Shigen Guide V1.0
By DraculaX
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1.0 Introduction
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Welcome to my unofficial guide for one of my favorite Last Blade 2
characters, Naoe Shigen and thus my debut in the world of Faqs. Before
we get started I need to say a few things.
First off the legal stuff. You know how it goes. Perjury is against the
law and if I found out you did it I could sue you if I wanted to. So
don’t do that. Don’t sell this guide for personal profit and don’t post
it on your website without expressed personal permission from yours
truly. Right now the only sites that can have it are Gamefaqs.com
Combovideos.com, and zbattle.net. If you wish to e-mail this guide to a
friend or whatever in hopes that they will learn something that is fine.
Use it for whatever you like just keep it within the bounds of the law.
There glad I got that out of the way.
Secondly, all questions, corrections, yelling at me about my bad letter
art, challenges, and flaming me about the guide and the like can be
directed to my email at
draculaxx@gmail.com or
deathsythe173@yahoo.com.
Just be sure to put Last Blade 2 or something similar as the subject or
I may just ignore it.
Also for those of you that play fighting games a lot and know the
general notations for moves bear with me. I'm writing this so that an
idiot could understand it.
And when I write stuff I like to interject my own little thoughts and
things whenever it hits me. So yeah, some of them may be stupid but
hopefully it will make you laugh. Enjoy my guide.
One more note: this document is best viewed with notepad in normal
window (not maximized) with word wrap on.
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2.0 Table of contents:
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This is how my guide is going to work. Remember this is my first guide
and if it sucks it’s because I’m new to writing guides and I’m not
trying to make this a work of art, just an informative how-to guide on
using Shigen. That and I seem to love run on sentences.
1. Introduction
2. Table of contents
3. Story
4. Why Shigen?
5.0 Game system
5.1 Modes of play
5.2 The super Meter
5.3 Blocking
5.4 Repelling
5.5 Cancelling
5.6 Super Cancelling
5.7 Chain combos
5.8 Super Speed Combos
5.9 Desperation/Super desperation moves
5.10 Throws
5.11 Follow up attacks
5.12 Recovering
6.0 Move list
6.1 Normal Moves
6.2 Special Moves
6.3 Super Moves/ Desperation moves
6.4 Super speed Combos
7. Shingen’s chain throws
8. Combo section
8.1 Power mode
8.2 Speed mode
8.3 EX mode
9. Strategies
10. Secrets
11. Frequently asked questions
12. Thanks
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3.0 Story
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I don't really know the story of this game to well honestly. i could try
to put it on my own words from another guide on this same page but that
would be plagerism. So here's the basic story i think.
Hells gate remained partially opened after the incident with Kagami in
Last blade 1. Now it needs to be closed again.
That's pretty brief and uninformative but fighting games aren't about
stories anyway. Here's what i know about Shigen.
Name: Naoe Shigen
Age: 36 (though he looks a bit older imo)
Symbol item: Byakko’s string of beads
Fighting style: Kaiwan (I think) Byakko’s Claw
Voice actor: Itou Enma
His story
Once consumed by vengeance, Shigen regained his sanity after the
weakening of Hell’s Gate, and was reunited with his foster daughter
Kotetsu. Being ashamed about his absence, he spent several months in the
mountains with her.
Kotetsu had grown into an impetuous young girl, while Shigen
spent each day training, paying her almost no attention. But like all
good things, their peaceful time together would not last.
Because Hell’s Gate had not been properly closed, Shigen could
sense the evils behind it. Consequently, he was forced to go away,
leaving late at night. A shadow creeps in secret behind him...
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4.0 Why Shigen?
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Why Shigen you ask? Well I’ll tell you why. Power.
Raw,unadulterated power. Seriously though, He is the only character that can break the game's damage cap. So as you
can see he is quite capable of doing a lot of damage in a short amount of time in any
mode, as I will explain to you later, and has higher than average
defense. Meaning he takes less damage than other characters. His chain
throws are quite potent and deadly once mastered (though they can be broken out of...). Plus they are
unblockable (along with 3 of his non-chaining supers I might add) and
unblockable moves are always a good thing. His counter super is enough
to make anyone think twice about attacking you. A lot of people don’t
use Shigen from what I’ve seen and that is an advantage as well. Most
people I have played aren’t used to fighting a good Shigen so once you
learn him you can be nearly unstoppable. Well maybe not as there is
always someone better but meet me on kailerra sometime and well see how
you do. Anyway back to Shigen. Yeah he’s strong, your basic 2d fighting
game grappler with a twist and arms that shoot out blades that cut you
up like hamburger. Yeah run on sentence again. I really need to work on
those.
So why wouldn’t one use Shigen? Well for one he is a little (read very little) on
the slow side but that is balanced out due to his strength. He is also a
big target and can have some trouble keeping up with some of the faster
characters. Plus he is not the easiest character to learn at all. It
will take a lot of practice and patience to learn him. He’s a special
character and not for everyone either. It’s like when you played Street
Fighter and the old KoF games back in the day at the arcades. Not many
people chose Zangief or Goro Daimon but the ones who did really kicked
ass with them. Know what I mean?
One more note: This isn’t the same Shigen as in Last Blade 1.
Let’s face it; in that game he wasn’t so great. I remember trying to
beat Kagami with him, it usually didn't end well. But This is Last
Blade 2 and here he whoops ass. I guess SNK decided to give him a
makeover and what a job they did!
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5.0 Game System
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Last Blade 2 has an excellent fighting system. I’ll break down
everything for you here.
The Layout:
ub u uf
o o o
\ | / O O O O
b o- -o f
/ | \ A B C D
o o o
db d df
f = forward (move towards opponent)
uf = up-forward (jump towards opponent)
u = up (jump strait up)
ub = up-back (jump away from opponent)
b = back (block or move away from opponent)
db = down-back (blocks low)
d = down (crouch)
df = down-forward (offensive crouch)
A button, B button, C button = attacks
D button = repel
I will use the following abbreviations for moves throughout my guide.
come back here if you get confused.
direction + any button = pressing the direction I tell you and whatever
button at the same time. For example f+A means pressing forward and A at
the same time. Get it?
