Hokuto no Ken/Kenshiro: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 17:20, 9 April 2022

Overview Combos Matchups Strategy

Introduction

Kenshiro's play-style is quite standard, as one might expect from the main character of a fighting game. He has good normals, well-balanced specials, and his bread and butter combos are very easy to master. His mixup abilities are very good as well thanks to his extremely fast instant air dash B, and he is capable of applying a lot of pressure in the corner. On the defense he is not lacking either, having both an invincible uppercut and Musou Tensei that he can use to get out of bad spots. Overall Kenshiro is a very solid character, and great choice for players of any level.


Pros	Cons
Good corner mixup Great star reducing ability, capable of 4 and even 5-star combos Equipped with many options for escaping pressure	Bad matchups against Toki and Juda Has a huge hitbox, which makes him very easy to combo

Kenshiro

Character Data

Before diving right into the combos be sure to familiarize yourself with Kenshiro's special/super moves and important normals.

Normal Moves

Close

cl.A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	5	4	-	-	-4
A quick jab. Not very useful for pressure or zoning, but used in some combos.

cl.B

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	8	4	-	-	+2
A low kick. Decent but lacking in comparison to 2B.

cl.C

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	9	4	-	-	-1
Two quick punches. No real use, seen mostly when missing a throw attempt.

cl.D

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	7	4	-	-	-17
An upward kick. Its quick startup and big hitbox make it a very good anti-air. Also useful in combos.

Far

f.A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	5	4	-	-	-4
A straight punch. Mostly the same as close A but perhaps slightly more useful as an anti-air.

f.B

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	7	4	-	-	+2
A straight kick. Gives advantage on guard and cancelable into itself. Very useful for mid-range zoning.

f.C

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	11	4	-	-	-5
A two-handed punch. Long active frames and good range. Very useful for zoning, can hit confirm Boost into a combo. Against Rei only, far C combos into 236D when you hit him crouching - this is very useful as far D does not hit crouching opponents.

f.D

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	7	4	-	-	-14
A strong kick. With 7 frame startup, great range, and good comboability, this is without a doubt one of Kenshiro's best normals.

Crouching

2A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	5	4	-	-	-4
A crouching jab. Fast startup, used at close range and in combos.

2B

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Low	7	2	-	-	+6
A low crouching kick. 6 frame advantage on block, allowing for mixup with another 2B or air dash B. Very useful.

2C

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	11	4	-	-	-5
A crouching straight punch. Cancelable into itself, but it's slow startup and short range makes it not very useful.

2D

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Low	13	4	-	Launch	-6
A sweep kick. Fairly long range but slow startup.

Air

j.A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	High	3	6	-	-	-
A quick air jab. Used mostly for getting out of pressure and as a mixup option after an air dash B.

j.B

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	High	10	3	-	-	-
An air kick. Its long range and quick execution make this move Kenshiro's main overhead.

j.C

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	High	10	6	-	-	-
A strong air punch. Fairly slow startup, works alright as an air-to-ground. Used mostly in combos.

j.D

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	High	9	2 () 2 () 2	-	-	-
A 3-hit air kick. Good range to the side but not very effective against opponents below you. Use mostly in combos or for long range zoning.

Command Normals

6A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	High	27	4	-	-	-1
An overhead chop. Aside from being quite slow with a 27 frame startup, Kenshiro screaming 'GANZANRYOUZANHA!' at the top of his lungs doesn't help make this move any less telegraphed either. Still, using Boost it is possible follow up with a combo on a successful hit or a quick low on guard, making this move worth using every once in a while.

6B

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	23	4	-	-	-1
A backhand punch. Jump cancelable and possesses Super Armor. Knocks opponent into the air on normal hit and causes wall bounce on counter. Very useful for dealing with Guard Cancels.

Universal Mechanics

Throw

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Throw	4	4	-	Launch	N/A
Kenshiro picks up his opponent, slaps them around a bit, then tosses them to the ground. Follow up possible in the corner. Can also follow up mid-screen with the use of Boost. Very useful and an important part of Kenshiro's mixup game.

BD Throw

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Throw (whiffs vs. crouch)	9	4	-	Launch	N/A
Kenshiro throws his opponent into the air then hits them with his nunchaku. Follow up possible in the corner. Can also follow up mid-screen with the use of Boost. As it hits multiple times it is great for building meter. Like all BD throws its use is pretty much limited to dizzied opponents.

