CHARLIE Guide version 2.0
X-MEN VS. STREET FIGHTER (ARCADE)
By John "CUL" Culbert (
[email protected])
INTRODUCTION:
IMO Capcom's coolest game, XMENVsSF combines favs from the X-Men universe
with with everyone's favorite Street Fighters (except Sagat :( ). This
awesome game combines the combo system of Marvel Super Heroes and the speed
(and feel, really) of Street Fighter Alpha 2. In addition to the various new
aspects of gameplay is playing in a tag-team fashion; you choose 2 players
and can switch between them during battle, and even gang up on opponents!
Now, if only our arcade would bring the price down from 3 tokens... :(
Ever since SFA1, I've liked Charlie, even though he was considered the
outcast of the game, being too defensively geared. However, it worked out OK
for me, and now in X-Men Vs. Street Fighter, he's better than ever! His style
of play is still quite different from most of the other characters, but with
practice he is definetely in the top tier.
VERSION UPDATES:
----------------
-Variable Counter added and explained
-Changed Charlie's Ground MS to "Weaker -> Stronger" (and changed all
corresponding mistakes, eg. combos)
-MORE COMBOS!
-Height/Weight/Width lists fixed
-STUPID typos fixed (gotta proof read more often!)
-Vs. Section added
*******
LEGEND: BUTTONS
*******
.-------------Jab
JOYSTICK | .-----------Strong
| | .---------Fierce
U/B U U/F | | |
\|/ | | |
B--o--F | | |
/|\ O O O
D/B D D/F O O O
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | ----------Roundhouse
| ------------Forward
-------------Short
QCT = Quarter Circle Toward (roll the joystick from D to F)
QCB = Quarter Circle Back (roll the joystick from D to B)
HCT = Half Circle Toward (roll the joystick from B to D to F)
HCB = Half Circle Back (roll the joystick from F to D to B)
+ = enter commands simultainiously
(A) = indicates it can be done in air
(AIR)= MUST be done in air
OS = Overhead Strike--CANNOT be blocked low
MS = Magic Series
MSH = Marvel Super Heroes
SBB = Super Berserker Barrage (Wolverine's move)
BB = Berserker Barrage (Wolverine's move)
OTG = Off the Ground
FS = Flying Screen
J. = Jumping
CU. = Cross-up (jump behind opponent and hit back of neck with attack)
SJ. = Super Jumping
S. = Standing
C. = Crouching
FL. = Flying
AD. = Air Dashing
XX = Buffer/Cancel into following move
-> = indicates Magic Series cancelling
SFA2 = Street Fighter Alpha II
DP = Dragon Punch or similiar joystick motion (F, D, D/F)
HK = Hurricane Kick or similiar joystick motion (QCB)
FB = Fireball
SC = Super Combo
FK = Flash Kick or similiar joystick motion (charge D, U)
SB = Sonic Boom or similiar joystick motion (charge B, F)
YF = Yoga Flame or similiar joystick motion (HCT)
SBK = Spinning Bird Kick
SPD = Spinning Pileriver or similiar motion (roll 360 degrees)
***************
A WORD ABOUT...
***************
SUPER METER:
>>>>>>>>>>>>
This is a Meter located at the bottom of the screen; and as you perform
moves or hit opponents (performing Special Moves fills it the fastest), it
will fill up. Once it is full, a one will appear beside it. This means you
have one Super Level, allowing Charlie to perform a Super Combo. It can
continue to be filled to at least L3 (not sure if it goes higher).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUPER COMBO:
>>>>>>>>>>>>
This is a devastating move that can only be performed when at least one level
of Charlie's Super Meter is full. Once activated, the screen will grow
dark for a moment as Charlie gathers his energy; they will then perform the
move. Note that all animation, except Charlie's "gathering" of energy, is
halted during the dark screen, so your opponent cannot move, i.e. if the
enemy is standing right in front of you and you pull off the SC, they cannot
avoid it.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
VARIABLE SUPER:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
This is a totally devastating team-up move done with a QCT+Fierce+Roundhouse.
When activated, your current character will begin their Super, then the other
partner will jump in and begin theirs! The first character will jump out when
done and the character that was out at first will now be playing. A Variable
Super can only be done with a Level 2 or higher Super Meter.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
VARIABLE ATTACK:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
To switch to your partner, tap Fierce+Roundhouse. Your current character will
go into a stance and say some sort of taunt or whatever--DURING THIS TIME
YOUR CURRENT CHARACTER IS INVULNERABLE. Just as that fighter jumps off the
screen, your partner will come on with a jumping attack that will knock the
opponent away; they will then perform an opening taunt--DURING THIS TIME
THE TAUNTING CHARACTER IS _NOT_ INVULNERABLE. This is very important, as you
want to make absolutely sure that jumping attack will not be blocked or
avoided, otherwise your left wide open during the opening taunt. Therefore,
it is ideal to switch characters only when the enemy gives you the
opportunity to hit them with the jumping attack (eg. after blocking a slow
recovering move, or they miss a slow move). BTW, when your partner is "idle",
they slowly regain health.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
PUSH AWAYS:
>>>>>>>>>>>
Thanks to our constant whining and bitching, Capcom finally got rid of them
stupid Alpha Counters, and now we have Push Aways; when you block an enemy's
attack, quickly tap all three punches (before your fighter finished their
blocking animation) and Charlie will shove his foe away from him. This
takes NO energy from the Super Meter, nor does it do any damage. It does
however help put some distance away from overly offensive opponents.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
VARIABLE COUNTER:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
After blocking an attack, perform a roll from B to D and hit
Fierce+Roundhouse during your characters blocking animation--your partner
will jump in and attack the enemy with one of their moves; they will also
remain to continue the fight. See the Moves Analysis for more info on
Charlie's VC. The Variable Counter uses 1 level of the Super Meter.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUPER JUMPING:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Super Jumps cause Charlie to jump very high into the air; to perform a
Super Jump, quickly tap D before jumping, or hit all three kicks.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
THROWS:
>>>>>>>
To perform a Throw, hold towards or away from the opponent and hit Fierce or
Strong up close. To perform Charlie's Air Throw, hold F or B and hit
Fierce or Strong up close IN MID-AIR. Charlie can also perform Throws with
Forward and Roundhouse.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
TECH HITS:
>>>>>>>>>>
Tech hits allow Charlie to recover from Throws done to him. To tech hit a
Throw, perform the motion for one of your own Throws just as they Throw; this
will lessen the damage to you.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
DASHING:
>>>>>>>>
To perform a dash forward, tap forward twice. To perform a retreating dash,
tap back twice. Dashing is an important part of a lot of combos (see combo
system).