Qcf = quarter circle forward (d, df, f)
Qcb = quarter circle back (d, db, b}
Dp = dragon punch motion (f, d, df)
Hcf = half circle forward (b, db, d, df, f)
Hcb = half circle back (f, df, d, db, b)
(x2)= repeat same motion twice
so something like qcf(x2) = (d, df, f, d, df, f)
AB or BC or CD = press the designated buttons at the same time
Basically those are all the motions that are needed for Shigens moves.
other characters have different motions but i'm not going to put them
here.
Also:
DM = Desperation move
SDM = Super desperation move
SSC = Super speed combo
OTG = off the ground
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5.1 Modes of Play
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There are 2 immediately selectable modes of play for every character and
one extra one accessable with a code. They are Power, Speed and Ex.
Power mode - basically what it says. useful for short, hard hitting
combos. Preferred mode for me. He's better in speed though. All about preference.
in power mode:
- you do more damage per strike
- take less damage than in Speed or Ex mode
- Any special/normal move that you do will still do damage if blocked
though not near as much
- Can do an unblockable attack (slow but strong) by pressing B and C at
the same time
- Can preform Super Sancels.
- Can preform Desperation moves when super meter is full OR when your
life bar is flashing
- Can preform Super Desperation moves when super meter is full AND life
bar is flashing
Speed mode - Again kind of self explanitory. Use it if you like long
flashy combos. Best mode for Shigen by general concensus.
In speed Mode:
- you do less damage per strike.
- take more damage than in power mode, but not as much as Ex mode
- can chain normal attacks together into combos.
- can do an overhead attack by pressing B and C together. Must be
blocked high and if it hits it will pop the opponent in the air for a
juggling opprotunity.
- Can preform Desperation moves when super meter is full OR when life is
flashing.
- Can preform Super Speed Combos/Speed combo specials when super meter is full.
Ex Mode - Stands for Extra Mode. Basically a combination of speed and
power modes at the cost of a pretty bad damage handicap. Use it if you
feel cocky or are just that damn good. You can die pretty quickly though
if you're not careful.
To use Ex mode, pick your character and then set the mode to speed and
press C 6 times, move to power mode and press B 3 times, then move back
to speed and press C 4 more times. if done correctly Ex mode should now
be selected.
In Ex mode:
- Do more damage per strike than in speed mode, but not as much as in
power mode.
- Take more damage per strike than in any other mode.
- Any special/normal move that you do will still do damage if blocked
though not near as much
- Super meter takes longer to charge.
- Can chain normal attacks together into combos.
- can do an overhead attack by pressing B and C together. Must be
blocked high and if it hits it will pop the opponent in the air for a
juggling opprotunity.
- Can use Super Cancels
- Can preform desperation moves when Super meter is full OR when life is
flashing
- Can preform Super desperation moves when Super Meter is full AND life
is flashing
- Can preform super speed combos when super meter is full
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5.2 The Super Meter
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The super meter in Last Blade 2 is located at either the bottom left or
right depending on which player you are. It can be 3 different colors.
Power = Red
Speed = Blue
Ex = Green
You can fill the meter by attacking your opponent. Whether they block or
not you still get some meter. You can also fill it by defending against
attacks but the amount you gain by defending is pitiful.
Once the super meter is full you can preform Desperation moves (all
modes), Super speed combos (speed and Ex mode only), or Super
Desperation moves (power and Ex mode and only if life is flashing). Use
the meter for whatever you want just be sure to use it wisely.
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5.3 Blocking
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Blocking is defending against any attack there are two different types
of blocksyou can do. Ground and Air.
Blocking on the ground is just holding Back when you are being attacked.
You can block most any attack in the game be it normal, special, DM or
SDM. Also you must press Down-Back to defend against low attacks.
Moves you can block
- any phyisical attack
- projectiles
Moves you cannot Block against
- unblockable attacks (go figure)
- Throws
Air Blocking is pretty basic as well. You can block certain types of
moves on a backwards or upwards jump. Here's the skinny:
Moves you can air blocked
- Air punches/slashes/kicks
- Uppercuts
- ground based special moves
- projectiles
Moves you cannot airblock
- Any ground based normal attack
- Any unblockable attack (again go figure)
- Akari's Fireballs
Now why you can block uppercut specials and not a regular attack is
beyond me. it just doesn't make sense.
Anyway after you airblock you are pushed back a ways and can't attack
until you land.
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5.4 Repelling
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One of the first things you should learn when playing Last Blade 2 is
the repeling system. It's a big part of Shigen's gameplay because a
successful repel sets your opponent up for the combo or chain throw of
your choice. Basicially repelling is pressing the D button (or D + given
direction) right before an attack is about to hit you. If done
correctly your opponent stands off guard long enough for you to
retaliate. Now to break down the different types of repels.
Just pressing D by itself will repel any mormal attack that hits high.
this includes jumping attacks for the most part.
Pressing Forward + D will repel any special attack that high. This also
includes some jumping attacks as well. This will not repel projectiles
so you must jump over those or block them. Learn this one well because
you can repel any attack the is considered phyisical and not a throw.
pressing Down-forward + D will repel any special attack that hits low.
also includes some desperation moves SSC's, and SDM's.
Pressing Down + D will repel any normal attack that hits low.
You can also Repel attacks in the air in this time around. Just press D
before an attack hits you. Useful for stoping anti air attacks if you
can time it right.
Also pressing D again after a sucessful repel on the ground will result in an
automatic counter attack.
I can't stress enough how important it is to learn this system well. It
takes a lot of practice to do well. The timing on repelling in this game
is a bit more tight than it was in the first game if you have played it.
Here's what i did to get good at repelling if any of you care.
I just played through arcade mode a lot (and i mean A LOT) doing nothing
but repelling every attack i could manage. Trust me you will lose a lot
of matches this way but it will help you in the long run.
After you get the general repelling thing down start working on
counter-attacking the opponent after a repel. I'll explain the best ways
to punish your opponent after a repel in the combo section.
And a little trick i use is to ALWAYS press Forward + D or Down-Forward
+ D when repelling because they will stop normal attacks as well as
special ones.