Grave Shoot

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	17	4	-	Grave Launch	+2
A really, really high kick that launches the opponent into the air. Great range both above and to the sides, but will not hit crouching opponents. Extremely powerful as an early anti-air, and has a fairly short recovery. Also an important combo part.

Heavy Strike

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Unblockable	39	4	-	-	N/A
A body shot. Its really short range makes it one of the least useful Heavy Strikes in the game.

Banishing Strike

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	19-39	4	-	Banish Launch	-9
A left-hook. Important combo part.

Special Moves

Touki

Touki
236A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	5	4	-	-	-4
A small fireball that travels roughly half-screen. Used mostly for putting out other fireball moves and applying pressure. Takes off one star on counter hit.

Hokuto Ujou Moushouha

Hokuto Ujou Moushouha
623A/C (Air OK)

Version	Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
Ground 623A	-	Mid	-	-	-	Launch	-
A dragon punch move with two versions - the A version(left picture) does a quick uppercut and Kenshiro remains grounded, while the C version(right picture) rises into the air. The ground A version has upper-body invulnerability and takes off a star on hit. On counterhit it takes off 2 stars, and the opponent is launched high into the air. It cannot be air guarded, even with the use of Aura Guard.
Version	Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
Ground 623C	-	Mid	-	-	-	Launch	-
The ground C version of the uppercut is your classic invulnerable dragon punch, and takes one star on counter hit. An interesting bug exists in which it is possible to cancel the uppercut into ground moves, even though you are in the air. This makes Kenshiro's reversals particularly deadly when he has meter. While very unpractical, it is also possible to perform some extremely confusing mixups using this bug. See this video for some examples. For the most part it is best to forget that the air versions of the uppercut exist as they have absolutely no use whatsoever.

Hokuto Hieiken

Hokuto Hieiken
623B

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	-	-	-	Launch	-
A diagonal rising kick move similar in appearance to Shin's Gokutoken, but lacking any invulnerability. Used mostly as a combo ender when it isn't possible to continue into anything else and as a very situational anti-air. Connecting with an airborne opponent causes wall bounce and can lead to some very big combos. Removes one star on counter hit.

Hokuto Seieikou

Hokuto Seieikou
236C

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	-	-	-	-	-
A short-ranged move in which Kenshiro strikes his opponent's pressure point, stunning them and taking off one star on normal hit and two on counter hit. Connecting with Seieikou also causes the victim to take chip damage from normal moves for a short duration. Due to its short range it is considered a combo-only move.

Tenha no Kamae

Tenha no Kamae
214C

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	-	-	-	-	-	-
A charge type move that when executed causes the next attack to take off one extra star than it usually would if it connects. However, the charge is used up when you perform any attack, including normal moves, making it rather hard to use effectively. Even Guard Cancels will take off a star, and interestingly do not use up the charge, even after a successful hit. For some reason the C version Moushouha only will take off two stars(three on counterhit) when connecting. A small amount of Boost and Aura is gained when executing this move so it is also possible to build up meter when at a distance, provided your opponent doesn't have any Boost. The most common spot to use Tenha no Kamae is after dizzying an opponent in the corner, when coupled with a BD throw one can easily pull off a 5-star combo.

Hokuto Jaraikou

Hokuto Jaraikou
236D

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Mid	-	-	-	-	-
A strong rushing punch, with Super Armor at the very beginning of the animation. It combos only from far D, and is jump cancelable on hit. Despite the Super Armor this move should generally only be used in combos. Takes off one star on counter hit.

Hokuto Shichishiki Heizan

Hokuto Shichishiki Heizan
j.214A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	High	-	-	-	-	-
A rushing air punch that travels diagonally downward towards the ground. Used mostly as a tricky mixup option after a blocked air dash string such as j.B > j.A in the corner. While this can very hard to see it is important to use it only sparingly, as having this move blocked will usually result in your death. Generally there is not much merit in tiger kneeing Shichishiki Heizan as Kenshiro's air dash B is faster and risk free for the most part. Takes off one star on counter hit.

Hokuto Ryugekiko

Hokuto Ryugekiko
214A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	-	4	-	-	-	-
A 'catch' move for mid and high attacks that causes wall bounce upon successfully connecting. 4F startup. Can also reflect projectiles. Removes one star on counter hit.

