Street Fighter 6/A.K.I.

A.K.I.
Vitals
Life Points	10000
Ground Movement
Forward Walk Speed	0.0452
Backward Walk Speed	0.032
Forward Dash Speed	19
Backward Dash Speed	23
Forward Dash Distance	1.300
Backward Dash Distance	1.079
Drive Rush Min. Distance (Throw)	0.907
Drive Rush Min. Distance (Block)	2.437
Drive Rush Max Distance	4.049
Jumping
Jump Speed	4+40+3
Jump Apex	2.176
Forward Jump Distance	2.00
Backward Jump Distance	1.60
Throws
Throw Range	0.8
Throw Hurtbox	0.33

Introduction

A poison-wielding apprentice of F.A.N.G, the former Shadaloo officer. Enchanted by the power of toxins, nothing brings her more joy than testing them on a new target—other than attention from her “master,” that is.

Slithering onto the battlefield with zoning capabilities and powerful okizeme options, A.K.I. is an unconventional and unorthodox character who revolves heavily around her poison mechanic. Some of A.K.I.'s specials poison opponents on hit, which slowly tick away at their life bar. Using this, A.K.I. baits her opponents into making risky play before elegantly maneuvering around them and going for the kill.

A.K.I's most important special is Nightshade Pulse, a slow advancing projectile that causes poison on hit. A.K.I. can send this projectile out to control the screen as she advances behind it or use it as a meaty to maintain advantage. Nightshade is very strong and defines a lot of matchups for A.K.I., as opponents who fail to deal with it will find her slowly closing in on them. However, Nightshade is just one tool in A.K.I.'s tremendously large kit. Serpent Lash acts as a strong midrange poke, while Orchid Spring allows A.K.I. to set up an unblockable poison pool. A.K.I. is also known for having some rather unique approach options. Snake Step and Sinister Slide cause A.K.I. to drop to the floor and go low-profile, allowing her to slide under all sorts of nonsense. Enemy fireballs, high-reaching pokes, and even Drive Impacts - A.K.I. can duck under it all and lash out with any number of follow-ups. Even better, A.K.I. has a command grab out of Snake Step, giving her unique ways to mess with the opponent.

As a defining part of her kit, if A.K.I. hits her opponent with a poison-inducing move while they are already poisoned, they will explode into a "Toxic Blossom" that gives her extended combo opportunities. Thus, A.K.I. can quickly adapt her gameplan from far-reaching pokes into a very scary mixup and okizeme character if she gets the chance. The looping poison setups she can dish out take off a good amount of life, and the consistent safe jumps she can get off of Toxic Blossom combos allow her to continue offense after a combo very safely. Combined with a strong overhead, a few ways to be plus on block, the sheer volume of potential attacks and specials at her disposal, on top of the threat of poison, and A.K.I. can be an absolute menace if she is closed in on the opponent.

In general, A.K.I. has a high number of complex routes for her combos that are dependent on if the opponent is poisoned or not, but the tradeoff is that her huge kit and unique normals allow her pickups off of openings that other characters may struggle to confirm. As well, her defensive options tend to be lackluster, often lacking important invulnerability frames to push through meaties and deep jump-ins. Another important thing is that A.K.I.'s animations are very long, making it difficult for her to play around Drive Impact. She will be constantly looking for it, far more than most other characters, which can result in a lot of mental fatigue. If you can grapple with this fact, and all of the above sounds appealing to you, shed your inhibitions and become one with the queen of toxicity herself.

Pick if you like:	Avoid if you dislike:
Characters that reward lots of situational awareness with proper setup. Consistent, strong, and low-risk okizeme. Whittling your opponents down over time. Shutting down fireballs approaching behind your own.	Weak defensive options, either vulnerable to throws or meaty lights. Deliberately playing around Drive Impact. Situational combos

Classic & Modern Versions Comparison

List of differences with Modern A.K.I.
Missing Normals	Standing Light Kick (5LK) Crouching Medium Punch (2MP) Jumping Light Punch (j.LP) Jumping Medium Punch (j.MP) Jumping Heavy Kick (j.HK)
Missing Command Normals	Chi Wen (6HP)
Shortcut-Only Specials	Cruel Fate (2S) Heavy/OD Only Snake Step (5S) Medium/OD Only
Assist Combos	A[L~L~L]: 2LK ~ 2LP ~ L Serpent Lash On Block: stops after 2LP A[M~M~M~M]: 5MP ~ OD Nightshade Pulse ~ Nightshade Chaser ~ SA2 Burnout: 5MP ~ L Nightshade Pulse ~ Nightshade Chaser On Block: stops at OD/L Nightshade Pulse (no Chaser follow-up) A[H~H~H~H~H]: 5HK ~ OD Serpent Lash ~ 5LK ~ H Toxic Wreath ~ SA3 Burnout: 5HK ~ L Serpent Lash ~ SA3 On Block: stops at OD/L Serpent Lash
Miscellaneous Changes	A.K.I.'s combo routes with Poison are severely diminished without access to 5LK, since she cannot combo other Lights into MP Serpent Lash.

Poison & Toxic Blossom

A.K.I. has several moves that inflict a poison status on the opponent, which is indicated by a purple glow. A poisoned character will take 1 damage per frame (60 damage per second) until the effect wears off. Poison naturally runs out after 7 seconds (for a total of 420 damage), but can also be stopped by inflicting damage on A.K.I. before then.

The poison pool placed on the ground with Orchid Spring (214MP) or Tainted Talons (214214P) is unblockable. The poison will be constantly reapplied as long as the opponent is nearby, which can allow the total duration to extend well beyond 7 seconds.

Characters cannot die to poison damage, so A.K.I. will always have to land the final blow herself.

Toxic Blossom:

Some special moves and Target Combos have a different effect when hitting a poisoned opponent. In addition to dealing extra damage, triggering "Toxic Blossom" gives better knockdown advantage, juggle height, or even crumple states that allow powerful follow-up combos. Toxic Blossom detonates the poison within the opponent's body, ending the poison effect immediately.

Much of A.K.I.'s complexity stems from managing the opponent's poison status to achieve optimal combo routes based on whether Toxic Blossom can be triggered. It's important to note that poison will not run out while a character is in hitstun, so you can safely proceed with a Toxic Blossom combo route without additional time management.