There is one other type of repel i forgot to mention earlier and that is
the Mid-guard repel. Basically repelling out of a block. it's done like
this:
Player facing right
o- / | + D while blocking
o o
so just roll the joystick from back to down and press D. Again timing is
everything so practice up.
A few other thing should be mentioned about this though. One is that itcan only be done when your super meter is full.
And once it is done it will drain your meter so use it with caution. Like if you're stuck blocking Moriya's Super slasher DM
use the mid guard repel and then make him eat the combo or chain throw of you choice. Advantage to this is that it's
guaranteed damage afterwards even you you mash D while trying to guard cancel. More effective in power mode since
everything does more damage in power mode.
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5.5 Canceling
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Canceling is basically turning a normal move into a special/super move
without break. Otherwise known as 2 in 1's or buffering. For example:
Say you want to hit you opponent with a standing B attack and his Tiger
Talon Slash (qcb+A/B) all in one shot. So what you would do is press B
and then do the motion for the Slash before the animation of the normal
move ends. If done correctly you will Cancel the animation of the
Standing B into the Tiger Talon Slash and get another hit for a combo.
It's pretty basic fighting game stuff but can still take some practice
if you are new to the genre. You can cancel into any of Shigens special
moves from several of his normals but some won't connect. I'll explain
that all in the move list section.
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5.6 Super cancelling
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Super Cancelling is basically canceling one of you special moves into
one of your Desperation moves. Note I said Desperation moves NOT super
desperation moves. It is only available in Power and Ex modes. What you
have to do is finish the motion for the Desperation move before the
special move animation ends. If done correctly the backround will turn
into a red starfield looking thing and your character will go right into
the desperation move.
Shigen's Super cancel move is his Tiger Talon Slash (Qcb + A or B)
So for example you do the Qcb+A move and then immediately do the motion
for his Tiger dash super (Qcfx2 + AB)
If done correctly he will slash them and then dash into them for good
damage. You can actually cancel into any of his regular desperation
moves but the Tiger Dash is the most practical one to use.
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5.7 Chain Combos
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A feature only available in Speed and Ex modes. It's basically canceling
your normal moves into each other thus creating nice looking multi hit
combos. For example:
A, B, C results in a short 3 hit combo that will knock your opponent
down.
Back + A, A, A, B results in a 4 hit combo
And so on and so forth. Special/DM/and SDM's can also be tacked on at
the end of a chain for more hits and damage. Though his SDM can only be
linked to a chain combo in Ex mode. The two chains I listed above can be
used with any character. I will list all of Shigen's chain combos in the
combo section of the guide.
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5.8 Super Speed Combos
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A feature only available in Speed or Ex mode. Must have a full super
meter to use. once you have a full meter press either
down, down + A or
down, down + B
Starting with d,d + A will result in a high starting attack for the
speed combo
Starting with d,d + B will result in a low starting attack for the speed
combo
I will go over all of Shigen's super speed combos in great detail later
but here is a basic SSC all characters have:
d,d + A/B and then A, B, C, A, B, C, A, B, Qcf + C
The timing on the button presses is fairly strict so just mashing the
buttons probably won't work. Again this takes practice to learn and be
able to do well. But once you do it's pretty fun. Who knew a guy
Shigen's size could move so fast?
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5.9 Desperation/Super Desperation moves
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Desperation moves or DM's, are gererally a much stronger move usually
with a harder motion to preform. If done correctly and a DM hits your
opponent, they will lose a good chunk of health. Regular desperation
moves can only be preformed if you have a full super meter or your life
is flashing. Regular desperation moves can be done in any mode.
Super Desperation moves or SDM's, are usually your characters strongest
move and do a lot of damage if connected. Usually close to an entire
life bar of damage. SDM's can only be preformed in Power or Ex mode and
require you to have a full super meter AND your life must be flashing.
Oh yeah and Shigen's is one of the strongest in the game so that's a
plus for you if you can connect with it.
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5.10 Throws
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SNK changed the way you throw from the first game to this one. In Last
Blade 1 it was Forward + B. Now in order to throw your opponent just get
real close to them and press C + D together. This will result in Shigen
Slamming your opponent on the ground Choke slam (sort of) style. A few
Characters can throw in the air as well. Luckily Shigen is one of them.
He grabs them right out of the air and slams them down power-bomb style.
Looks cool and is the best way to punish your opponent after a mid-air
repel.
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5.11 Follow up attacks
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Also known as pounce attacks or OTG's. It's basically hitting your
opponent while they are on the ground after you knock them down.
Litterally hitting them While they are down! Most characters have more
than 1 different ender they can do.
One is to hit C after a knockdown. Shigen will do a weak kick if you use
this one. Doesn't do much damage but in some situations it's the only
one you can use.
A second one is to hit Down-Forward + C. If you do this Shigen will do a
stomp on your opponent that does slightly less damage than the ender
below.
Shigen has one special ender he can use. If you press C+D together he
will pick them up and slam them on the ground for more damage. Looks
cool and only Shigen can do this. Use this one as much as you can since
it does the most damage.
You can't always use enders after every knockdown move though because
that would be too cheap i guess. Some moves just have to much lag
(recovery time) to be able to follow up on.
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5.12 Recovering
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Recovering is basically landing on your feet after being hit by a move
that would potentially knock you down. There are two types of
recoveries: Air and Ground.
Air recoveries
if you are hit in the air and are about to fall to the ground, you can
press D to recover and land on your feet therefore being able to attack
or defend faster than normal. But you have to recover before you
actually begin to fall otherwise you can't air recover. But there is a
mishap to this. If you air recover you are still vulnerable to attack
until you touch the ground and can block. So if you're not careful you
could be hit, recover, be hit again, and recover again over and over.
It's pretty useful overall i'd say. Just don't get cornered air
recovering over and over because a smart player will juggle you until
you stop recovering or until you die. Also if you don't air recover in
time you might get a chance to ground recover. (see next paragraph)
Ground recoveries
After your character hits the ground after being knocked out of the air,
they will bounce into the air a bit before settling on the ground.
