knocks opponent too far back to follow
with anything else.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- CONCEALED SABRE SNOWFALL SLASH FLASH (Sasame Yuki):
| / O- + slash
O O
Ukyo tosses an apple over his shoulder and slashes at it repeatedly. If the
opponent is hit by any of the slashes, he is caught and will take damage
regardless of further blocking. No longer has more upward angle if done with
A, but has less latter lag time than with C. I rarely use this move. If you
use A, it will have more lag before the move is performed, and less after.
Conversely, C will have less initial lag, but more final. B is middle of the
road.
Pro: Catches opponent if hit.
Con: Does mediocre damage. Bad lag time. Can be easily jump-attacked over if
missed (and it will count as a counter! Yikes!).
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- MUSOUZANKOUKA (Power Special):
-O O- -O + CD
Ukyo unsheathes an inch of his sword (which glows!) and charges at opponent
at running speed. If unblocked, Ukyo will first hit for tick damage, and
then will run around the opponent at light speed, leaving slash marks on
the opponent's body. Ukyo then twirls and sheathes his sword, and then the
opponent starts to contort and spurt blood. Very GQ move! Unfortunately, it
takes a little under 8.5 seconds, and will do no damage other than the
first tick if the move is not completed before time runs out (ie, if you
start the move with 07 left on the clock, you're out of luck). No lag time
if unblocked, terrible lag time if blocked. Check the section below about
it!
Pro: It looks so cool! Does wondrous damage. No lag if missed. Comes out
instantaneously. Easy to do. Goes at running speed, so can easily be
a combo finish. High priority vs. normal moves. Great for air defense.
Con: Takes too long to finish. Bad lag time if blocked.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
==============================================================================
General Strategy
==============================================================================
*UG!* The first and last tip for anyone who plays upper grade: You MUST learn
to dodge and sidestep consistently!!! It must become somewhat a habit to
slam on the AB after each attack you have blocked or missed. Experience
playing upper grade will help with this, and probably lots of quarters,
but the key is to take notice of any time that you instinctively hold
back to block. From now on you must learn to press AB instead.
*UG!* I should have mentioned this in earlier updates. Another thing you can
do at upper grade is a stun block (half circle forward, no buttons). Do
this often if at close range. If one connects, follow with a
Musouzankouka for a quick 25+%. Unfortunately, this has the same hit
detection as a Dream Mist, except that it does not block air attacks
(see Dream Mist section below).
Someone who plays Bust Ukyo must understand that Bust Ukyo is a defensive
character by nature. His moves are generally long ranged and quick to come out
and do decent damage (at least now in SS3, unlike ridiculous damage as in
SS2). Even his special moves are defensive (Dream Mist comes to mind). If you
play Bust Ukyo like you would play SS2 Ukyo (ie. coming out fists-a-flyin' and
TG's-a-hurlin'), you would get creamed in a snap by the first Nak to pass by.
Since from SS2 Ukyo has lost much offense, it is pretty difficult to win on
just offense (which was pretty easy in SS2). Playing Bust Ukyo requires that
you force the opponent to make the first move and respond accordingly (best
case would be a connected Dream Mist). To start the round, just hang back and
maybe toss a Heat Flash or two. If the guy jumps, watch what he does. If the
jump is a slash attack, calmly block it, retreat a bit and start over with
another Heat Flash. Next time your opponent jumps, make sure a Dream Mist is
waiting.
An alternate strategy would be to do some prodding. Walk towards the opponent
and, when in range, do a B slash, block their retaliatory slash, do another B
slash, and then a Dream Mist. This strategy is also described in the Dream
Mist section below.
Ukyo, although downgraded from SS2, still has some excellent air defense. One
defensive tactic would be to throw a Heat Flash, and, if the opponent jumps
and it looks like he'll land about C range in front of you, do a C slash to
knock him out of the air. Also an air defensive tactic would be to, if the
opponent jumps, jump at him, but do not do anything yet. Instead, hold back to
air block. If the opponent attacks, quickly retaliate after blocking with C or
a Tsubame Gaeshi. If you do it quick enough, you'll do counter damage. This is
one of the few times I will use a TG (and I can't do this if I play upper
grade, so you can figure how often I do a TG).
A subtactic would be, if the opponent is far and you throw a Heat Flash, you
should always run after it. Ukyo can actually run faster than his Heat Flash
can travel, and if the Heat Flash hits, the opponent is open game for another
attack to combo from. A good idea would be to, while running, hit B if the
opponent gets hit by the Heat Flash. If you are close enough, do a
Musouzankouka instead. There are other possibilities for running in after a
Heat Flash, either to get closer to the opponent or move in safely into a
specific range (one that comes to mind is about double B range so that if
they jump, you can greet them with a standing C).
Yet another subtactic would be to try to get into a projectile war with your
opponent at medium range. Throw a Heat Flash. If they cancel with their own
projectile, throw another. If they cancel again, run at them with B. 90% of
the time they will be expecting you to throw another Heat Flash, and will
start their own projectile, and you'll hit them with the running B. If
possible, however, it is almost always better to do a Musouzankouka instead.
*UG!* It is almost a cardinal rule to avoid jumping while playing upper grade.
Why? Because, whereas medium graders can block in the air, you cannot!
You can't even dodge in the air, which means that if you jump and the
opponent tosses a projectile timed to hit you as you land, there is
nothing you can do. If you must jump, it is generally safer for upper
graders to jump forward rather than backwards, as the opponent will have
more time to throw a projectile if you jump back. In any case, use your
better judgement, and remember that you will always be at a disadvantage
in the air against medium graders.
*UG!* Dodging is a godsend to upper graders, especially to upper grade Ukyos
due to the fact that Ukyo's slashes come out quick. One good thing about
not being able to block is that you won't be compromising any safety by
walking at your opponent without hesitation. When you think the opponent
is about to strike, dodge, then follow with a quick slash of your own,
or, if you're close enough, a Musouzankouka. Even better would be to
sidestep the opponent (you need to be close and do -O + AB) and follow
with the B, Heat Flash, low C combo (see Combos below).