Frame Data Glossary - SF6
Hitbox Images	🟥 (Red): Attack hitbox Appears pink for Throw hitboxes 🟩 (Green): Vulnerable hurtbox that can be hit by strikes/projectiles If a move's hitbox and hurtbox overlap, the colors blend to appear orange 🟦 (Blue): Vulnerable throw hurtbox Will be thrown if Pink throw hitbox touches Blue throw hurtbox
Active	How many frames a move remains active (can hurt opponents) for. For projectiles with a maximum active period, a value may be listed in [brackets], but this number is not factored into the move's total frame count. For multi-hit moves with no gaps between the active hitboxes, active frames are listed as X,Y (or sometimes X*Y) For multi-hit moves with gaps between hits, active frames are listed as X(n)Y where n = the frame gap between hitboxes.
Cancel	Available options for canceling one move into another move. "Chn": Chain cancel (Light normals; specific chain options listed in Description) "TC": Target Combo "Sp": Special move "SA": Super Art (if a number is listed, refers only to that specific Super; SA3 = Lv.3 Super Art) "Jmp": Jump cancel (usually on hit only, if applicable) "SS": Serenity Stream (Chun-Li's stance) If one hit of a multi-hit attack is cancelable, this can be indicated with (1st), (2nd), etc. Occasionally, a move can be canceled only into a specific follow-up (e.g. Dee Jay [4]6P > 22PP); this can be indicated by listing the move input in the Cancel field, or with an asterisk that is explained in the move notes (Sp*)
Cancel Hitconfirm Windows	Hitconfirm reaction windows into Special Moves, Target Combos, and Super Arts. Refers to the amount of time (in frames) you have to cancel one attack into another attack on reaction e.g. most cancelable 2MKs have a 13 frame window to cancel into a Special/Super on reaction, making them nearly impossible to hitconfirm Counts from the first frame the attack connects until the final cancelable frame Visual effects like hitsparks and HP drain do not actually occur until frame 2; the first frame is still counted to keep the numbers consistent with previous games, and because it is technically possible to start reacting to the character's reeling animation on frame 1 If a Target Combo is cancelable into another attack, the hitconfirm window will include the entire sequence starting from the first hit If there is a frame gap on block between hits of the TC, the hitconfirm window may also be included for just the followup hit Some sequences like Ken's 5MP~HP TC may have a range of values listed (43f~47f). In this example, inputting 5MP~HP at its usual timing gives a 43f hitconfirm into a Special/Super. Delaying the chain into HP gives more total time for the final hitconfirm.
Damage	Attack damage on hit. Multi-hit moves may have the damage listed for individual hits as X,Y (or sometimes X*Y). Sometimes a move's damage changes depending on which active frame connects, or on cinematic vs. non-cinematic hits; in this case, multiple values may be listed, and it will be clarified in the move description.
Damage Scaling	Some moves cause additional damage scaling in combos. Refer to Game Data page for a more detailed breakdown. Scaling Types: Starter: When a move begins the combo, the next attack is scaled by X percent e.g. Ryu 2MK (20% Starter) > Hadoken: Hadoken is at 80% damage scaling Combo: When a move is comboed into, the next attack is scaled by X percent or X number of hits e.g. Ryu 2HP > OD High Blade Kick (2-Hit Combo Scaling) > Shoryuken: Shoryuken is at 70% damage scaling (100% > 100% > [skip 80%] > 70%) e.g. Cammy 5HP > OD Spiral Arrow (5% Combo Scaling) > Cannon Spike: Cannon Spike is at 75% damage scaling (100% > 100% > [80-5 = 75%]) Immediate: When a move is comboed into, this attack is scaled by X percent e.g. Drive Impact Crumple (20% Starter) > Throw (20% Immediate): Throw is at 60% damage scaling Multiplier: A damage scaling multiplier applies after Perfect Parry (50%) and mid-combo Drive Rush (15%). Any hits in the combo continue their usual damage scaling, but reduced by these amounts. These can bring the minimum scaling below the usual 10%, and they stack with each other; as a result, the minimum scaling can reach 4% using a long Drive Rush combo after Perfect Parry. Minimum Scaling: The lowest damage scaling that can be applied to an attack. Super Art Level 1/2/3 generally has 30%/40%/50% minimum scaling respectively. This ensures the attack will still do reasonable damage even at the end of a heavily scaled combo.
Drive Rush Cancel Advantage	Refers to the frame advantage when canceling a normal, command normal, or Target Combo into Drive Rush on hit or block (abbreviated as DRC for Drive Rush Cancel). This is calculated at the moment a follow-up attack can be input, not at the moment the character can block or perform movement options. An attack that with DRC +8 on Hit can link into an 8-frame attack, and DRC +4 on Block can create a true blockstring into a 4-frame attack. Note that any DRC on Block worse than +4 cannot form a true blockstring, allowing the opponent to interrupt with an invincible reversal. Most light normals are slightly negative after a DRC on block, meaning the opponent can mash their fastest normal to guarantee a counter-hit (though this requires fast reactions). The attacking character could punish this with Light > DRC into an immediate invincible attack, but this would be an incredibly expensive and high-risk gambit.
Forced Knockdown	Most airborne command normals, special moves, and Super Arts put the user in a "Forced Knockdown" state. While in this state, an air knockdown will occur when being hit by any attack, even if it would otherwise cause an air reset. As an example, Ryu's 2HP causes an air reset when used as an anti-air. Against a move like Cammy's Hooligan Combination, however, the 2HP puts her into an air knockdown state. This allows Ryu to successfully cancel 2HP into Shoryuken for a juggle, similar to how a Drive Impact wall splat works. Taking advantage of Forced Knockdown juggles is important for dealing with moves like Ken's Dragonlash, Dhalsim's Air Teleport, or Kimberly's 6HK~Hop sequence. Moves that already cause an air knockdown, like most j.MP air-to-airs, will not display the "Forced Knockdown" message.
Guard	Refers to the direction an attack must be blocked. L is for Low attacks (must be blocked crouching), H is for High attacks/overheads (must be blocked standing), LH is for attacks that can be blocked crouching or standing. T is for Throw attacks which cannot be blocked.
Juggles	When a character is put into an Air Knockdown state, it is often possible to follow up with a Juggle attack before they hit the ground. In the simplest terms, there are 2 main juggle states: Free Juggle: any attack can juggle, causing an Air Reset or an Air Knockdown Limited Juggle: only specific attacks with juggle potential may juggle The following is a more detailed overview of the SF6 juggle system: Juggle Count (JC): The status of the character being juggled. A high JC limits which attacks can work in juggles. JC0: free juggle state - any attack that can hit an airborne opponent will work JC1+: limited juggle state - juggle only works if the attack's Juggle Limit ≥ defender's Juggle Count A juggle count of -1 represents a crumple state; this can lead to a grounded or airborne hit depending on timing Juggle Start (JS): When starting a juggle, the opponent's JC will be set to this value. May be different vs. standing and airborne opponents. Attack with Juggle Start value of 3 will put opponent at JC3, so only attacks with Juggle Limit value ≥ 3 can follow up Even for attacks that don't normally start a juggle, this is relevant for Forced Knockdown and Crumple situations Juggle Increase (JI): When opponent is already in a juggle state, attacks will increase the opponent's JC by this amount. Airborne opponent at JC1 followed by attack with Juggle Increase value of 3 will set opponent to JC4 Juggle Limit (JL): Property of an attack hitbox that determines whether it connects on a juggled opponent. The JL must be ≥ the opponent's JC to hit successfully. An uppercut with a JL value of 5 will connect on an opponent at JC5 or below, but will whiff on JC6 opponent Most normals have a JL value of 0, meaning they only work in Free Juggle (JC0) states Some multi-hit attacks have different JL values on each hit, so a 3-hit move may only hit twice in juggles An example to tie everything together: An attack (JS3) launches opponent into the air (Opponent now at JC3) Followed up with an attack (JI2/JL4); it connects, because JL4 ≥ JC3 (Opponent now at JC5) Attempts to juggle again with same attack (JL4), but whiffs because JL4 < JC5 (Opponent hits the ground) Drive Rush notes: DR normals have a Juggle Start/Increase value of 0 DR normals have +3 added to their usual Juggle Limit More recently, the official definitions used by Capcom are slightly different than these community-designated terms. When reading official patch notes, the following terms are used instead: Combo Count Initial Value Combo Count Additional Value Combo Count Upper Limit
On Hit/Block	These are frame advantage values when the attack hits or is blocked. If the number is positive, then the move will recover before the defender can act again. If the number is negative, the defender will be able to act before the attacker and maybe even punish. KD refers to knockdown on hit, and the listed KD Advantage refers to how many frames the attacker can act before the defender finishes their wakeup animation. Note that generally, there is an extra +2 hit advantage on Counterhits and +4 hit advantage on Punish Counters (exceptions are noted in the description).
Recovery	How many frames it takes for a move to finish after the active frames have finished. For projectiles, recovery is considered to begin after the first active frame. Moves with different recovery values on hit/block/whiff may have multiple values listed like X(Y), with specific details listed in the description.
Startup	How many frames it takes before the move becomes 'active' or have a hit box. The last startup frame and the first active frame are the same frame, meaning all values are written as Startup + 1. Moves with multiple relevant startup values may be listed as X(Y); for example, a move that hits airborne first before hitting grounded opponents, or a 2-hit move where the first hit whiffs at some ranges.
IASA / Actionable Recovery	Some moves play out an extended recovery animation when no other button/direction is input (for crouching moves, it applies when holding any down direction). These are often referred to as "actionable recovery" frames; in some games, the term IASA (Interruptible As Soon As) refers to the frame that Actionable Recovery begins. Letting the Actionable Recovery frames play out can change the character's position, potentially setting up spacing traps by recovering farther away. For example, Manon 5HP will recover much farther away from the opponent if no input is performed immediately after her recovery; holding back or down-back to block will keep her much closer to the opponent.

Normals

Standing Normals

5LP

Standing Light Punch

5LP

5L

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5LP

Standing Light Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
5	2	7	Sp SA TC	300	LH	+4	-1

Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 12f / 14f (TC)
Drive Rush cancel advantage: +3 oH / -2 oB
Sinister Slide Cancel Advantage: +1 oH / -4 oB
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)

Fairly short and stubby for a 5f light normal, and not easily comboed into since it doesn't chain. The main use of 5LP is for its Target Combo extension of 5LP~LP, which can lead to combos on hit or a frame trap on block. In conjunction with its great frame data, it’s easy to steal your turn after your opponent blocks this, as they can easily be dissuaded from trying to take back their turn after via Target Combo stagger pressure.