During the bounce time, you can press D to do a ground recover, which
enable you to quickly get back on your feet. Though like the air
recovery, you are vulnerable to attack during the process of recovering,
so use it wisely. As a general rule don't recover anywhere near Kaede,
Kagami, Setsuna, Moriya, or Amano because they can really mess you up.
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/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
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i think that pretty much covers the games system. Well at least as much
of it i'm going over anyway. If you want to know more look at Duece's or
General Blood's Faqs at www.Gamefaqs.com.
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6 Move Lists
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This is the only reason anyone looks at these Faqs i think. To find out
how to do special moves for any given character. Well your wish is my
command.
A note on Shigen:
There's one special thing that Shigen can do with some of his moves. His
body will turn to stone for a split second giving him super armor of
sorts.
What this means is that any attack that hits Shigen will not stop him
from what he is doing with the exception of some Special/DM/SDM's and throws.
It sometimes leads to glitches as well The downside is that he still takes damage
from the hit but generally the trade off in damage is in Shigen's Favor.
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6.1 Normal moves
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Here i will explain every normal attack in Shigen's arsenal. I will list
each attack button and all the attacks that can be done with that
button. and whether or not that attack can be canceled into a special or
DM/SDM.
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Standing attacks
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A button
Standing A
Shigen does a short punch to the opponents chest/stomach area. Very
little recovery time so it's fairly safe on a block. Will hit crouching
opponents. Can be canceled into any special move in any mode. Though it
can be tricky to link into certain moves. Use it when you need to get a
quick hit in and then go for whatever you like after that.
Standing Back + A
Shigen does an open handed punch with his stone arm. comes out slightly
slower than the regular A move. Will hit crouchers. It can't be
Cancelled in power mode but it can be in Speed and EX mode. Not much
recovery so it's safe on a block. I don't use it for anything but
starting chain combos in Speed/Ex mode. Sometime's i will cancel it into
the Tiger Talon Slash but usually just used for combos.
B button
Standing B
Shigen does an uppercut type punch with his stone arm. Can be cancelled
into ANYTHING in any mode. Can be used as a weak anti-air attack if you
wanted to but it's priority in this case is moderate at best. It will
also hit crouchers. It's somewhat slow to come out on it's own so if
it's blocked you could be in trouble. When this is blocked, it kind of
knocks Shigen off guard for a second leaving you open to counter attack.
Somewhat slow recovery so if it wiffs you're screwed. Overall a decent
normal but save it for chain combos or use it as a counter attack after
a repel.
Standing Forward + B
Shigen does a powerful strait forward open handed punch. That was a
mouthful. Anyway it's Shigen's strongest normal move doing roughly a
third of a lifebar of damage in power mode. Also Hit's crouchers. It's
slow to come out on it's own but can be chained into in Speed/Ex mode.
Connot be cancelled in any mode. Slow recovery on a wiff and will leave
you open if blocked. Overall don't use it unless in chain combos.
Standing Back + B
Shigen's body turns to stone for a split second and he does a powerful
punch strait down into your opponents skull. Cannot be Cancelled in any
mode. If blocked Shigen will not be off guard as the move will keep
going. Very slow to come out though. Can be Chained in Speed/Ex mode. So
just save it for chain combos.
C Button
Standing C
Shigen Does a mid level kick for okay damage. It can be cancelled into
whatever you like in any mode. Not much use on it's own really but can
be comboed after a jump in and then you can do whatever after that that.
Standing Forward + C
Shigen does a "Big Boot' type kick that hits twice and will bounce your
opponent off the edge of the screen. Bad recovery on a wiff. Can only be
cancelled in Power mode. Can be cancelled at the first hit into certain
moves and right after the second hit for other moves. If you're close to
the corner when you use it it can lead to some juggling opprotunities.
Most damaging one being his Dp + B move but i'll cover all that in the
Combos section.
Standing Down-Forward + C
This isn't really a standing attack but I put it here anyway. What he
does is a low kick that knocks your opponent off their feet. It can be
cancelled in any mode but i don't really see the use of that since
nothing seems to connect. You can't even follow up on it since your
opponent gets up to fast. Final verdict: Don't use it.
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Crouching Attacks
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Crouching A
A low punch. Can be cancelled into anything in any mode. I use it to
link into his chain throws mostly but you can use it for whatever you
like.
Crouching B
Shigen does a powerful 2 hit punch with his stone arm. If you're to
close it will do only 1 hit though. Can only be cancelled in Speed/Ex
mode. Kind of slow to come out and if your opponent blocks it you're
left open. It can't even be linked in a chain combo so i think it's
pretty much useless.
Crouching C
A low kick. Can only be cancelled in Speed/Ex mode. I don't see much use
for it though. If you find a good use for it drop me a line.
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Jumping Attacks
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Jumping A
A diagonal punch downward. Can be used to start combos if you want but
there is a better attack for that. Don't use it as air to air as it has
low priority.
Jumping B
Sihgen does a big forward punch with his stone arm. Good for air to air
as it has better priority than his other air normals. It won't hit a
standing opponent unless you hit B really late in the jump and it
doesn't work well for a combo starter. Stick to using it for air to air.
Jumping C
A diagonal downwards kick. His best jump in combo starter. Can be linked
to his standing A or C on a seccessful hit and is part of his 16 hit Ex
mode combo of pain. Decent priority but uppercut special moves will most
definitely stuff it. Which is why you should always be ready to deflect
on a jump in btw. Anyway use it for jump in combos in any mode and
you'll do fine.
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6.2 Special Moves
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Here's all of Shigen's specials sans chain trows. I'm leaving those out
on purpose since i'm giving them their own section.
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Unblockable strike/Launcher B + C
In power mode this is an unblockable hit that really hurts if it
connects. The only setback is that is comes out REALLY slow and anyone
can see it coming.
In speed/Ex mode this is a high hitting uppercut move that can set up
some juggling opprotunities. You must be relatively quick to pull them
off though. It can be put into chain combos as well.
Tiger Talon Slash Qcb + A/B
(super cancel)
Shigen does a strong downwards slash with his stone arm. The A version
comes out quickly and does 1 hit. Can be linked from most of his normals
and is good in combos. Okay recovery so it's relatively safe on a block.
