Tekken 9 throw game mechanics utilize a rock-paper-scissors system involving break inputs, command throws, and unique character-specific throws, creating dynamic close-quarters combat scenarios.
The intense close-range battles in Tekken have always featured a crucial element: throws. Now, with Tekken 9, throw game mechanics become even more integral to success. The way you engage at close range can truly make or break a match.
This aspect of combat requires a good understanding of different throw types. Learning break inputs also become vital to defend against them. We explore how these factors shape the flow of Tekken 9’s fights.
Tekken 9 Throw Game Mechanics
Alright, let’s dive deep into the world of throws in Tekken 9! Throws are a super important part of the game, and understanding them can really help you become a better player. They’re not just random button presses; there’s a whole system behind them that, once you get the hang of, will give you a big advantage. This article will walk you through everything you need to know, from the basic kinds of throws to how to defend against them and even how to set them up. Get ready to level up your Tekken skills!
The Different Types of Throws
In Tekken 9, throws come in several forms, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Knowing these differences is the first step to using throws effectively. Let’s explore the main categories:
Basic Throws
These are the throws you’ll probably use most often. They’re usually performed by pressing forward or neutral along with the throw button (usually square or triangle on Playstation, X or Y on Xbox). These throws are pretty simple to execute, making them a good starting point.
- Standard Forward Throw: This throw usually puts your opponent behind you, giving you a position advantage.
- Standard Neutral Throw: A common throw where both you and the opponent typically stay in the same general position.
Command Throws
Command throws are character-specific moves, usually found by checking your character’s move list. These throws often require specific directional inputs (like quarter circles or half circles) and can have much more dramatic effects than basic throws. They often deal more damage or position you for better follow-up attacks. Here’s a few points:
- More Damage: Command throws will usually hurt your opponent more than regular throws.
- Unique Animations: Each command throw has its own unique look and effect.
- Difficult Execution: They can be a bit harder to pull off than basic throws, requiring more practice.
Special Throws
Some characters possess special throws that have unique properties. These throws might have unusual animations, longer range, or special effects (like wall carry). They may even have unique inputs to perform. They could even have unique follow-up attacks, these throws make your opponent guess, especially against human players.
Air Throws
A very specific and useful type of throw, Air Throws, can be a strong weapon. Some characters in Tekken 9 have throws that can be performed when your opponent is in the air, usually during a juggle combo. Air throws are not universal, but they can be very powerful for characters that have access to them. These throws can often lead to a huge damage output during a juggle combo.
Throw Execution and Timing
Performing a throw correctly is about more than just pressing the right buttons. It’s also about timing. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Throw Range
Every throw has a certain range. You need to be close enough to your opponent for the throw to connect. If you are too far, the throw will miss. If you are close, but not in the proper range, it will also miss. This is key to how Tekken mechanics work in general.
Throw Inputs
Make sure you are pressing the exact input required for the throw, whether it’s a basic throw or a command throw. This is very important for making sure your throws connect. Incorrect inputs mean that your throw will not come out. You will often find yourself getting punished for missing inputs. Practicing the inputs for throws will definitely help you in the long run.
Throw Priority
Throws usually have a higher priority than standard attacks when they connect. This means that if you and your opponent both try to hit each other at the same time, but you use a throw, it will likely connect before their attack. Understanding throw priority will be a very valuable advantage to the game. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Some special moves might have priority over regular throws.
The more you play Tekken, the more you will realize that throw priority is an important aspect of the game. Learning the throws in the game is a very important aspect of playing the game.
Throw Escapes
Now, let’s talk about defense. Getting thrown is never fun, so it’s crucial to know how to escape throws. Here’s the rundown:
Basic Throw Escapes
Standard throws in Tekken 9 can usually be escaped by pressing a throw button (square/triangle or X/Y) at the exact moment you’re grabbed. The timing is key! If you press too early or too late, you will not escape. This part of the game takes practice. Each character might have a unique timing that will help you escape. Learning to escape throws is a crucial part of Tekken that all competitive players will know.
- 1+3 Escape: If the opponent throws with left arm (1+3), you press 1 to escape.
- 2+4 Escape: If the opponent throws with right arm (2+4), you press 2 to escape.
Command Throw Escapes
Many command throws cannot be escaped using basic throw escape. Some will simply deal more damage if not escaped, while others have to be dealt with by other means. You may have to interrupt with attacks, low attacks to knock them out of the animation, sidesteps or backdash to simply evade them, or utilize reversal moves. Understanding the properties of each character’s throws is crucial for knowing how to counter them.
The Importance of Practice
Escaping throws takes practice and timing. You should spend some time in the training mode, practicing escaping throws from the computer. Try to train yourself to visually see which arm an opponent is grabbing with when you’re thrown. This will help you train your muscle memory. Consistent practice is the key to improving your throw escapes.
