Why do I Feel Like I'm Always at a Disadvantage?

New here, looks like a great site to be a part of. Thanks for having me!

Anyway, I'm an Aoi player, if that's relevant. I feel like it's so hard to actually gain the advantage. If I block, I can't seem to find strikes or throws that can hit before the other guy has already recovered and thrown another hit at me. Am I not using quick enough moves to get "uncornered", or do I need to wait until after I've blocked way riskier moves? Is Aoi a generally slower character?

And, sorry if this is already answered elsewhere (I will look right after posting) but, when *is* the right time to go for a throw? They seem SO slow to go from input to actual execution. If they're only meant for when people are blocking a lot, wouldn't a quick mix-up still be a better option since it's faster?

I've got a lot to learn but there seems to be a lot of great people to talk to here. Thanks for the help!

 

Here are a few tips:

-in VF, it is important to "buffer" responses. This means that after you block an attack, you want to input your attack before your character has recovered. Many people, especially 2d fighting game players wait until the character has recovered to input their attack. VF has a lenient buffer so you can input a few frames before recovery and you should do this.

-online you might have to adjust responses. For example, if you feel lag, after blocking a low punch you might want to respond with a low punch (instead of an elbow which is the standard response offline) and then attack again if the low punch hits.

-at beginner levels of play, throws are harder to utilize because your opponent might be too aggressive. If your opponent attacks too much, don't worry about throwing your opponent. Instead, work on the block and counter game. And if you counter hit your opponent, attack again right away.

-throws will come into play when you fight an opponent who respects your turn to attack. That is, when your opponent starts to block your attacks.

Hope this helps!

 

Ah, very good to know about the buffering! I'll work on simply reacting more quickly and jump at the opportunities. >

It seems my other challenge is to stop thinking of throws as part of the mix-up and save them for once my strikes have scared them into guarding. I like the way you put it, it makes a lot of sense. Guess I just have to keep it at the front of my mind for awhile.

Thanks so much, I'm looking forward to practicing this!