To super cancel this finish the motion for your super right after the
hit from this move connects. Can be used as a juggle of sorts after a
Forward + C in power mode or after a Launcher in Speed/Ex mode but you
must be quick for the later. It isn't really a juggle though because it
smacks your opponent to the ground.
The B version comes out a bit slower and gives Shigen super armor for a
moment. Does 3 hits. To slow to combo but does good damage if it
connects. If blocked the move will finish out anyway doing okay block
damage. Supercancelling this vesion is a bit tougher because if you're
to late on the cancel you opponent will knocked down and you'll be left
open. Just be sure to cancel by the second hit and you'll be alright.
Will also juggle but it just smacks your opponent to the ground.
Tiger Pounce Qcb + C (x3 in speed/Ex mode)
Shigen does a Shoulder Dash that knocks your opponent down. The motion
can be repeated twice more and Shigen will do a high kick and another
Dash. This follow up can only be done in speed/Ex mode. You can use the
followup attack of your choice after your opponent is down for more
damage.
Spirit Blitz Dp + A/B
Shigen rears back for a second and thrusts his hand forward (A) or
upward (B) causing a lot of damage to your opponent. Always knocks down
if it connects.
The A version will do 6 hits in power mode, and 8 hits in speed/Ex mode
by itself when used close. Hits vary at distance after that. Good in
combos. After your opponent gets knocked down dash in and use the throw
follow up for good damage. Does good block damage but you will be open
if blocked. Though your opponent will have to be quick since the move
pushes Shigen back a bit. Stick to using it in combos.
B version is Shigen's main anti-air attack. He will grab your opponent
right out of the air and crush them for a second before slamming them to
the ground. To effectively use this as anti-air you must use it early
because of the angle of the move. It only does 2 hits though it looks
like it should do more. Fairly damaging and since it's a grab, I believe
it's unblockable. At least it's never been blocked when I've used it.
Use it after a Foward + C in power mode for good damage. Almost 2/3rds a
barof health in fact.
King Crusher(?) Hcf + A/B/C
I don't know the real name of this move so don't ask. What Shigen does
is dashes towards your opponent attempting to grab them. If he is
successful he does and upwards punch with his stone arm and a downwards
punch with his other arm effectively grounding your opponent. This move
is unblockable. The A version has the shortest dash but is comboable up
close. B version grants you super armor (power mode only) and has a bit
more range. C version has the most range at roughly 1/3 of a screen. All
versions do the same amount of damage but the A version is best due to
the fact it can be comboed. Although it can only be comboed in power
mode to my knowledge that's still good. You can tick into this for some good mix ups.
Taunt Press Start
Yeah it's a taunt and everybody has one but Shigen's does damage. It's
only 2 damage but still every little bit counts. I actually won a match
with this once. Granted it was vs the cpu but it was still priceless.
This is where the chain throws should be but since i'm giving them their
own section let's skip to DM/SDMs and Super Speed Combos for now.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.3 Super Moves/ Desperation Moves
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: All regular DM's can be done in any mode provided your super meter
is full OR your life is flashing.
Shigens strongest moves. Master these and watch your opponent go ouch.
Tiger Dash Qcf(x2) + AB
The image of a tiger's head appears around Shigen and he dashes into the
opponent doing 3 hits and okay damage if not followed up on. Shigen has
super armor for the duration of the dash. This is the only super I have
been able to connect with on a super cancel (for combo hits anyway) so
use it as such and let you opponent feel the pain.
First move followed by Hcf + B
The first of the two follow ups to the tiger dash super. Shigen will do
a spirit blitz right in the opponents gut for 7 more hits and more
damage. To do the follow up start the hcf motion right after the first
hit of the dash connects. It will take some practice to get the timing
right.
First move followed by Hcb(x2) + B
Shigen's other follow up to the tiger dash. He grabs the opponent,
punches them to the ground, and stomps/grinds them into the ground for
big damage. This one is a bit harder to do and it really doesn't do a
whole lot more damage but I always go for max damage and so should you.
To do this one you have to finish the HCb(x2) motion right before the
3rd hit of the dash. This take a lot of practice since the timing is a
bit tougher but you will get it soon enough.
The great thing about the follow ups for the tiger dash is that even if
the dash is blocked, they will still come out. The blitz follow up is
great for tick damage but the grab follow up is unblockable and will
catch a lot of people off guard. So even if they block the dash you can
still get free damage off the grab. If you try this in practice mode it
won't usually connect for some reason but in a real match 9 times out of
10 it will.
So in short the super works like this:
Qcf(x2) + AB, Hcf + B
or
Qcf(x2) + AB, Hcb(x2) + B
Diamond Crusher(?) Hcb(x2) + AB
Another move I don't know the real name for. Shigen grabs the opponent,
jumps into the air, powerbombs them down, a mass of spikes appear under
the victim, and Shigen smashes the opponent with a two-fisted slam that
shatters the spikes. This is your basic high damaging grappler's super.
It does around a full bar of damage depending on who your opponent is.
You can super cancel into this from the Tiger Talon Slash but it won't
always connect UNLESS your opponent blocks the slash OR they are a crouching Seteuna, Lee, or Kojiroh.
If they do block the slash Super cancel into this anyway and 9 and times out of 10 it
will crush them. Sometimes it won't connect though and i'm not sure why.
This tactic works incredibly well against the cpu as well. Eat this
Kouryu!
Counter Super Hcf, Back + AB
The real name of this move something i can't pronounce so i'll leave it
out. Shigen will cross his arms for a second gaining super armor for a
short time. If he is hit during this time he will grap the opponent,
jump up and powerbomb them down, smash them into the spikes that appear
under them, and then slam them again with his fists for good measure.
This move hurts A LOT. It does over 200 points (like 1 1/3 lifebars)
worth of damage in power mode. This is actually Shigen's strongest
super, stronger than his SDM by some and the one of 2 moves that break the games damage limit. However actually
catching you opponent in it can be tricky. You just have to work on the timing of it.
