New Year resolutions for the fighting game fan

It’s 2020, and the world is offering us a rematch. The previous year might have beat us black and blue, but we refused to go down without a fight. We fought hard, but ultimately failed to make our mark and the memory is still fresh in our heads. 

Does that sound familiar? If you’re a fighting game fan and didn’t win a tournament or two, then I probably just described how you feel. Not to worry, you’re not alone, and 2020 will be different. I can feel it in the air, see it on the horizon, and I’m prepared to do what it takes to win this time. Are you?

For all you players that feel the same way I do, I’ve put together a list of resolutions that should see us break out of pools at tournaments, stop making the same obvious moves, and take back control in the virtual ring, no matter what games we play. Here's my list:

Pick a main

It's easy to fall in love with all the characters in your favorite game’s roster, but it's far from efficient. What you need is to pick the character you want to dedicate the most time to and put in the work. Pick one or two substitutes for those matchups you never win with your main, and consider learning your counter pick's nemesis.

Use training mode

Training mode isn't made only to learn a couple of moves and setups. Its the place you learn combos, improve your execution, test out scenarios, and observe frame data in action. Take advantage of training mode’s functionality to learn your character inside out.

Join the community

Get involved in your local scene if you aren’t already. Meet other players from the neighborhood and take them on. Bond with them. Learn from them. Rise above them. Your legend begins here, and you’d do well to start making your name right from home.

Play online

You’re not always going to be willing or able to go for local events, so take advantage of your chosen game’s online casual and ranked modes. Training is good, but real-world experience is gold, and online play means learning things that are unique to other communities.

Play a lot more casual sessions

It's not all about competing. Playing casual matches are a great way to learn a lot about your future opponents in a no-pressure environment. With a clear head, it's easier to figure out how to punish their attacks and take advantage of their habits.

Never underestimate your opponent

A couple of 2019’s major tournaments were won by underdogs that slipped under the radar of the world’s best players. The pros had their sights set on historically tougher opponents, leaving themselves vulnerable to the unpredictable and untested players who eventually seized victory. Underestimate your opponents at your peril.

Watch more fights

Training and competing are fast ways to learn, but watching games between players is another excellent way to learn different setups. By the time you’re done, you've figured out smart counters, matchup outcomes, and what you’re doing wrong.

Travel if you can

So you play online and against friends when they come to visit, but you should also consider traveling for events whenever you can. Not only does it help the FGC grow, but it also exposes you to a proper tournament setting and gives you loads of opportunities to get over your stage fright.

Stop buying fight sticks and controllers you don’t need

We all love the cool designs, but money doesn’t grow on trees, and we can’t travel with all our peripherals for events. Only own what you need and put that saved cash into travel expenses, hotel accommodations, and whatever else you need. It's the smart play.

Promote your favorite game and scene

Fighting games thrive because the FGC supports as many scenes as it can. Play your part in making sure those interested in the same fighting games as you have a community to compete in, whether it's helping organizers, running your own events, or just spreading the word, every little thing counts.

Learn frame data

I’m notorious for not paying attention to frame data, and as a result, I’ve become everyone’s virtual punching bag. Frame data helps us figure out how best to counter and punish our opponents. It even helps players predict what options our opponents have and act instead of reacting to them. It’ll take a while, but I’m especially looking forward to this one.

Qualify for one major tournament

Use all the new skills and knowledge you’ve acquired to participate in big events. Show the FGC how much you’ve grown and secure a spot at your first or hundredth major.

Not all of my resolutions will be necessary for everyone, but there’s undoubtedly something for everyone in it, and I hope you put in the work like I plan to do. So lets double down, memorize our lists, and work our way down to completion. Catch you on the flip side.