5MP

Standing Medium Punch

5MP

A[M]

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5MP

Standing Medium Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
6	5	14(16)	Sp SA	600	LH	+3	-3

2f extra recovery on whiff
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 16f
- Special/DR cancel is delayed until after 2nd active frame
Drive Rush cancel advantage: +11 oH / +5 oB
Sinister Slide Cancel Advantage: +9 oH / +3 oB

The forward movement of 5MP makes it great in spacing traps and allows it to link at certain ranges after 5MK or Counter-hit lights even at max range. It unfortunately does not have enough hitstun to combo into 236PP naturally, which limits the possible extensions from a hitconfirm.

The high active frame count makes it useful in meaty setups, as well as countering Drive Rush in neutral. Combos to 5MK or 5HK after a DR Cancel. In some Drive Rush juggles, 5MP is required when other buttons are too slow.

Oppressive when the opponent is in Burnout, reminiscent of Manon's 5MP, although not quite as strong.

5HP

Standing Heavy Punch

5HP

5H

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5HP

Standing Heavy Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
12	3	21	TC	800	LH	+1	-4

Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 20f (TC)

A strong forward-stabbing poke that can avoid some low attacks with its great hurtbox. It is hitconfirmable into a Target Combo follow-up that poisons the opponent or launches on hit with Toxic Blossom. The whiff recovery makes it risky to whiff in neutral, however, and it is very susceptible to Drive Impact.

5LK

Standing Light Kick

5LK

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5LK

Standing Light Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
4	3	12	Sp SA	300	LH	+3	-3

Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 13f
- DR cancel is delayed until after 1st recovery frame
Drive Rush cancel advantage: +5 oH / -1 oB
Sinister Slide Cancel Advantage: +6 oH / 0 oB
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)

A 4f startup 5LK. The lower portion of the hitbox is high enough to avoid some low pokes near the foot, allowing her to buffer it as a counterpoke. A.K.I. can link 2LP into 5LK, allowing for light confirms at a further range.

5LK is the only light that can combo into 236MP, making it a very important tool in combos.

5MK

Standing Medium Kick

5MK

5M

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5MK

Standing Medium Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
8	3	15(17)	-	700	LH	+6	-2

2f extra recovery on whiff

A good poke and combo starter, linking naturally into 5MP; the forward movement of 5MP allows 5MK to be a threat from considerable range even despite its lack of cancelability. After Drive Rush or a Punish Counter start, it can link into itself or 5HK for greatly improved damage.

5HK

Standing Heavy Kick

5HK

A[H]

Everything and the kitchen sink

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5HK

Standing Heavy Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
9	4	19	Sp SA	800	LH	+4	-3

Punish Counter: +12 Stagger (grounded), limited juggle state (airborne)
Forces Stand; active frames 3-4 whiff on crouching opponents unless they extend a vertical hurtbox
Anti-Air Invuln: 5-12f (Head) / 10-12f (Leg/Upper Body)
- Good AA on frames 10-12 but cannot hit cross-up
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 18f
- DR cancel is delayed until after 2nd active frame
Drive Rush cancel advantage: +16 oH / +9 oB
Sinister Slide Cancel Advantage: +15 oH / +8 oB
Extends a hurtbox 1f before active that is vulnerable to projectiles

An important anti-air, combo, and juggle tool and A.K.I.'s only special cancelable heavy normal. As an anti-air, it covers a large space above and in front of A.K.I., and can be canceled to 214LP for a safe meaty projectile. With good timing, it can be very effective against jump-ins with strong downward hitboxes due to the anti-air invincibility frames on her head and kicking leg. Despite the strong hitbox, it cannot anti-air if the opponent crosses up with a close range jump.

5HK combos naturally to Heel Strike, which allows follow-up links and is even safe on block if the combo drops. A Punish Counter allows her to combo into HK Cruel Fate or Venomous Fang, which both give strong conversions at a range where Heel Strike can whiff. 5HK is also one of A.K.I.'s most important juggle tools when used out of Drive Rush.

Crouching Normals

2LP

Crouching Light Punch

2LP

2L

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2LP

Crouching Light Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
4	2	9	Chn Sp SA	300	LH	+4	-1

Chains into 2LP/2LK; true blockstring into 2LP
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 12f
Drive Rush cancel advantage: +5 oH / 0 oB
Sinister Slide Cancel Advantage: +3 oH / -2 oB
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)
Topmost hurtbox on frames 1-5 is vulnerable only to aerial attacks, preventing its use as an anti-air

A.K.I.'s primary 4-frame option, and one of the very few light normal chains that does not have a gap on block. The range is average, but can be used for a 3-hit light chain when starting from close range. If used as a punish starter, it can link to 2MP for consistent cancel options; at close range, she can get more damage by linking PC 2LP, 5MK, 5MP.

2MP

Crouching Medium Punch

2MP

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2MP

Crouching Medium Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
8	3	18	Sp SA	600	LH	+1	-3

Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 15f
Drive Rush cancel advantage: +12 oH / +8 oB
Sinister Slide Cancel Advantage: +10 oH / +6 oB
Topmost hurtbox on frames 1-21 is vulnerable only to aerial attacks, preventing its use as an anti-air

Another of A.K.I.'s cancelable normals. The range is alright, but the total duration carries some risk in neutral compared to 5MP or 5MK. It is most commonly used in Counter-hit, Punish Counter, or Drive Rush routes when A.K.I. is at +8 hit advantage. It works slightly better than 5MP when canceled, allowing her to combo into 236PP for a close range combo extension.

2HP

Crouching Heavy Punch

2HP

3H

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2HP

Crouching Heavy Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
10	3	28	-	900	L	HKD +27	-8

Counter-hit/Punish Counter: HKD +49
Has juggle potential; not a Hard Knockdown when juggled into

A.K.I.'s 2HP is her sweep, comparable to 2HK from most other characters. Despite the animation, it is not really a slide, so it cannot be spaced safely in neutral. The hitbox is quite disjointed, allowing it to out-prioritize other neutral buttons, but the long recovery and forward lunge makes it extremely risky to throw out as a random guess in footsies.

2LK

Crouching Light Kick

2LK

A[L]

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2LK

Crouching Light Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
5	3	8	Chn	200	L	+3	-2

Chains into 2LP/2LK
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)

A.K.I.'s fastest low-hitting normal. It has deceptively long range, making it useful for stuffing the opponent's Drive Rush or simply harassing with extended light chains. She can even chain 4 normals on block with a string like 2LP~2LP~2LK~2LK; while this can score a few small hits, 2LK's high pushback reduces its effectiveness as a combo starter. If used out of Drive Rush, the pushback becomes irrelevant, and it can open up the opponent with a combo into 5MP.

2LK has a niche use as a 5f punish starter at ranges where her other light normals cannot reach. It can link into 2MK near max range, allowing for an optional Super cancel to increase the punish damage.

2MK

Crouching Medium Kick

2MK

2M

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2MK

Crouching Medium Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
7	3	16	SA	600	L	+5	+1

Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 14f (Super)
Applies 10% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/90/80...)

A fast, plus-on-block 2MK that can link naturally into light normals. When used out of Drive Rush, it can link at much further ranges into 5HK/5MK while also gaining good advantage on block. As a neutral poke, the low whiff recovery makes it hard to punish; it can also be buffered into a Super Art to make it even more threatening.

2HK

Crouching Heavy Kick

2HK

2H

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2HK

Crouching Heavy Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
10	6	20	SA	900	LH	0	-3

Punish Counter: KD +48 Spin (limited juggle state)
Puts airborne opponents into limited juggle state on Counter-hit/Punish Counter
Anti-Air Invuln: 10-15f (Upper Body/Leg); cannot hit cross-up
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 20f (Super)
- Super cancel is delayed until after 2nd active frame
Has high juggle potential (causes air reset)
Extends a hurtbox 1f before active that is vulnerable to projectiles

A.K.I.'s 2HK is an upward kick rather than a sweep, allowing it to function as an anti-air. The active frames have some anti-air invincibility that helps against ranged jump-ins, but it loses to closer jumps and cross-ups. While the hitbox is not quite as disjointed as 5HK, being able to act from a crouching state allows it to be used a little later without being hit by a downward-angled air normal.