Alternately, you can also perform a dash by hitting all three punches
simultainously. To dash back, hold B while hitting the punches. All
characters can interrupt their forward dash with any move, including a
backward dash.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
TAUNT:
>>>>>>
To taunt or tease your opponent, press Start. Note that taunts cannot be
stopped, and Charlie will be totally vulnerable, so choose where to do it
wisely.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAFETY ROLL:
>>>>>>>>>>>>
After being knocked down, it is possible to roll in recovery to standing.
This does not lessen the damage of the knockdown, but it allows you to avoid
an opponent's attempted ground attack or possible OTG combo, and you can also
roll behind them and perhaps surprise them. To get a Safety Roll, perform a
complete motion from B to D and hit any punch. Note that if the move you're
hit with executes the Flying Screen phenomenon, you cannot Safety Roll.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIZZYING:
>>>>>>>>>
When a fighter is hit many times in a row with powerful moves in a short
time (it doesn't have to be a combo) they will eventually dizzy; after a
certain point the character will bounce up then stand to be dizzy. At this
point is the opponent's chance to do an attack or combo that the dizzy
character will have no defense against. When Charlie is dizzy, shake the
Joystick repeatedly and hit the buttons rapidly to regain control faster.
#############################################################################
**************************
THE XMENVsSF COMBO SYSTEM:
**************************
(FINALLY CORRECT)
NOTE: in some cases, Charlie's specific combo system is explained in further
detail in the combo section later on.
MAGIC SERIES:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>
This is the name given to Capcom's version of a chain combo system.
X-MEN: CotA, MSH and now XMENVsSF have adapted Street Fighter's original
combo system so that there is a way to cancel normal attacks into other
normal attacks as well as normal--> Special Attacks. Each fighter has his or
her own Magic Series that follows a distinct pattern. Note that you can skip
any of the steps in the series, but you cannot go backwards. Charlie's Ground
MS is the "Stronger to Weaker", meaning Charlie can cancel any attack into
one of greater strength.
The rules for the Ground Magic Series are that you can input crouching or
standing attacks following the series (for example, Charlie can cancel a
S.Jab into a S.Roundhouse, or C.Roundhouse). Note that you cannot go
backwards in a Magic Series (eg. Jab -> Forward -> Jab). Also note that you
can cancel into any of Charlie's various directional moves. These are F or
B+Forward, F or B+Roundhouse and F+Fierce (see moves). Note that these 3
attacks cannot be cancelled into anything else however, i.e. the F or
B+Forward cannot be cancelled into a Fierce or Roundhouse, and F+Fierce can't
be cancelled into a Roundhouse.
You can perform a Magic Series while jumping as well. This is great for
starting jump-in combos, allowing you to get in more hits as you jump in at
the enemy before continuing a combo on the ground--Charlie's Jumping MS is
"Zig-Zag":
Jab -> Short -> Strong -> Forward -> Fierce -> Roundhouse
As well, MS combos can be done during a SUPER jump, again following the
Zig-Zag Magic Series described above.
Like the other two version of the Magic Series, it allows you to do any
version of one button. See Air Combos for more info.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
AIR COMBOS:
>>>>>>>>>>>
These, put in loose terms, are juggles. But, the exception laid down is that
they must be done as you jump in the air. So, to do an air combo by
definition, you must knock the enemy up into the air with a launcher (eg.
Charlie's C.Fierce), or use the other two setups (see below), then follow
them up and perform an air combo before either of you land. BOTH fighters
must be in the air for an Air Combo to register (for example, launching the
opponent with Charlie's C.Fierce then juggling quickly with a Somersault Kick
will not count as an Air Combo, even if the Kick connected against an airborn
enemy).
There are three different ways for Charlie to setup an enemy to perform a
true Air Combo:
-After knocking the enemy up with a launcher
-Super Jumping up and connecting the combo against a Super Jumping enemy
-Jumping up and connecting a combo against a jumping enemy or an enemy on
their way down from a Super Jump, or perhaps DP move...
As well, there are two different types of Air Combos: regular Jumping Air
Combos and Super Jumping Air Combos. Read on...
Setups:
*******
1. Launchers:
Launchers are by far the most effective way of setting the opponent up for an
air combo, as they throw the enemy straight up in the air. Note that the
enemy recovers on their way DOWN and can then air block everything (except if
launched by a Throw, like Charlie's Fierce Throw), so you must follow your
opponent UP after a Launcher and hit them before they reach the apex of their
flight.
Now, in order to successfully follow up a Launcher, you must cancel the
Launcher with a Super Jump, i.e. hit the enemy with the Launcher, then
before its animation is complete, simply tap U and the Super Jump comes out
automatically.
2. Super Jumping:
You can Air Combo any Super Jumping enemy simply by following them up with
your own Super Jump and nailing them as you go. This is not as precise as a
Launcher because you must be a close distance to the enemy with your Super
Jump, so some hits that connect after Launchers may not do so during a
Super Jump.
3. Regular Jumping:
Use this when the enemy does a regular jump towards you; jump up to meet
them and try and get in your hits first. Also an ideal counter if the enemy
misses a DP move (eg. Wolverine's Tornado Claw).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Types:
>>>>>>
Super Jumping Air Combos:
Something unique to this game exists only in Super Jumping Air Combos; the
ability to bring out a "combo finisher" similiar in fashion to Killer
Instinct. In X-Men Vs. Street Fighter, the combo system of Super Jumping is
highly customized because for every character the combo finishers are simply
done by chaining in a Fierce or Roundhouse at the end of that series. Note
that you can only perform this Finisher if you do not start the air combo
with the Fierce or Roundhouse (otherwise that will finish the combo right
there) The finishers are pretty cool and allow you to knock the enemy away
and the camera will follow them to the ground. After they land, you'll jump
back into the screen from the side (some finishers will also knock the enemy
straight down towards the ground, but the same properties apply). This is
known as the "Flying Screen" phenomenon, which I will explain later.
