Street Fighter II: Character Guide

Overview of Characters#

Street Fighter II is legendary, and a big part of that comes down to its colorful cast of characters. Each fighter has their own unique backstory, special moves, and fighting style, making every match feel fresh. Let’s break down the core lineup of characters you’ll be spending a lot of time with.

Ryu#

Origin: Japan
Fighting Style: Shotokan Karate

Ryu is the poster boy of Street Fighter. He’s all about discipline and honing his craft. His main moves include the iconic Hadouken (fireball), Shoryuken (dragon punch), and Tatsumaki Senpukyaku (spinning kick). Great for beginners because of his balanced skill set.

Ken#

Origin: USA
Fighting Style: Shotokan Karate

Ken is Ryu’s best friend and rival. They share similar moves due to their shared training, but Ken has a flashier style. His variations of Ryu’s special attacks are quicker and pack a bit more flair. If you like showmanship, Ken’s your guy.

Chun-Li#

Origin: China
Fighting Style: Kung Fu

Chun-Li stands out with her speed and agility. Her signature move is the Hyakuretsu Kyaku (Lightning Kick), which can devastate opponents with a flurry of kicks. She also has a wicked Spinning Bird Kick and a powerful Kikoken. She’s perfect if you prefer fast, quick-hit strategies.

Guile#

Origin: USA
Fighting Style: Military Combat

A military man through and through, Guile relies on precision and timing. His key moves are the Sonic Boom and the Flash Kick. Both attacks are great for controlling space and keeping opponents at bay. He’s a bit tougher to master, but rewarding for tactical players.

E. Honda#

Origin: Japan
Fighting Style: Sumo

E. Honda is all about brute strength. His Hundred Hand Slap can overwhelm foes, and his Sumo Headbutt charges at enemies with considerable force. He’s slower, but his power makes up for it. Ideal for players who love a heavy-hitter.

Blanka#

Origin: Brazil
Fighting Style: Savage Fighting

Raised in the wild, Blanka is feral and unpredictable. His electric attacks and the rolling Cannon Ball move are his signatures. Blanka’s playstyle is chaotic, great for confusing and pressuring opponents relentlessly.

Zangief#

Origin: USSR
Fighting Style: Wrestling

Zangief is the wrestling powerhouse. His moves, like the Spinning Piledriver, focus on grappling and throws. He’s not the fastest, but his sheer strength can dominate when he gets in close. Best for players who enjoy close-quarters combat.

Dhalsim#

Origin: India
Fighting Style: Yoga

Dhalsim offers a unique style with his stretchy limbs and yoga-based powers. Moves like the Yoga Fire and Yoga Flame keep enemies at a distance. His ability to attack from afar makes him a good choice for players who like to keep opponents guessing.

Balrog#

Origin: USA
Fighting Style: Boxing

Balrog is the brawler of the group. His punches are powerful, and his straightforward approach revolves around close combat. His Dash Punches and Buffalo Headbutt are relentless, making him perfect for those who enjoy an aggressive, in-your-face style.

Vega#

Origin: Spain
Fighting Style: Spanish Ninjutsu

With his quickness and claw attacks, Vega is both flashy and dangerous. His wall-climbing abilities and swift moves like the Rolling Crystal Flash keep opponents on their toes. Vega is best for players who want speed and finesse.

Sagat#

Origin: Thailand
Fighting Style: Muay Thai

Once a boss character, Sagat excels in powerful strikes and long reach. His Tiger Shot, Tiger Uppercut, and Tiger Knee are all about power and zoning. He’s an excellent pick for those who prefer a balanced blend of strength and reach.

M. Bison#

Origin: Unknown
Fighting Style: Psycho Power

The main antagonist, M. Bison uses his Psycho Power for devastating effects. Moves like the Psycho Crusher and Scissor Kick make him a formidable foe. He can be tricky to master but is incredibly rewarding for players who enjoy dominating fights.

Street Fighter II gives you a wide range of characters with different backgrounds and fighting styles to match every playstyle. So pick your fighter and get ready to duke it out!

Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Character#

In the world of Street Fighter II, each character brings their own unique set of skills and challenges to the table. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned fighter, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each character can give you the edge you need to rise victorious. Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know.

Ryu#

Strengths#

Versatile Moveset: Ryu’s iconic Hadouken and Shoryuken make him a well-rounded fighter, capable of both close and ranged attacks.
Balanced Stats: No glaring weaknesses. Good attack power and decent speed.

