Which Characters Excel with Modern Controls in Street Fighter 6?
The debate rages on: Modern or Classic controls in Street Fighter 6? While Classic controls offer unparalleled freedom and complexity, Modern controls present a compelling option, particularly for newcomers or players looking for a streamlined experience. But the true power of Modern controls lies in their synergy with specific characters. So, which fighters truly shine when simplified inputs are the name of the game?
Lily is widely considered the best Modern character overall. Her Windclad mechanic, crucial for powering up her moves, becomes incredibly consistent with one-button specials. This allows Modern Lily players to focus on neutral and pressure, unleashing devastating, wind-enhanced attacks with ease.
Following closely are Luke, Ken, and Ryu. These are archetypal rush-down characters who benefit immensely from simplified access to their core offensive tools. Dragon punches, fireballs, and quick target combos are just a button press away, allowing for aggressive play with minimal execution barrier. This frees players to focus on strategy and reactions.
Cammy benefits greatly from Modern controls, especially when dealing with opponents jumping. Cammy also enjoys easier access to critical anti-air options and her signature Spiral Arrow attack with simplified inputs.
The Modern Advantage: Why Some Characters Thrive
Why are certain characters more suited for Modern controls than others? The answer lies in the trade-offs inherent in the system. Modern controls grant easy access to specials and supers, but at the cost of a 20% damage reduction on special moves and the loss of some normal attacks. Characters who rely heavily on special moves for their core game plan, and whose neutral game benefits from consistent special move execution, therefore gain the most from the Modern scheme. The simplicity of input lets players quickly and efficiently unleash their core attacks, while the missing normals are often less critical to their overall strategy. Characters like Lily, Luke, and Ryu also gain a strategic advantage in that the ease of executing moves leads to more mental bandwidth being dedicated to strategies, reactions and opponent tendencies, thus leading to more refined and effective play.
Characters with more complex inputs or that rely on specific, less used, normals may not benefit as much. The Games Learning Society can provide resources and research on how different control schemes impact player learning and performance in games like Street Fighter 6. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more.
Is Modern Right for You?
The decision to embrace Modern or Classic controls is ultimately a personal one. If you are new to fighting games, or if you prefer a more streamlined experience, Modern controls are an excellent starting point. They allow you to learn the fundamentals of the game and the intricacies of each character without being bogged down by complex inputs. However, if you are a seasoned fighting game veteran, or if you aspire to compete at the highest levels, Classic controls offer the depth and flexibility you need to maximize your potential. Even if you are a competitive player, the choice depends on the character you main and personal preference. There are a number of successful Modern players and many professional players have adopted Modern for one or more characters.
Modern Controls Tier List Characters
- S-Tier: Lily, Luke, Cammy.
- A-Tier: Ryu, Ken, Guile.
- B-Tier: Chun-Li, Juri, Kimberly.
- C-Tier: Blanka, Zangief, E. Honda.
Modern Controls in SF6: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the main benefits of using Modern controls in SF6?
The primary benefit is simplified inputs for special moves and super arts. This allows players to execute complex maneuvers with a single button press, making the game more accessible and freeing up mental resources for strategy.
2. What are the drawbacks of using Modern controls?
The major drawbacks are a 20% damage reduction on special moves and the loss of access to certain normal attacks. This can limit combo potential and overall damage output.
3. Does Modern control have a damage penalty?
Yes, all special moves and super arts performed with Modern controls inflict 20% less damage compared to Classic controls.
4. Who is the highest-ranked Modern control player in SF6?
Shuto is currently the highest-ranked Modern control player in Street Fighter 6 with over 55,000 LP.
5. Are Modern controls viable for competitive play?
Yes, Modern controls are absolutely viable for competitive play. While Classic controls offer more flexibility, Modern controls allow players to focus on strategy and execution, and the ease of inputs can be advantageous in certain situations.
6. Can you perfect parry with Modern controls?
Yes, a perfect Drive Parry can be executed in Modern controls by pressing the Medium Punch and Medium Kick buttons simultaneously with correct timing.
7. How do you perform EX moves with Modern controls?
To perform Overdrive (EX) moves with Modern controls, press the Assist button together with the Special button.
8. What is the difference between Modern and Dynamic controls?
Modern controls offer simplified inputs for special moves while retaining a degree of control over normal attacks. Dynamic controls, on the other hand, fully automate attack selection, with the game choosing moves based on the situation.
9. What are the missing normals in Modern controls?
The missing normals vary from character to character, but generally include certain standing, crouching, and jumping attacks. These are typically less essential to the character’s overall game plan.
10. Is it easier to learn a new character with Modern controls?
Yes, Modern controls can make it easier to learn the basics of a new character. Simplified inputs allow you to quickly grasp their special moves and core strategies.
11. How do Modern controls affect anti-air options?
Modern controls can improve anti-air consistency, as dragon punches and other anti-air specials become easier to execute on reaction.
12. What is the best control type for beginners in SF6?
Modern controls are generally considered the best control type for beginners, as they offer a more accessible and forgiving entry point to the game.
13. Which control scheme is better for advanced play?
Classic controls generally are viewed as better for advanced play, as it offers more flexibility and access to a wider range of techniques and combos. However there are many situations when modern controls can provide an advantage for a player.
14. Can you switch between Modern and Classic controls?
Yes, you can freely switch between Modern and Classic controls in the game settings. This allows you to experiment with both control schemes and find the one that best suits your playstyle.
15. Does using Modern controls limit your combo potential?
Yes, Modern controls can limit combo potential due to the damage reduction and missing normal attacks. However, skilled players can still develop effective and damaging combos with Modern controls.