Regular Jumping Air Combos:
The only difference between these and Super Jumping Air Combos is that there
is no special finisher. This will allow you to use the entire combo series
if you wish. You can still cancel into a Special Move. So, if you and your
opponent are both in regular jumps at each other, it is possible in theory
to hit them with an entire 6 hit Zig-Zag series with any character that has
the full Zig-Zag Regular Jumping MS (eg. Magneto, or Charlie), and then even
cancel with a Special Move (eg. Somersault Slash)!
Normal Move/Special Move Cancellation Combos:
Ah, the classics. Remember the good ol' Fierce Punch cancelled into a
Dragon Punch with Ken and Ryu? Well, Capcom's given us much more
possibilities, because ANY normal move can now be cancelled into a Special
Move. This allows A LOT of freedom for combos, and these combos are usually
very easy pull off. Also note that "any" normal move also includes mid-air
moves cancelled into Air Special Moves (eg. Somersault Slash), which is what
allows Air Magic Series combos to cancel into Special Moves.
Dashing Combos:
Dashing before entering a combination allows for more hits. This is because
it gives more momentum after your first hit, so it won't push you as far away
from the enemy, allowing you to get in more hits. For example, Wolverine can
perform a S.Jab -> S.Short -> S.Strong -> S.Forward series on Juggernaut, and
perhaps even finish with a Berserker Barrage. But, if he performs the series
while dashing into Juggernaut, he can go into a S.Fierce to finish off the
series, or a S.Roundhouse followed by an air combo, whereas without the dash,
the series would have pushed the opponent too far away for the Fierce to
connect. This skill should be mastered, because it is best utilized after the
enemy misses a DP move like Ken's. As well, it is difficult but possible to
initiate a Dash Combo after a jump-in hit or even series. The key is to tap
F, F after you tap the button for your last hit plus the button you're going
to start the Dash Combo with. This must be timed correctly so that the last F
of the dash motion is tapped AS you plant your feet on the ground. For
example, with Magneto, to perform a J.Strong -> J.Forward -> J.Fierce,
D.S.Short -> S.Roundhouse XX Jab EM Disruptor, do all three hits of the Air
Combo, but AS you are tapping Fierce you should also do the first F of the
dash command; time it so that the first F comes out JUST as he finishes the
J.Fierce, then the second F should be done simultainiously with the S.Short
AS Magneto's feet hit the ground.
Off the Ground (OTG) Combos:
An Off the Ground (OTG) attack is an attack that hits a downed opponent,
and if doing an OTG combo, allows the attacker to continue into more hit.
Technically, an OTG combo is NOT a true combo. The definition of a combo from
way back in the SF2 days is--
"a series of attacks that, once the first hit has connected, the rest cannot
be defended against."
But, if the opponent is wary, he can perform a Safety Roll, which will avoid
OTG attacks. But if he doesn't, the combo number will continue to rise.
(NOTE: There is an exception to this rolling escape--see Flying Screen
Combos).
So, an OTG combo is a combo where you knock the enemy down, then combo them
OFF the floor as they land. To do this, you must hit the fallen enemy with a
low enough attack (eg. a sweep or perhaps slide). Now, no matter what move
you used, when an opponent is hit while on the ground, they are "bounced" a
VERY small ways into the air, then they fall again. During the time before
they land, they cannot block anything, so you can hit them with any attack
that will reach. If you want an easy example, perform a C.Forward with
Wolverine and cancel into a Berserker Barrage; the sweep will knock them
down, and the BB will hit the opponent just as they land.
One thing to remember is that rarely in this game to people stay on the
ground for very long, even if they aren't rolling. You MUST hit an opponent
OTG with a move that has significantly good recovery time; for example again
with Wolverine, the C.Forward is fast enough in recovery that Wolverine can
actually do this combo:
S.Jab -> S.Short -> S.Strong -> C.Forward, C.Short (OTG) -> S.Forward XX BB
The C.Forward recovers fast enough for Wolverine to continue into the C.Short
(provided they don't Safety Roll) and the rest of the combo.
On the other hand, a knockdown attack like Magneto's C.Roundhouse is far too
slow in recovery for him to hit the enemy OTG afterwards effectively.
BTW, to be fair, you cannot do two OTG combos in one combination. For
example, with Wolverine you cannot do a-
S.Jab -> S.Short -> S.Strong -> C.Forward, C.Short -> C.Forward, C.Short ->
C.Forward etc...
As this would effectively create two OTG combos in one. This of course would
make for infinite combos, because you could continuously OTG the opponent
after every time you do the C.Forward
Flying Screen (FS) Combos:
I will use James Chen's definition of the Flying Screen (FS):
"The Flying Screen is the phenomena that causes the screen to scroll VERY
quickly after certain moves hit the enemy. The view of the game follows
the enemy and the person doing the hit disappears from the screen. Once the
screen stops moving, the person who was hit will just lie there and the
other player will hop into the screen from the side."
(My Note: BTW, some FS attacks will knock the enemy straight into the ground
as opposed to off screen, like finishing a Super Jumping Air Combo with
Magneto's SJ.Fierce--it will send the enemy into the ground on the SAME
screen. Note that the same FS restrictions explained below still apply)
The FS happens after the following conditions:
-after performing a Super Jumping Air Combo "finisher" or Special Move
Finish.
-after performing the following moves: (this may be updated)
-Juggernaut's Juggernaut Punch
-Wolverine's Berserker Barrage (if all hits connect; same with the Super
Berserker Barrage SC)
-Magneto's Shockwave SC
-Ken's Shinryuken SC
Now, here's the catch--if your opponent is close or in the corner, there is
no way for the screen to scroll, because the border is there. So, when you
perform a move executing the FS phenomenon that knocks the enemy into a close
corner, they will hover against the corner for a moment, then fall to the
ground. As they land, you can easily perform an OTG combo (provided the move
recovers fast enough).