Your opponent has to hit you right when you flash for the super which is
a window of about half a second. I wouldn't use a full super meter for
this unless you're absolutely sure but if your life is flashing, you can
use it whenever you like and sometimes pull a victory right out of
nowhere. I've done this a few times and my opponent was like
"What the hell...?" Learn it. Master it. It will do you good.
Super Desperation move
Can only be done if your super meter is full AND your life is Flashing.
Power/Ex mode only.
Mutilator Hcb(x2) + B
I made that name up but it fits well i think. Shigen rears back and
yells for a second with his stone arm glowing, then he dashes forward
with the image of a tiger's head around him attempting to grab the
opponent. If successful he jumps in the air, powerbombs the opponent
down, rears back with his stone arm glowing, and multiple energy blades
slice your opponent into hamburger. Really good super as it is
unblockable. Does about as much damage as the counter super adn is the other move that breaks the games damage
limit. Can be chained (sort of, more like linked/ticked) into in Ex mode though it's pretty tough to do so. Use it when
you can and laugh as your opponent gets ripped to shreads.
Shigen has one other DM and one other SDM but they are part of his chain
throws so i'll cover those in that section.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.4 Super Speed Combos
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Super Speed Combos or SSC's are only available in speed/Ex mode.
Remember you need a full bar to use them. To acvtivate a SSC simply
press down, down, + A or B. Depending on which button you press the
combo will start either high (A) or low (B). Timing on these is strict
so you will need to practice a lot to get them down. Here are all of
Shigen's SSC's. Also note these are only guaranteed after a sucessful deflect
or his dp + A at point blank range. It's possible to mash out of an overhead stun.
D,D + A/B then - A, B, C, A, B, C, A, B, Qcf + C
|
|
- A, B, C, A, B, C, C, B, Qcf + B
|
|
_ A, B, C, down + C, Forward +BC, Qcf + B
|
|
_ A, B, C, down + C, down + C, Forward + BC
They go in order by amount of damage they do or can do. Top one being
the least Damage and the bottom one being the most potentially damaging.
A, B, C, A, B, C, A, B, Qcf + C
Shigen's basic SSC. After the inital hit start pressing the buttons in
order. Shigen will do a series of punches and kicks finishing with a
Grab. He will then choke your opponent and slam them down for damage.
Does a little less than a lifebar worth of damage. This SCC can't be
followed up on.
A, B, C, A, B, C, C, B, Qcf + B
After the inital hit, hit the buttons in order. Watch the timing between
the last C, B, Qcf + B part of it since it's a bit tougher than the
first SCC. Shigen will do a series of punches and kicks finishing with a
stronger version of his down + B and a big smash to the grounded
opponent. You can follow this one up with the ground throw for more
damage. With the follow up throw this one does a bit more than one bar
of life.
A, B, C, down + C, BC, Qcf + B
The timing on this one is pretty tough. You have to be really quick to
get the Qcf + B to come out after the BC part of the combo. Anyway what
he will do is three punches, one high kick, one low kick, a big overhead
punch and finishes with a strong Tiger Talon Slash and a shoulder
charge. You can follow this one up with the ground throw for more
damage. More than a bar of life by itself and a bit more with a follow
up.
A, B, C, down + C, down + C, Forward + BC
This one is pretty easy to do i think. If done correctly he will do a
series of punches and kicks and finish with a big uppercut type punch
knocking your opponent way up into the air. After they're in the air you
can juggle them with what you see fit. For style use a tiger talon slash or back + B
while they're falling and then the ground throw. For damage (and that's
what we want) use the B version of Spirit Blitz. This is the most
damaging SCC if you use the Blitz at the end doing about 1 1/6th
lifebars worth of damage. That's a lot for a SCC since most don't even
do a bar of damage.
All these SCC's work in Ex mode and will do a bit more damage than in
speed. Learning these will make you a much better speed mode player and
everybody loves a speedy Shigen.
____________________________________________________________________
7.0 Chain Throws
____________________________________________________________________
These are so good I decided to give them their own section. Learning
these is what playing shigen is all about. All the chain throws do good
damage in any mode though most useful in power mode because you can
cancel a regular move into the initial throw. Anyway here they are.
there are 2 chains: A button chain and B button Chain. I made some of
these names up since i don't know the real ones.
Diamond smasher Hcb, Forward + C
This is the starting throw for all of Shigen's chain throws. What he
does is grab the opponent lift them up, and slam them down. if not
followed up upon a bed of spikes appears under the opponent and
shatters. This throw can be linked from most of Shigen's normal attacks
but that can only be done in power mode. In Fact you should always link
into it since it adds to the damage of the chain throws. I usually use
standing C or crouching A but you can use whatever you like.
A button Chain
Kai Slam Hcf + A after initial throw
Shigen will pick the opponent back up and slam them down again. if not
followed up Shigen will stomp on the opponent for a little damage.
Spike Crusher Qcb + A after Kai slam
Shigen will pick the opponent back up and slam them down on a mass of
spikes for decent damage.
Spirit blitz Qcb + B after Kai Slam
Shigen picks the opponent back up and does a Blitz strait to the
opponents face sending them flying. Can be followed up with the C ground
hit if done with your opponent near a corner. The 2nd most damaging
normal chain he has. Somethig close to 2/3rds bar in power mode.
Mega Spike crusher(DM) Hcb(x2) + AB after Kai slam
His Chain DM. Shigen lifts his opponent high and brings them down hard
on a mass of spikes for a lot of damage. I use this almost anytime I
have a super meter in power mode or if my life is flashing since DM's
are free then. One of these will even up a match in a hurry.
B Button Chain
Demon Choke Hcf + B after initial throw
Shigen will pick the opponent back up, choke them, and then slam them
back down. He will then stomp on them for damage if not followed up on.
Spirit blitz Qcb + A after Demon Choke
Shigen does a spirit blitz upward sending the opponent flying for good
damage. Can be followed up on if opponent is in the corner with the C
ender. Most damaging normal chain he has.
