PLAYSTYLE

Play a defensive keep-out game while occasionally going wild with mix-ups and damage.

Wamuu is a Mode character that alternates between a methodical wall and an all-in mix-up machine. He spends most of his time using his meatly, long pokes to safely push out the opponent’s advances, leaving the opponent at the right range for juicy counterhit anti-airs with 623A and his HHA.

On offense, his main special is 421A, a powerful instant overhead attack that can hop over lows. LMH increases the distance he leaps forward, and in blockstrings can be used as an overhead and a cross-up. It can be done in the air to create mid mid, mid low, and mid low mid mix-ups to open up the opponent and start an offense. With Mode 1 or 2 activated, 421A crumples the opponent, making these mix-ups do serious damage. Mode 2 is especially dangerous, as it gives Wamuu infinite super-armor. Furthermore, using his transformation gives him a powerful new move (236A) and big juggle combos in exchange for losing the ability to link his normals. 236A is a long range, high priority tackle that builds a lot of meter, and is safe (L version).

Wamuu has very powerful offensive tools, but they can backfire completely. 421A is fully punishable on block in most cases, and the slightest mistake in Mode 1 or 2 can leave Wamuu completely vulnerable while blowing a ton of meter. If the opponent gains a life lead, Wamuu will have to leave the comfort of his defensive tools and start taking serious risks. On top of that, Wamuu is a character that goes against the grain of this game. His forward dash is long and has recovery, and his transformation eliminates his normal chain. As a matter of fact, Wamuu is the only character that can’t mash 2Ls, ever. This can make him feel very awkward in the hands of a beginner. In the right hands, however, Wamuu is intimidating on both offence and defense.

PROS

  • Long, safe, meaty poking normals.
  • Great anti-air with 5L, 623A and HHA.
  • Fastest back-dash in the game.
  • 421 is a powerful multi-mix-up tool.
  • Mode 2 can plough through attacks with super armor, and allows 421A to crumple.
  • Transformation allows change-up of tactics, and more damage overall.

CONS

  • Best moves are very punishable.
  • Has to take big risks for comebacks.
  • Awkward forward dash.
  • Transformation eliminates normal chain.
  • Can’t rapidly press 2L as a safety net.
  • Big body makes him a big target, especially in dealing with projectiles.