*UG!* If the opponent is POWed (the POW meter is full), stay away. Try to wait
them out, as one Power Special can ruin your day and since most Power
Specials come out quick, you will be hard pressed to dodge it. It's
better to avoid it.
If you do want to jump (which usually has less rewards than pitfalls with
Ukyo), and want to do a C slash in the air, wait until the last second to do
it. Ukyo's C slash comes out pretty much instantaneously, and goes back in
just as fast. Therefore, you can do some comboing off the air C if you do it
late enough. If you're POWed, do a Musouzankouka. Otherwise, you might want
to do a low C.
All this defensive talk should not lead you to believe that Bust Ukyo must be
adamantly played defensively. A good Bust Ukyo will, although remaining
predominantly defensive, be on the attack at times. All the offensive
strategies I can think of generally involve combos of some sort. These will be
discussed in the next section. Anything else really isn't much of a strategy,
and it's pretty much knowing your and your opponent's strengths and
weaknesses. It's the obvious stuff; slash when your opponent may not be
blocking, block when the opponent attacks, try to leave yourself open as
little as possible, etc, etc. I will skip discussing these things as I don't
see them as being unique to playing Bust Ukyo.
==============================================================================
Combos
==============================================================================
The most common thing about character guides are the combos. Bust Ukyo's got
some, but are only useful at certain times. Now, if you play upper grade, then
Bust Ukyo's got GREAT combo magic! The most commonly posted on the Internet is
the BHFLC combo (B from behind, Heat Flash with A, low C). This combo dizzies
and does between 25% and 40%, but the situations in which the Heat Flash hits
after the B are rare, as you must hit the opponent from the back (usually
after an AB switch). If you do hit with the Heat Flash, an alternative for the
low C would be a standing C, which hits twice and will sometimes do more
damage, but the low C will dizzy. Yet another alternative for the low C would
be a standing C TG, which actually does more damage and also dizzies, but this
is much harder to do than just hitting down and C.
*UG!* A much better and more reliable combo to do is a B, then the
Musouzankouka (same theory as Galford's B, Plasma Kick combo).
Also, this will connect if you do the B from in front of your opponent.
Hint: Use this combo A LOT!!!
*UG!* The ultimate combo I have found is an up/down double C slash from the
back followed by a Musouzankouka. Easiest way to do this is while in the
corner, do a PULLING guard crush (backwards and C from very close) and
then execute the combo. This cannot be done in the open, however. If not
in the corner, do a B slash into a Musouzankouka instead.
Also remember that you can combo ANYTHING off the Heat Flash; the Heat Flash
temporarily stuns the opponent and doesn't push them back very far if at all.
A good tactic is to run at the opponent immediately after throwing a Heat
Flash. If the Heat Flash hits, do the Musouzankouka or some other attack for
some extra healthy damage (my personal favorite is to do a Heat Flash and
follow with a running B. It sends the opponent flying back and looks really
cool). Another good attack to combo from is Ukyo's air C. If you hit the
opponent with his air C very close to landing, the opponent will not have much
time to recover, and you may have time for a B (or if your Power meter is
full, a Musouzankouka). Finally, you can do some combos from Ukyo's Skylark
Slice, although it is best to be A range or closer to the opponent. Ukyo's
Skylark Slice stuns the opponent for a brief moment, and unless you hit with
the last thrust, you probably won't get a chance to do anything else. Since
it comes out instantaneously, you can combo off any close B or A slash and
follow with a low C or Musouzankouka. A very easy and effective combo to do
is jump with B, close standing B into a Skylark Slice, and then low C. Another
would be to do a low A, Skylark Slice, and then low C. However, this seems
only to work from behind due to the fact that the A doesn't stun for very
long. Try doing it with B from the front in the corner so that the Skylark
Slice doesn't push the opponent too far back for you to follow with a low C or
standing C TG.
*UG!* At upper grade, you, obviously, do a lot more damage than at beginner or
medium class. Here is a little psychological help: Think of playing a
round as consisting of putting together a puzzle, but you only need to
put together two pieces. As most people figure, though, puzzle pieces
are joined at four sides. Stupid analogy? Here's my logic: Dream Mist
takes 50% at UG. The B/HF/LC combo takes over 50%. A B into a
Musouzankouka takes 50%. The C into Musouzankouka does well over 50%.
All you need to do is do two of these in a round to win. Even better
would be to weaken the opponent down to 50% and then do ust one of
these. If you think this idea is stupid, then forget I mentioned it.
The "Approved" Combo List
-------------------------
Value of combo in *'s
NOTE: All the BHF... combos can be started with a jumping crossover B
slash.
- The celebrated BHFLC combo ***:
B from behind -> Heat Flash A -> low C. Dizzies.
- The even better BHFTG combo ***(and a 1/2):
B from behind -> Heat Flash A -> Tsubame Gaeshi C. Dizzies.
NOTE: This may not work on some characters, notably the invisible
characters (Shizumaru, Nakoruru, Rimururu) because they are too
short o be hit by the TG.
- The really cool ending BHFM! combo:
B from behind -> Heat Flash A -> Musouzankouka. Dizzies?
I usually use this as an ending combo because it looks cool.
- The standard upper grade combo ****:
B close -> Musouzankouka.
- The frontal Skylark Slice combo *:
B close in corner -> Skylark Slice -> low C. Supposedly dizzies.
- The BHFJC 100% combo ***:
B from behind near corner -> Heat Flash A -> jump C -> HF A -> jump C
-> continue HF/jump C to leisure.
NOTE: this will keep pushing the opponent farther and farther away
until the combo will not connect anymore. In other words, it will not
work going from corner to corner, but once the opponent gets to the
corner it is infinite. Last hit should be a TG or a Musouzankouka,
just for flash.
==============================================================================
Dream Mist - the Counterstrike
==============================================================================
About the Dream Mist
--------------------
This move is, if connected, probably one of the best moves in the game. What
most people will tell you is that this move only turns 15% of all moves in the
game, and leaves you a sitting duck for everything else. What I'll tell you is
the following:
- That 15% is the 15% most used in the game. Probably the most used move in
the game by most characters would be the standing C slash, followed by the
low C slash (which Dream Mist doesn't connect), then jumping C, then
standing B. That's the top 3 out of the top 4 that Dream Mist turns.