The hitbox of 2HK serves it well as a decently-reaching poke that cannot be low crushed in neutral as well. It can be canceled into Super with a long hitconfirm window for easy reactions, and it launches the opponent upon scoring a Punish Counter. It does extend a hurtbox that loses to projectiles right before the active frames begin, so it can't trade effectively against fireball characters.

Jumping Normals

j.LP

Jumping Light Punch

j.LP

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j.LP

Jumping Light Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
5	9	3 land	-	300	H	+2(+9)	-2(+5)

Can be used as a fuzzy instant overhead

j.MP

Jumping Medium Punch

j.MP

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j.MP

Jumping Medium Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
7	4	3 land	-	700	H	+9(+11)	+5(+7)

Puts airborne opponents into limited juggle state
Shifts A.K.I.'s hurtbox upward during startup

A useful air-to-air, but the hitbox aims quite high which limits the angle it can be used from.

j.HP

Jumping Heavy Punch

j.HP

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j.HP

Jumping Heavy Punch

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
11	6	3 land	-	800	H	+5(+15)	+1(+11)

Causes spike knockdown vs. airborne opponents on Counter-hit/Punish Counter

A strong jump normal that doesn't extend a hurtbox until the active frames begin.

j.LK

Jumping Light Kick

j.LK

j.L

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j.LK

Jumping Light Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
5	6	3 land	-	300	H	+4(+10)	0(+6)

Can hit cross-up

A.K.I.'s longest ranged horizontal jump-in, giving it some air-to-air utility. The cross-up hitbox can be useful to apply an immediate tick throw after landing, but otherwise j.2HP is far better in that context.

j.MK

Jumping Medium Kick

j.MK

j.M

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Hitboxes On

j.MK

Jumping Medium Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
7	6	3 land	-	600	H	+4(+13)	0(+9)

Can be used as a fuzzy instant overhead (opponent must be in Burnout for true blockstring)

A standard but solid jump-in attack with a downward angle. It's faster than her other buttons with a similar approach angle.

j.HK

Jumping Heavy Kick

j.HK

j.H

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Hitboxes On

j.HK

Jumping Heavy Kick

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
8	8	3 land	-	800	H	+8(+15)	+4(+11)

Good jump-in with a fairly retracted hurtbox compared to j.HP.

Command Normals

3MP

Pu Lao

3MP

3M

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3MP

Pu Lao

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
24	3	18	-	600	H	+3	-2

Can combo afterward with meaty timing, Drive Rush, or Counter-hit

While a bit lacking in range and speed, A.K.I. has plenty of opportunities to safely approach from a Drive Rush to force a high/low mixup. Having more visual effects on the screen like poison status and an Orchid Spring puddle can make it harder for the opponent to notice the attack's startup animation. With 3 active frames, it's not too difficult to set up a meaty overhead to allow a follow-up link, like corner 236HP, Dash + 3MP.

6HP

Chi Wen

6HP

--

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Hitboxes On

6HP

Chi Wen

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
16	3	20(21)	SA	900	LH	+3	-4

1f extra recovery on whiff
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 17f (Super)

A great advancing poke that is safe on block due to pushback. On hit, it can be confirmed into Super with good reactions. This makes it safe against Drive Impact as long as you have meter, making it even better as a poke in neutral.

6HK

Qiu Niu

6HK

6H

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Hitboxes On

6HK

Qiu Niu

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
14	3(5)3	16(24)	-	400x2	LH	+4	+2

Low Crush 11-26f (not airborne)
8f extra recovery on whiff
1st hit puts opponent into limited juggle state
- 2nd hit causes air reset unless performed out of Drive Rush
Counter-hit/Punish Counter bonus advantage carries through both hits
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)

6HK is an incredible pressure tool that benefits greatly from Drive Rush momentum. Setting this up after a 214LP projectile in neutral is an easy way to approach, leading to combos on hit or strike/throw mixups on block, while also chipping away at the opponent's Drive gauge. The invincible lower body hurtbox allows it to hop over low pokes, giving A.K.I. a direct counter to one of the game's strongest neutral tools.

j.2HP

Gong Fu

j.2HP

j.2H

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Hitboxes On

j.2HP

Gong Fu

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
9	5	3 land	-	800	H	+5(+15)	+1(+11)

Forward Jump only; can only hit as a cross-up
Causes spike knockdown vs. airborne opponents
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)

A technique borrowed from her master, A.K.I. is able to land a cross-up jump normal at a range most characters can't match. Her floaty jump makes this an important tool, as the opponent could otherwise easily walk under for a free punish on landing recovery. This jump-in will whiff if attempted on a fully cornered opponent, as they cannot be crossed up.

Target Combos

5LP~LP

Hun Dun

5LP~LP

5L~L

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Hitboxes On

5LP~LP

Hun Dun

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
8	2	14(16)	Sp SA	300(240)	LH	+1	-3

2f extra recovery on block; 3f blockstring gap between hits
() refers to scaled damage after a 5LP combo starter
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 13f (single hit) / 32-33f (full TC)
- DR cancel is delayed until after 2nd active frame
Drive Rush cancel advantage: +6 oH / +4 oB
Sinister Slide Cancel Advantage: +5 oH / +3 oB

This Target Combo can act as a substitute for having a chainable 5LP. It moves A.K.I. forward slightly for a more consistent finish, though her options are somewhat limited; the only specials that combo are 236LP, 236HP, 214HP, and 214PP. A Drive Rush cancel allows a 5MP link, which is unusual for a light normal but significantly weakened by light starter damage scaling.

The most important property of this TC is the small gap on block, as 2LP chains are true blockstrings that cannot catch a mashing opponent. 5LP~LP can become a true blockstring if the initial 5LP starts from a Drive Rush, or if the opponent is in Burnout.

5HP~HP

Qiong Qi

5HP~HP

5H~H

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Hitboxes On

5HP~HP

Qiong Qi

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
14	3	24(29)	-	400	LH	KD +34[+54]	-15

5f extra recovery on block; always a true blockstring even at max delay
Applies poison on hit; triggers Toxic Blossom if opponent is poisoned
- Toxic Blossom hit launches opponent into a limited juggle state

This Target Combo is relatively easy to hitconfirm from 5HP, making it a great neutral tool that can knock down and inflict poison while setting up 214LP for continued pressure. If the opponent is already poisoned, the Toxic Blossom launch is high enough to juggle a DR~5HK for great damage and corner carry.

Throws

Forward Throw (LPLK)

Forward Throw

LPLK

LM

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LPLK

Whisper

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
5	3	23	-	1200 (2040)	T	KD +19	-

Punish Counter: HKD +19
Applies 20% immediate damage scaling when comboed into (e.g. after Crumple)

Sets up a corner throw loop that requires precise walk timing to beat reversal 4f normals. The maximum time A.K.I. can walk forward is 17f, and the timing window is 2 frames (3f for Marisa, and 4f for Blanka, E. Honda, and Zangief).

Midscreen, A.K.I. can threaten with some Drive Rush buttons but does not get real oki. DR~5HP can trade with 4f normals, usually linking into a follow-up 5HP~HP knockdown. A slightly delayed DR~5MP leaves her closer and allows a link to 5HK on Counter-hit or another 5MP on regular hit. Stronger options like 6HK or another throw can only work if the opponent respects your other meaty options first.

Back Throw (4LPLK)

Back Throw

4LPLK

4LM

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Hitboxes On

4LPLK

Gluttony

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
5	3	23	-	1200 (2040)	T	KD +27	-

Side switch
Punish Counter: HKD +27
Applies 20% immediate damage scaling when comboed into (e.g. after Crumple)

After throwing the opponent back into the corner, A.K.I. can dash and microwalk toward the opponent for a pseudo-throw loop. A reversal 4f normal will beat this if A.K.I. attempts a throw, but the threat of eating a Counter-hit 5MK can dissuade opponents from mashing on defense. Against characters with wide throw hurtboxes, this microwalk can actually set up a true meaty strike/throw mixup, with 1f timing against Marisa and 2f timing against Blanka, E. Honda, and Zangief.