Weaknesses#

Predictable: Experienced players often anticipate his moves due to their popularity.
Limited Mix-ups: Not many options for confusing your opponent.

Ken#

Strengths#

Powerful Combos: Ken’s attacks can deal hefty damage when used in quick succession.
Shoryuken Mastery: His version of the Shoryuken often deals more damage and can be quite tricky to counter.

Weaknesses#

Close-Range Dependence: Performs best at close range, making him vulnerable to ranged characters.
Reckless Combat: His aggressive style can leave him open to counter-attacks.

Chun-Li#

Strengths#

Speed Demon: Her quick attacks and agility make her a menace in close combat.
Versatile Kicks: Lightning Kicks and Spinning Bird Kick provide excellent offensive and defensive options.

Weaknesses#

Low Stamina: She can’t take as many hits compared to other characters.
Limited Range: Struggles against characters who can attack from a distance.

Guile#

Strengths#

Defensive Play: His Sonic Boom and Flash Kick are perfect for zoning and punishing opponents.
Solid Anti-air: Great at preventing aerial attacks with his reliable anti-air moves.

Weaknesses#

Complex Playstyle: Requires precise timing and strategy, making him harder to master.
Slow Recovery: His powerful moves often leave him vulnerable during the recovery period.

Blanka#

Strengths#

Unpredictable Attacks: Blanka’s Rolling Attack and Electric Thunder can catch opponents off guard.
High Durability: Can absorb more damage, making him harder to knock out.

Weaknesses#

Limited Range: Primarily a close-combat fighter, making him struggle against ranged attacks.
Slower Movement: Not as agile as other characters, which can be a significant drawback.

Dhalsim#

Strengths#

Long Reach: His stretchy limbs allow him to hit opponents from a distance.
Teleportation: Can quickly reposition and evade attacks using his teleport move.

Weaknesses#

Fragile: One of the weakest in terms of health, making it crucial to avoid direct hits.
Slow Movement: His sluggish speed can make it difficult to escape fast characters.

Zangief#

Strengths#

Grappling Power: His throws and grapples are immensely powerful, capable of turning the tide of battle.
High Endurance: Can take a lot of punishment, making him a durable choice.

Weaknesses#

Lack of Speed: Extremely slow, making it hard to chase down quicker opponents.
Vulnerable to Zoning: Struggles against characters who can keep him at a distance.

E. Honda#

Strengths#

Strong Close Combat: His Hundred Hand Slap and Sumo Headbutt are devastating up close.
High Health: Can withstand a significant amount of damage.

Weaknesses#

Limited Mobility: His moves are powerful but often leave him open to counter-attacks.
Weak Against Aerial Attacks: Can struggle to counter jumping opponents.

Balrog#

Strengths#

Boxing Pro: His punches are incredibly strong, making him a force in close quarters.
Great Defense: His charge moves can be used both offensively and defensively.

Weaknesses#

No Kicks: Relies solely on punches, limiting his variety of attacks.
Weak Against Grapples: Can be easily grabbed and thrown by characters like Zangief.

Vega#

Strengths#

Speed and Agility: Moves incredibly fast and can climb the cage for aerial attacks.
Versatile Range: Good at both close combat and ranged attacks.

Weaknesses#

Low Health: One of the weaker characters in terms of stamina.
Complex Moves: Requires a good amount of skill to utilize effectively.

Sagat#

Strengths#

Powerful Tiger Shots: Excellent for zoning and controlling the battlefield.
Strong Uppercuts: His Tiger Uppercut is one of the most powerful anti-air moves.

Weaknesses#

Big Target: Larger hitbox makes it easier for opponents to land hits.
Slow Recovery: Some of his moves have a long recovery time, leaving him open.

M. Bison#

Strengths#

Psycho Power: His Psycho Crusher and other special moves are incredibly powerful.
Dominating Presence: Can pressure opponents with his intimidating playstyle.

Weaknesses#

High Commitment Moves: Many of his strong attacks leave him vulnerable if they miss.
Tricky to Master: Requires precise timing and good strategy to play effectively.

Understanding these strengths and weaknesses will help you customize your strategies and outsmart your opponents. Happy fighting!

Best Moves and Combos#

If you want to level up your Street Fighter II game, knowing the best moves and combos for each character is key. Here’s a rundown to help you dominate your opponents.