- Dream Mist does between 33+-50%, dependent on the POW meter. I'm not sure of
the exact percentages, but here's a rough estimate for each grade:
Empty meter: about 33+%. You need a bit more than two to kill, possibly
three.
Halfway full: about 40%. You need a little more than two to kill.
Full meter: exactly 50%. Just need two.
Dream Mist Target Table
-----------------------
Here's a table of what the Dream Mist is confirmed to turn.
f=far, c=close, r=running, d=diagonal jump, v=vertical jump, BC=hop crush
All slashes are standing or jumping.
y=yes (confirmed), n=no (many failed attempts), p=probably, u=unlikely
Blanks mean have no idea. N's don't necessarily mean it cannot be done, it
just means that I doubt it can be done because I've tried so many times
unsuccessfully.
|Bas|Gnj|Hao|Uky|Han|Gai|Ama|Nak|Rim|Glf|Shz|Kyo|
fA| n | y | p | y | p | n | n | p | p | p | p | |
fB| n | y | y | y | y | | n | p | p | y | p | p | It doesn't seem like
fC| n | y | y | y | p | y | y | y | p | p | p | p | you can DM Nak off
cA| n | u | u | n | p | n | n | p | p | p | u | n | an animal, but I
cB| y | u | p | y | p | | n | p | p | p | p | p | haven't really tried.
cC| y | | p | y | p | | n | p | p | p | p | p |
rA| y | u | n | p | y | n | n | p | p | y | | p | Haven't tried against
rB| y | u | y | n | n | | y | p | p | n | u | p | Bust Shizumaru on an
rC| | | | | | | | | | | | | umbrella, either.
dA| p | u | | p | p | n | | y | p | p | p | n |
dB| u | p | | p | p | | y | y | p | p | p | p |
dC| y | y | y | y | y | y | | y | y | y | y | y |
vA| p | u | | p | p | n | n | p | p | p | p | n |
vB| u | p | | p | p | | p | p | p | p | p | p |
vC| y | y | y | y | y | y | | y | y | y | y | y |
BC| u | y | p | p | p | | p | p | p | p | p | p |
Special note!: The Dream Mist can actually turn crouching attacks, if the
opponent's blade passes through the glowing region of Ukyo's sword. Confirmed
opponents that this works on are Genjuro's low C up close and Galford's low C
(weird, isn't it?) at close range. It is quite possible (now that I think
about it) that Ukyo's Dream Mist can turn any normal weaponed attack if at
extremely close range (hey, it turns Galford's low sweeping C!).
Dream Mist strategy
-------------------
Just performing a Dream Mist will help you in the round; the opponent will be
wary to do standing or jumping slashes and that could disturb their game plan.
Even better is if you connect a Dream Mist. They are half finished AND afraid
to slash. Even though it is an awesome move, you shouldn't use it too much.
Since it comes out almost instantaneously, the best time to do it is in the
middle of a sword fight, or when the opponent jumps at you. Here are some
tactics to using Dream Mist (most are like psychological warfare):
- One very annoying thing is when your opponent refuses to stand up and fight,
literally. What I mean is, sometimes, it is convenient for your opponent to
just sit back in a defensive crouch and slash at your shins if you get
close. A solution is to run and do a hop crush. Enough of this will get them
to stand up. Another solution would be to throw lots of Heat Flashes, and
then run up to them. In any case, it is important to get your opponent to
stand so that their slashes are Dream Mist-able.
- Throw a Heat Flash and if they jump, execute a Dream Mist. 90% of the time
when any character throws a projectile and the opponent jumps, it will be
a jumping C. Sometimes it will be B, but it will almost never be a D (unless
the opponent is expecting you to do a Dream Mist). Here the opponent will
really pay. Unfortunately, this trick will not always work, since most
people are not stupid; they'll fall for it a few times at most and will
start kicking instead.
- Walk up to the opponent and slash with B. If they block, watch what they do.
If they slash back, block, slash with B again, and immediately do a Dream
Mist. They will probably try to slash back after blocking again and the
Dream Mist will get them. Once again, this is a 90% of the time thing.
- Some annoying players are intermittent dodge-and-A players. That is, they
dodge, A, dodge, A, etc. at mid-close range. What you can do is time a Dream
Mist to hit them mid-cycle, and not only do some beautiful damage, but also
will mess up their game plan for the rest of the round. Unfortunately, this
won't work on characters like Basara, who have punches instead of slashes at
mid-close range.
- A cool way to end the round is, if time is winding down and if you are
winning, hop back away from the opponent. If the opponent tries to chase
you by jumping at you, they will probably jump at you with C. Hop back
again and execute a Dream Mist. This is more like a 50% of the time thing
as some opponents are smarter and will run at you instead.
*UG!* Remember that since you can't block, Dream Mist is probably the ultimate
equalizer against medium graders. Usually, when someone sees someone
playing upper grade, they go slash-happy. Apparently, people think that
someone playing upper grade is a sitting duck to muchas C-slashes. So,
whenever you get into range of a C, do the Dream Mist. If you miss, do
it again. Inevitably, they will try to C you to death, but a pair of
Dream Mists will end up winning you the round.
==============================================================================
Musouzankouka - the Power Special
==============================================================================
About the Musouzankouka
-----------------------
This is an excellent move, and, to me, is what makes Bust Ukyo worth playing
upper grade with. At first I thought that it only looked really cool, but
after playing Bust Ukyo on upper grade, I realized that this move has amazing
priority over normal moves, comes out instantaneously, and has no lag if
missed. And it looks cool! The tradeoff is that it has relatively low
priority versus other Power Specials and some special moves, it takes a long
time to finish (a little under 8.5 seconds), and has terrible lag time if
blocked. Here are some rules of thumb (tips) for using the Musouzankouka:
Musouzankouka Strategy
----------------------
- Unless the opponent is down to a tick of life left, you should never ever
EVER do it if you know the opponent will block. One instance would be if you
jump attacked your opponent and they blocked. They will almost ALWAYS be
blocking after your initial jump attack.
