How to use the Drive Gauge
Drive Impact
An armored strike that is especially threatening near the corner. It loses to a timely counter-DI, throws, and suitable multi-hit attacks.
Drive Parry
A defensive stance for receiving attacks. Use it against projectiles and to create Perfect Parry opportunities.
Drive Rush
A fast approach that enhances the next normal. Use raw Drive Rush to enter pressure or Cancel Drive Rush to extend a combo.
OD Special Moves
Enhanced special moves that spend Drive Gauge. Their benefits differ by move, including damage, invincibility, and corner carry.
Drive Reversal
A defensive option that pushes the opponent away and can interrupt sustained pressure.
Burnout
The state caused by depleting Drive Gauge. Defensive options are weaker, so manage Drive resources before committing.
A practical learning order
- 01Learn to block without pressingSpend some wake-ups simply crouch-blocking instead of always attacking, teching, or reversing.
- 02Stabilize your common combosPractice one reliable route and one punish combo after blocking an invincible reversal.
- 03Use Drive Gauge to start offenseUse raw Drive Rush and Cancel Drive Rush to reach close-range strike/throw situations.
- 04Pair combos with okizemeTreat the combo ender and the following wake-up situation as one training sequence.
- 05Add advanced reactions laterWhiff punishes, Perfect Parry, anti-rush checks, and DI reactions matter, but build the earlier foundations first.
Roadmap source: Iori's published Japanese-language tutorial.