Ryu#

Hadouken (Fireball)#

Move: ⭣ ⭨ ⭢ + Punch
Tips: This classic projectile can zone your opponent, forcing them to jump and opening them up for anti-air attacks.

Shoryuken (Dragon Punch)#

Move: ⭢ ⭣ ⭨ + Punch
Tips: Use this as an anti-air move. It’s risky due to its recovery time, but perfect for punishing jump-ins.

Combo: Jumping Heavy Kick → Crouching Medium Kick → Hadouken#

Tips: Starting with a Jumping Heavy Kick initiates a chain that keeps your opponent on the defensive. Follow up with a Crouching Medium Kick and finish with Hadouken for a solid damage combo.

Chun-Li#

Spinning Bird Kick#

Move: Charge ⭩, then ⭠ + Kick
Tips: Effective for closing distance and applying pressure, but be mindful of its long startup.

Lightning Kick#

Move: Tap Kick rapidly
Tips: Because of its rapid hits, this move overwhelms opponents. Make sure to use it close-up for maximum impact.

Combo: Jumping Medium Kick → Crouching Medium Punch → Lightning Kick#

Tips: This aerial into ground combo can disrupt your opponent’s flow. Use the hitstun from Lightning Kick to potentially chain more attacks.

Ken#

Hadouken (Fireball)#

Move: ⭣ ⭨ ⭢ + Punch
Tips: Like Ryu’s, use Ken’s Hadouken to keep your opponent at bay or to finish off a combo.

Tatsumaki Senpukyaku (Hurricane Kick)#

Move: ⭣ ⭩ ⭠ + Kick
Tips: This move covers ground quickly and hits multiple times, great for breaking through blocking opponents.

Combo: Jumping Heavy Punch → Standing Heavy Punch → Tatsumaki Senpukyaku#

Tips: Initiate the combo with a Jumping Heavy Punch, keeping the pressure with Standing Heavy Punch and finishing with the multi-hit Tatsumaki Senpukyaku.

Guile#

Sonic Boom#

Move: Charge ⭠, then ⭢ + Punch
Tips: A quick, effective zoning tool. Use it to force your opponent into making mistakes.

Flash Kick#

Move: Charge ⭣, then ⭢ + Kick
Tips: Anti-air move to counter jump-in attacks. It’s quick but has a significant cooldown.

Combo: Jumping Heavy Kick → Crouching Medium Punch → Sonic Boom#

Tips: This combo pushes your opponent away while dealing notable damage. Guile’s zoning game makes this especially effective.

Blanka#

Electric Thunder#

Move: Tap Punch rapidly
Tips: Excellent for defense. Use it when your opponent edges too close.

Rolling Attack#

Move: Charge ⭠, then ⭢ + Punch
Tips: Fast and covers distance well. Combine this with Electric Thunder for mix-up attacks.

Combo: Jumping Heavy Kick → Crouching Medium Kick → Rolling Attack#

Tips: Utilize aerial assaults to start, then keep up the pressure with Rolling Attack.

Dhalsim#

Yoga Fire#

Move: ⭣ ⭨ ⭢ + Punch
Tips: A slow-moving projectile that sets up Dhalsim’s ranged game.

Yoga Flame#

Move: ⭠ ⭩ ⭣ ⭨ ⭢ + Punch
Tips: Deals heavy damage up close. Use it after knocking down your opponent to pressure them as they stand.

Combo: Jumping Heavy Punch → Standing Heavy Punch → Yoga Fire#

Tips: Utilize Dhalsim’s reach to start with a Jumping Heavy Punch, then go into Standing Heavy Punch and follow up with Yoga Fire to put distance between you and your opponent while still dealing damage.

Practice these moves and combos to get a feel for each character’s rhythm. With time, you’ll know just the right moment to unleash these powerful techniques. Good luck!

Strategies for Each Character#

In Street Fighter II, each character has unique moves and abilities. Here’s a breakdown of strategies for mastering your favorite fighter. Let’s get this brawl started!

Ryu#

Ryu is your classic balanced fighter. Here’s how to dominate with him:

Hadoken (Fireball): Use this to control space and pressure your opponent from a distance.
Shoryuken (Dragon Punch): Great for countering jump-ins. Use it to punish opponents who get too close.
Tatsumaki Senpukyaku (Hurricane Kick): This can pass through some projectiles and catch opponents off guard. Use it mid-range to close the gap.