Setting Up Throws
Using throws effectively isn’t just about grabbing your opponent whenever you can. It’s about creating situations where they are more likely to get thrown. Here are some strategies to use:
Mix-Ups
Mix-ups are when you vary your attacks and moves to make it harder for your opponent to predict what you’ll do next. By mixing throws with strikes and other moves, you can keep your opponent guessing and make them more vulnerable to throws. Don’t just throw! If you constantly throw, you will be punished. Mix throwing with other things.
Punishing Blocking
If your opponent is constantly blocking your attacks, they will most likely not be ready for a throw. Use a throw to get past their blocking defense. Often times, someone who blocks a lot is anticipating for a slow moving attack and may not be prepared for a throw. Sometimes throwing after a blocked attack can throw your opponent off balance and they will not be ready for it.
Conditioning Your Opponent
Conditioning refers to getting your opponent used to a certain action. If you use a lot of low attacks, your opponent may try to block low. Use this opportunity to throw them, as they will be expecting you to attack low again. You can then mix in high attacks. The goal is to try to get your opponent to play a certain way, then switch up your style for an easy win.
The Mental Game
Throws are as much a mental game as they are physical. If your opponent is frustrated and not thinking clearly, throws will be far more effective. However, if your opponent is calmly blocking or anticipating your moves, it will be harder to land a throw. Throws will often require baiting an opponent into doing a certain thing. The mental game of Tekken is often the most important aspect, and can be what determines wins and losses.
Specific Character Throw Analysis
Each character in Tekken 9 has their own unique throws and throw strategies. Let’s look at some general types of characters and their approach to throws:
Grapplers
Characters that rely heavily on throws are known as “Grapplers.” Grapplers tend to have more powerful throws, including command throws that deal a lot of damage. They will usually have unique animations for their throws. The game will likely have certain characters designed to be grapplers. These characters will be able to deal big damage with throws, which is why they are very important to learn.
- Command Throw Emphasis: Expect them to heavily rely on command throws for damage.
- Mix-Up Kings: These characters will use throws alongside striking.
All-Rounders
Most characters in Tekken fall into this category. These characters will have standard throws, as well as some character specific command throws. All-rounders will have a good mixture of moves, and will need to be good at mixing moves for effective strategy.
- Balanced Throw Usage: All rounder characters won’t rely as heavily on throws.
- Depend on fundamentals: All-rounder characters will depend on basic mechanics for effective play
Zoners
Characters that play at range, or ‘zoners’, tend not to rely as much on throws. Their gameplan is centered around keeping the opponent at a distance. They will be stronger at range, and less strong up close, so they generally won’t have any special or powerful throws.
- Limited Throw Options: Zoning characters may not have as many or as powerful throws.
- Focus on Range: These characters will aim to punish opponents who get too close.
Advanced Throw Techniques
Once you are familiar with the basic throws, you can start learning more advanced throwing techniques. Some of these techniques include:
Throw Cancels
Certain character-specific throws can be cancelled into other moves, creating an unexpected change in strategy and can make your throws safer to perform. These moves can be tricky to perform, and will require precise inputs and timing. Throw cancels can also be a great way to mix your attacks and keep your opponent on their toes.
Throw Buffering
This technique involves inputting the throw command slightly before the character is able to perform it. When executed correctly, your character will perform a throw right as they recover from another action, ensuring a smooth and seamless motion. Throw buffering can be tricky, but very strong to learn.
Throw Baiting
This strategy involves feigning a throw, but instead performing another attack to catch your opponent off guard. It takes practice and is a high risk strategy, but the reward can be worth it. Baiting opponents into certain actions is an important aspect of the game, and very common among higher level players.
Throw Reset
A more advanced mechanic in the game that can be very complex, this technique involves positioning the opponent in such a way that they are forced to guess if you are going to throw again. You can then perform a different action, often leading to very high damage output. This will often require you to use the environment of the level to your advantage.
The Importance of Practice
Like every aspect of Tekken, mastering the throw game takes time and practice. Go into training mode, experiment, practice with different characters. Don’t be afraid to try new things and figure out what works best for your play style. Watching videos and reading guides is helpful, but nothing will replace practice in game. Try to keep an open mind while you train, and the more you play the better you’ll become at Tekken 9.
The throw game is an important part of the overall fighting game, and you should consider training the throw game to become more competitive.
So, there you have it – a complete look into Tekken 9’s throw mechanics! From basic grabs to advanced techniques, mastering throws is a key part of becoming a top-tier Tekken player. Remember to practice, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with the game. Keep playing and experimenting, and you will be surprised by how much you improve!
Tekken 8 – Ultimate Changes Guide
Final Thoughts
In summary, Tekken 9 throw game mechanics likely require a deeper understanding of break timings and character-specific animations. Players should actively practice different throw options and their counters to gain a true advantage. Anticipating an opponent’s throws and reacting swiftly are crucial for success.
The game will reward those who commit to learning the intricacies of throw escapes and setups. This focus enhances the overall strategic depth of Tekken 9 throw game mechanics. The new system pushes players to make more informed decisions.