Midscreen, A.K.I. can chase down the opponent with Drive Rush into a ranged button like 2MK. Attempting to get closer for a strong mixup is risky since the opponent can jab her out of it. She can also set up a safe Nightshade Pulse that recovers fast enough to beat a forward jump attack. If the opponent uses a ranged anti-projectile Super like Cammy's SA3, the Nightshade Pulse can be canceled on reaction into 236KK to keep her safe.

Drive System

Drive Impact (HPHK)

Drive Impact

HPHK

DI

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Hitboxes On

HPHK

Zao Chi

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
26	2	35	-	800	LH	KD +35 / Wall Splat KD +65	-3 / Wall Splat HKD +72

Armor (2-hit): 1-27f; Range: 2.50 (1.40 movement + 1.10 hitbox)
On Hit/PC: Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo
On Block: Applies 20% scaling multiplier to all follow-up hits after Wall Splat; the next attack can incur additional Starter Scaling
Combos when canceled from 5HK (no corner wallsplat; useful for depleting Drive gauge, especially after Perfect Parry)
A blocked DI can combo into another DI if opponent is not fully cornered (Stuns if opponent has less than 1.5 Drive bars)
- This happens because a blocked DI is not considered a "hit" for combo purposes
- Causes both the 20% Starter and 20% Multiplier scaling to apply to the follow-up combo

See Drive Impact on the Gauges page for more details.

When canceled from a normal, these are the important blockstring gaps; a gap of N will trade with an N-frame startup attack; [] = Burnout

5HK: 7[3]
2MP: 10[6]
5MP, 5LP~LP: 12[8]
Note: A gap ≥ 6f can be thrown, and a gap ≥ 9f can be jumped out of by most characters

Against the following characters in Burnout:

JP (22K), frame 3 counter
Marisa (214K), frame 3 armor
Zangief (5[HP]), frame 4 armor

It's important to use a blockstring that cannot be absorbed by their armor/counter moves. Ideally, the string should also not be a true combo, or it will cause a Lock and prevent Stun.
* Denotes a move that causes Lock on Counter-hit, allowing the opponent to escape a Stun by mashing on wakeup.

DR~2MP* > DI: 2f blockstring gap prevents opponent from absorbing the hit
5HK* > DI: 3f blockstring gap will work vs. Zangief 5[HP]

Drive Reversal (6HPHK)

Drive Reversal

6HPHK

6DI

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6HPHK

Feng Shi (Block)

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
20	3	26(31)	-	500 recoverable	LH	KD +23	-6

Full Invuln: 1-22f; Range: 1.978; Armor Break
5f extra recovery on hit; 4f screen freeze during startup

6HPHK

Feng Shi (Recovery)

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
18	3	26(31)	-	500 recoverable	LH	KD +23	-6

Full Invuln: 1-20f; Range: 1.978; Armor Break
5f extra recovery on hit; no screen freeze

See Drive Reversal on the Gauges page for more details.

Drive Parry (MPMK)

Drive Parry

MPMK

DP

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Hitboxes On

MPMK

Drive Parry

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
1	12 or until released	33(1)(11)	-	-	-	-	-

See Drive Parry on the Gauges page for more details.

Perfect Parry:
- Applies a 50% damage scaling multiplier to any punish afterwards
- vs. strikes, has only 1f recovery and prevents the opponent from canceling their attack
- vs. projectiles, puts you into a fixed 11f recovery

Drive Rush (MPMK~66)

Drive Rush

MPMK~66

DP~66

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Hitboxes On

MPMK~66

Parry Drive Rush

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
3+8	-	15(37)	-	-	-	-	-

1-bar version performed out of Parry
Startup is 1+8 immediately after successful Parry

MPMK or 66

Drive Rush Cancel

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
9	-	15(37)	-	-	-	-	-

3-bar version performed on hit/block from a cancelable normal
- Can also be performed from whiffed cancelable light normals

See Drive Rush on the Gauges page for more details. See Strategy page for Blockstring Gaps and Combo Routes

Startup refers to minimum time before an attack can cancel the Drive Rush animation
The first 15 recovery frames are cancelable into any attack
The final 22 recovery frames are cancelable into any attack or movement option or blocking (except Parry)
Only Normal and Command Normal attacks are enhanced with +4 frame advantage and improved juggle properties
Applies 15% damage scaling multiplier to any follow-up hits when used mid-combo
- Only applies scaling once per combo; does not apply when a Drive Rush enhanced attack starts the combo

Distance:

0.907 (min, cancel into immediate Throw)
2.437 (min, earliest blocking/movement frame)
4.049 (max, final DR frame)

Special Moves

Nightshade Pulse (214LP)

Nightshade Pulse

Poison Bubble

214LP

214L or 4S

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214LP

Nightshade Pulse

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
17	-	35	SA3	500	LH	-5	-10

Slow 1-hit projectile; applies poison on hit
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 4f (Super)
Extended arm hurtbox 16-41f (only vulnerable to strikes)
Cancelable into 6P follow-up on frames 30-36 (detonates bubble if on-screen)
Cancelable into 236KK from frame 36 until end of recovery (can avoid punishes)
Projectile Speed: 0.04

214PP

Nightshade Pulse

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
16	-	28	SA2 SA3	300,400	LH	KD +45	+1

Slow 2-hit OD projectile; applies poison on hit; 2nd hit puts opponent into limited juggle state
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 12f (Super)
Extended arm hurtbox 16-36f (only vulnerable to strikes)
Cancelable into 6P follow-up on frames 34-35 (detonates bubble if on-screen)
Cancelable into 236KK on frames 32-33 (can avoid punishes)
Projectile Speed: 0.02 (1-3f) / 0.04 (4f~)

Nightshade Pulse is an extremely slow projectile that defines much of A.K.I.'s neutral and oki gameplan. If used from long range, she can safely advance behind it while reacting to the opponent's jump or evasive maneuvers. After a knockdown, it can be used as a meaty tool to stuff reversal Level 1 Supers and gain massive frame advantage on hit or block. Because it's cancelable into OD Snake Step, A.K.I. can even keep herself safe if the opponent tries to take advantage of the projectile's slow recovery. If used at close range, it's quite punishable on block; on hit, A.K.I. is technically unsafe but can always end with the Nightshade Chaser (6P) extension.

OD Nightshade Pulse acts mostly the same, except it is +1 on block even at point blank and causes a juggle state on hit. The OD projectile priority also shuts down the opponent's fireball game unless they use their own OD projectile, making it an even better shield to advance behind.

Nightshade Chaser (214LP~6P)

Nightshade Chaser

Poison Detonation

214LP~6P

214L~6X or 4S~6X

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Hitboxes On

214LP~6P

Nightshade Chaser

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
13	2	34	SA3	500[800]	LH	-4 [KD +38]	-16(-11)

Whip acts as a 1-hit projectile; if Perfect Parried, causes strike screen-freeze
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 8f [TB: 13f] (Super)
Applies poison on hit; triggers Toxic Blossom if opponent is poisoned
Toxic Blossom hit puts opponent into limited juggle state
After blocked close-range 214LP, creates a 1f blockstring gap into 6P follow-up (can delay 6P to create larger frame trap gap)

214LP~6P

Nightshade Chaser (Burst)

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
14	6	29	-	800	LH	KD +42	-4

Detonates the 214LP bubble; applies poison on hit

214PP~6P

Nightshade Chaser

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
13	5	28	SA2 SA3	600[800]	LH	KD +25 [KD +41~44]	-13(-10)

Whip acts as a 1-hit projectile; if Perfect Parried, causes strike screen-freeze
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 10f [TB: 15f] (Super)
Applies poison on hit; triggers Toxic Blossom if opponent is poisoned
Toxic Blossom hit puts opponent into limited juggle state
Counts as 2 hits for damage scaling when comboed into (applies to next hit)

214PP~6P

Nightshade Chaser (Burst)

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
14	12	20	SA2 SA3	800x2	LH	KD +43(+52~57)	-2(+4)

Detonates the 214PP bubble; applies poison on hit
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 14f [TB: 15f] (Super)
Different properties if detonating at max range, or after 1 hit of 214PP has already connected (Damage, chip, launch height, juggle potential)

Nightshade Chaser is the whip follow-up to Nightshade Pulse that can be activated on hit, block, or whiff. It's much more unsafe than the projectile itself, but can also be used to frame trap the opponent trying to punish 214LP on block. At close range, there is a 1f gap between the bubble the and 6P follow-up, which can be increased by delaying the 6P input; at farther ranges, it will form a true blockstring. If the initial projectile hits and poisons the opponent, 6P will active Toxic Blossom for a knockdown.

