The King of Fighters 2002 UM/Kyo Kusanagi

Movelist

Throws

Hachi Tetsu - close, / +

Issetsu Seoi Swimming - close, / +

Command Moves

Ge Shiki Goufu You - +

Ge Shiki Naraku Otoshi - in air, +

88 Shiki - +

Special Moves

100 Shiki Oniyaki - + /

427 Shiki Hikigane - + /

RED Kick - + /

75 Shiki Kai - + , or ,

114 Shiki Aragami - +

128 Shiki Kono Kizu - + /

127 Shiki Yano Sabi - /

125 Shiki Nana Se - /

127 Shiki Yano Sabi - + /

125 Shiki Nana Se - /

212 Shiki Kototsuki You - + /

Ge Shiki Migiri Ugachi - /

115 Shiki Dokugami - +

401 Shiki Tumi Yomi - + /

402 Shiki Batu Yomi - + /

100 Shiki Oniyaki - + /

Desperation Moves

Ura 108 Shiki Orochinagi - + / (Hold or to charge)

182 Shiki - + / (Hold or to charge)

Super Desperation Move

Ura 108 Shiki Orochinagi - + (Hold or to charge)

Hidden Super Desperation Move

524 Shiki Kamichiri - +

Quick Starter Combo Reference

0 Bar	Low Anywhere Very Close Corner Only	cr.B, cr.A, df+D = 17% (jump-in), cl.C, qcf+C > hcb+P > f+P > dp+P = 21% (optional cross-up), cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A/st.D = 22-27% (jump-in), cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A > hcb+P > hcb+K = 33%
1 Bar	Low Anywhere Very Close	cr.B, st.A/cr.A, qcfx2+A = 27% • Note: Do it as cr.B, qcf, st.A/cr.A, qcf+A. (jump-in), cl.C/cl.D, qcfx2+A = 29-32% (optional cross-up), cl.C, qcf+D>K, qcb,hcf+P = 34%
2 Bar	Anywhere Very Close	(jump-in), cl.C, df+D(1), qcf+BC, [(C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C]x2 (SC) qcfx2+A = 43% (optional cross-up), cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B (SC) qcb,hcf+P = 40% (optional cross-up), cl.C, df+D(2), qcf+BC, [(C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C]x2 (SC) qcfx2+A = 50%
3 Bar	Very Close	(optional cross-up), cl.C, qcf+D>K, qcb,hcf+AC = 45%

Gameplay Overview

The main main protagonist is back with the same Nests style but long time fans will surely notice and enjoy some welcomed improvements. With a limited but good set of mid range tools to keep the opponent pinned down (st.B, qcf+A) Kyo then aims to force his way in (j.D/CD) to do what he's best at, pressuring and mixing up the opponent (cr.B, j.B/d+C) until landing a solid cl.C for great meterless and meter conversions.
Although the main focus is on starting his own offense, Kyo does also have some good tools to protect his space and defend himself (nj.B, dp+P). With some nice match-up coverage tools sprinkled in (st.D), Kyo proves to be a potentially very strong character with an answer to most midrange situations although still lacking when further away.

As the saying goes, with great power comes great execution. With a number of simple and decent options to fall back on, the first wall to break to become a better Kyo will be building up the execution for his optimal meter conversions that make him shine as an anchor.

Normals

Close

cl.A	No results A cancelable standing elbow with too poor priority and average speed to make up for its short range. Can be used as a meaty against wake-up super jump to then link the more rewarding but riskier cl.C after it. Cancelable on hit/whiff. Chains into every light. Startup Active

cl.B	No results A cancelable standing low kick with limited range and especially much too slow to warrant ever using over cr.B. Can be used afer cr.B for a short range 2 hitconfirm starter. Cancelable on hit/whiff. Chains into every light. Startup Active

cl.C

No results A very fast and cancelable uppercut with deceptively good range that serves as Kyo's main combo starter and then extends higher for a good secundary grounded anti-air against hops. Can be 1f linked off cr.B for a good frametrap on block but a somewhat limited conversion on hit without max mode. Only the first part is cancelable so a whiff cancel needs to be done very fast. Startup Frames 3~4 Frames 5~12

cl.D	No results A cancelable high kick with decent range and speed but poor priority that is entirely overshadowed by cl.C in every way except damage. Won't see much use in real match outside of being a risky occasional substitute for cl.C when the situation allows it. Cancelable on hit/whiff. Startup Active Early Recovery

Stand

st.A	No results A cancelable standing jab with poor priority but decent range and speed. Can be used to stuff hops early but a well timed st.B is generally preferred. Cancelable on hit/whiff. Chains into every lights but cl.A/B. Startup Active

st.B	No results A long and fast kick lacking in priority but with enough range and speed to make a good poke for keeping the opponent out while having the height to clip an early hop. Typically great to dissuade the opponent from approchaing before forcing your own way in. Startup Active Early Recovery

st.C This is not okay. This is not okay.