Mutilator(SDM) Hcb(x2) + C after Demon Choke
After he slams them from the choke, Shigen will rear back with the image
of a tiger's head around him, yell, and then multiple energy blades will
slice your opponent up like hamburger. His strongest chain throw but
it's hard to pull off since the timing is really strict and the general
SDM requirements are hard to meet sometimes. I've only actually pulled
this of 2 or 3 times in a match. If you do manage to pull this off,
chances are you can consider the match over.
These Chain throws are what make a good Shigen player shine. Learning
them is not easy though. The timing on each of the follow ups takes a
lot of practice. The best advice i could give you is to try and do each
follow up as your opponent is hitting the ground from the previous slam.
You will get the timing down with practice.
Here's how the chains work.
A button Chain
Hcb, forward + C, Hcf + A, Qcb + A
Hcb, forward + C, Hcf + A, Qcb + B
Hcb, forward + C, Hcf + A, Hcb(x2) + AB (DM)
B Button Chain
Hcb, forward + C, Hcf + B, Qcb + A
Hcb, forward + C, Hcf + B, Qcb + C
Hcb, forward + C, Hcf + B, Hcb(x2) + C (SDM)
One thing i should warn you about though. There is a way for your
opponent to break out of the chains at some points except for the DM/SDM
parts. I don't know how this is done besides mashing the buttons but
watch out for it. The cpu will do it to you all the time (especially
Kagami for some reason) so what you need to do is keep your opponent
guessing. Don't keep using the same chain over and over. Mix it up but
you should go for the DM/SDM endings when you can as they hurt the
opponent a lot and can't be broken out of.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.0 Combo Section
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's a list of some combos i know with Shigen. Have fun with these.
I'll start with basic combos for each mode except the Ex mode section
and then go on to harder/more damaging ones.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.1 Power Mode Combos
------------------------------------------------------------------------
here's one more notation.
xx = cancel into. For example. Standing B xx tiger talon slash.
I'll start with some Basic combos.
standing A/B/C xx Spirit blitz (A) Dash in, throw follow up. 7-8 hits
Standing A/B/C xx Tiger talon slash (A) 2 hits
Standing A/B/C xx tiger pounce 2 hits
Standing forward + C xx Tiger talon slash, Walk forward, throw follow up
jump in C, standing A/C xx special move of choice. hits vary
Jump in C, forward + C xx Spirit blitz (B) only works near a corner 5 hits.
Jump in C, standing A/C xx Diamond smasher, chain throw of your choice.
those are the basics i guess. now here's an example of a super cancel
combo.
Jump in C, standing C xx tiger talon slash (A) xx Tiger Dash, Grab
follow up. 12-13 hits for more than a full bar of damage on normal
characters.
Jump in C, standing A/C tiger talon slash (A) xx Diamond Crusher (Dm)
This one won't connect if you super cancel to soon. It's really hard to
get the timing on the DM. You have to cancel right at the end of the
slash for it to connect otherwise Shigen will be pushed back to far for
the throw to connect. It doesn't actually do combo hits since it's a
grab but it still works. Does more than a a full bar of damage.
Just use your imagination to come up with other combos. Shigens combos
really don't vary much in power mode but they all hurt. Always try to
link into his Chain throws from a standing A,B, or C, or crouching A or
C. You can only combo into the chain throws in power mode so take
advantage of this and deal the damage.
Link Combos:
These are kind of hard at first. It's play on recovery and start up. If the previous move has more stun frames than the next moves start up frames, it will link. It's hard to explain with words. Basically you have to wait for one move to end before you start the next move. Some characters have a ton of these, Shigen is not one of those characters. All he has is Back A -> Back A and Back A -> A. The biggest advantage of link combos is damage. For example:
Jump in B, Back A -> Back A -> Back A -> A xx qbc +A, qcf x2 +AB, hcbx2 +B is 170 Damage on normal characters.
Try it and you'll see that this particular combo is pretty hard. It takes a lot of practice to pull these off consistently. Eventually you get a sort of muscle memory for them and just know when you'll hit them and when you won't.
A simple jump in, Back A -> A xx w/e is a lot more practical than the one listed , but you get the idea.
8.2 Speed Mode Combos
These are Basically Chain combos and chain combos with special moves at
the end of them. Shigen is actually pretty good in speed mode as most of
the "expert" players will pick speed over power for Shigen. i just
prefer power.
Regular chains
A, B, C or forward + C 3-4 hits will and always knock down.
A, A, B, Forward + B/Back + B/Forward + c/Down forward + C 4 hits
A, B, BC 3 hits
A, A, B, BC 4 hits
Back + A, A, A, B 4 hits
Back + A, A, A, B, BC 5 hits
Back + A, A, A, B, forward + B or or down-forward + C 5 hits
Those are his basic chain combos. There are more but i don't really use
them. Rmemeber that all of them can be done after a Jump in C or A for
another hit. The ones that will knock down can be followed up with the
ender of your choice for another hit as well. Now some special move
combos.
Back + A, A, A, B xx tiger talon slash (A) 5 hits
A, A, B xx Spirit blitz (A) 9 hits
Back + A, A, A, B xx Tiger pounce (x3) 7 hits
Back + A, A, A, B xx tiger pounce (x2), Spirit Blitz (b)
A, B, BC, Tiger talon slash (A) 4 hits. The tiger talon slash is a
juggle and must be done as the opponent is falling. Best done on a
cornered opponent.
Again all of these combos can be done after a jump in C or A. Also the
one that knock down can be followed up on the ground. You need to dash
in after the Spirit Blitz for a follow up to connect however.
If you are quick and have a full super bar, you can link into any of his
SSC's if you hit a Spirit Blitz (A) by itself up close since it makes
the opponent fall down slowly. What you need to do is activate the SSC
as soon as Shigen recovers from the blitz and before the opponent hits
the ground. The timing in this is tough but once you get it down it's a
lot of fun. Here is Shigen's most damaging speed mode combo:
Spirit Blitz (A), activate SSC,
A, B, C, Down + C, Down + C, forward + BC, Spirit blitz (B)
If done correctly this combo 17 hits for about 1 and 1/6 life bars worth
of damage to normal characters. That's a pretty good chunk of health for
one combo. But then again, most of Shigen's combos do a lot of damage
anyway so i guess it's normal. You can link any of Shigen's SCC's after
the blitz but the one i listed is the strongest and easiest to do.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.3 Ex Mode Combos
------------------------------------------------------------------------
There is only a few Ex mode combos worth mentioning for Shigen actually.