- If it is a close match, and you are down and you think your opponent will
try to tick off damage, try rolling closer and doing the Musouzankouka upon
getting up.
- If you are relatively close to your opponent and they are hopping away from
you, do it! Since it is impossible to block while hopping, and since
running is faster than hopping, and since the Musouzankouka goes at running
speed, you can get them before they land from their hop.
- Since it comes out at running speed and instantaneously, it goes great with
other moves for comboing. Try it with any close B or A slashes, or maybe
even some far A or B slashes. I'm not sure if it can be done out of a close
C double slash consistently, but I am sure it can be done as I have done it
a few times while the opponent was trapped in the corner.
- You can use the Musouzankouka to interrupt some moves that normally have
terrible lag times. My favorite is doing a running B (low sliding slash)
and, if missed, interrupting with the Musouzankouka. I'm not sure how this
works (as in when to do the Musouzankouka), but it pisses people off to no
end, as they usually see a missed running B as a sitting duck.
- Something you might want to try is, if both characters are in the air after
an air confrontation, if you land first, try doing a Musouzankouka upon
landing. Since an opponent can no longer block in the air after doing an
attack, it should be able to hit them. I'm not absolutely sure if this
works, as I have not confirmed whether or not my opponent was blocking on
the ground or actually still in the air.
- Try to avoid doing the Musouzankouka when the opponent is Powered up.
Musouzankouka has terrible priority over other Power Special moves, and,
unless you somehow hit the opponent's body before their weapon hits you,
their Power Special will win. Exceptions include characters whose Power
Specials just plain suck (see the part about characters not recommended for
upper grade play), Bust Galford, and another Bust Ukyo (against these two
characters, I think whoever does the Power Special first wins).
- Never EVER even think about doing it in the last 8 seconds left on the
clock! Even if you connect, the move will do only the first tick of damage,
and it will be a waste (well, unless you are winning and just want to show
off). However, prime time to do it is about the last 20 seconds before 08.
- Musouzankouka can also make for great air defense! Try to time hitting the
opponent out of the air just before he hits the ground or before he hits
you.
- Lot's of hop crushes have bad lag time after they connect, so if you think
you have ample time, pull one after getting hit by a hop crush. I don't
remember which characters you can do this to. Maybe I should draw up another
table.
*UG!* If you have great confidence in your timing, and the opponent is jump
attacking you, dodge the attack a little early and do the Musouzankouka
right out of the dodge. If you get the timing right, you can hit the
opponent out of the air and out of their attack before they land (often
will do extra damage due to counter).
*UG!* Another thing to do is a Musouzankouka right out of a dodged standing
slash. Most players (per mentioned before) will attack an upper grade
character viciously, meaning standing/jumping C's galore. Since most
missed C slashes have horrible lag times, doing a Musouzankouka right
out of a dodge frequently results in a counter.
*UG!* Here is a little bit of etiquette. Since you can't block, you might
try to rationalize that after a successful Musouzankouka, your opponent
should not have the right to getting their weapon back without a fight.
I say let them have it. Not only does it show what a big person you are
and that it fits the Ukyo persona (fighting with a sheathed sword, back
to opponent, etc.), but, since punches are quicker, have less lag times
than slashes or kicks, and cannot be turned by a Dream Mist, it is
probably in your best interests that they get their weapon back.
Musouzankouka FAQ
-----------------
Can the Musouzankouka beat...
- Bust or Slash Nakoruru's Power Special?: No.
- Bust or Slash Basara's Power Special?: No.
- Bust or Slash Shizumaru's Power Special?: Bust, yes. Slash, no.
- ANY Power Specials?: Just Bust Galford's or Bust Ukyo's, and even
that's 50/50. Sometimes will beat other Power Specials if you do
yours first.
- any projectiles or projectile-like attacks?: I wish.
- Haohmaru's Kogetsuzan (uppercut)?: Yes.
- Slash Haohmaru's Lightning Slash?: It worked!!!
- Bust Haohmaru's Sword Shockwave (football tackle)?: Yes.
- Bust Haohmaru's Typhoon Wave (ground sweep)?: Yes.
- Shizumaru's Windshear Slice (dash attack)?: If you're lucky.
- any of Shizumaru's special moves?: Only if you're lucky (damned
umbrella).
- Slash Ukyo's AI?: Yes.
- Ukyo's Snowfall Slash?: No way.
- Nakoruru's Kamui Risse (cape twirl)?: Yes.
- any of Nakoruru's Mutsube attacks?: Never done it.
- Kamui Mutsube (dive off bird)?: It's a Mutsube, right? See above.
- any of Bust Nakoruru's Shikite (wolf) attacks?: If you're lucky, but
not the Epunkine Shikite (she's already down).
- Rimururu's Konril Myu (freeze ground)?: Only if close.
- Bust Rimururu's Lupu Thomumu (icy uppercut)?: Yes.
- Galford's Replica Attack (air drop)?: No.
- Bust Galford's Plasma Factor (Haohmaru-esque lightning slash)?:
Did it on Haohmaru's, but I wouldn't try on this.
- Bust Galford's Lightning Slash (should be called lightning flash
kick)?: Only if you're lucky.
- Kyoshiro's Lion's Tail?: Yes.
- Genjuro's Lightning Wings (uppercut)?: Yes.
- Slash Genjuro's Death Hack (dash attack)?: If you're lucky.
- Genjuro's Scarlet Slash/Purple Dusk (delayed slash)?: Yes.
- Bust Genjuro's Three Heavens Death (triple uppercut slide)?: Yes.
- Bust Genjuro's Death of 100 Demons (looks like dash)?: Yes.
- Gaira's Nag Blast?: Yes.
- Slash Gaira's Victory Riser (multi-rush)?: Yes.
- Slash Gaira's Profound Pummel (bead-chucker)?: No.