Super Moves

Musou Tensei

Musou Tensei
214214B

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Uses 1 bar of Aura. A 'charge' super, that after executing(left picture) grants the ability to use the special defensive maneuver Musou Tensei(middle and right pictures) up to 7 times. While active pressing 6(for mid/high attacks) or 2(for low attacks) in time with his opponent's attack hitting will cause Kenshiro to teleport behind the opponent. Specifically, the time frame for Musou activating is 5 frames within inputing the forward or downward direction. However, if the lever is returned to neutral within 5 frames of the input, the total time is extended to 11 frames. There is a roughly 15 frame window after attempting to Musou in which it is not possible to try again, which prevents continuous Musou attempts. Musou charges carry over rounds so it is advantageous to try to get off the super as soon as possible.

Tenha Kassatsu

Tenha Kassatsu
236236A

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	All	11+6	-	-	Launch	-
Uses 1 bar of Aura. A laser beam super used mostly as a combo ender. While it does have some invulnerability it wears out before the super executes and except for some very rare cases(chip damage finishes, punishing fireballs), should never be used outside a combo. The opponent bounces slightly after being hit by the beam, and it is possible to follow up with some moves when in the corner. Takes off one star normally, and two as a counter hit.

Hokuto Zankaiken

Hokuto Zankaiken
214214C

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
-	Throw (whiffs vs. crouch)	8+9	-	-	Launch	N/A
Uses 2 bars of Aura. When executed, Kenshiro jumps into the air and attacks the opponent from above. If the attack is successful, a timer reading '3.00' will appear above the victim's head that will slowly begin to count down - although Kenshiro says 'you will die in 3 seconds,' it actually takes about 20 or so. Once the count reaches 0, the player dies and the round ends. As it is extremely slow, cannot be comboed into, and uses up two full bars of Aura, Zankaiken should be considered a gimmick move only. In addition to being very easy to guard, it misses completely versus all crouching characters except Mr. Heart, and doesn't affect Thouther at all. Also, even if it does somehow connect, you still have to stay alive for 20 seconds. If you really want to use this move the only realistic spot where you can hope to get a guaranteed hit in is by using it after a missed reversal dragon punch against an opponent without any Boost.

Fatal KO

Fatal KO
236CD

Damage	Guard	Startup	Active	Recovery	Hit Adv	Block Adv
FATAL KO	Mid	8+3	-	-	-	-
Requires the opponent to have 0 stars. Kenshiro's most famous move, in which he strikes his opponent quickly 100 times, killing them horribly. As far as Fatal KO's go, this is one of the better ones, able to hit OTG and having a quick startup.

