Why is Azazel so hard to beat?
Introduction
Azazel is a formidable character in the Tekken series, and many players struggle to beat him. His complex movement patterns, devastating attacks, and ability to defend effectively make him a challenging opponent to face. In this article, we will analyze why Azazel is so hard to beat and provide tips on how to counter him.
His Ability to Block
Azazel is known for his excellent defense, which allows him to block a significant percentage of attacks. His standing blockstring is particularly troublesome, as he can cancel into his f+4 kick which puts you in a disadvantageous position. When defending, Azazel will often use his B+1+2, a low-hanging horizontal slash that is very hard to dodge. He also has a few trap attempts, such as 236+2, a forward-moving punch that traps your character. These blockstring and trap attempts force your character to commit to specific actions, leaving you open to a counterattack.
Unpredictable Movement
Azazel is very mobile, and his movements are often unpredictable. He can dash backward with df3, making it hard to anticipate his approach. When he gets close, he can teleport backwards with d,4 or, or he can, move forward quickly with**, respectively. This unpredictability keeps you on your toes and makes it difficult to track his movements.
Cruel Specials and Combos
Azazel has some nasty specials that can turn the tables against you quickly. For instance, his, special move is a three-part combo that deals heavy damage and has a hard time to punish. Similarly, his, or combos are difficult to interrupt, making it challenging to block the second hit.
Mixing Up Pitches and Kicks
Azazel’s mix-up options are endless. He uses a combination of overhead attacks, such as his b+1, c or, high attack, such as bf3, and rapid low attacks like ,b+2, f+f+1, making it difficult to read his approach. This variety forces your character to constantly think and react, rather than predicting a single move. In addition, Azazel is not afraid to fake these attacks, leaving your character open to a well-timed counterattack.
Conclusion
In summary, Azazel is so hard to beat due to his excellent defense, unpredictable movement, cruel specials, and mix-up options. However, by understanding these tendencies and using the following countermeasures, you may be able to even the odds:
• Read his defense: Take advantage of Azazel’s propensity to block attacks to perform a well-timed attack or counter.
• Use your movement to escape: Azazel is just as fast as your character, so use his backward dash or teleporting ability to your advantage, forcing him to block an attack or counter.
• Watch out for the grab: Azazel will frequently attempt to grab you; be prepared to interrupt him with a quick forward, or block his throw by holding bk, forward, and pressing a few times.
• Conserve your meter for punishes: With his frequent blockstring attempts and fast movement, it’s easy for Azazel to land attacks and earn meter quickly. Make sure to hold off on using your special attacks until you see a moment to punish his mispositioning.
• Combine your attacks wisely: Create a combination of pokes, low attacks, and jabs to mix up his defense and leave an opening for a decisive strike.
• Learn to neutralize his special moves: Develop a sense of which of Azazel’s moves you can safely interrupt with your own attacks and exploit any openings created.
Keep these tips in mind as you face off against the formidable Azazel, and be prepared to adapt and refine your strategy to finally gain the upper hand in the battle.