- Bust Basara's Shadow Exit (sink, then uppercut)?: Yes.
- Amakusa's Evil Hornet dashes?: Previously no, but not so sure
anymore. I'd say maybe.
- Amakusa's Judgement Blow (bitch-slap)?: Argh! No!
- Amakusa's Miasma Plasma (stupid looking spin)?: Yes.
==============================================================================
Specific Character Strategies (vs. humans only)
==============================================================================
These anticharacter mini-guides are not yet done, as there are some characters
that I never get to play because, well, no one plays them where I play. If
anyone has any ideas to add please mail me.
Notice that some of the mini-guides have a different format corresponding to
Slash/Bust rather than the character pair. This is because some characters are
played practically the same for either alignment (Shizumaru), while others are
remarkably different between Bust and Slash (Haohmaru).
Haohmaru
--------
Slash: Not much strategy here. Block, strike back. Use Dream Mists sparingly
(most people figure it out after the umpteenth one, then they wait for
it to finish and greet you with a C). A few good things to know are
that Slash Haoh's Power Special is probably the worst in the game, and
his Lightning Slash can't hit you if you are right in front of him.
Generally, Slash Haohs are the ones that don't know that Bust Haoh is
a million times more powerful, and just try to do the Earthquake Slash
into the Lightning Slash (or a C). Since Haoh relies so much on his
standing C and B slashes, it might be a good idea to keep some Dream
Mists up the sleeve, but once again, use them sparingly.
Bust: Bust Haohmaru is probably one of the most powerful characters in the
game, and probably one of the biggest problems for a Bust Ukyo. Keys
to winning, or rather, not losing are to not get hit by his Typhoon
Wave (which sets up his TW -> run B infinite combo). Also, his
standing C slashes are more punishing than Slash Haoh's due to
possible Broiler Blast or Force Fang slashes (the C follow-throughs).
Really cheesy Bust Haohs will low kick you repeatedly and then follow
with a Typhoon Wave, into the infinite. This is one character with
whom a standing TG is very handy. If he starts to kick you, take the
kicks standing up, and as soon as you're out of range, he will
probably go for a sliding foot sweep. That'd be the prime time for a
standing TG. One important note about Bust Haoh's infinite combo is
that it is difficult to maintain because he has to run after the
Typhoon Wave. Sometimes, his running B comes too late. If it looks
like this will be the case, by all means, do a Dream Mist. Yes, it
will connect a running B from Haoh.
*UG!* Note about the Typhoon Wave: It is VERY hard to dodge. The Wave lasts
about as long as the full time length of a dodge, so if you plan on
dodging it, it almost must be attempted right when the Typhoon Wave is
being executed.
Shizumaru
---------
Shizumaru is by far one of the most difficuly characters to beat with Bust
Ukyo. That damned umbrella just does too much damage. Try to avoid jumping in
on a Shizumaru as a good Shiz will throw that damned umbrella like there's no
tomorrow, and that makes for more than adequate air defense against an Ukyo.
To beat a Shiz, you must be extremely patient, otherwise, you'll be on the
receiving end of a dash combo in no time. Try to stick to one of the General
Strategies, but try to keep a good distance away as the umbrella toss will not
just cancel your Heat Flash, but will go through it.
On special moves...
- If you block one of his Windshear Slices (dash attack), follow with either a
low C, dashing B, or Musouzankouka.
- If he misses a Crosscurrent Slicer (uppercut), you must hit him out of the
air before he lands. Any attack will do as long as it comes out quick enough
to knock him out of the air, but he can block the second he lands.
- For his Power Specials (both versions), just block and retaliate with either
a low C or a dashing B, or Musouzankouka if POWed up.
- Avoid getting hit at close range with a low B from a Powered up Shizumaru at
all costs!!! A close low B can easily combo into Shizumaru's (either one)
Power Special, which will dizzy, AND do massive amounts of damage!!!
Careful (especially UG)!
*UG!* Shizumaru is an upper grade Bust Ukyo's nightmare (Slash especially).
Try not to get knocked down at all. I'm serious. If you do, roll upon
getting up. Why? Because Shizumaru has a nice assortment of moves that
just NEED to be blocked. His umbrella toss, umbrella spin, most his
slashes, are extremely difficult to dodge upon getting up. Even worse
will be when he takes advantage of your inability to block and just sits
on top of you doing that damned umbrella spin. You will NEED to roll out
of it. Also, watch out because most his standing slashes can be comboed
into that damned dash attack.
*UG!* When Shizumaru jumps, if you get hit by a C (where he pops the umbrella
open), Shizumaru has a great lag time before hitting the ground, while
you recover rather quickly. So, if it looks like Shizumaru is a bit too
high off the ground when he hits you, do a Musouzankouka.
Slash: Jumping in close on a Slash Shizumaru will sometimes (and almost always
against a good Shiz) be greeted with his umbrella spin. This cannot be
air-blocked, not can it be hit with a jumping C! However, it will
ALWAYS get hit by a jumping B. So, use jumping B, especially to cross
over, so you can use the BHFLC combo when you land behind him.
*UG!* If Slash Shizumaru does his Power Special (this will require timing),
dodge it at the last minute (dodge, not sidestep), and then follow
immediately with a Musouzankouka. Looks really cool that you're running
after a spinning umbrella, and then it kicks his butt real good.
Bust: There is a little debate as to whether Slash is inherently better than
Bust with Shizumaru (Slash has the Umbrella Spin, Bust can float). I
have seen one guy playing Bust, and he uses the float to keep
intermittent dodgers (dodge a jump attack) guessing by delaying his
air attacks a second. Also, I have seen him use it to float behind the
opponent and hit them with a C after the dodge. Ukyo players will not
have to worry about this, as all you have to do is hit B while he is
in the air. Chances are you'll hit him.
Ukyo
----
Still not much. I guess people just realize how crappy Slash Ukyo's post-SS2
toning has been, and so no one plays him. Also, no one plays Bust Ukyo,
either. I guess I'm the only Ukyo player in Berkeley (upper grade, at that!).
