Negative Edge

What it is

The term “negative edge” refers to a phenomenon where you may activate moves (particularly special moves and super special moves) when you let go of a button for the command input. This technique decreases the chance of making a timing mistake and not performing an intended move at all. And due to the fact that it still depends on the correct button being pressed, you are less likely to misfire even though it is easier to perform the move.

The staggered press is a similar technique, and can even take advantage of negative edge, as is “double tapping” (rapidly tapping the same button such that it makes the timing window larger, but will not register as two separate presses).

 

The negative edge phenomenon is mostly peculiar to Capcom-developed fighting games.

Further reading

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Original content published by BRPXQZME / Alfie Parthum 5 February 2009. No unauthorized redistribution permitted.