No results Very lackluster range for such a slow button with a severe lack of active frames, an unsettling tendency to be whiff punished and no conversion whatsoever. To put it bluntly this move could do double the damage with double the speed and it would still be pretty bad but it doesn't even have that. Mostly appears when messing up cl.C's spacing, frustration usually ensues. Frames 4~9 Frame10~12 Active Early Recovery

st.D No slides allowed. No slides allowed.

No results A fairly fast high kick with decent range and good enough priority to beat a lot of opposing pokes near its tip. Being slower and shorter than st.B hurts st.D's value as a standard poke but it instead strives as a dedicated low crush thanks to its huge low invincible window. You can use it to go over a predictable cr.B/D and even when wrong, as long as it reaches its short recovery and good pushback will keep it safe. It's especially great against slides, you can use it on reaction to easily beat Chris/Kula's df+B. Lower slides like King/Mary's would go below it but worst case scenario Kyo recovers fast enough to be at frame advantage and potentially land cl.C and best case scenario Kyo did st.D late enough to still be active and hit them as they start recovering and getting up. Despite how it looks, Kyo is still considered grounded during st.D and can get caught by a grounded command grab. Combo Advice: When certain of a hit, like reacting to a slide, you can max bypass cl.D into qcf+BC, (C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C (SC) qcfx2+A or qcf+BC, [(C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C]x2 (SC) qcb,hcf+P(Charge) to spend 2 bars on a 36/41% conversion. Startup Active Early Recovery

Crouch

cr.A	No results A cancelable crouching jab with good priority, range and decent speed. A substitute poke with the mediocre advantage over cr.B of being able to get a spaced df+D conversion. Can also be used as a meaty against wake-up super jump to then link cl.C on grounded hit for better reward. Cancelable on hit/whiff. Chains into every lights. Idle Startup Active

cr.B	No results Kyo's main crouching poke with good priority, range and decent speed. Fails to low profile and isn't cancelable but it at least chains into the cancelable cr.A for close range 2 hitconfirm conversion. Chains into every lights. Idle Startup Active - 1 Last active frame

cr.C	No results A cancelable crouching uppercut with good range, although a tiny bit less than cl.C, but better priority to stuff a standing poke before extending very high for anti-air purpose. It's mostly a better angle against jump height as opposed to cl.C's more suited for hops. Only the first part is cancelable so a whiff cancel needs to be done very fast. Idle Startup Frames 6~7 Frames 7~10

cr.D	No results Kyo's fairly fast sweep has poor low profile but great range, priority and recovery to make up for it. Canceling it into qcf+A will be safe in a lot of situations. It hits fairly high despite being a low which is a good thing against jumps but also makes it get caught by some counters a lower sweep would go under. Cancelable on hit/whiff. Idle Startup Active Early Recovery

Jump

j.A	No resultsNo resultsNo results The only good thing to note is hop A has a good chunk of active frames for a hop, though it isn't deep enough to hit crouching(Bao, Chin, Choi) unlike j.A or neutral j.A. Mediocre and outshone by other jump-ins.

j.B

No resultsNo resultsNo results hop/jump B have slightly different hitboxes but keep the excellent downard reach, good chunk of active frames and priority that make it Kyo's main air-to-ground jump-in. Being able to reach any character and cross-up most of them make j.B a good j.d+C substitute. Lacking j.d+C's hitstun, Choi is the only standing character you can cross-up with hop B and have enough time to land and link cl.C. Hop and jump B are the same for crouching characters except crouching Hinako that only hop B can cross-up. Neither hop nor jump B can cross-up crouching(Bao, Chin, Choi). Instant overhead against middle crouchers and taller. Mix-up Advice: After 2 lights on hit/block point-blank, hyper hop B will cross-up a crouching character and hop B will hit in front. If any button says how much better Kusanagi's buttons can get compared to Kyo's, this is the one. That said, nj.B's decent priority, speed and active frames still do a good job at defending his vertical air space preemptively. Instant overhead against middle crouchers and taller.

j.C	No resultsNo results Essentially a j.B with better forward reach, easier to confirm off and harder to go over while still being deep enough to hit any croucher. However being slightly slower and a bit less active and deep are what keeps it at the second place. It can also cross-up although not as reliably as j.B.

j.D

No resultsNo resultsNo results Although more lacking in priority, hop D, especially hyper hop D, has a good angle and height to be a midway between air-to-air and air-to-ground. It's mostly meant to use its good range to forcefully occupy important space before another offensive jump/approach. Similarly to nj.B, it's mostly a preemptive button to defend Kyo's air space. It has much better reach but is also pretty slow which forces the player to use it very early, opening themselves for a low profile. This is best kept to test the waters or at least when there's enough distance to the opponent.

Blowback Attack

st.CD	No results A cancelable shoulder charge with below average speed, range and active frames but good priority and great recovery. Mostly useful to be whiff canceled into a spaced qcf+A to eventually beat an opposing poke meant to stuff said qcf+A. Cancelable on hit/whiff. Late Startup Active Early Recovery

j.CD	No resultsNo results Although lacking in priority, j.CD is fairly fast and its low hitbox make it especially easy to meaty an opponent for better blockstring pressure.