There have been a few impersonations, but none like the original. :)
Nakoruru
--------
Amazingly enough, it is not as difficult to beat Nakoruru as it seems. Just
stay far away (approx. outside of C range), block down, throw Heat Flashes,
and block up when she sends the bird. Eventually she will get impatient and
will hopefully end up making a mistake. Try to stay along the lines of one
of the General Strategies also. However, you might want to be a little
careful on the Dream Mist strategies. If you get hit with a low C, it'll be
combo time, so watch out.
On special moves...
- (Slash) If she gets on the bird, just wait for her to get off. If you jump
at her, you're practically begging for a Kamui Mutsube. If you've got a lot
of courage, try TG'ing her off of it.
- If she does a Kamui Risse up close, all you can do is block, and hopefully
get in a quick retaliatory strike. This move has very little lag (like most
of her moves) so you'll need to hit her quickly.
- If she does an Annu Mutsube, block down and follow with a low A. If this
hits, combo into a Skylark Slice, then a low C.
- If she does a Leyla Mutsube, block down until she starts to rise, and then
up. Afterwards, quickly do a low C if you are close enough. Don't try to
run at her, the game won't let you (stupid lag trap). If you are too far
away, she will get away scot-free and there will be nothing you can do about
it.
- (Bust) At any time you see her get on the wolf and her POW meter is full,
you must assume that she is about to perform her Power Special. As soon as
you spot this, throw an A Heat Flash and then run at her. If she does her
Power Special, she will get hit and then you can combo. If not, then no harm
done.
- (Slash) If she executes a Kamui Mutsube, block it. If you are in range after
your block, follow with a low A, then Skylark Slice, then low C. If not in
range for that, just try a low C. Sometimes you will be unfortunate enough
to be out of range for even that, and she will get off scot-free once again.
- (Slash) If Nak does an Amube Yatoro, you will be able to tell (Trust me.
She's got a big wind-up). Easiest thing to do is to run under it as soon as
you see her turn, and hit B. If you're POWed, do the Musouzankouka instead.
- (Bust) Her on-the-ground wolf-attack is extremely annoying after a Dream
Mist, due to the fact that Ukyo takes a little while to gloat while
resheathing after a successful Dream Mist. If you are almost dead against a
Bust Nak, try to refrain from doing a Dream Mist unless you think it will
kill her. However, most people either don't know about her on-the-ground
wolf attack or don't remember to do it.
*UG!* If you play upper grade, it is considerably harder to beat a Nak.
Above all, try to stay away from the opponent so that you are ready for
any surprise Annu Mutsubes. Also, since you can't block, you will be
unable to do most of the move counters as described above. However, in
the event of a missed Leyla Mutsube, or any lag from far away, a
Musouzankouka will most likely reach in time.
Rimururu
--------
Despite popular outcry, Rimmy's have turned out to try to be the SubZeroes of
SS3. They generally throw muchas popsicles, and try to do their low C as much
as possible.
On special moves...
- If she executes the Power Special, run at her and jump with C over the rock
she dumps. Gets her every time.
- Rimmy's cure for the Heat Flash is that icy wall she casts. It reflects back
the projectile. If you notice that your opponent is beginning to do this,
throw a Heat Flash anyways, run after it, and jump when you see her cast the
wall, and then do a TG (if you don't TG, you might get hit by the wall).
*UG!* There has been a recent development of unethical Rimmy players around
here, ie. they don't really care that UGraders can't block. They try to
freeze the ground while you get up and cream you. Luckily for us, the
frozen ground trick has a little delay before you get dazed (I guess it
takes a little time for the pain in your feet to register), delay enough
to pull a Musouzankouka and hit her before the daze goes into effect if
you are close enough. If you see that Rimmy is doing this, while you're
down, roll forward, and do the Musouzankouka upon getting up. A friend
suggests, upon getting up, madly shaking the joystick back and forth and
pressing CD a lot, which seems to get the desired effect, minus some
style.
Galford
-------
At any time Galford runs at you, you must assume it will be an SPD. If you
can get it off quick enough, do a Heat Flash. Otherwise, try to dodge and
then do an A slash, or, to be safe, just sidestep him.
Another thing to note is that Galford can pull the dazed log trick to get out
of a Musouzankouka. Just so that you aren't taken by surprise if and when
this happens, you are invulnerable while the screen is still blue from the
move. However, all that wondrous damage will not be inflicted on Galford
(sigh). Note: the time it takes before the screen returns to normal is random
(or so it seems). Sometimes it stops right after the vanish, and sometimes it
lasts until he end of the round.
If Galford does his Windsplitter (splits into two), move to one side of the
screen and throw a Heat Flash. Easiest way to avoid being SPD'd.
Note about Galford players: if they jump straight up in front of you, I can
almost guarantee that they will try to slash you. Perform a Dream Mist.
*UG!* Most Galford players believe that upper graders can't deal with Replica
attacks (the air drop). Little do they know that from a missed air drop,
Galford has a short lag time. So, if you see them disappear, wait a bit,
then dodge as they are about to hit you, and quickly do a B then a
Musouzankouka.
*UG!* If Galford performs a Shadow Copy (splits into two), move directly to
the middle of the spin and perform a Musouzankouka about a half second
before the images are about to materialize. While the images are
setting, Galford is vulnerable and a Musouzankouka will find the right
image and hit him out of the move.
Slash: General thing that Slash Galfords do is use the Rolling Crush throw a
lot. Also, Galford can cancel a low C slash with a dog air drop, and
then follow with another low C. Obvious problem with this is that if
you want to block the dog drop, the low C will hit you! Be prepared to
dodge this tactic and to avoid getting in close so as not to get
thrown.
Bust: Bust Galford is quite possibly one of the most powerful characters in
the game. His Lightning Kick (and Power Special) can be comboed from
any B slash he puts out, at any range. Also, his Lightning Slash does
wonderful damage and makes for great air defense (and anti-UG!!!).
Fortunately, his SPD is considerably less painful in comparison to the
other Galford or either Hanzo.