As far as other combos go, All of his speed mode chain and SSC's will
work in Ex mode, and all of his power mode combos except the ones that
are a cancel from Forward + C. So basically what you get to do in Ex
mode is chain combo into a super cancel. Here's an example:
Back + A, A, B xx tiger talon slash xx tiger dash
Get it? Ex mode can be fun for Shigen but remember to watch out since
you take a lot more damage than usual if you use Ex mode.
A few more good ones:
A, A, B xx tiger talon Slash (A) xx tiger dash DM, followup.
Won't connect if you super cancel to early. Doesn't actually do combo
hits but it really hurts.
Jump in C, A, A, B, Mutilator
You aren't really cancelling the Standing B into the mutilator, you're
more or less linking the super. You need to finish the motion for the
super as soon as Shigen recovers from the standing B for it to connect.
Really this is more of a trap than an actual combo. It's hard to escape if done correctly though.
A, B xx tiger talon slash (A) xx Tiger Dash, Either follow up.
Another decent combo that does a bit more than a full bar of life to
normal opponents.
Shigen's 16 hit Ex mode combo of pain
Jump in C, Back + A, A, A, B xx Tiger talon Slash (A) xx Tiger Dash,
Blitz or Grab follow up
His 2nd longest Ex mode combo. It doesn't matter what follow up you use
to the Tiger Dash as the y both do the same number of hits. You gotta be
quick to pull this one off and if you do you just did about 1 1/6 life
bars worth of damage to the opponent. Unfortuinately you will only get
all the hits if you have your opponent in the corner. It doesn't do as
much as the Mutilator combo or chain throw but it's easier to do (in my
opinion) and more practical.
You can Use Super Speed Combos the same way as in speed mode after you
hit a Spirit Blitz (A) up close. SSC's do a bit more damage in Ex mode.
like so:
Spirit Blitz (A), activate SSC,
A, B, C, Down + C, Down + C, forward + BC, Spirit blitz (B)
17 hits for close to 1 1/3rd life bars of damage on normal characters.
Same combo as in speed mode just a bit stronger.
Well there you go. Hopefully those combos helped you out some. There are
more combos for Shigen but i think i covered the ones that do the most
damage. Remember to ALWAYS go for for the throw follow up attack if you
can for the most damage possible.
If you're having trouble doing any of these combos send me an email and
I may be able to send you a video showing how the combo is done. Or you
could just meet me on Kailerra sometime and i can show you there:)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9.0 Strategies
------------------------------------------------------------------------
I am no real expert at this game but i do know a bit when it comes to
strategies. I'm not going to break down strategies of every character
but i'll give you the strategies i use that work for me.
Basically Shigen needs to be up close and personal to be able to deal a
lot of damage. However getting close to your opponent can be tough. If
you just try to dash in and chain throw all day, chances are your
opponent will see that and it won't work. What you should try to do is
kind of be defensive. Try to bait them into getting close to you. and
above all DEFLECT, DEFLECT, DEFLECT! Deflecting is as big a part of
Shigen's game as it is anyone else's but it seems even more so for me.
Deflect in midair do air throw as a counter, Deflect incoming air attack
do tiger blitz (B), Deflect on ground no to close to opponent do Tiger
blitz (A), Deflect on the ground up close go for Chain throw, DM, SDM if
you can, super cancels, whatever you want.
Keep pressure on your opponent as much as you can. Use tiger pounce to
close distance bvetween you and go for special/chain throws any time you
see an opening. Winning with Shigen can be tough but it's also fun and
satisfying.
Yeah i'm no good for strategies apparently but i thought i'd at least
add that to the final version of this guide.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.0 Secrets
------------------------------------------------------------------------
They're arent a whole lot of secrets for this game but i'll put the ones
that are relevant to Shigen.
Ex mode
Pick you character then set mode to speed and press C 6 times, move to
power and press B 3 times, move back to speed and press C 4 times.
Play as Kotetsu (sort of)
on the character select screen out the curser on Shigen and press
C 5 times, B 10 times, and C 2 more times. if done correctly you'll hear
Kotetsu say something in japanese and you can select her by pressing A
or D. You'll get a different select screen picture, and a different
intro for the fight but you still end up playing as Shigen anyway. It's
worth trying out for comic relief at least.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11.0 Frequently Asked Questions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q: Why write a Last Blade 2 FAq? There's already a ton of LB2 Faqs out
there.
A: Because i Wanted to and no one has done a guide for Shigen that I
have seen yet.
Q: How do i beat Kouryu consistently?
A: With a lot of luck and skill.
Q: Will there be a Last Blade 3?
A: If Snk ever decides to give us Garou 2 then we will get The last
Blade 3. So it's highly unlikely.
Q: How is the online competition?
A: Tough. There are players out there that will tear you up very quickly
if you're not careful. They are good. Very good.
Q: Any tips for playing online?
A: Just practice a lot. And never join a server with a ping of over 150
ms. It makes this game very hard to play well with a high ping. Don't
ever get discouraged if you get beaten. Just take what you learned and
build on it. I was a major noob when i started playing this game online
but i am now much better than i was. Though i still have a long way to
go.
Q: Are you going to write any other Guides in the future?
A: Thought about it. Though most other characters have their own
specific guides. Possibly a Kagami one if i find the time.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12 Thanks
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to Snk for making this great game, and to all of my friends that
play this game with me online. You guys know who you are. Thanks to
Gamefaqs for hosting this and to Deuce and General Blood for their
excellent guides for this game as well. And Basel the "Geese expert"
cause he inspired me to write game guides and he also helped me kick
some serious butt with Geese in SvC. Thanks man.
I hope this Guide was helpful to you in some way. Again if you want to
contact me for any reason send me an e-mail at
Deathsythe173@yahoo.com
and hopefully i'll reply.
Till next time.
Copyright 2005-2008 DraculaX
This post was edited by draculax (05-27-2008 05:09 GMT, --- ago)