If the poison bubble hasn't dissipated, 6P can detonate it to change the move's properties. It becomes much safer on block than the normal whip ender, and can knock down even if the opponent wasn't initially poisoned. The OD version in particular has some very complicated interactions depending on the exact timing and spacing of the bubble burst; it's possible to space the move precisely to achieve a high launch with a juggle follow-up.

Orchid Spring (214MP)

Orchid Spring

Poison Pool

214MP

214M

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Hitboxes On

214MP

Orchid Spring

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
26	[160]	20	-	-	-	-	-

Pool is placed on frame 26 and stays active for the next 160 frames
Poisons the opponent (cannot be blocked); constantly re-applies poison as long as opponent is in close proximity
Cannot use another 214MP until first one dissipates (but can use alongside SA2 poison pool)
A.K.I. is in a Counter-hit state for entire 46f move animation

Orchid Spring places a pool of poison in front of A.K.I. which will poison any opponent in close proximity even if they block. Just like the poison status, the pool immediately disappears if A.K.I. takes any damage. It's particularly useful on long knockdowns or stuns when A.K.I. can set it up safely, ensuring that the next combo will get a Toxic Blossom effect. It can also be used to control the opponent's movement somewhat; while it doesn't prevent them from approaching, many players will be hesitant to simply walk into it especially if they are at a life disadvantage.

Toxic Wreath (214HP)

Toxic Wreath

Poison Slash

214HP

214H

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Hitboxes On

214HP

Toxic Wreath

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
13	3(14)9	13	SA3	200,600	LH	KD +40	-4

Strike hitbox (no projectile durability); extended arm hitbox is projectile invuln 13-21f
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 33f (Super); 6f if only 2nd hit connects
Applies poison on hit (does not trigger Toxic Blossom)
Puts opponent into a limited juggle state; much higher launch vs. airborne opponents
Applies 15% immediate damage scaling when comboed into

Toxic Wreath is a useful combo and juggle tool, as well as a relatively safe blockstring ender due to its high pushback. It forms a true blockstring from mediums and heavies, but leaves a small gap after 5LK (2f) and 2LP (4f), allowing for frame traps and trade combos. If you time the 2nd hit as a meaty, it can be up to +4 on block. Outside of close range, it's possible for 214HP to whiff in blockstrings, leaving A.K.I. very unsafe.

In the corner, the pushback will automatically set up a meaty Nightshade Pulse (214LP) in grounded combos, giving A.K.I. excellent block pressure. Juggles into Toxic Wreath launch the opponent much higher than a grounded hit, allowing follow-ups in the corner; in some situations it's even possible to land a DR~2HP or HP SA2 after a midscreen juggle. After a corner juggle ender, you will have to manually time the meaty 214LP projectile; a quick backwards microwalk is a consistent way to do this, though your exact frame advantage will vary slightly based on timing.

Serpent Lash (236P)

Serpent Lash

Poison Whip

236P

236X or 6S (H)

Straight forward

Slight upward angle

Directly above

Straight forward

Straight forward

Slight upward angle

Active Frame 1

Active Frames 2-6
Directly above

Straight forward

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Hitboxes On

236LP

Serpent Lash

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
14	3	20(26)	SA3	500[800]	LH	+1(+3) [KD +44(46)]	-8(-6)

6f extra recovery on whiff; better frame advantage on later active frames
Strike hitbox with 1-hit projectile durability; extended arm is projectile invuln 13-16f
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 16f [TB: 17f] (Super)
Applies poison on hit; triggers Toxic Blossom if opponent is poisoned
Toxic Blossom hit puts opponent into a limited juggle state
Punish Counter: KD +55 [TB: +61] Crumple with immediate limited juggle state

LP Serpent Lash is a strong mid-range poke that is generally safe when spaced out. It can clash with projectiles in neutral to keep A.K.I. safe, but is not useful as an anti-zoning tool. It has high juggle potential, making it a useful juggle ender especially with SA3 stocked. The knockdown from a Toxic Blossom hit can lead to a follow-up juggle into 236HP or any Super Art in the corner; alternatively, you can sacrifice some damage for a safe jump to continue pressure. Whiff punishing with this move can be very rewarding due to the crumple state, particularly with Toxic Blossom.

236MP

Serpent Lash

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
17	6	24	SA3	600[700]	LH	KD +44 [Crumple +69]	-12

Strike hitbox with 1-hit projectile durability; cannot hit crouching opponents
- Close-range hitbox can hit extended vertical hurtbox
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 16f [TB: 17f] (Super)
Applies poison on hit; triggers Toxic Blossom if opponent is poisoned
Toxic Blossom hit causes limited juggle crumple state on grounded hit, or higher juggle (KD +60~72) on airborne hit

MP Serpent Lash is primarily a combo tool, though it can be used as an anti-air at farther ranges (like against an opponent neutral jumping A.K.I.'s Nightshade Pulse). The crumple state from a Toxic Blossom hit allows for powerful follow-up juggles, but it's important to confirm the opponent is standing before comboing into it (or use 5HK for its Force Stand property). If the opponent is airborne, the higher launch height still gives great follow-up juggles like DR~5HK anywhere on the screen.

While 236MP has some utility as a poke against tall standing characters, it is liable to whiff and allow opponents to more easily close the gap. The regular version sets up a corner safe jump on a grounded hit; unlike Toxic Blossom 236LP, this does not involve sacrificing a corner juggle.

236HP

Serpent Lash

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
11	6	32	SA3	700[800]	LH	KD +44 [KD +53]	-20

Anti-Air Invuln: 6-16f; Semi-Low Profile 9-30f (crouch height)
- No head hurtbox on frames 4-8; can anti-air cross-ups
Strike hitbox with no projectile clash
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 17f [TB: 16f] (Super)
Applies poison on hit; triggers Toxic Blossom if opponent is poisoned
Toxic Blossom hit causes a higher launch (allows follow-ups midscreen or in the corner)

HP Serpent Lash is a fairly reliable anti-air, though it does not have immediate air invincibility. As a result, some stronger jump-ins and divekicks can be hard to deal with. The upside is that it works well against cross-ups, so ambiguous jumps are less of threat.

The horizontal range of 236HP is relatively short, though it generally works even from 3-hit light combos. The regular version sets up a safe jump anywhere on screen if it hits a grounded opponent; however, if the opponent is midscreen and doesn't back rise, you must react with a late cross-up j.2HP to avoid whiffing, which can be difficult to do on reaction. Toxic Blossom causes a much higher launch, which allows a 236LP follow-up or a DR~5HK juggle for better damage and corner carry. In the corner, you can save meter with a simple 214HP juggle instead.

236PP

Serpent Lash

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
21	5	25	[TB: SA2 SA3]	600[800]	LH	+4 [Crumple +71]	-14(-11)

Strike hitbox with 1-hit OD projectile durability; extended arm is projectile invuln 20-25f
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: [TB: 73f] (Super)
Applies poison on hit; triggers Toxic Blossom if opponent is poisoned
Counter-hit/Punish Counter bonus advantage carries through both hits
Toxic Blossom hit causes crumple on grounded hit (+5 before opponent becomes airborne, or +9 on PC)
- Resets juggle counter to 0 (free juggle state) on airborne Toxic Blossom juggle
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo; counts as 2 hits for damage scaling when comboed into
- Toxic Blossom version: applies 10% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (no additional mid-combo scaling)

OD Serpent Lash is a powerful combo and anti-zoning tool with a trajectory similar to the LP version, but with more range. It will cleanly go through any meterless projectile and pull you close for a full combo, though if A.K.I. is too close to the opponent she can get hit before the whip connects; it also does not work against multi-hit OD projectiles.

On hit, the pull animation is completely invincible once it begins. It can link to 2LP, and due to the poison A.K.I. can follow up with 236HP, 236LP anywhere on screen. Hitting an airborne opponent will pull them in, allowing a quick juggle. On a grounded Toxic Blossom hit, the extra follow-up causes a crumple that leads to great damage. If it hits airborne, it completely resets the juggle counter, which can lead to extremely powerful extended juggles. Landing a Toxic Blossom + Punish Counter hit gives A.K.I. a point blank grounded 5HK link for great damage.

