Random

What it is

Randomness, or (if there is an element of repetition to it) spamming, or (if it appears random but is actually predicted) psychicness, is a property of playing certain moves; it is done without confirming that the opponent is potentially open (or without hit confirming).

This especially refers to special moves and super special moves that are risky; less consequential randomness is flailing (which does not have a negative stigma to it like randomness does).

 

Moves that can be used too safely just by spamming them (e.g., if they have an invincible hitbox and don’t leave the user open) are a definite balance breaker.

Usage

Two sorts of situations come up where otherwise straight-laced players may resort to randomness:

  • When under pressure and defeat seems imminent, some players may gamble on an all-or-nothing move, hoping to turn the situation around in one shot.
  • When it comes to reversals, some people will try to be psychic, and as they read into the opponent’s actions, they will use an invincible move or a throw.

These tactics should not be used often, because they work best when the opponent does not expect them at all. Moreover, the former case is not exactly smiled upon by many.

Further reading

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Based off the article on the kakuge.com wiki, edited on or before 5 January 2009.
Unofficial translation published by BRPXQZME / Alfie Parthum 19 February 2009. No unauthorized redistribution permitted.