Throws

Hachi Tetsu - (b/f+C) close

• Grabs the opponent and performs a shoulder attack
• Can be broken
• Regular knockdown

Issetsu Seoi - (b/f+D) close

• Kyo slams the opponent onto the ground then does an elbow drop.
• Can be broken
• Reverse knockdown

Advice: Reverse Knockdown gives Kyo a ton of options, mainly run-up j.d+C to cross-up BnB to combo ender, practice timing it so that you'll catch them as soon as they get up backward.

Command Moves

Ge Shiki Goufu You f+B

No resultsNo results Kyo lifts his leg then does a quick heel drop, very simple overhead but doesn't have much use, especially without meter. On paper the average speed and short active period feels lacking but a better look shows that the small active period is great since the hurtbox shrinks in quickly making it much less likely to be whiff punished. Furthermore, its good pushback also keeps it safe on block making this a fairly good mix-up option if it doesn't get stuffed first. Standing Overhead. Mix-up Advice: After cr.B/A, cr.A you can delay cancel into f+B to get the raw f+B out faster than linking it for an overhead option versus canceling into df+D for a low. Combo Advice: You can do BC run, cl.C to combo off a very close f+B. Off the previous mix-up, you can max bypass f+B into qcf+BC, [(C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C]x1~2 (SC) qcfx2+A or qcf+BC, [(C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C]x2 (SC) qcb,hcf+P(Charge) to spend 2 bars on a 36~41% conversion. Startup Active Early Recovery Like most standing overheads, canceling f+B out of a normal on hit/block makes it faster and cancelable although they usually don't change animation like Kyo's f+B that then looks like his 98 Goufu You instead for some reason. It is faster but the first hit's range is tiny, whiffing on almost every non-backturned character for only the second hit to connect, although it only combos off cl.C/D on hit. It is mostly safe if it gets blocked but falls short of being a true blockstring in the first place, it's still a good frametrap but shouldn't be too relied on since the opponent can OS it with a fast invincible reversal. Both hits properly combo on the front only on Chang, standing(Shermie) and crouching(Chin, Choi, Xiangfei). Special note that against crouching Choi cl.C, f+B, qcf+C > hcb+P > f+P > dp+P is a true and good combo. Combo Advice: The go-to meterless option on hit is cl.C, f+B, qcf+A, it's mostly very safe on block but qcf+A can whiff on block so using qcf+C instead is a bit less safe but more consistent. The same max bypass as with raw f+B is still possible. 1st hit Gap 2nd hit

Ge Shiki Naraku Otoshi j/sj/h/hh.d+C

No results Kyo does a quick haymaker in the air, it's decently fast and can win a lot of air interactions to score a very advantageous hard knockdown instead of the usual air reset. This move is very important to Kyo as it really pulls his air game and mix-ups together, especially as meaty. It's also useful for positioning as doing it during his backdash will make it go much further much faster. It has an impressive cross-up hitbox coupled with the heavy hitstun to make it very easy to combo out of it even when hopping over a standing character, a luxury fit for one of the best cross-ups the game has to offer. It does have limitations however: It can't cross-up crouching(Robert, EX Robert, King) with a hyper hop although it can off a normal hop/jump/super jump. It can't cross-up crouching(Shermie, O.Shermie) off anything other than a normal jump. Biggest restriction is it'll whiff when trying to cross-up low and tiny crouchers except crouching(Choi). The wake-up frame in KoF is always in a standing state so if j.d+C is meaty all three of these restrictions are lifted. It'll also whiff when trying to cross-up standing(Kensou, EX Kensou, Kasumi, Xiangfei, Billy, Mai, Bao). It can cross-up standing(Chin, Hinako) only off a jump (or super jump), not a hop, and even then spacing that jump is very tight. j.B always works as a more consistent but less rewarding substitute. Mix-up Advice: After 2 lights on hit/block point-blank, when possible hyper hop d+C(hh.d+C) will cross-up a crouching character, moving forward just a bit before hh.d+C will help cross-up a standing character and a hop B will hit in front.

88 Shiki df+D File:02UM Kyo df+D 5.png

No results Kyo swings both his legs on the ground to trip his opponent, nothing too special but it compliments his moveset really well. No, it still isn't cancelable but it works well after a cl.C or cr.B, cr.A to give him a limited but easy and mostly safe conversion that boosts for his high/low mix-up game. Both hits' pushback and recovery keep it very safe on block but if the opponent is willing to spend the bar to GCRoll the first kick, they'll get a free punish on the recovering Kyo. Going for it more or less thus depends on situation and opponent. df+D is extremely fast and has decent low profile so you'd expect to use it as such but it's not great for the job. The range is fairly limited, especially on the second hit that has the unsettling tendency to whiff when spaced a bit making df+D very whiff punishable at close range. If willing to spend the meter with hardly a confirm, canceling to the 1st hit into a max run and another df+D to start a combo is a better alternative for using df+D raw. Combo Advice: Whether after cl.C or cr.B, cr.A; a df+D max bypass or a df+D(1) max cancel into a run is the basis of most of Kyo's max mode potential so it's best to get used to the move and at least just using a max bypass off it. Idle Startup 1st hit Gap Gap 02UM Kyo df+D 5.png 2nd hit