-Limitations
One good limitation is that the FS forbids the opponent from Safety Rolling
PERIOD, so OTG combos WILL become true combos in this case.
One thing against the comboer is that once you perform an OTG combo after the
FS, the game will not let you perform ANY Air Combos or Special Moves; for
example, with Wolverine if you perform a Berserker Barrage in the corner with
all hits, the enemy will hover briefly, then when they fall, you can hit them
OTG with a C.Short into S.Roundhouse. But, you CANNOT cancel the Roundhouse
with a Tornado Claw, nor can you follow them up with a Super Jump and Air
Combo!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHARACTER SIZE:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
In X-Men: CotA, there were three character sizes, with Sentinel, Colossus and
Juggernaut being large, Silver Samurai and Omega Red being mid, and everyone
else light. In MSH and now XMENVsSF, it is even more detailed, going by
height, width and weight. Height will determine how many hits you can get on
a jump-in combo (eg. you can easily get all 4 hits of Wolverine's Jumping
Magic Series on Juggernaut, but you can only get one or two on a little guy
like Wolverine). Width determines how many hits are possible in a dashing
combo (eg. on Juggernaut, Wolverine can get 5 hits in a dashing combo,
finishing with either Roundhouse or Fierce, but on a scrawny girl like Cammy
you would not get as much, maybe 3 hits). Weight determines wether or not a
few combos will work, usually because you cannot launch a fat dude like
Juggernaut as high as you can launch someone like Cammy. Here is a rough list
of character's dimensions, BUT NOT EXACT:
Width:
------
Juggernaut
Zangief
Bison
Sabretooth
Magneto
Charlie
Dhalsim
Akuma
Ryu
Ken
Cyclops
Gambit
Rogue
Wolverine
Storm
Chun Li
Cammy
Height:
-------
Juggernaut
Sabretooth
Magneto
Zangief
Gambit
Dhalsim
Bison
Charlie
Akuma
Ryu
Ken
Cyclops
Rogue
Storm
Chun Li
Wolverine
Cammy
Weight:
-------
Juggernaut
Zangief
Sabretooth
Bison
Magneto
Charlie
Akuma
Ryu
Ken
Cyclops
Gambit
Dhalsim
Wolverine
Storm
Rogue
Chun Li
Cammy
Combo Damage:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>
You may have noticed when performed some big huge, mutlihit combo that the
damage isn't so hot, even with an SC in there. This is because the game has
this weird damage system where the more hits you use, the weaker each hit
gets progressively, also applying to what type of hits. For example, you'll
notice with Charlie if you do a J.Fierce, S.Roundhouse XX Sonic Blade, the
damage is REALLY good. But, if you do:
J.Short -> J.Strong -> J.Roundhouse, S.Short -> S.Forward -> S.Roundhouse XX
Sonic Blade (in the corner on large opponents)
You'll get a large amount of hits (and lots of points), but you may notice
that it does around the same, or slightly less damage! So, you basically have
a choice--more damage or bigger, more spectacular combos for good points.
#############################################################################
Charlie:
>>>>>>>>
Starting Pose: takes off his glasses and puts them in his jacket
1st Color: yellow jacket
2nd Color: grey jacket
Taunt: writes his foe's name on his victim's list :)
Variable Attack Entrance: adjusts the sides of his jacket and grins
Variable Attack Exit: turns his back and waves his hand
Variable Super Move: Somersault Justice
Winning Pose 1- flips a hand and says "Too easy!"
Winning Pose 2- writes in his book and says "Hmph."
Moves List:
-----------
-Sonic Boom: charge B, F+any punch
-Somersault Kick: charge D, U+any kick
-Somersault Slash: U, U/F, F+any kick (AIR)
-Backfist: F+Fierce
-Hop Kick: F or B+Forward (OS)
-Lunging Front Kick: F or B+Roundhouse
-Backdrop: F or B+Strong or Fierce (close)
-Grab `n' Knee: F or B+Forward or Roundhouse (close)
-Backbreaker: F or B+Fierce (close) (AIR)
-SC 1; Sonic Blade: QCT+all three punches (tap for more hits)
-SC 2; Crossfire Blitz: QCT+all three kicks
-SC 3; Somersault Justice: QCB+all three kicks
-Launchers: C.Fierce
-Knockdowns: C.Roundhouse
-VARIABLE COUNTER: Roundhouse Somersault Kick
REGULAR MOVES ANALYSIS:
***********************
Jab- Both standing and crouching give high and low jabs respectively. No big
deal, other than in combos. S.Jab is okay as a tick. J.Jab is also no
big deal, except in air combos. All Jabs are fast and cannot be easily
countered if blocked.
Strong- Both standing and crouching are no big deal except that they are the
easiest single hits to use in combos. The S.Strong is a fair air
counter. J.Strong is also nothing special unless in a SJ.MS.
Fierce- S.Fierce is a big straight punch, but don't use it too often as its
speed and recovery is slow, and it can be ducked. Good in combos,
though. C.Fierce is Charlie's only launcher, and launches nice and
clean. Also a fast air counter if you don't have a Somersault Kick
charged (or a Somersault Justice available).
Short- S.Short is a quick standing kick and C.Short gives a quick low kick.
both fairly decent as ticks and great in combos. These have slightly
more range than the Jabs, so are your better choice from a few steps,
and use the Jabs right up close. J.Short is no big deal except in air
combos.
Forward- S.Forward is a standing kick, and C.Forward is a low kick. The
standing version is best in combos, and the C.Forward is a GREAT
move for Charlie--it comes out really fast and is difficult to
counter, so use it frequently up close--it can also be cancelled
fairly easily from this position with any of Charlie's moves.
J.Forward is a straight kick, decent in air-to-air combat.
Roundhouse- S.Roundhouse is a big high roundhouse, and crouching is a low
sweep, Charlie's only knockdown. The S.Roundhouse is decent as an
air counter and great in combos, but it can be ducked by most, so
be wary. The C.Roundhouse is fairly fast, but can be taken out by
most high-priority moves--use with caution. J.Roundhouse will
give you a GREAT Jump Kick, his best single jump-in.