Hanzo
-----
Very similar to playing against Galford, but Hanzo doesn't have that nifty
Lightning Kick, so you don't really have to worry about being comboed out of
a B slash. You can be less careful about doing Dream Mists. Try to stay away
and send out LOTS of Heat Flashes. If you do get close, stop throwing Heat
Flashes as Hanzo's fire slinky thingy does more damage and sometimes can hop
over your Heat Flash. One key is that Hanzos tend to do more air C's than
Galfords. Take advantage of this fact with some Dream Mists after a thrown
Heat Flash.
At any time Hanzo runs at you, you must assume it will be an SPD. If you
can get it off quick enough, do a Heat Flash. Otherwise, try to dodge and
then do an A slash, or, to be safe, just sidestep him.
If Hanzo does his Windsplitter (splits into two), move to one side of the
screen and throw a Heat Flash. Easiest way to avoid being SPD'd.
Note about Hanzo players: if they jump straight up in front of you, I can
almost guarantee that they will try to slash you. Perform a Dream Mist.
*UG!* Your worst nightmare will be Hanzo's fire slinky. It's slow and comes
back by itself; perfect for cornering upper graders while they are down.
Hope that you are not hit by this move. One way to avoid it is to hop
back each time you see it coming. After the slinky disappears, you must
try to get back to the middle of the field; if you are cornered it will
be very difficult to dodge and you can't hop back. One way of doing this
is to throw a Heat Flash immediately after your hop, and then run after
it. If you are somehow cornered and Hanzo starts chucking slinkies at
you while you are down, roll forward (past the slinky) and dodge upon
getting up if you need to.
*UG!* If Hanzo performs a Shadow Splitter (splits into two), move directly to
the middle of the spin and perform a Musouzankouka about a half second
before the images are about to materialize. While the images are
setting, Hanzo is vulnerable and a Musouzankouka will find the right
image and hit him out of the move.
Bust: Hanzo's multiple disappearing tricks are really annoying, mainly
due to the fact that he can appear below or above you. If you can
confidence in your reflexes, here is the way to tell the difference:
if the screen pans out, he's coming from up top. If not, continue to
block down. Otherwise, you can just jump and hold back to air block.
That way, he'll just miss if you if he's from the ground and you'll
block him from the air. However, you will not be able to retaliate
this way.
If Hanzo is POWed, you must try to be blocking up at all times. Even
if he runs at you and you think he'll do a running B (low), let him.
It does considerably less damage than his Power Special. To avoid
such a dilemma, just try to stay far from him while he is POWed or
dodge.
Slash: If Hanzo is POWed, try to maintain about a 3 inch distance from him.
That way, if he does his Power Special, you can immediately throw a
Heat Flash without getting hit by his Power Special.
Slash Hanzo can also pull the dazed log trick to get out of a
Musouzankouka. Just so that you aren't taken by surprise if and when
this happens, you are invulnerable while the screen is still blue
from the move. However, all that wondrous damage will not be
inflicted on Hanzo (sigh). Note: the time it takes before the screen
returns to normal is random (or so it seems). Sometimes it stops
right after the vanish, and sometimes it lasts until he end of the
round.
Kyoshiro
--------
Finally! Some people here play Kyoshiro now! Welp, Kyoshiro has developed into
some sort of a Charlotte, with lots o' poking (due to some MASSIVE range).
Smart Kyoshiros have learned from getting DM's by me so much to use ducking B
(which is EXTREMELY annoying, and effective). These smart Kyoshiros tend to
really kick my butt, until I get behind them and do a BHFLC combo (see Combos)
and get them dizzy. To date I haven't really found a specific strategy to
beating them, as Kyoshiros are still rare. Some hints for medium graders,
however, who will fare much better than I would (what with me refusing to
block): If playing against a Slash Kyo, which you probably will, block down!!!
The frog thingy that grabs you with its tongue hits low, comes out quick (past
reaction time), and does great damage! Watch out for it.
*UG!* Like Shizumaru, Kyoshiro has some lag (not as much as Shiz, but still
some) after a connected jump slash. You can try to do a Musouzankouka
before he lands.
Genjuro
-------
Genjuros are similar to Haohmarus in that they have powerful C slashes with
major lag time. Stick to a General Strategy or a Dream Mist strategy.
On special moves...
- (Slash) Seems that EVERYONE knows how to do Slash Genj's five hit dash with
CbBbC. This means that this move must be blocked forwards. Block it forwards
and retaliate. It Genj begins to get smarter and starts to go with an A
dash, just start sidestepping the dashes (don't dodge, as you'll get hit on
the return slash).
- (Bust) Bust Genjuros seem to love that new card toss that comes down from
the air after it's blocked, and they use it as a safety device for jumping
in on you. If you have confidence in your timing, block the initial card
toss, dodge the dropped one, and then do a Dream Mist. Otherwise, just block
everything. If you get annoyed with the ticking damage, just run forward
after the first block, or dodge the initial card altogether.
*UG!* Genjuro is another dodge-and-strike target. Dodge his big C and follow
with some retaliation, especially the Musouzankouka.
*UG!* If Genjuro does his delayed slash close to you, he is an open target for
a Musouzankouka.
Gaira
-----
Slash: This guy is the ultimate turtle, since he has three block-cancel moves
(the Nag Blast, leg grab, and up grab). Most Slash Gairas will try to
close in, back you into a corner, if you jump, they'll up grab you,
and if you slash, they'll either Nag Blast you or leg grab you.
However, as is the case with most turtlers, you can always run up to
him and guard crush him. Since he will try to get you in the corner,
do a pulling guard crush into the corner, and then do a 100% combo
(see Combos). That'll teach them!
Bust: Bust is much more offensive than Slash, due to his two active grabs
(one where he jumps, grabs you, and twirls you with his beads,
another where he just grabs you from the ground and twirls you).
Basically, whether or not you are playing upper grade, you will need
to dodge a lot. Dodging a lot leads to sidestepping occasionally.
Sidestepping leads to BHF.. combos. End of story. A minor note here
is that Bust also has the Nag Blast.