Special Moves

100 Shiki Oniyaki - (dp+A/C)

• Kyo does a quick rising flaming uppercut, a standard dp with the usual options. Weak version goes slightly into the air while the strong version goes much higher and does two hits. It has some invincibility (about 9 frames) but can be easily punished if done on block or whiffed altogether. The combo options are there but don't expect anything that will wow you unless you enter Max Mode. Has a variety of super cancel points but most of it involves him using his 75 Shiki Kai launcher first.
• Anti-Air
• Super Cancel-able on hit

SC Advice: 182 Shiki is almost always guaranteed as a follow-up, a great juggle SC ender.

427 Shiki Hikigane - (hcb+B/D)

• The weak version makes Kyo do a low invincible spin jump to a punch that launches them into the air, while the strong variant makes him lower his head in a high invincible stance then a quick punch in place. Despite the look of the flames at the end of his elbows they are just for show and do not extend the active hit-box any further, that and neither version of the move are guaranteed when dealing with grounded opponents because the start-ups are too long. However both versions of this move work extremely well after his strong Kai launcher and will juggle the opponent on contact.
• Super Cancel-able on Hit

SC Advice: The SC points are on hit for both, but to get the most out of it try a launcher (qcf+D~D) then Hikigane (hcb+B, or hcb+D in corner) then you can freely SC into any of his DM's, 182 Shiki DM requires you to hold it for a little bit otherwise you'll whiff.

RED Kick - (rdp+B/D)

• Kyo jumps and swings his leg down to kick the opponent on the head, good move for the right situations. Weak version has a smaller jump arch than the strong version. Neither of them are all that combo friendly although they do have a few set-ups. It's a good move for Kyo but it's still prone to trade with dp's, jump CD's, and air normals that exceed the height of Kyo's hit-box.. You can play around with the weak version at it's not as restricted as the strong one, use in moderation with back-dashing and such to throw your opponent off. The strong version also whiffs on opponents that are crouching and guarding in the corner.
• Hard Knockdown

Combo Advice: Works well after simple BnB's (e.g. cl.C, qcf+D~D, rdp+B) at any range.

75 Shiki Kai qcf+B > K or qcf+D > K

No resultsNo results Kyo does a jumping kick and if you press a second kick he will do another one to launch the opponent in the air. This weak version is faster but has less horizontal range, especially when trying to land both hits. A simple cl.C pushes Kyo too far for it, leaving the player with pretty much no option to combo into it on the ground. It only launches on the second hit, lifting the opponent fairly high but only in a half juggle state, thus generally limiting the possible conversions to an early jump-in or a dp+C. Worse than that, the fact the first kick doesn't knockdown coupled with the second's hitbox being fairly high as Kyo is in the air is why qcf+B > K will fail to combo on almost every crouching character making the already hard to land move also punishable on hit. All these reasons only serve to highlight how much better qcf+D > K is combowise and why you should never really use qcf+B > K in comparison. However qcf+B>K can still be an okay pre-emptive anti-air as described with its phases. Combo Advice: The only combo worth mentioning is cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+B>K, dp+C in the corner but although decent, it's outshone by the much better rekka ender version. Other than that, qcf+B>K has no reasonable place in combos. Frame 9 Frames 10~13 1st hit 2nd hit The only use for this worth mentioning is as an anti-air. As slow as it is it'd be very preemptive but the nice forward priority of the first kick, upward priority of the second and the extra conversion, albeit weak for this version, on a successful anti-air could warrant giving it a few tries at least to see if the opponent knows how to deal with it. Being faster than qcf+D>K is a good point but without the conversion of the latter it still pales compared to Kyo's dp. The strong version is slower but has a much better horizontal range, well able to land both hits after a cl.C without issue, something you'll be doing a lot as Kyo since this move is the core of his juggles. Arguably as crucial to his general game plan as his qcf+A rekka, qcf+D > K is a versatile launcher great in combos that can work just as well as a pressure tool threatening for hefty conversions against an opponent lacking a projectile. It launches on the first kick and into a very high full juggle off the second kick for a number of different conversions to choose from. Note that on both versions it's possible to delay the 2nd kick for better frame advantage than the no-delay version noted on the table. Delaying the second kick by the maximum 9f allowed makes it +1~+6 on block which is where this move's pressure takes root. Kyo can flaunt it point-blank to bait a punish that the player could stuff with his 3f cl.C for a big conversion, then making the opponent hesitant of challenging it again. However, the second kick's hitbox is still high, missing on just about every croucher so regardless of delay it's always a true blockstring on standing characters but never one on crouching characters outside of Daimon, Chang, Maxima, and Hinako. Everyone else can thus crouch block the first hit then buffer a reversal to beat the second, making this more of a knowledge checkpoint if used point-blank. A more minor use for this as pre-emptive anti-air is described with its phases. Combo Advice: The go-to meterless midscreen conversion is cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A for good damage and great carry, easily pushing towards the corner where you can simply continue the rekka as qcf+A > hcb+P > hcb+K for even more damage and hard knockdown for good oki. Frame 13 Frames 14~17 1st hit 2nd hit Just like the previous version, qcf+D>K's priority makes it an interesting preemptive anti-air. Its slower speed hinders it but having a better conversion plus carry and doubling as a plus on block pressure tool against a grounded opponent keep it relevant, especially at lower level.