Game Navigation

Hokuto no Ken
General
Controls Notation HUD Glossary System FAQ

Characters
Jagi Juda Kenshiro Mamiya Mr. Heart Raoh Rei Shin Thouther Toki

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-==Introduction==
+{{Infobox Character HNK
+|name=Kenshiro
+}}
-{| style="width:100%" cellpadding=10 border="0"
+{{TOClimit|3}}
-|-
-| [[Image:Kenshiroportrait.png|left]]
-| Kenshiro's play-style is quite standard, as one might expect from the main character of a fighting game. He has good normals, well-balanced specials, and his bread and butter combos are very easy to master. His mixup abilities are very good as well thanks to his extremely fast instant air dash B, and he is capable of applying a lot of pressure in the corner. On the defense he is not lacking either, having both an invincible uppercut and Musou Tensei that he can use to get out of bad spots. Overall Kenshiro is a very solid character, and great choice for players of any level.
-That being said, let us start this section off by listing Kenshiro's main strengths and weaknesses.
+Before diving right into the combos be sure to familiarize yourself with Kenshiro's special/super moves and important normals.
-|}
+==Normal Moves==
+===Close===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">cl.A</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-c.A.png
+|name=cl.A
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=5
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-4
+ |description=A quick jab. Not very useful for pressure or zoning, but used in some combos.
+ }}
+}}
+===== <span class="invisible-header">cl.B</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-c.B.png
+|name=cl.B
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=8
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=+2
+ |description=A low kick. Decent but lacking in comparison to 2B.
+ }}
+}}
-'''Strengths:'''
+===== <span class="invisible-header">cl.C</span> =====
-* His great mixup in the corner combined with his [[Hokuto_no_Ken/Advanced_Game_Mechanics#.27Chikuseki.27_Phenomenon|Chikuseki]] combos create a devastating combination
+{{MoveData
-* Great star reducing ability
+|image=Kenshiro-c.C.png
-* Practical 4 and even 5-star FKO combos
+|name=cl.C
-* Both Musou Tensei and his dragon punch are great defensive tools
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=9
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-1
+ |description=Two quick punches. No real use, seen mostly when missing a throw attempt.
+ }}
+}}
+===== <span class="invisible-header">cl.D</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-c.D.png
+|name=cl.D
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=7
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-17
+ |description=An upward kick. Its quick startup and big hitbox make it a very good anti-air. Also useful in combos.
+ }}
+}}
-'''Weaknesses:'''
+===Far===
-* Bad matchups against Toki and Juda
+===== <span class="invisible-header">f.A</span> =====
-* Has a huge hitbox, which makes him very easy to combo
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-A.png
+|name=f.A
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=5
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-4
+ |description=A straight punch. Mostly the same as close A but perhaps slightly more useful as an anti-air.
+ }}
+}}
+===== <span class="invisible-header">f.B</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-B.png
+|name=f.B
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=7
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=+2
+ |description=A straight kick. Gives advantage on guard and cancelable into itself. Very useful for mid-range zoning.
+ }}
+}}
-Before diving right into the combos be sure to familiarize yourself with Kenshiro's special/super moves and important normals.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">f.C</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-C.png
+|name=f.C
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=11
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-5
+ |description=A two-handed punch. Long active frames and good range. Very useful for zoning, can hit confirm Boost into a combo. Against Rei only, far C combos into 236D when you hit him crouching - this is very useful as far D does not hit crouching opponents.
+ }}
+}}
-==Normal Moves==
+===== <span class="invisible-header">f.D</span> =====
-See [[Kenshiro/Normal_Moves|Normal Moves]] section.
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-D.png
+|name=f.D
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=7
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-14
+ |description=A strong kick. With 7 frame startup, great range, and good comboability, this is without a doubt one of Kenshiro's best normals.
+ }}
+}}
-==Special Moves==
+===Crouching===
-See [[Kenshiro/Special Moves|Special Moves]] section.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">2A</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-2A.png
+|name=2A
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=5
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-4
+ |description=A crouching jab. Fast startup, used at close range and in combos.
+ }}
+}}
-==Combos==
+===== <span class="invisible-header">2B</span> =====
-See [[Kenshiro/Combos|Combos]] section.
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-2B.png
+|name=2B
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Low
+ |Startup=7
+ |Active=2
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=+6
+ |description=A low crouching kick. 6 frame advantage on block, allowing for mixup with another 2B or air dash B. Very useful.
+ }}
+}}
-==Matchups==
+===== <span class="invisible-header">2C</span> =====
-===Kenshiro===
+{{MoveData
-X
+|image=Kenshiro-2C.png
+|name=2C
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=11
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-5
+ |description=A crouching straight punch. Cancelable into itself, but it's slow startup and short range makes it not very useful.