#############################################################################
MOVES ANALYSIS:
***************
-Sonic Boom-
(Charlie pulls one arm back, exclaims "Sonic Boom!" and whips his powerful
arm through the air so fast it breaks the sound barrier and a sonic boom
is generated, which flies across the screen)
Still one of the best projectile attacks in the game. Not only does it allow
him to stay defensive while charging it, but it also has almost instantanious
recovery, so fast that he can sometimes even block attempted SCs through the
SB! An awesome attack in combos and for various keep-away and setup
techniques (see tactics and combos).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Somersault Kick-
(Charlie exclaims "Somersault!" and flips upward creating an arc of energy
with his feet, followed by a diagonally-upward directed wave)
A very improved attack since SFA. He now goes at a more diagonal vector, and
he also produces a small projectile which travels upward into the corner at
the top of the screen. This ensures a definite hit if the Somersault itself
connects, as this wave will follow the opponent into the corner for the last
hit. Unlike before, all versions of the Somersault Kick work well as air
counters, even the Roundhouse, as it will push them quite far away if air
blocked (just be wary if they have a Super charged, which may still hit you
instantly as you land). Great in combos if you have it charged.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Somerault Slash-
(Charlie performs a forward flip in the air, creating an arc of energy with
his feet)
His new move is an excellent air-to-air weapon with great priority over any
normal jumping move. It can also be used in air combos. Other than that,
nothing special.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Backfist-
(Charlie spins around and brings the back of his fist to the side of the
opponent's head)
Its only real advantage is range, though it can be cancelled with a Special
Move FAST (since it is a forward motion you also cannot cancel it with a SB
or Somersault Kick--only an SC will work). It comes out and recovers OK, but
can be ducked by most characters. Use as a mid-range move if you see them
about to come out with one of theirs; for example, if you see Ryu draw back
for a FB and you are walking forward, whip out the Backfist (if you were
defensive, a Sonic Boom may be a better choice.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Hop Kick-
(Charlie hops forward with a half-roundhouse to the mid-section)
This is an Overhead Strike, meaning that it cannot be blocked low. It has
decent recovery if blocked (high), and is best used mixed up in your up-close
game--you can also charge for your SB during it, and unleash it to surprise
them if they block, or even if it hits. Because it is an OS, it also takes
excellent priority over low moves, especially slides...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Lunging Front Kick-
(Charlie lunges forward with a mid-level front kick)
This is NOT an OS, and has slightly better speed and recovery than the Hop
Kick, as well as slightly better range. The Backfist has a longer range, but
the Lunging Front Kick will hit crouching opponents--mix it up in your mid-
range game and remember to always do it with a B+Roundhouse so you can charge
a SB.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Backdrop-
(Charlie grabs the enemy around the waist, hoists them overhead and makes a
bridge to slam them to the ground behind them)
After they hit the ground they will bounce upward. ALWAYS charge D during
this so you can at least juggle with a Somersault Kick. Otherwise, have
something big ready in the corner--if you're slightly out of the corner, an
SC works nicely, or you can dash in.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Grab `n' Knee-
(Charlie grabs the opponent and kness them repeatedly, then knocks them
upward)
Also a great setup for a juggle in the corner...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Backbreaker-
(Charlie grabs a mid-air opponent and drops to the ground, breaking their
back over his shoulder)
Damn, do I love this move! In all the other Street Fighter games, even back
with Guile, this was my favorite move against over-jumpy opponents--it takes
great priority over regular air attacks if you're close enough, but here's
the best part: the enemy drops RIGHT in front of Charlie after the Throw, no
bounce, no knock away! This makes it VERY easy to OTG afterwards, and you
don't even need to be in the corner!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Sonic Blade-
(Charlie throws multiple discs of sonic energy at the opponent)
A VERY improved attacks since SFA/SFA2. Sure it can be air blocked, but it
now comes out a little faster than his old SC, and is GREAT for dealing with
any move from about mid-distance (especially projectiles). It is also very
wide on screen, so jumping it without at least taking block damage is very
difficult, and it cannot be ducked by any character. His recovery is almost
as good as with the regular SB, but if they manage to get over you when you
throw the SC (i.e. Super Jump, air dash), Charlie can be hit. The Sonic Blade
will give 9 hits, or 15 if you tap punch repeatedly.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Crossfire Blitz-
(Charlie dashes forward, and if he connects he goes into a big auto-combo)
Ala Wolverine's Weapon X, this SC is now just a dash, and will only go into
the combo if Charlie connects. However unlike Logan this does NOT have the
amazing priority over everything (I'm pretty sure it doesn't even go through
projectiles), and it can be taken out fairly easily with a sweep or pretty
much any other SC (VERY dangerous against Ryu, who can suck you in with his
Vacuum Hurricane!). It is NOT as fast as Wolverine's Weapon X, but it is
still pretty fast, so use it mainly to surprise foes, and other than that
only in combos, or when they miss a slow-recovering move (or, because of its
speed, it can take out a lot of moves at the beginnning of their animation,
like most of Juggernaut's attacks; it can also work if you are FAIRLY CLOSE
and see the enemy draw back for a projectile). The Crossfire Blitz will give
10 hits.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Somersault Justice-
(Charlie performs repeated Somersault Kicks)
Charlie's best SC. It is an EXCELLENT air counter buffered into the
opponent's jumping attack, and will take priority over ANY ground attack
short of another SC, especially low attacks. Also good in combos. Of course
if blocked or missed you're spam. IF they AIR block it, it will usually push
them away far enough not to counter (except with some SCs, maybe.) The
Somersault Justice gives you 12 hits.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-VARIABLE COUNTER: Roundhouse Somersault Kick-
See tactics for more info.
#############################################################################
COMBOS:
*******
Notes:
------
Super Jumping: Charlie's air combo once started is smooth and easy. Note
however that you MUST start hitting them with the SJ.Jab the
INSTANT you Super Jump, otherwise you'll hit them with the Jab
and go sailing past them anyways. NOTE: Super Jump up and
SLIGHTLY forward, as the launcher doesn't put them up
perfectly vertical.
