SF6 ▰ AKUTAGAWA (#1 Ranked Manon) vs DAIGO (Akuma) ▰ High Level Gameplay

Introduction

This tutorial covers high-level gameplay strategies showcased in a Street Fighter 6 match between Akutagawa's Manon and Daigo Umehara's Akuma. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, understanding these strategies can enhance your gameplay and help you climb the ranks.

Step 1: Understanding Character Strengths

• Manon:

  • Strong grappling techniques and mix-ups.
  • Can build momentum quickly with her command grabs.
  • Utilize her unique mechanic, the "style points," to enhance her moves.

• Akuma:

  • High damage output and versatile zoning tools.
  • Excellent at punishing mistakes with powerful combos.
  • Use his teleportation for mobility and to evade attacks.

Step 2: Mastering Spacing and Footsies

• Maintain optimal distance from your opponent:

  • Use Manon's range to initiate pressure with normals.
  • Akuma should focus on keeping Manon at a distance, utilizing fireballs and air projectiles.

• Practice footsies:

  • Utilize quick normals and whiff punish with Manon to close the gap.
  • With Akuma, focus on baiting attacks and punishing with hard-hitting combos.

Step 3: Executing Effective Combos

• Manon Combos:

  • Start with a light normal into a command grab for high reward.
  • Incorporate style points to maximize damage output.

• Akuma Combos:

  • Use short combos that lead to knockdowns, allowing for mix-up opportunities.
  • Practice linking normals into special moves for consistent damage.

Example Akuma combo:

Crouching Medium Kick > Hadouken > EX Shoryuken

Step 4: Defense and Counterplay

• Manon:

  • Use her defensive options wisely, including parry and backdash.
  • Avoid overcommitting to grabs; mix in safe normals to keep pressure.

• Akuma:

  • Focus on blocking and punishing Manon’s approaches with counter-hits.
  • Utilize his teleport to escape pressure or reposition.

Step 5: Mind Games and Adaptation

• Pay attention to your opponent's habits:

  • If Manon frequently uses grabs, Akuma should anticipate and counter with quick normals.
  • If Akuma uses projectiles too often, Manon can capitalize with jumps or dashes.

• Adjust your strategy:

  • Switch between offensive and defensive play based on your opponent's reactions.
  • Be prepared to change your approach mid-match to keep your opponent guessing.

Conclusion

Mastering the techniques and strategies discussed in this tutorial can significantly improve your gameplay in Street Fighter 6. Focus on character strengths, spacing, effective combos, and adapting to your opponent's strategies. As you practice these skills, you'll find yourself climbing the ranks and enjoying the competitive scene even more. Happy fighting!