Cruel Fate (214K)

Cruel Fate

Leaping Claw

214K

2S (H)

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Hitboxes On

214LK

Cruel Fate

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
24	2(5)2(4)2(5)2	18 land	SA3	200x4 (800)	LH	+1 (KD +38~45)	-3

Lower Body Projectile Invuln: 19-23f; Airborne 9-45f (Forced Knockdown state)
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 56f Stand / 31f Crouch (Super)
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)

214MK

Cruel Fate

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
28	2(5)2(4)2(5)2	18 land	SA3	200x3,300 (900)	LH	+3 (KD +38~45)	-3

Lower Body Projectile Invuln: 21-27f; Airborne 13-49f (Forced Knockdown state)
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 56f Stand / 31f Crouch (Super)
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)

214HK

Cruel Fate

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
33	2(5)2(4)2(5)2	18 land	SA3	200x3,400 (1000)	LH	+4 (KD +41~50)	-3

Lower Body Projectile Invuln: 26-32f; Airborne 18-54f (Forced Knockdown state)
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 56f Stand / 31f Crouch (Super)
Applies 20% damage scaling to next hit when beginning a combo (100/80/70...)

214KK

Cruel Fate

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
28	3(4)2(4)2(5)2	18 land	SA2* SA3*	200,200x4,600 (1600)	LH	HKD +42 (+2~3)	+2

Lower Body Projectile Invuln: 23-27f; Airborne 13-49f (Forced Knockdown state)
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 28f 2-hit / 19f 1-hit (Super, non-cinematic version only)
- Cancel to SA2 does not combo except into LP version on CH/PC
Applies poison on hit; causes limited juggle OTG bounce vs. airborne opponents (KD +51~58)

A.K.I. leaps into the air and comes down with a multi-hit claw stab. The LK version is fast but short-ranged, the HK version is long-ranged but slow, and the MK version is in between both. It hits 4 times against standing opponents and twice against crouching opponents, affecting the total damage, meter build, and Drive damage. The HK version is the only one with enough frame advantage to link naturally into 2LP, but landing a Counter-hit or Punish Counter (like after a successful fireball punish) will carry the bonus advantage through all hits, opening up more combo opportunities. If 214K connects on an airborne opponent, it they are knocked down with plenty of time for an oki setup.

All meterless versions are safe but minus on block, and give slight frame advantage if the opponent is in Burnout. The HK version has extra pushback on block, making it safer as an approach but worse as a Burnout tool. Having multiple hits, Cruel Fate can break Drive Impact; however, if the opponent crouches and inputs Drive Impact as late as possible (when 214K would only connect twice), it can result in a full combo punish for the opponent; to combat this, A.K.I. can cancel into SA3 on reaction upon landing.

OD Cruel Fate is most similar to the MK version, but can be steered left or right to change its distance. It transitions into a grab animation on hit, guaranteeing the full damage and follow-up oki. At certain ranges, the later active frames can cause a weak non-cinematic hit, giving slight hit advantage but no follow-up combo. This non-cinematic version can be canceled like the meterless versions, though a cancel into SA2 does not naturally combo. Unlike the meterless versions, it is plus on block and cannot be countered with a late Drive Impact, making it a much better offensive approach option. It can also be used in juggle combos to force a ground bounce.

All versions of Cruel Fate recover with a crouching-sized hurtbox, although A.K.I. is still considered standing. This can affect the punish options if this move is whiffed in neutral. They also cannot hit cross-up; A.K.I. will simply whiff over the opponent if used from too close.

Snake Step (236K)

Snake Step

Slide

236K

5S (M)

Light Version

Medium/Heavy Version

OD Version

Hitboxes Off

Hitboxes On

236LK

Snake Step

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
37 total	-	-	-	-	-	-	-

Feint; starts dash animation, then steps backwards; Counter-hit state for entire duration
Upper Body Projectile Invuln: 8-37f; Semi-Low Profile 8-13f; Low Profile 14-37f
Crouching state 14-36f; 4f forced standing at the end (only 1f after inputting immediate crouching button)
Movement Distance: -0.965

236MK

Snake Step

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
39 total	-	-	-	-	-	-	-

Command dash, always stays on same side; Counter-hit state for entire duration
Upper Body Projectile Invuln: 9-38f; Semi-Low Profile 9-15f and 39f; Low Profile 16-38f
Crouching state 14f until end of recovery (no forced standing)
Movement Distance: 1.94

236HK

Snake Step

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
43(50~54) total	-	-	-	-	-	-	-

Command dash, can cross-up (collision box disappears frames 20-31); Counter-hit state for entire duration
Upper Body Projectile Invuln: 11-40(50)f; extended on cross-up version
Semi-Low Profile 11-17f; Low Profile 18f until end of recovery; Crouching state 17f until end of recovery (no forced standing)
After cross-up, enters a 23f recovery animation; total move duration varies based on timing of cross-up
Movement Distance: 3.18 (3.84 cross-up)

236KK

Snake Step

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
42(48~57)	-	-	-	-	-	-	-

Command dash, can cross-up (collision box disappears frames 7-33); vulnerable to Punish Counter Throws for entire duration
Strike Invuln: 1-34f; Projectile Invuln: 1-42f; entire animation is strike/projectile invuln on cross-up version
Crouching state 17f until end of recovery (no forced standing)
After cross-up, enters a 23f recovery animation; total move duration varies based on timing of cross-up (48~57f)
Movement Distance: 4.06 (3.52 cross-up)

A slithering command dash that can avoid high attacks and many projectiles during the low profile frames. The LK version feints a forward dash before retreating backwards about 1 character width. This can be used to make some attacks whiff over her, particularly fast projectiles. Against slower projectiles, she may be forced to block on the forced standing frame during recovery. The MK version is a more traditional command dash, sliding forward and potentially giving A.K.I. a punish on a predicted fireball.

HK Snake Step is similar to MK, but has the potential to cross-up at closer ranges. This usually extends the total dash time, making it easier to react to. However, with extremely precise spacing, it's possible to get a cross-up version with the same 43f duration as the same-side version, setting up an ambiguous left/right mixup.

OD Snake Step acts like the HK version, but has full body strike and projectile invincibility. There are only 8 punishable recovery frames at the end of the dash, and if A.K.I. crosses up, it becomes completely immune to a strike or projectile punish. While this sounds like it would be a great defensive option, it's a bit underwhelming. It is vulnerable to throws, and the throw can even be option selected after a whiffed meaty jab. It is best used at unexpected timings where the opponent is less likely to be looking to react to it, like a gap in a blockstring. Even if you rarely use this move, the opponent may structure their offense in a predictable manner to avoid having their screen position reversed. On the other hand, if you notice your opponent using more committal oki options, you can take advantage of the easy corner escape and force them to respect it.

The OD version can be used to cancel the recovery of the 214LP and 214PP projectiles in order to escape punishment or force a mixup.

Sinister Slide (2PP)

Sinister Slide

Slither

2PP

2MH

Hitboxes Off

Hitboxes On

2PP

Sinister Slide

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
11(28)	[185]	20	-	-	-	-	-

Upper Body Projectile Invuln: 10-197f
Semi-Low Profile: 10-15f (crouch height); Low Profile: 16-197f
Follow-ups can be input after 11f (28f for Exit Stance)
Automatically exits stance after 216f (no low profile or projectile invuln)

2PP~8

Sinister Slide Exit

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
-	-	21	-	-	-	-	-

Can be input after 28f of Sinister Slide (fastest total time: 49f)
Low Profile: 1-10f; Semi-Low Profile: 11-21f (crouch height)
Shortest travel distance: 0.78

A.K.I. drops to the floor and slowly advances forward in a low profile state. While slithering, she can duck under most projectiles, as well as moves like Marisa's Phalanx/Gladius or Lily's Condor Spire. While should be used sparingly in neutral, it's possible to start slithering from long range, then safely exit the stance if your opponent doesn't give you anything to react to with a follow-up.