Air Combo Finish: Both Charlie's SJ.Fierce and SJ.Roundhouse are finishers.
Because of the angle of the SJ.Fierce, you cannot chain
into a SJ.Roundhouse and catch them during the FS.
Sonic Boom Recovery: Because Charlie's recovery on the SB is so good, you can
follow into a combo under the right circumstances.
COMBOS:
-------
1. J.Fierce, S.Jab -> S.Strong -> S.Fierce XX Fierce Sonic Boom
Comments: easy all-around combo, remember to start holding back as you land
from the Jump-in to charge for the SB. 5 hits.
2. J.Roundhouse, C.Short -> C.Forward -> C.Roundhouse
Comments: basic and easy knock-down chain--you may have to skip the C.Forward
against small fighters. 4 hits.
3. (corner) Fierce Throw, Roundhouse Somersault Kick
Comments: although you can do more, this is a simple way to follow the Throw.
4 hits.
4. J.Short -> J.Roundhouse, C.Short -> C.Strong XX Roundhouse Somersault Kick
Comments: THE combo to utilize once mastered for great damage. 7 hits.
5. D.C.Jab -> C.Fierce -> SJ.Jab -> SJ.Short -> SJ.Strong -> SJ.Forward ->
SJ.Fierce (FS)
Comments: quick and easy air combo, remember to do the SJ.Jab INSTANTLY. 7
hits.
6. (corner) J.Short -> J.Fierce, D.C.Jab -> C.Strong -> C.Fierce -> SJ.Jab ->
SJ.Short -> SJ.Strong -> SJ.Forward XX Roundhouse Somersault Slash
Comments: impressive corner air combo, the first 3 crouching hits will only
connect in the corner and dashing. 10 hits.
7. J.Fierce, D.S.Jab -> S.Strong -> S.Fierce XX Sonic Blade
Comments: basic and easy SC combo. Tap punch repeatedly and you'll get 19
hits.
8. D.S.Short -> S.Forward -> S.Roundhouse XX Crossfire Blitz
Comments: powerful and spectacular combo, the bigger the enemy the better.
13 hits.
9. D.C.Short -> C.Roundhouse XX Somersault Justice
Comments: Don't do the SC TOO fast or the first Somerault will miss. 14 hits.
10. (full screen) Jab Sonic Boom, J.Roundhouse, S.Strong XX Sonic Blade
Comments: this is just an example of what you can do with the Boom after you
throw it. Once it recovers, follow the SB in and hit the enemy. If
you do the combo at the right time, the SB will count in the combo!
This one will give you 18 hits.
11. D.S.Jab -> S.Strong -> S.F+Fierce XX Crossfire Blitz
Comments: cancel the Backfist FAST. 13 hits.
12. (corner) Forward Throw, Sonic Blade, Sonic Blade
Comments: I have connected with two Sonic Blades in air row after the combo,
and you can supposedly do three. Note however that the last SC will
do little damage in this combo, so it may be more appropriate to
just juggle with a Somersault Justice or a well-timed Crossfire
Blitz.
13. J.Fierce, D.C.Short -> C.Forward XX Somersault Justice
Comments: nice easy SC combo. 15 hits.
14. Fierce Air Throw, C.Short (OTG) -> C.Fierce -> SJ.Jab -> SJ.Short ->
SJ.Strong -> SJ.Forward -> SJ.Fierce (FS)
Comments: If the opponent Safety Rolls you should be OK with the recovery of
the C.Short. 8 hits.
15. J.Short -> J.Roundhouse, D.C.Jab -> C.Fierce -> SJ.Jab -> SJ.Short ->
SJ.Strong, Strong Air Throw, C.Short (OTG) -> C.Forward -> XX Crossfire
Blitz
Comments: WHEW! This big combo DOES work, but the timing for the Air Throw is
really annoying. I've only done this combo twice, but you must
catch the enemy with the Backbreaker when they are slightly above
you--this makes it ABSOLUTELY imperitive that you do the SJ.Jab as
SOON as possible. I have grabbed them out of the air combo
otherwise, but the Air Throw doesn't count on the combo tally; it's
just more impressive if it does. 20 hits! (NOTE: this was slightly
changed from version 1.0 of this FAQ--after the Air Throw I
originally had down C.Short (OTG) -> S.Forward -> S.Fierce, but I
haven't gotten that series to connect rigidly. The C.Short -> (OTG)
-> C.Forward works well, though).
16. (corner) Fierce Throw, Sonic Blade, C.Fierce -> SJ.Jab -> SJ.Short ->
SJ.Strong -> SJ.Forward XX Somersault Slash
Comments: if you are right beside the enemy when the Crossfire Blitz hits,
you can follow into a combo, in this case a launcher -> air combo.
20 hits.
17. J.Short -> J.Roundhouse, D.S.Jab -> S.Strong XX Sonic Blade, D.C.Forward
XX Sonic Blade, C.Forward XX Somersault Justice
Comments: WHEE! As the first Sonic Blade is hitting, start buffering in a
dash so you'll dash as the SC is finished; you should reach the
enemy just as the last disc of sonic energy connects, then,
C.Forward and repeat, and after the 2nd Sonic Blade the enemy will
be in the corner, so you won't have to dash after it, just do a
regular C.Forward and finish the combo. If you start the combo in
the corner, you don't have to dash after either Sonic Blade! Well
over 40 hits!
#############################################################################
TACTICS:
********
Charlie in the air:
-------------------
Charlie has GREAT air-to-air potential. From afar he can be kept at bay with
air projectiles, but at mid-range his Somersault Slash works wonders, and of
course up close his Backbreaker will take out pretty much any jumping regular
move. His J.Forward is also good in air-to-air combat.
Keep Away:
----------
Like with Cyclops, I don't like resorting to keep-away cheese with SBs.