114 Shiki Aragami - (qcf + A)

• Kyo steps forward and performs a flaming hook punch. This is the start of his branching Aragami special moves. By itself it has a good amount of autoguard frames which can stop and counter against incoming pokes and even certain projectiles if timed correctly. You can use this punch by itself as a poke to stop opponents from dashing into your close range space or even trying to hop towards you. On hit, it doesn't knock the opponent down, they are just briefly inflamed, then they recover while standing. On block it really isn't very safe but it provides a good amount of push back to keep you out of certain harms way.
• Combo Advice: This punch connects well after close C, crouching C and close D. You can juggle with it after the qcf+D~D launcher but be careful of the timing.

128 Shiki Kono Kizu - after Aragami, (qcf + P)

• This followup looks like an uppercut with emphasis on Kyo's elbow. On contact this uppercut ::will give the opponent a techable knockdown. On block, the Kono Kizu is very unsafe, even the amount of push back it grants the player (which isn't much) can not help from certain punishment from the opponent. You can use this move as sort of a frame trap if you delay it after a blocked Aragami (qcf+A).

127 Shiki Yano Sabi - after Aragami, (hcb + P)

• Kyo thrusts his elbow hard down after the Aragami. This is an overhead follow to his Aragami series. It doesn't combo from his Aragami so it's more like a delayed followup just incase the opponent is committed to blocking low. It causes a hard knockdown for you can follow with the next Aragami attack, or for you can cross-up with a jump or hop meaty attack or any other okizeme options. On block, this is very unsafe as well, so it's rather risky to throw out there unless you are sure your opponent will not block it.

125 Shiki Nana Se - after Kono Kizu or Yano Sabi, (K)

• Kyo peforms a fast, high inside roundhouse kick. This is one of Kyo's last branches to the Aragami series. On contact, it sends the opponent FLYING across the screen for a techable knockdown. It only combos after the Kono Kizu followup, while misses (and causes you to be vulnerable) if you use the Yano Sabi instead. On block it is actually quite safe but you can be punished by 1 frame command throws and special move a few frames less faster. You can try to employ a frame trap using this kick on block by using dp+C which will beat out any opponents attempting to punish you with a normal attack, or a very slow special move but use that with caution, and only if you witness any forms of attempted punishment from your opponent. This kick is actually more safe and pushes back farther on block if done after the Yano Sabi rather than the Kono Kizu which places you a bit more close to the opponent.
• Combo Advice: This kick will combo only after the Kono Kizu follow up.

212 Shiki Kototsuki You - Aragami, Yano Sabi, then: (hcb + K)

• Kyo scoops the opponent up after knocking them down with Yano Sabi, then blasts them in the air with a fire explosion. This is another finisher to the Aragami series. The blast give the opponent a hard knockdown which is possible for you to quickly follow-up with any viable wake-up option. Even though you can follow up this move after a successful connected Yano Sabi, you can also combo this fully in the corner with qcf+D~D as a launcher. On block, this move is very unsafe, even with the amount of push back it gets. It's best to use this move after a juggle combo; to use it to finish a block string is very risky.
• Combo Advice: Best to use at the end of a juggle with qcf+D~D as the launcher.

Ge Shiki Migiri Ugachi - Aragami, Yano Sabi, then: (P)

• Kyo punches the opponent while they are on the ground after being plummeted by the Yano Sabi. This is the last finisher to the Aragami series. It serves the same purpose as the Kotosuki You follow up but the damage is a bit lower. It still give the opponent a hard knockdown, and their body is placed directly next to Kyo instead of a half screen away. The hit property on this move is a low attack, so it might surprise some defending opponents when they have finished blocking the Yano Sabi (which is an overhead). On block this move does push Kyo a good and safe distance away, but the opponent can actually roll or attack Kyo before it hits them. Similar to the Kototsuki You, it's best to use this finsiher during a juggle that has qcf+D~D as the launcher.

115 Shiki Doku Kami - (qcf + C)

• Kyo throws out a heavy flame imbued haymaker. This is the start to his Doku Kami rekkas series. By itself it covers a good distance but it has rather slow start-up. It does have auto-guard frames during the start-up, but its rather brief (during the part of the animation where it looks like Kyo is turning around or winding up his punch). This slow start-up can cause this move to be beaten out by simple attacks like a quick jab or any other move that can reach him in time before attacks anyone. It's best to use this move during a combo because it is rather unsafe and risky to perform alone, even on block and it doesn't knock the opponent down by itself. If you must indulge, use his qcf+A to try to poke around with in mid-range.