Tip: Mix up your attacks to keep your opponent guessing. A well-timed Shoryuken can turn the tide in your favor.

Chun-Li#

Speed and agility are Chun-Li’s greatest assets.

Hyakuretsukyaku (Lightning Kick): This fast-hitting move can overwhelm slower opponents. Time it well, and you’ll break through defenses.
Spinning Bird Kick: Use this as an anti-air or to close the distance quickly while attacking.
Kikoken: This is a great ranged attack to keep pressure on your opponents while maintaining distance.

Tip: Use Chun-Li’s speed to dart in, land some quick hits, and dart out. Her aerial combat is among the best.

Guile#

Guile excels at zoning and controlling the pace of the fight.

Sonic Boom: This projectile is a staple of Guile’s arsenal. Keep your opponent at bay with a mix of high and low Sonic Booms.
Flash Kick: Perfect for anti-air. Keep grounded and punish those jumping in on you.
Crouching Fierce: One of the best anti-air normals in the game. Use it frequently.

Tip: Master the art of charging moves while maintaining mobility. Guile is a defensive powerhouse.

Ken#

Ken is similar to Ryu but with some flair:

Shoryuken (Dragon Punch): Ken’s Shoryuken is more powerful. Use it for crushing anti-air and punishing.
Hadoken: Not as strong as Ryu’s but still useful for zoning.
Tatsumaki Senpukyaku: Use this for combo potential and mixing up your attacks.

Tip: Ken’s aggressive playstyle can overwhelm defenses. Be relentless with medium and heavy attacks to keep constant pressure.

E. Honda#

E. Honda is all about power and close combat.

Hundred Hand Slap: One of the fastest ways to deal significant damage. Use it to frustrate opponents who get too close.
Sumo Headbutt: Great for closing distance fast. Use this to surprise and pressure.
Oicho Throw: This command grab is deadly at close range. Mix it into your game to keep opponents on their toes.

Tip: E. Honda excels in close-range combat. Push forward and force your opponent into a corner, then unleash his heavy-hitting moves.

Blanka#

A beastly brawler with some wild moves.

Electric Thunder: Prevents opponents from getting too close. Use it frequently as a defensive move.
Rolling Attack: A great way to hit from a distance. Use it unpredictably to catch opponents off guard.
Vertical Roll: Fantastic anti-air. Use it the moment you see a jump coming.

Tip: Blanka’s unpredictability is his main strength. Use his wild moves to disrupt your opponent’s rhythm and create openings.

Zangief#

The grappler who turns fights into wrestling matches.

Spinning Piledriver: This move deals massive damage. Once you’re in close, use it to punish.
Lariat: Use this for mobility and as an anti-air. It can also pass through projectiles.
Green Hand: Helps close the distance on opponents and counters projectiles.

Tip: Zangief’s main game plan is to get close. Slowly advance, taking advantage of his high health and power.

Dhalsim#

A long-range fighter who thrives at keeping opponents at bay.

Yoga Fire: Excellent for zoning. Use it continuously to create space.
Yoga Flame: Strong close-range attack with decent reach. Use it when opponents get too close.
Stretchy Normals: Dhalsim’s normals make for the best long-range pokes. Use them to keep opponents at arm’s length.

Tip: Keep your distance and chip away at your opponent’s health. Dhalsim’s strength lies in his ability to control the space.

Balrog#

The boxer with a mean punch.

Dash Punch: Great for sudden attacks to close gaps.
Buffalo Headbutt: Useful as anti-air and for finishing combos.
Turn Punch: Hits particularly hard. Can cancel into it from dash punches for big damage.

Tip: Balrog’s strength and speed make him formidable in close combat. Use his dash moves to keep opponents on their heels.

Vega#

This Spanish matador is all about speed and aerial attacks.

Wall Dive: Vega’s signature move. Great for confusing opponents and striking from above.
Rolling Crystal Flash: Good for extending combos and applying pressure.
Claw Slash: Vega has exceptional range with his normal attacks. Use them to maintain a safe distance and poke.

Tip: Vega’s strengths lie in his agility and air game. Keep moving, and use his speed to catch opponents off guard.

Sagat#

The Muay Thai kingpin excels in powerful projectiles and long-range kicks.