+ }}
+}}
-===Raoh===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">2D</span> =====
-{| style="width:100%" cellpadding=10 border="0"
+{{MoveData
-|While Raoh is at the advantage, this is still a very close match. Raoh can and will kill you from pretty much any hit, so it is important to not give away rounds by making overly risky plays. On the other hand, Raoh is hands down the easiest character for Kenshiro to dribble, so you will want to practice until you can do it consistently.
+|image=Kenshiro-2D.png
+|name=2D
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Low
+ |Startup=13
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Launch
+ |Block Adv=-6
+ |description=A sweep kick. Fairly long range but slow startup.
+ }}
+}}
-At round start your best bet is usually just guarding and seeing what Raoh does. From starting distance your far D will beat pretty much anything your opponent does, but most Raoh users know this and will just wait to see if you do it, then hit you with a crouching 2D while you are recovering. This of course will result in your death if he has Aura, so you should be especially cautious in such situations.
+===Air===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">j.A</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-j.A.png
+|name=j.A
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=High
+ |Startup=3
+ |Active=6
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A quick air jab. Used mostly for getting out of pressure and as a mixup option after an air dash B.
+  }}
+}}
-As far as normals go, you are at the advantage at far D range, but at closer distances Raoh can beat out most of your attacks. You can get guaranteed hits with far D when Raoh misses with most of his moves, such as Grave Shoot, Kohou(powerup move), crouch D etc, but in many cases you are not able to capitalize on opportunities because you always have to be wary of Insatsu. You also want to be careful to avoid careless air dashing as Raoh's far B, far D, and jump A are all extremely effective against low jumping opponents and can easily be chained into 100% combos.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">j.B</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-j.B.png
+|name=j.B
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=High
+ |Startup=10
+ |Active=3
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=An air kick. Its long range and quick execution make this move Kenshiro's main overhead.
+ }}
+}}
-Guard Cancels are guaranteed off of '''all''' of Raoh's moves, both specials and normals, but you still need to pick your spots carefully or you will end up eating a counter hit chop. You especially want to avoid doing a Guard Cancel off of Raoh's close or far D as most Raoh users will buffer a chop here every time. Some players also like to bait your Guard Cancel with Raretsuken(rushing punch move), then Boost cancel it into a chop, so this is also not necessarily a safe spot to Guard Cancel when your opponent has meter.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">j.C</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-j.C.png
+|name=j.C
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=High
+ |Startup=10
+ |Active=6
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A strong air punch. Fairly slow startup, works alright as an air-to-ground. Used mostly in combos.
+ }}
+}}
-This is a good matchup that can go either way, so you will want to make sure your combos are well practiced and you don't take unnecessary risks.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">j.D</span> =====
-|}
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-j.D.png
+|name=j.D
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=High
+ |Startup=9
+ |Active=2 () 2 () 2
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A 3-hit air kick. Good range to the side but not very effective against opponents below you. Use mostly in combos or for long range zoning.
+ }}
+}}
-===Toki===
-X
-===Shin===
+===Command Normals===
-{| style="width:100%" cellpadding=10 border="0"
+===== <span class="invisible-header">6A</span> =====
-|A very even match, which is quite fitting for these two rivals! Since Shin has you a strong mixup game, you will want to activate Musou as soon as possible. If you get knocked down and think you are going to get crossed up with Shin's jump B, you can do 4 > 6 > neutral on wakeup, which will get you an Agility Guard or Musou, depending on which direction you are hit from. Musou forces Shin to be very cautious with his zoning moves, especially his far C, which becomes an easy Musou target. Far C will also miss you if you are crouching, after which you can hit him during the recovery with a far D.
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-6A.png
+|name=6A
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=High
+ |Startup=27
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-1
+ |description=An overhead chop. Aside from being quite slow with a 27 frame startup, Kenshiro screaming 'GANZANRYOUZANHA!' at the top of his lungs doesn't help make this move any less telegraphed either. Still, using Boost it is possible follow up with a combo on a successful hit or a quick low on guard, making this move worth using every once in a while.
+ }}
+}}
-You must also be wary of Shin's 2B, which is effective especially against your air dash attacks. Depending on the positioning, Shin can just mash 2B when you air dash, avoid your attack, and hit you when you land.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">6B</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-6B.png
+|name=6B
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=23
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-1
+ |description=A backhand punch. Jump cancelable and possesses Super Armor. Knocks opponent into the air on normal hit and causes wall bounce on counter. Very useful for dealing with [[Hokuto_no_Ken/Basic_Game_Mechanics#Guard_Cancel|Guard Cancels]].