However, if you're having trouble calling in your partner and are low on
life, I'm afraid the only real chance you have is to cheese--that's right,
lotsa Sonic Booms! Alternate between speeds of the Booms to force the enemy
to air block if they try to jump in, and stay in a defensive crouch position
so you can whip out a Somersault Kick if they manage to jump your SB. If the
enemy is presistant with turtling your SBs, follow them in slowly, and when
you get close enough, throw a slow SB and follow it in for a Throw. The
SECOND you throw the opponent, wail on Fierce+Roundhouse to switch characters
and possibly even juggle after the Throw with the Variable Attack!
This tactic of course is hindered against those with very good projectile
defenses, i.e. lots of SCs will go through the Booms; mind you, Charlie can
usually block in time anyways! :)
Variable Countering:
--------------------
When performing a Variable Counter with Charlie as your partner (idle), he
will jump onto the screen and counter a blocked attack with Roundhouse
Somersault Kick. This does good damage AND allows you to change characters.
This particular VC is quite good for countering blocked jump-ins, or pretty
much any up-close attack. Just refrain from doing it to long range
projectiles, as it may miss.
Charlie In a Team:
------------------
Charlie is a good teammate for a lot of characters, and one of my fav teams
is with Sabretooth, with which I RARELY lose. :) (See my Sabretooth FAQ for
info on why Sabretooth is a good partner).
For his Variable Attack, the easiest way to change characters, Charlie will
come diving in with a jumping kick. Note that wether this kick connects or
not, he'll go into a taunt afterwards, so you MUST make sure this connects or
you will be hit. Ideal situations are pretty much anytime the opponent misses
a slow attack, or if the opponent is jumping back, or if they're at the peak
of a Super Jump. Another nice place to use it is with a setup attack for
combos, like after a launcher, or in some other cases, like with Magneto's
Hyper Grav. The one thing to remember is to ask yourself wether or not you
want to waste and opportunity to hit the opponent with a big combo--for
example, if I am Magneto and fighting Ryu, and he misses a DP, I can either
call in my partner, or I can go for a BIG combo. The immediate choice should
depend on wether or not you have enough life; if Magnus is down to a sliver
of health, I would definetely switch, because even though I hit him with a
big combo, he might just do a comeback afterward and kill me; you also have
to take into account wether or not they have a lot, or a little, amount of
life.
Favorite Teams:
---------------
Here are (IMO) good teammates for Charlie:
1. Sabretooth (my best team with Charlie)
2. Cyclops (second best team)
3. Magneto (great for setting the enemy up for a combo in special cases,
good Variable SC)
4. Ken (great Variable SC)
#############################################################################
VS. SECTION:
************
Vs. Cyclops:
He'll play keep-away worse than Charlie can, so jumping will be a big part of
your offensive strategy. Don't even THINK about taking on his Optic Blasts
with the SB, because you WILL lose. Instead, try to jump over every OB you
can while holding back to air block, and charge your Sonic Boom for jump-in
combos. Once you get up close, Cyclops fighters love to do the popular
C.Short -> C.Roundhouse XX Ground Reflect Blast, and otherwise generally
annoying you from crouching, so use your Hop Kick up close a fair bit. It is
difficult to take out his Optic Blasts with your SCs because of how fast they
come out, so play a reactionary game and only attempt to take him out from up
close.
Vs. Wolverine:
The spazzo, if being played by a scrub, WILL be a spazzo. In this case, it's
all a matter of blocking and countering. If they play Logan well, he can be a
problem. He'll slide under your Sonic Booms, so don't get predictable with
them if you're in range of his D/F+Fierce. Basically you just have to wait
for him to make a mistake, usually from Drill Clawing all over the place.
Once he has a level charged, be VERY careful of the Weapon X, which'll take
priority over EVERYTHING.
Vs. Sabretooth:
Sorta like playing a slower, more powerful Wolverine (and better, IMO :).
He'll jump in a LOT with his high-priority jumping moves, and forget about
taking him on in the air, unless you're sure you can get close enough for a
Backbreaker. His Berserker Claw is LIGHTNING fast and will take priority over
every regular attack you have, so don't throw them out carelessly if you're
within his range. If you manage to block his Wild Fang, quickly retaliate
with a Backfist or Somersault Justice. As with Wolverine, be even more
careful about the Berserker Claw X which will take out anything you can throw
at him.
Vs. Storm:
If she plays her damned-stupid off the screen keep-away, forget about it and
walk away from the machine (or punch the guy out your playing, if the arcade
worker isn't around ;). If they play a good Storm, its a fun battle. Her
Typhoon is fairly fast and can be directed for keep-away, but once you get up
close you shouldn't have much trouble. If you block her Lightning Attack,
wail on any of your regular attacks and you will usually counter. Once she
has a level charged, don't throw out jump-in attacks too early, 'cause she'll
take them out with a Lightning Storm SC.
Vs. Rogue:
She's a bitch if she steals your Sonic Boom, since it requires no charge time
for her :(. So, try very hard not to get caught by her Absorbing Kiss, which
is unblockable. For this reason she'll tick you with Jabs and Shorts then
catch you with it, so try and keep your distance. If you block her Southern
Belle Combo (my fancy name for her rushing punches), punish her with a
combo.
Vs. Gambit:
The damn frenchman will be bouncing all over in the air with his charge D, U
moves, so stay in the defensive crouch to take him out with a Somersault
Kick. If his mid-air movements develop a pattern, try for a Backbreaker. On
the ground he will take priority over your low moves with a Strong Cajun
Slash, so stay standing for the most part, and once up close, try your
hardest for a Throw. Once he has a level on the Super Meter, refrain from
throwing out your SB, as he can go immediately into a Royal Flush and nail
you right out of it.
Vs. Juggernaut:
Shouldn't be a problem as long as you ONLY jump in with Fierce or Roundhouse
(he cannot absorb these), and always chain your Jabs and Shorts into full
combos (cannot abosrb multiple hits either). Don't throw a lot of SBs from
mid to close range, or he'll Juggernaut Punch or Headcrush through them.
From full screen, you can block after a Sonic Boom if he decides to try a JP
from that distance. When you block ANYTHING from him, combo to your fullest!
Remember, Juggernaut can also be stopped on the ground with a C.Roundhouse.