Basara
------
Try to block down as much as you can against Basaras. Basara's low B can hit
up to 3 times, and it is a pain is the butt to get in close on a good Basara.
Also, he has excellent air defense, so it is best to get him to come to you
instead of you go to him. Throw lots of Heat Flashes and force him to come to
you. Another thing is that Basara has that move where his feet glow and he
steps on your head. This cannot be turned by a Dream Mist, so if it looks like
he can connect one, don't do a Dream Mist.
On special moves...
*UG!* Both his Power Specials can be hit by a Heat Flash. If he is POWed, as
soon as you see him hop back, you must assume it will be his Power
Special. Throw an A Heat Flash immediately. If you don't have time,
dodge it (or jump straight up) and follow with a Musouzankouka.
Amakusa
-------
Amazingly enough, Amakusa is an extremely difficult character to beat if your
opponent knows how to play him. He has the strongest normal slash in the game
(standing/crouching far C) and the most powerful kicks. Also, his yo-yo has
excellent priority in that it is almost impossible to hit him out of a slash
(due to the fact that he doesn't actually hold the yo-yo when he slashes).
However, Amakusa seems to be helpless when you get into about A range. At A
range, his crouching C just tosses the yo-yo upwards, his slashes do less
damage, and since most his special moves have long initiation times and are
aimed for long range, they are rendered useless. Key is to try to avoid his
kicks at this range, but otherwise, he is pretty much at your mercy until he
can get out of this range. Also, I have only connected a Dream Mist on two of
Amakusa's moves (not his more popular slashes, though), so it may be a good
idea to pack away the Dream Mist when playing against an Amakusa.
On special moves...
- If Amakusa does a Dark Destroyer (jumps into air and turns into a flaming
ball), immediately jump at him and do a TG. It'll hit him out of the
air almost all the time.
Zankuro
-------
Good luck against Zankuro. None of the Dream Mist strategies that involve
turning jump slashes work on him because none of Zankuro's jump slashes can
be turned by a Dream Mist (Argh!). Also, I'm not sure if it's possible to do a
BHFLC combo on him (double ARGH!). The best way to beat Zankuro players is to
throw many Heat Flashes and use jump/air block/retaliate in the air tactics.
On special moves...
- When Zankuro is POWed, try to stay a healthy distance away so that when he
does his Power Special you are not affected by his big step (it shakes the
ground so that even if you block, if you are close enough he will hit you).
When he performs his Power Special and you are unaffected by his step, throw
a Heat Flash and run after it, then do some stuff (preferably a B).
- On his projectile: don't get hit by it.
*UG!* Whew! Zankuro is a dodging clinic. If you can beat Zankuro at UG, and
perfect him, you probably will have mastered dodging. Do this all match:
Get in close, dodge, B->Musouzankouka. Once again, good luck on this.
==============================================================================
vs. CPU strategies
==============================================================================
Sorry, but since I play Bust Ukyo exclusively on upper grade, I do it against
the CPU also. However, I have beaten the CPU many times with upper grade, and
actually think it might be easier than playing medium grade.
Major key to playing upper grade against the CPU is that if the computer is
weaponless and happens to be standing right on top of the weapon, it will
always get it back. Remember that you are vulnerable when you pick up a
weapon? Remember that a Musouzankouka knocks the opponent's weapon out of
their hands? Big hint.
Haohmaru:
Walk up to him before the round begins. Throughout the match, try to do a
crossover air B into the BHFLC combo. B->Musouzankouka as much as
possible.
Shizumaru:
Same as Haohmaru.
Ukyo:
Back Ukyo into the corner before the round begins. When the round starts,
sidestep around him and do a BHFLC combo. Repeat.
Nakoruru:
Same as Haohmaru.
Rimururu:
Same as Haohmaru.
Galford:
Back Galford into the corner before the round begins. When the round
starts, jump at him with B and try to cross over. If at any time Galford
does an air drop, dodge and B->Musouzankouka or low C. Do NOT try to
sidestep Galford at any time! If you do, Galford will low C you.
Hanzo:
Same as Galford.
Kyoshiro:
Same as Ukyo.
Genjuro:
Same as Ukyo.
Gaira:
Same as Ukyo. Can also try B crossovers a la vs. Haohmaru.
Basara:
Back Basara into the corner and do a B->Skylark->low C combo. Or do a
B->Musouzankouka combo. Repeat to leisure. Reason I don't say same as
Haohmaru is because crossover B slashes usually don't hit Basara; he's
just too skinny.
Amakusa:
Same as Ukyo (getting pretty boring, isn't it?)
Zankuro:
Good luck. Back Zankuro into he corner before the round begins. Try to get
in close and dodge intermittently. If he does a frontal heavy slash and
you manage to dodge it, do a B->Musouzankouka. If you happen to sidestep
him, do a low C instead (you can't combo Zankuro from behind). If you get
him in the corner and hit him with a close B, do a Skylark->low C instead
of the Musouzankouka (it will dizzy).
==============================================================================
Notes After The Fact
==============================================================================
Whew! After such work in college, I have finally found the time to send out
another update for this Bust Ukyo guide! Took long enough.
Other Ukyo sources: If I can't help you on an Ukyo topic, talk to either...
Scott Fujimoto (SFUJIMOTO@DELPHI.COM),
Anthony "Master" Cho (achau@usc.edu),
or Peter "Master" Young (fayhung@ix.netcom.com)
I am sure they are as happy to ramble about Ukyo as I am when I have
spare time.
Ukyo pages: I only know of two WWW pages devoted to Ukyo. They are...
http://www4.NCSU.EDU/eos/users/j/jzyang/www/ukyo.html
http://leonardo.gprep.pvt.k12.md.us/~mehdim/ukyo.html
Also, for more Ukyo info, contact Scott Fujimoto. He wrote the SS1 Ukyo guide,
and has a lot of character background info.
Once again, if you see any errors (spelling, poor grammar, incorrectness,
etc.), please mail me about it!
Until next time...
==============================================================================
Jeff.
JefLeung@cory.EECS.Berkeley.EDU
-- Diplomacy is the art of saying "nice doggy" until you can find a rock.