+ }}
+}}
-You can bait a reversal super from Shin with your 2B, as long as you time it right and aren't too close to him. To punish use 236D, which will counter hit and net you a free star. Shin can also do the exact same thing to you with his 2B, so reversal uppercuts are not advisable unless you have Boost. If you guard a Gokutoken, you can get a guaranteed hit with 623A or close D and follow up with a Hebi combo.
+===Universal Mechanics===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Throw</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Throw.png
+|name=Throw
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Throw
+ |Startup=4
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Launch
+ |Block Adv=N/A
+ |description=Kenshiro picks up his opponent, slaps them around a bit, then tosses them to the ground. Follow up possible in the corner. Can also follow up mid-screen with the use of Boost. Very useful and an important part of Kenshiro's mixup game.
+ }}
+}}
-Another thing to keep in mind is that you have a guard bar against Shina. Shin is very lacking in ways to deal with Guard Cancels, so if you have the Aura, don't be afraid to use one to escape a Guard Crush string. Failing that your best bet is to Aura Guard and try to jump away when he gets pushed back far enough.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">BD Throw</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-BD.png
+|name=BD Throw
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Throw (whiffs vs. crouch)
+ |Startup=9
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Launch
+ |Block Adv=N/A
+ |description=Kenshiro throws his opponent into the air then hits them with his nunchaku. Follow up possible in the corner. Can also follow up mid-screen with the use of Boost. As it hits multiple times it is great for building meter. Like all BD throws its use is pretty much limited to dizzied opponents.
+ }}
+}}
-This is one a the few matchups where you might actually mistake Hokuto for a 'normal' fighting game. Rarely will you see a dribble combo, and both sides have an even chance of winning.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Grave Shoot</span> =====
-|}
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Grave.png
+|name=Grave Shoot
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=17
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Grave Launch
+ |Block Adv=+2
+ |description=A really, really high kick that launches the opponent into the air. Great range both above and to the sides, but will not hit crouching opponents. Extremely powerful as an early anti-air, and has a fairly short recovery. Also an important combo part.
+ }}
+}}
-===Rei===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Heavy Strike</span> =====
-{| style="width:100%" cellpadding=10 border="0"
+{{MoveData
-|Kenshiro's best matchup out of the top 4 characters. Rei is considered to have a very slight advantage, but generally speaking this matchup is quite even, especially by Hokuto standards.
+|image=Kenshiro-Heavy.png
+|name=Heavy Strike
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Unblockable
+ |Startup=39
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=N/A
+ |description=A body shot. Its really short range makes it one of the least useful Heavy Strikes in the game.
+ }}
+}}
-While not quite on the same level as Raoh, who you can use the same combo in every situation, Rei is very easy for Kenshiro to dribble. At the very least if you master the [[Kenshiro/Combos#High_Jump_Dribble|Basic High Jump Dribble]] and [[Kenshiro/Combos#Boost_Jump_D_Dribble|Boost Jump D Dribble]], you will be able kill him from most locations on the screen.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Banishing Strike</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Bani.png
+|name=Banishing Strike
+|subtitle=
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=19-39
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Banish Launch
+ |Block Adv=-9
+ |description=A left-hook. Important combo part.
+ }}
+}}
-Rei's corner lockdown is down right ridiculous thanks to his ability to Jump Cancel many of his normals, but luckily Kenshiro is one of the few characters who has quite a few ways of getting out of Rei's pressure. If your opponent does a close D or 2D > air dash jump B > jump D, you can Agility Guard the jump B and get a guaranteed hit with 623A and follow up with a big air combo or even a dribble. The same thing applies if your opponent goes for air dash jump B > 2A. However if they do air dash jump B > 2B your uppercut will not hit and you will probably die - in this case you can beat his 2B with 2A instead, which will net you a ground hit and allow you to go for a dribble easily. Doing Agility Guard > 623C will beat out all of Rei's options, but costs more meter to follow up with after. 2B > air dash jump B can be beaten by 2A before the jump A hits, but following up can be difficult. Also, 2B > 2D does not combo on guard, and thus is a very effective spot to punish with a Musou or 623C. Knowing this, you can easily punish Rei-users who are too predictable with their attack strings.
+==Special Moves==
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Touki</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Touki.png
+|name=Touki
+|subtitle=236A
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=5
+ |Active=4
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=-4
+ |description=A small fireball that travels roughly half-screen. Used mostly for putting out other fireball moves and applying pressure. Takes off one star on counter hit.
+ }}
+}}
-If Rei tries to close the distance on you from mid-range with an air dash jump B, you can punish him with far B or D. If the moves 'clash,' quickly follow up far B with far D, and far D with a Grave Strike. You can also try out other options to punish Rei's air dash attacks such as 214A and 6B.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Hokuto Ujou Moushouha</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-DPA.png