Tiger Shot: Both high and low versions are excellent zoning tools.
Tiger Uppercut: One of the best anti-air moves. Use it liberally when opponents jump in.
Tiger Knee: Quickly closes distance and can combo for big damage.

Tip: Sagat’s reach and power make him deadly at mid-to-long range. Use his projectiles to frustrate opponents, and punish jumps with the Tiger Uppercut.

M. Bison#

The evil dictator with potent psycho power.

Psycho Crusher: Bison’s iconic move that covers great distance.
Scissor Kicks: Excellent for pressure and can be comboed for severe damage.
Head Stomp: Bison’s aerial move to close distance and strike from above. Follow it up with a follow-up punch.

Tip: Bison’s aggressive playstyle can keep opponents on their back foot. Use his specials to stay on the offensive.

Remember, practice makes perfect! Keep experimenting with each character’s moves and find the playstyle that suits you best. Happy fighting!

Tips for Mastering Characters#

Whether you’re new to Street Fighter II or a seasoned brawler, mastering each character can be a challenge. Here are some handy tips to help you get the upper hand, regardless of who you choose to fight as!

Ryu and Ken: The Classic Hadouken Duo#

Basic Tips#

Fireball Trap: Use the Hadouken (fireball) to control space. Follow it with a Shoryuken (Dragon Punch) if your opponent tries to jump over it.
Mix It Up: Alternate between high, low, and mid attacks to keep your foe guessing. Mixing in throws can also break down their defense.
Cross-Up Attack: Jump over your opponent and attack just as you land. This can trick them into blocking the wrong way.

Advanced Tips#

Cancelling Moves: Cancel low medium kick into Hadouken. It’s a staple combo that can pressure even the toughest opponents.
Master the Shoryuken: Learn the timing for anti-air Shoryukens. Jumping attacks can be stopped cold if you execute it perfectly. Try training modes to get the hang of it.

Chun-Li: Speed and Kicks#

Basic Tips#

Poke with Lightning Kicks: Chun-Li’s fast kicks can keep opponents at bay. Use them to chip away at health bars and disrupt attacks.
Wall Jump: Don’t forget her wall-jump. It’s great for escaping corners or surprising your opponent.

Advanced Tips#

Headstomp Maneuvers: Utilize her headstomp followed by a flying kick to maneuver around defenses. Great for mix-ups!
Tick Throwing: Use her rapid punches to “tick” your opponent (tap them to put them in a slight stun), then throw them. Throws are powerful and can turn the tide of a match.

Guile: Defense and Deceit#

Basic Tips#

Sonic Boom Pressure: Use Sonic Booms to control the space between you and your opponent. Follow them in for more attacks.
Flash Kick: This move is your go-to anti-air. It’s fast and covers a lot of space above you.

Advanced Tips#

Charge Time Management: Learn the timing of holding back for Sonic Booms and Flash Kicks. Keep holding back while walking forward by using the “charge” mechanic effectively.
Air Throws: Guile’s air throws are invaluable. If your opponent likes to jump in, meet them in the air with a throw.

Dhalsim: Reach and Trickery#

Basic Tips#

Long-Range Attacks: Use Dhalsim’s stretchy limbs to keep fighters at a distance. Yoga Fire and Yoga Flame can also help control the space.
Teleport: Mix teleports into your game to suddenly change position and confuse your opponent.

Advanced Tips#

Zoning Mastery: Master the art of zoning – keep your opponent where you want them with a mix of long-range punches and special moves.
Yoga Sniper: Use the jumping medium punch, aka “Yoga Sniper,” to strike from above and maintain pressure.

Zangief: Power and Grabs#

Basic Tips#

Close the Gap: Zangief excels up close, so you need to get there. Use his Spinning Lariat to get through projectiles.
Spinning Piledriver: This is your bread and butter. Learn its range and timing to land this devastating move.

Advanced Tips#

Hit Confirm into Piledriver: Make sure hits actually connect before going for Piledriver. This avoids missed grappling attempts.
360° Input: Practice the 360° joystick motion required for his Piledriver. It’s tricky but crucial for consistent execution.

Remember, each character requires practice and patience. Get into training mode, work on these tips, and you’ll see improvements in no time. Happy fighting!

Street Fighter II: Character Guide

https://www.rappy-world.com/posts/street_fighter_ii_character_guide/

Author

Rappy-World

Published at

2024-04-06

License

Yurika Corporation ToS

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