401 Shiki Tumi Yomi - Domu Kami, then: (hcb + P)

• This follow-up looks sort of like a quick back-hand Kyo strikes on the opponent. It's very unsafe on block, so be sure to properly hit confirm the Doku Kami first. If you connect with it by itself, it's just asking to be followed up as it doesn't provide much damage and doesn't knockdown at all.

402 Shiki Batu Yomi - Tumi Yomi, then: (f + P)

• After the Tumi Yomi back-hand hits, a short shoulder looking uppercut is followed. It gives the opponent a tech-able knockdown on hit in which they land near a half screen away. If this whiffs or is blocked, Kyo can be punished when he lands back to the ground. Only use it when confirmed properly.

100 Shiki Oniyaki - Batu Yomi, then (dp + P)

• Kyo performs his Oni Yaki (the light punch version) at the end of this rekka string. It's always best to end with this finisher rather than just Tumi Yomi (which looks like its proper finisher but isn't) to maximize its damage. Also, the opponent lands a bit close to you if they tech the knockdown.

Combo Advice: It's best to use this rekkas after a stand C, crouching C, or a stand D. You cannot juggle using these rekkas similar to the Aragami rekkas when using qcf+D~D as a launcher.

Desperation Moves

Ura 108 Shiki Orochinagi - qcb, hcf + A/C (Hold A/C to charge)

• Kyo holds a flame in his left hand before releasing a wave of fire that goes a bit further than halfscreen. As usual Orochinagi makes for a mediocre reversal/anti-air as it only has a short window of full invuln before being low/high invuln during the charge depending on A/C version. That said, it's very useful for Kyo, as his best ender for most of his max combos and an easy 1 bar conversion off qcf+D>K. While charging doesn't increase damage and actually slightly decreases its range, the charged version of Orochinagi has a faster release, which is very important.
• Regular Orochinagi is normally too slow to combo off anything on the ground but if you charge it to get the speed boost and let go in time to fit the hitstun window, you can combo into it. Learning it is very useful but qcfx2+A can make for a nice and easy substitute in most cases.

Combo Advice: Linking Orochinagi after qcf+D>K is decent damage for 1 bar midscreen. During a grounded max mode combo, charging it slightly after canceling from his qcf+C will make it connect and combo together. Read more about the timing in the combo section.

182 Shiki - qcf, qcf + A/C (Hold A/C to charge)

• Kyo charges up briefly, then spins around and charges at the opponent with a short ranged looking uppercut. This super should be only used in max mode combos because it can't seem to connect fluidly from any normals or special moves, even super cancelled. It has slow start-up, doesn't have any invincibility (he can be hit during his charge towards the opponent), and has bad recovery too. The light version can punish moves with bad recovery, including GCCDs after baiting them but it still fails as a reversal option.
• It has 4 levels of charge that respectively do 22%, 28%, 42% and the full charge where the move becomes unblockable and is instantly released, doing 60%

Combo Advice: The level 2 charge can be reached very fast, so fast that depending on range you can still combo off a special hitstun making qcfx2+A do more damage than Orochinagi in a ground max combo where you have enough range and the proper spacing to charge it.

Super Desperation Move

Ura 108 Shiki Orochinagi - (qcb, hcf + AC)

• This beefed up version of Kyo's Orochinagi features flames surrounding his body (which causes damage to the opponent upon contact) and a short range fire projectile traveling in-front of him when the fire strike is released. If timed correctly, the flames surrounding Kyo can eat fireballs, while the fire projectiles can override them and hit the opponent if close enough. When you charge the Orochinagi, Kyo can be hit before the fire strike is released. When fully charged there is not damage or distance increase to the range to the fire strike or the flames traveling in-front of him. The start-up compared to the original Orochinagi DM is the same but because the flames surround him immediately, it can give Kyo very quick shield against any attacks. You can even try to use the shield on your wake up if you briefly hold it, snuffing any meaty attacks (hops attacks might be safejumped). This SDM during its recovery is more safe than the original DM version because the flame projectiles push the opponent back a few distances. If you have the meter to use this super, be sure it's going to hit them in some form or fashion because if it misses, you will be without 3 stocks.

Combo Advice: You can Super Cancel this easily from his hcb+B which will overall cost 4 meter stocks (2 stocks in max mode). You can also perform it immediately after a qcf+D~D launch when not in max mode. This SDM can also come into play in a few of his juggled max mode combos.

Hidden Super Desperation Move

524 Shiki Kamichiri - (hcb, hcb + AC)

• This is Kyo's 2f command throw HSDM. He grabs the opponent by the head, smacks them, then unleashes a flurry of rekkas covered in flames to end in a Oki Yaki dragon punch. It's good to surprise the living daylights out of your opponent by empty jumping into it, or bursting it out on your wake if they are trying to meaty attack you with a ground normal. You can combo it from his standing and crouching light punch, as well as his stand C, but beyond that there isn't many other offensive options to use this HSDM. You can use this as a quick punish option against whiffed specials or DMs during their recovery if you are close enough, or to punish certain moves that are not safe on block, as well.