+|image2=Kenshiro-DPC.png
+|name=Hokuto Ujou Moushouha
+|subtitle=623A/C (Air OK)
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |version=Ground 623A
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Launch
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A dragon punch move with two versions - the A version(left picture) does a quick uppercut and Kenshiro remains grounded, while the C version(right picture) rises into the air. The ground A version has upper-body invulnerability and takes off a star on hit. On counterhit it takes off 2 stars, and the opponent is launched high into the air.  It cannot be air guarded, even with the use of Aura Guard.
+ }}
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |version=Ground 623C
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Launch
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=The ground C version of the uppercut is your classic invulnerable dragon punch, and takes one star on counter hit. An interesting bug exists in which it is possible to cancel the uppercut into ground moves, even though you are in the air. This makes Kenshiro's reversals particularly deadly when he has meter. While very unpractical, it is also possible to perform some extremely confusing mixups using this bug. See [http://www.nicovideo.jp/watch/sm8366267 this] video for some examples.
-Due to his long crouching recovery, when you score a hit on Rei while he is crouching, far C, 2C, and close D will all combo into 236D or a Banishing Strike.
+For the most part it is best to forget that the air versions of the uppercut exist as they have absolutely no use whatsoever.
+ }}
+}}
-Overall this is a very even matchup - if you practice your dribble combos and countering Rei's rush down, you should be able to come out on top more often than not.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Hokuto Hieiken</span> =====
-|}
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Hieiken.png
+|name=Hokuto Hieiken
+|subtitle=623B
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Launch
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A diagonal rising kick move similar in appearance to Shin's Gokutoken, but lacking any invulnerability. Used mostly as a combo ender when it isn't possible to continue into anything else and as a very situational anti-air. Connecting with an airborne opponent causes wall bounce and can lead to some very big combos. Removes one star on counter hit.
+ }}
+}}
-===Juda===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Hokuto Seieikou</span> =====
-X
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Seiei.png
+|name=Hokuto Seieikou
+|subtitle=236C
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A short-ranged move in which Kenshiro strikes his opponent's pressure point, stunning them and taking off one star on normal hit and two on counter hit. Connecting with Seieikou also causes the victim to take chip damage from normal moves for a short duration. Due to its short range it is considered a combo-only move.
+ }}
+}}
-===Thouther===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Tenha no Kamae</span> =====
-X
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Tenha.png
+|name=Tenha no Kamae
+|subtitle=214C
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=
+ |Startup=
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A charge type move that when executed causes the next attack to take off one extra star than it usually would if it connects. However, the charge is used up when you perform any attack, including normal moves, making it rather hard to use effectively. Even Guard Cancels will take off a star, and interestingly do not use up the charge, even after a successful hit. For some reason the C version Moushouha only will take off two stars(three on counterhit) when connecting. A small amount of Boost and Aura is gained when executing this move so it is also possible to build up meter when at a distance, provided your opponent doesn't have any Boost. The most common spot to use Tenha no Kamae is after dizzying an opponent in the corner, when coupled with a BD throw one can easily pull off a 5-star combo.
+ }}
+}}
-===Jagi===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Hokuto Jaraikou</span> =====
-{| style="width:100%" cellpadding=10 border="0"
+{{MoveData
-|Although somewhat hard to combo, at 7:3 Jagi is one Kenshiro's easiest matchups. Kenshiro is superior to Jagi in almost all aspects, and Musou makes most of Jagi's zoning and mixup options unsafe.
+|image=Kenshiro-Hebi.png
+|name=Hokuto Jaraikou
+|subtitle=236D
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A strong rushing punch, with Super Armor at the very beginning of the animation. It combos only from far D, and is jump cancelable on hit. Despite the Super Armor this move should generally only be used in combos. Takes off one star on counter hit.
+ }}
+}}
-When Jagi takes a hit while crouching he recovers extremely fast(think the opposite of Rei), and because of this 2B > far D will not combo. In the event you do hit him while he is crouching you will want to connect 2B to 2D and follow up with a (Boost) Grave Shoot or 623B.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Hokuto Shichishiki Heizan</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Shichishiki.png
+|name=Hokuto Shichishiki Heizan
+|subtitle=j.214A
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=High
+ |Startup=
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A rushing air punch that travels diagonally downward towards the ground. Used mostly as a tricky mixup option after a blocked air dash string such as j.B > j.A in the corner. While this can very hard to see it is important to use it only sparingly, as having this move blocked will usually result in your death. Generally there is not much merit in tiger kneeing Shichishiki Heizan as Kenshiro's air dash B is faster and risk free for the most part. Takes off one star on counter hit.
