Punish Timing Windows

Punishing opponents' unsafe moves is fundamental to fighting games. Understanding punish windows helps you maximize damage from opponent mistakes. ## Punish Windows Explained ### Light Punishes (-3 to -5) - Usually limited to fast jabs or shorts - Focus on starting pressure rather than damage - Some characters may not have punishes this fast ### Medium Punishes (-6 to -9) - Most characters have 6-7f normals - Can often start combos for real damage - Common after blocked sweeps ### Heavy Punishes (-10+) - Full combo opportunities - Can use slower, more damaging starters - Common after blocked DPs or raw supers ## Execution Considerations ### Buffer Windows Most games allow you to input your punish slightly before block stun ends. Learn your game's buffer window to ensure consistent punishes. ### Range Factors - Pushback affects what punishes work - Some -10 moves might only be punishable by specific long-range options - Practice punishes at various spacings ## Common Punish Scenarios ### Anti-Air Punishes - Blocked jump-ins: Usually -2 to -10 depending on height - Practice your go-to anti-air conversions ### Reversal Punishes - DPs: Typically -20 or worse - Wake-up supers: Often -30+ - Go for maximum damage ### String Punishes - Gaps in pressure: Requires system knowledge - Unsafe enders: Character-specific knowledge ## Training Mode Practice 1. Set dummy to do unsafe move → block 2. Practice punishing at various ranges 3. Increase difficulty by randomizing timing 4. Build muscle memory for common scenarios