Combo Advice: Not something you'll lose any often in combos. It'll mostly be as a surprise option or a punish to remind the opponent that you do have a grab.

Tips

• Learn how to properly cross-up your opponent with j.B or j.2C during an untechable, hard knockdown. Either after a heavy kick normal throw, rdp+B or after a Ge Shiki Migiri Ugachi (qcf+A, hcb+P, P). Learn the proper spacing, correct jump angles and attack timings to make the cross-up as ambiguous as possible.

• Learn Kyo's max mode combos. He has some rather easy ones that cause good damage.

Combos

• As written, you can add a non-cross-up jump-in to every combo unless specified otherwise.
• Two possible shortcuts for dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+P are hcb,f+C(1) (SC) qcf+P and qcb,f,d,df+C(1) (SC) f+P
• qcb,hcf+P is normally too slow to combo from any grounded move's hitstun but you can make it faster by charging it briefly by holding A or C. You need to charge and release around just after the super flash or when Kyo finishes saying "Kura". Anytime you'll need that version it'll be noted as qcb,hcf+P(Charge).
• His corner max combos do require to be in the corner for the very end but he easily carries over a screen of distance so round start position is more than enough to get the combo.
• Unless specified otherwise, you can replace cl.C by cr.B,cr.A for a low starter for max combos but it makes the BC run, if there is one, tighter. You can also use f+B instead of cl.C, df+D for an overhead starter.
• cl.C, dp+C whiffs on crouching (Vice, Mature, Bao). Against those, you can replace cl.C by cl.A/cr.A or go straight into dp+C after a BC run.
• Don't use the qcb,hcf+AC(2) juggle combos on Angel, Nameless, May Lee and Maxima, simply land the full SDM.

0 Stock

Anywhere

• cr.Bx1~3, st.B

 ★ cr.B, cr.A / st.A, df+D / dp+C

dp+C is a knockdown while df+D is more damage and provides max conversion while being safe on hit/block. Default to df+D.

 ★ cl.C, qcf+C > hcb+P > f+P > dp+P

Most reliable. If you have any doubt about spacing, just use this.

 ★ cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A / st.D / j.d+C

More damage than the previous but you need to be almost point blank. qcf+A gives more carry, st.D more damage, j.d+C -either super jump or hyper hop- hard knockdown.

Corner

 ★ cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A > hcb+P > hcb+K

• cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A/qcf+B>K, dp+C
• cl.C, qcf+D>K, qcf+A, qcf+A, dp+C
• cl.C, qcf+A > qcf+P > P/K

The last three all do less damage and/or have less range than the first. No reason to use them over the one above unless you aren't sure cl.C is gonna land, in which case the last route is safer.

1 Stock

Anywhere

• cr.Bx1~2, st.A/cr.A, qcfx2+A

You can shortcut it as cr.Bx1~2, qcf, st.A/cr.A, qcf+A.

• cl.C, qcf+D>K, (hcb+B,) qcb,hcf+P

To use hcb+B, you need to delay the second kick of qcf+D and qcb,hcf+P(Charge) for it to link. 40%.

2 Stocks

Anywhere

• cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B (SC) qcb,hcf+P

If you don't want to bother with max mode, this is it. You can hardly add a jump-in if not a cross-up, not ideal. 40%.

• cl.C, dp+C(1) (SC) qcfx2+P / qcb,hcf+P(Charge)

Please don't use this. 38%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), qcf+BC, [(C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C]x2 (SC) qcfx2+A

If you use df+D(2) super whiffs on Robert and these inconsistent characters minus the st.Kyo_Jhun-tier and standing (Foxy, Leona). To add a front jump-in, use cr.B, cr.A and just more consistency altogether stick to df+D(1), keep df+D(2) for after a cross-up. 43%; 50% with df+D(2).

 ★ cl.C, df+D, qcf+BC, [(C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C]x2 (SC) qcb,hcf+P(Charge)

A bit harder but a more consistent basic route. You can add the hcb+P follow-up on the last qcf+C but it's little extra damage for less range, avoid it. 51%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A (SC) qcb,hcf+P

The basic option when you can do a decent max run. 49%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C (SC) qcfx2+A / qcb,hcf+P(Charge)

Better option with a harder max run. You can still add the hcb+P follow-up on the last qcf+C if you use qcb,hcf+P but not worth it. 52%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, [qcf+A / (C)qcf+A(whiff), dp+C(1)] (SC) qcb,hcf+P

Works as long as you didn't start literally in the opposite corner. 56%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, (C)qcf+A(whiff), delay dp+C(1), (C)hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+P

Works at the same spacing as the previous one but has a fairly tight delay. Remove the last qcf+A or dp+C(1) for complete fullscreen but a bit less damage. 58%.

Corner

• cl.C, qcf+D>K, (hcb+B,) hcb+D (SC) qcb,hcf+P

Delay the second kick of qcf+D to add hcb+B and still link hcb+D. 51%.