Venomous Fang (2PP~P)

Venomous Fang

Slither Dive

2PP~P

2MH~5X

Hitboxes Off

Hitboxes On

2PP~P

Venomous Fang

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
11+19	15	30	-	1100	LH	KD +20(34) [Crumple +67(81)]	-25(-11)

Projectile Invuln: 1-19f (Upper Body) / 20-33f (Full); Airborne 19-33f (Forced Knockdown state)
Low Profile 1-17f; Low Crush 20-31f
Applies Poison on hit; triggers Toxic Blossom if opponent is poisoned
Toxic Blossom hit causes crumple on grounded hit or tumbling OTG juggle state on airborne hit

A.K.I. lunges quickly across the screen for a surprise attack. It's very unsafe on block even when perfectly spaced, so it should only be used in combos or on reaction to projectiles. As an anti-zoning tool it's quite effective if A.K.I. is already in her Sinister Slide stance, but generally too slow if you try to enter the stance on reaction to a projectile.

Venomous Fang does not combo naturally from any of A.K.I.'s normals. Instead, it's primarily used in punishes, Drive Rush routes, or juggles. It can lead to massive corner carry, as well as high damage if Toxic Blossom is triggered.

Heel Strike (2PP~K)

Heel Strike

Slither Kicks

2PP~K

2MH~2X

Hitboxes Off

Hitboxes On

2PP~K

Heel Strike

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
11+11	3(9)3	17(20)	SA3 (2nd)	300x2	LH	+4	-3

Low Profile 1-15f; Semi-Low Profile 16-27f; Crouch-sized hurtbox 28-35f
3f extra recovery on whiff
Cancel Hitconfirm Window: 33f (Super); 15f if only 2nd hit connects
Counter-hit/Punish Counter bonus advantage carries through both hits
Puts airborne opponents into limited juggle state

A useful combo tool that links into 2LP on the ground and allows follow-up juggles in the air. It's the only option out of Sinister Slide that is safe on block. In Burnout it becomes +1 on block; combined with Heel Strike's forward movement, this gives A.K.I. some tricky block pressure with the threat of a command grab reset.

Entrapment (2PP~LPLK)

Entrapment

Slither Grab

2PP~LPLK

2MH~4X

Hitboxes Off

Hitboxes On

2PP~LPLK

Entrapment

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
11+23	3	55	-	1852 (2222)	T	HKD +16	-

() refers to Punish Counter damage
Range: 1.59 (from moment of input)

A command grab with good range but slow startup. Useful to catch opponents who attempt to Parry or Drive Impact A.K.I.'s other options out of Sinister Slide, or as a reset option when applying Burnout pressure.

Super Arts

Level 1 Super (236236K)

Deadly Implication

Level 1 Super Art

236236K

236236L or 5HS or 6HS

Hitboxes Off

Hitboxes On

236236K

Deadly Implication

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
10	3	68	-	850,950 (1800)	LH	KD +30	-46

Strike/Throw Invuln: 1-12f; Armor Break
Good anti-air (cannot hit cross-up)
On hit, transitions to a cinematic and poisons the opponent
Drive Gauge Depletion: 0.5 bars (hit) / 0.25 bars (block)
30% minimum damage scaling

A.K.I.'s most reliable reversal against everything but meaty projectiles. At 10f startup, most characters can safely bait this with a perfectly timed light normal. The anti-air hitbox is reliable as long as the opponent isn't too close. It works well as a juggle ender, inflicting poison for extra damage.

The distance separating A.K.I. from the opponent after the cinematic hit varies based on starting screen position; there is nearly full screen separation when used midscreen, but only about 1/3 screen distance if near the corner. This is important, because A.K.I. would ideally like to set up Nightshade Pulse (214LP) for frame advantage and screen control. JP's SA3 and A.K.I.'s HP SA2 can punish a full screen Nightshade Pulse if it is not canceled with 236KK. In the corner, many other characters have ways to punish the projectile, some of which can't be avoided with a 236KK cancel (or which don't give a Super freeze to react in this way). Check the Strategy Page for a full list of moves that can punish this setup.

If SA1 trades with a projectile right as it hits the opponent, they will be launched high into a limited juggle float state, usually allowing a follow-up juggle with Drive Rush.

Level 2 Super (214214P)

Tainted Talons

Level 2 Super Art

214214P

214214M or 4HS
(Distance: Hold 4/5/6)

Full Hitbox Data

Button Strength Determines Distance

Hitboxes Off

Hitboxes On

214214P

Tainted Talons

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
7	53(28)12	54	-	300,200x6,1000 (2500)	LH	KD +30	-19~

Armor Break; no invincibility, but Super-priority projectiles can dissipate fireballs
Creates an unblockable poison pool that poisons the opponent in close proximity, lasting for 700f
Button strength determines attack distance and placement of poison pool (LP close, MP mid/far, HP full screen)
- MP/HP versions cause poison pool to slowly move forward
Drive Gauge Depletion: 1 bar (hit) / 0.5 bars (block)
- Distribution: 1500,500x6,5500 (hit) / 625x8 (block)
40% minimum damage scaling

Tainted Talons is a unique Super with multiple uses. It can punish moves from long range, finish juggles, and set up an unblockable poison pool that deals extensive damage if the opponent cannot escape or quickly land a hit on A.K.I.

The MP version is a fairly strong projectile counter at mid/far range, but not quite full screen. If too close, A.K.I. will get hit out of startup as it won't hit close enough to dissipate the fireball; from full screen, the HP version will usually not interact with the opposing projectile at all, unless it is a particularly slow fireball.

The poison pool from SA2 prevents the use of another SA2 until it disappears; however, it can exist simultaneously with the 214MP pool. If both pools are active, it does not stack the poison time or damage. Like 214MP, it constantly reapplies the poison as long as the opponent is touching it, causing it to last much longer.

The opponent cannot activate Drive Reversal against this Super until the final whip connects (2nd to last hit overall). If the opponent is under 1/2 bar of Drive Gauge and can't hold Parry, there is essentially nothing they can do to avoid Burnout unless they have a Super that punishes A.K.I.'s ranged SA2 startup. While SA2 can be made mostly safe at long range due to pushback, a well-timed Drive Reversal right before the final explosion occurs can allow them to stay close enough for a Drive Rush punish. However, if they input it too early, the explosion will simply punish the Drive Reversal recovery.

A.K.I. says a different voice line for each strength of SA2 during the freeze (except in Modern, where it defaults to the MP version before choosing the strength). This can tip the opponent off about which strength is coming, possibly letting them escape a chip KO setup if they have practiced against each version. These lines (in English) are:

LP: "This will hurt!"
MP: "I have you."
HP: "Try not to run."

Level 3 Super (236236P)

Claws of Ya Zi

Level 3 Super Art

236236P

236236H or 2HS

Critical Art adds 500 more damage

Hitboxes Off

Hitboxes On

236236P

Claws of Ya Zi

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
10	3	58	-	4000	LH	HKD +30	-36

Full Invuln: 1-12f; Armor Break
Drive Gauge Depletion: 1.5 bars (hit) / 0.75 bars (block)
- Cinematic time regenerates ~2.2 Drive bars for A.K.I.
50% minimum damage scaling; applies a 10% damage scaling penalty when canceled from special moves

236236P

Claws of Ya Zi

Startup	Active	Recovery	Cancel	Damage	Guard	On Hit	On Block
10	3	58	-	4500	LH	HKD +21	-36

Full Invuln: 1-12f; Armor Break
Available at 25% HP or below
Drive Gauge Depletion: 2 bars (hit) / 1 bar (block)
- Cinematic time regenerates ~2.2 Drive bars for A.K.I.
50% minimum damage scaling; applies 10% immediate damage scaling when canceled from special moves

A big damage combo ender or fully invincible reversal. While the hitbox looks like a tall anti-air, most of its vertical range only works in juggles; the actual hitbox is much lower than it appears and it cannot hit cross-up, causing it to be a mediocre anti-air. It moves forward around 1/3 screen, which is enough to work in most juggle routes but not far enough to threaten opponents in neutral with a reaction punish.

While a regular SA3 has better knockdown advantage than CA, it also leaves the opponent much farther away. Both allow for a DR~6HK to apply pressure, though a Drive Rush into Throw will not beat reversal 4f normals. Still, the threat of a meaty normal can open up a throw opportunity, and A.K.I. has enough time to block and bait reversals during the dash.