+ }}
+}}
-If your opponent is capable of using Jagi's magical [[Hokuto_no_Ken/Advanced_Game_Mechanics#.27Basuke.27_State|Basuke]] combo then you will want to avoid getting thrown or hit with his overhead near the corner when he has more than 2 boost.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Hokuto Ryugekiko</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Ryugekiko.png
+|name=Hokuto Ryugekiko
+|subtitle=214A
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=
+ |Startup=4
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=A 'catch' move for mid and high attacks that causes wall bounce upon successfully connecting. 4F startup. Can also reflect projectiles. Removes one star on counter hit.
+ }}
+}}
-Jagi has two combo enders that can be a pain if you don't know how to get out of them. The first is "Gas Hame" which is done by ending a Banishing combo in the corner with a thrown match and then dashing in and dropping gas barrels over and over, causing the match to ignite and continuously knock you down. This can be escaped using Musou, a Guard Cancel, or a reversal uppercut.
+==Super Moves==
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Musou Tensei</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Musou.png
+|name=Musou Tensei
+|subtitle=214214B
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=
+ |Startup=
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=
+* Uses 1 bar of Aura.
+A 'charge' super, that after executing(left picture) grants the ability to use the special defensive maneuver Musou Tensei(middle and right pictures) up to 7 times. While active pressing 6(for mid/high attacks) or 2(for low attacks) in time with his opponent's attack hitting will cause Kenshiro to teleport behind the opponent. Specifically, the time frame for Musou activating is 5 frames within inputing the forward or downward direction. However, if the lever is returned to neutral within 5 frames of the input, the total time is extended to 11 frames. There is a roughly 15 frame window after attempting to Musou in which it is not possible to try again, which prevents continuous Musou attempts.
-The other, know as 'Misora-shiki,' is likewise done by ending a banishing combo with a match, but then using his gas super with a slight delay so it goes off after you fall down. This results in the gas igniting in a huge fire when you get up, and will net Jagi a bit over a full bar of Boost if you guard it. This is generally followed up by a Heavy Strike or other mixup, which using the boost gained from the gas allows Jagi to reset into another Banishing combo. This however is extremely easy to counter. If you have Musou on, you can just Musou it, otherwise it is safe to simply not guard and take a small amount of damage from the fire. If you are low in health without Musou and can't afford to take the hit you can also guard cancel just before the Heavy hits, although the fire still hits sometimes anyways.
+Musou charges carry over rounds so it is advantageous to try to get off the super as soon as possible.
+ }}
+}}
-That said, Kenshiro has a big advantage in this match and you should be able to win here most of the time.
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Tenha Kassatsu</span> =====
-|}
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Kassatsu.png
+|name=Tenha Kassatsu
+|subtitle=236236A
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=All
+ |Startup=11+6
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Launch
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=
+* Uses 1 bar of Aura.
+A laser beam super used mostly as a combo ender. While it does have some invulnerability it wears out before the super executes and except for some very rare cases(chip damage finishes, punishing fireballs), should never be used outside a combo. The opponent bounces slightly after being hit by the beam, and it is possible to follow up with some moves when in the corner. Takes off one star normally, and two as a counter hit.
+ }}
+}}
-===Mr. Heart===
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Hokuto Zankaiken</span> =====
-X
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-Zankai.png
+|name=Hokuto Zankaiken
+|subtitle=214214C
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=
+ |Guard=Throw (whiffs vs. crouch)
+ |Startup=8+9
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=Launch
+ |Block Adv=N/A
+ |description=
+* Uses 2 bars of Aura.
+When executed, Kenshiro jumps into the air and attacks the opponent from above. If the attack is successful, a timer reading '3.00' will appear above the victim's head that will slowly begin to count down - although Kenshiro says 'you will die in 3 seconds,' it actually takes about 20 or so. Once the count reaches 0, the player dies and the round ends.
-===Mamiya===
+As it is extremely slow, cannot be comboed into, and uses up two full bars of Aura, Zankaiken should be considered a gimmick move only. In addition to being very easy to guard, it misses completely versus all crouching characters except Mr. Heart, and doesn't affect Thouther at all. Also, even if it ''does'' somehow connect, you still have to stay alive for 20 seconds. If you really want to use this move the only realistic spot where you can hope to get a guaranteed hit in is by using it after a missed reversal dragon punch against an opponent without any Boost.
-X
+ }}
+}}
-{{Template:Hokuto-no-Ken-Characters}}
+==Fatal KO==
+===== <span class="invisible-header">Fatal KO</span> =====
+{{MoveData
+|image=Kenshiro-FKO.png
+|name=Fatal KO
+|subtitle=236CD
+|caption=
+|data=
+ {{AttackData-HNK
+ |Damage=FATAL KO
+ |Guard=Mid
+ |Startup=8+3
+ |Active=
+ |Recovery=
+ |Hit Adv=
+ |Block Adv=
+ |description=
+* Requires the opponent to have 0 stars.
+Kenshiro's most famous move, in which he strikes his opponent quickly 100 times, killing them horribly. As far as Fatal KO's go, this is one of the better ones, able to hit OTG and having a quick startup.
+ }}
+}}
+{{Navbox-HNK}}
 [[Category:Hokuto no Ken]]