 ★ cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+P

53%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+P

The basic option when you can do a decent max run. 53%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1), (C) qcf+A(whiff) > fast qcf+P, (C) delay qcf+C(whiff) > fast hcb+P, (SC) qcb,hcf+P

The rekka cancels need to be timed appropriately to avoid qcfx2+P. Not worth much if you can do the previous one or the next ones, 55%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, (hcb+B,) hcb+D (SC) qcb,hcf+P

Delay the second kick of qcf+D to add hcb+B and still link hcb+D. 58%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A > qcf+A, (C)hcb+B, delay dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+P

58%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+P

59%.

3 Stocks

Anywhere

• cr.B, st.A/cr.A, hcbx2+AC

You can shortcut it as cr.B, hcb, st.A/cr.A, hcb+AC. No reason to use this over a max combo. 41%.

• cl.C, qcf+D>K, qcb,hcf+AC

Very basic option to just spend meter for some damage. 45%

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C/cr.C, hcbx2+AC

62%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

The basic option when you can do a decent max run. 60%. If you slightly charge the super to get a flamebody hit then let go immediately you get 68%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (SC)qcb,hcf+AC(slight charge)

You need to briefly charge the super for the body flame to hit the opponent and put them in juggle before you let it go, it won't combo otherwise. Great combo for how easy it is. 67%. You can get 3 flamebody(fb) hits in the corner for 72%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C (SC)qcb,hcf+AC(slight charge)

Only backturned opponent except Chang in corner. 71% with j.C cross-up. In corner 75%. Doesn't work on the st.Kyo_Name-tier and crouching Kensou. Stick to the previous one.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, [qcf+A / (C)qcf+A(whiff), dp+C(1)] (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

Works as long as you didn't start literally in the opposite corner. 3fb 80%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, (C)qcf+A(whiff), delay dp+C(1), (C)hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

Works at the same spacing as the previous one but has a fairly tight delay. If you reach corner for 3fb, 82%.

Corner

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B (SC) qcb,hcf+AC(1), qcf+A, dp+C

Don't hold the super and link the rest immediately behind it. 65%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A > qcf+A, (C)hcb+B (SC) qcb,hcf+AC(1), qcf+A, dp+C

Don't hold the super and link the rest immediately behind it. 68%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1), (C) qcf+A(whiff) > fast qcf+P, (C) delay qcf+C(whiff) > fast hcb+P, (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

The rekka cancels need to be timed appropriately to avoid qcfx2+P. Not worth much if you can do the next ones, if you do qcf+A then dp+C low enough to get 3 flamebody(fb), 79%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1), (C) qcf+A(whiff) > fast qcf+P, (C) delay qcf+C(whiff) > fast hcb+P, (SC) qcb,hcf+AC(2), qcf+A, dp+C

You need to land Ex Orochinagi as low as you can and get 3 flamebody hits before the super can do 2 hits and juggle. 91%

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A, dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

The basic option when you can do a decent max run. If you do qcf+A then dp+C low enough to get 3 flamebody(fb), 76%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, hcb+D (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

2 flamebody(fb) hits at most for 80%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, hcb+B, qcf+A, (dp+C(1)) (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

Optimized version. 3 fb, without dp+C(1) 78%, with it 82%.

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A > qcf+A, (C)hcb+B, qcf+A (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

Optimized version. 3 fb, 81%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A > qcf+A, (C)hcb+B, delay dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+AC(2), qcf+A, dp+C

At a height where you can only get 2 fb, you can also delay super to only do 2 hits, which juggles so you can follow-up for a 94%. This is hard.

4 Stocks

Anywhere

• cl.C, qcf+D>K, hcb+B (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

51%.

Corner

• cl.C, qcf+D>K, (hcb+B,) hcb+D (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

2 fb, 73%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, raw BC, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+B, [qcf+A, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+B]x2 (SC) qcb,hcf+AC

Delay the 2nd kick of qcf+D to get more time to raw activate max. 87%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, raw BC, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+B, [qcf+A, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+B]x2 (SC) qcb,hcf+AC(1), qcf+A, dp+C

If you release super right away, it only does one hit that juggles and you can link after it. 89%.

5 Stocks

Corner

 ★ cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A > qcf+A, (C)hcb+B, (SC) qcb,hcf+AC(1), qcf+A, dp+C(1) (SC) qcb,hcf+P

If you release super right away, it only does one hit and juggles so you can link after it. 89%.

• cl.C, df+D(1), BC run, cl.C, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+D, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+A, (C)qcf+C, (C)qcf+D>K, raw BC, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+B, [qcf+A, dp+C(1), (C)hcb+B]x2 (SC) qcb,hcf+AC(1), qcb,hcf+P(Charge)

Delay the 2nd kick of qcf+D to get more time to raw activate max. 96%. This is hard.

Videos

Kyo 2002UM Combos

2k2um Kyo Kusanagi Vs Combos (+ Hand Visuals) by Dark Chaotix

Nikolai-保力達 (Kyo Best Rounds)

Nikolai-保力達 (Kyo Best Rounds 2)

Kyo Master Class

External Links

Check Kyo Kusanagi's frame data and move data

Discuss at 02UM Discord server

Discuss at Dream Cancel

Discuss at ON