Vs. Magneto:
His Hyper Grav seems to have been slowed a little since MSH, but you should
still be careful and not get caught in it. He can play good keep-away with
his EM Disruptor and Magnetic Waves (those duel pink projectiles from the air
we all loved from X-Men: CotA!), and don't throw SBs too often from full
screen, as the Disruptor can usually beat you to the draw. Up close his slide
has surprising priority and he can cancel it into a Shockwave OTG, so try to
stay on the defensive up close. Jumping in is fairly safe, but remain in the
defensive position here so he can't Hyper Grav you. REMINDER: when he is
flying, Mags CANNOT AIR BLOCK!!!! :)
Vs. Ryu:
Good ol' keep-away is not so effective anymore, so don't be afraid to jump
his FBs a lot, but again stay in the defensive position while doing so in
case he can DP. Up close you can deal with him nicely using the C.Forward and
Jabs. Shouldn't be a difficult fight, just remember that once he has a level
charged, his Vacuum Hurricane will take out pretty much all of Charlie's
regular moves.
Vs. Ken:
Without his QCB+punch Roll, Ken is weakened considerably. Jumping his FBs is</pre><pre id="faqspan-2">
no problem, and jumping in is fairly safe with air blocking present. Up close
you can take him out with C.Forward and other quick attacks. Easy fight until
he has a level charged, at which point be VERY careful with your attacks, as
his Shoryureppa takes out pretty much everything.
Vs. Chun Li:
Don't try and take her on in the air, with her high-priority moves and better
Air Throw. On the ground, mix up standing and crouching attacks; when you
crouch, keep holding down and she may try for a Split Kick, in which case you
can promptly Somersault Kick! Her FB should be no trouble jumping over and
you can also match her fairly well with the Sonic Boom. Once she has a level
charged, she's becomes a woman for all occasions--she can take out pretty
much any standing attack with her Thousand Burst Kick, and she can take out
airborne opponents with the Super Spinning Bird Kick or the majorly-beefed
up Kikosho. If you block or she misses any of these SCs, counter as best you
can.
Vs. Cammy:
Fast little bitch, but she has horrible recovery on all of her moves. If you
block the Cannon Drill, Cannon Spike, Air Thrust Kick or Spin Drive Smasher,
she's open to easy counters. Her Assault Knuckle knocks you back a ways if
you block it, but you can throw a Sonic Boom quickly to knock her back as
well. Her only other important attack is her Furiga Combine (the Air Roll+
Throw), which although unblockable, is easy to counter with a Somersault Kick
from a crouch. For all of these reasons, stay totally defensive in this fight
and you're sure too win.
Zangief:
For god's sake, don't get close! Jumping in is alright, but always do it with
Fierce or Roundhouse (which he cannot abosrb) or else he'll SPD or Atomic
Drop you as you land. Likewise, only use C.Roundhouse to stop him if he's
getting in close. Once he has a level charged, try VERY hard to stay away, or
he'll tick you for the FAB.
Dhalsim:
The Yoga master is a GREAT character, and the only way to beat him is up
close. From a distance he'll keep you back with the Yoga Flam and Fire, and
the almighty S.Roundhouse. Edge your way in from the ground, as his air
countering is a nightmare and he will frequently nail you out of one of your
jumping attacks. Once you get up close you will have no trouble
out-prioritizing him with C.Forward and your Jabs--try ticking for Throws. He
will try up close to use his C.Roundhouse slide, so throw in a Hop Kick here
or there, or a Somersault Justice if possible. In the air he can take
priority over you with his Yoga Mummy and Drills, so stay grounded, and if
he goes offensive he'll use repeated Drills; block them all and counter FAST
with a Throw. The big thing to worry about in this fight is the almighty Yoga
Inferno, definetely one of the best Supers in the game! The damage is VERY
HEAVY, and he can take you out of the Sonic Boom faster than you can say
"Too easy!" if you're less than 2/3 of the screen away. The Yoga Inferno can
also be directed upward to catch you out of a jump-in attack, so refrain from
jumping with attacks often. If blocked, the Yoga Inferno will leave Dhalsim
open VERY briefly, and if you're right up close you can counter. From around
1/2 screen you may be able to counter with a Crossfire Blitz, otherwise
forget it.
Bison:
Bison is still as lame as ever--so lame in fact that I have no strategy
section against him, 'cause no one uses him! IMO he shouldn't have been in
the game in the first place.
Charlie:
The mirror-match shouldn't be too difficult, as long as you play the opposite
of your opponent; if he's a Charlie turtler, Throw a lot and set him up with
slow SBs; if he's offensive, it's even easier--just defend and react.
Akuma:
Akuma players tend to FB WAY too much, as much as even Ryu! Jump over his FBs
stay with the Air Block in case of DPs. He shouldn't be too much trouble
until he gets a level on the Super meter. Once this happens, he becomes a
nightmare. Don't throw anything out from a distance, especially SBs, or he'll
use his Super FB to take it out. Up close, don't throw any regular move out
randomly, as he can take it out with his Violent Dragon SC. Alternately to
taking out the SB with his Super Fireball, he can also jump over it from
closer and use his Super Air FB. And of course, if the enemy is any good with
Akuma, he can set you up for the dreaded Raging Demon, best after knocking
you down! LEARN TO SAFETY ROLL!!!!!!!! This may prevent you from getting
"Demoned".
If you got caught hold D and start wailing on Short kick and you
may take him out of the Demon. Alternately, if you've got the timing down
pat, you can usually throw him out of it if he was a LITTLE BIT late with
Demon as you get up.
#############################################################################
CREDITS:
********
First and foremost, a HUGE thanks to James Chen for the third installment in
his AWESOME combo FAQ series. Also thanks to everyone who submitted info on
this game to the newsgroups. Thanks to Capcom for a great game, and no thanks
to Happy Man arcade for making it cost 3 tokens! :(
You can access this FAQ and many others at my homepage:
http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Heights/1910
You can also e-mail me at:
[email protected]
"I said it before and I'll say it again--democracy simply doesn't work!"
-Kent Brockman, the Simpsons
