GGXRD-R2/Zato-1

	Defense
	x1.09
	Guts Rating
	0
	Weight
	[100] Medium
	Stun Resistance
	60
	Prejump
	3F
	Backdash
	16F (1~7F invuln)
	Wakeup Timing
	25F (Face Up)/ 22F (Face Down)
	Unique Movement Options
	Flight
	Fastest Attack
	5P (5F)
	Reversals
	632146H (10+5F)

Overview

Starter Guide

Combos

Overview

Zato fills the role of Guilty Gear's puppet character archetype. Paired with Eddie - his shadow - Zato can dominate the neutral game and launch arguably the most overwhelming offense in the game. Zato attacks with the press of a button, while Eddie attacks with its release (using some of the Eddie Gauge in the process). Using this Negative Edge mechanic, the duo can cover for each other's recoveries and blind spots. Their coordinated pressure can continue for as long as the Eddie Gauge remains.

Zato's two-pronged onslaught of pokes, anti-airs, and unorthodox movement can prove nightmarish to face in the neutral game. Intentional or not, Zato can also sacrifice Eddie against the opponent's attack, effectively acting as a single hit of armor. While Eddie is recovering, Zato must stall for time via smart usage of his limited solo toolset.

When the match begins, Zato's goal is to summon Eddie while keeping his advantage. This involves a constant balancing act of risk/reward as summoning can also become the opponent's angle of attack. When successful, Zato gains access to consecutive & unreactable mixups, leaving opponents in a constant state of guessing for their life.

Learning Zato can be a challenging process in many ways. In return, he offers the unique experiences of a Guilty Gear-style puppet character, found in no other game.

Zato-1

Zato-1 is a high-skill puppet character with a plethora of offensive options.

Pros

Cons

Overwhelming Offense: With Eddie, gain access to unreactable & consecutive mixups, command grabs, and unblockables. Endless pressure in the corner, limited only by the Eddie Gauge.
Practical Unblockable Setups: Can set up high damage unblockables from various situations. If the opponent is cornered, Roman Cancel can be used to loop unblockables into continued pressure/mixups.
Excellent Space Control: Gain control over vast amounts of the screen when Eddie is summoned. Zato and Eddie can restrict different parts of the screen simultaneously, or cover each other's recoveries against a single angle of approach.

Horrible Defense: Among the worst defense modifiers and guts in the game. Lackluster reversal options, combined with an underwhelming dead angle attack.
HEAVY Reliance on Eddie: Without Eddie summoned, Zato's offensive and neutral options are heavily diminished. Poor hurtboxes, slow normals, and lack of access to frame advantage forces Zato to stall for Eddie's recovery.
High Difficulty: Demands extensive familiarity with negative edge, time spent perfecting setplay, and thorough practice of controlling Eddie in the neutral game via both training mode and match experience.

Unique Mechanics

Eddie & Eddie Gauge

Eddie is the name of Zato's puppet. May be referred to as "Little Eddie" or "Shadow" by players of older Guilty Gear iterations.

Once summoned, Eddie is controlled independently and simultaneously alongside Zato. Zato's game plan is incomplete without Eddie, and each can be thought of as half the character. Players must very carefully manage the usage of Eddie at all times; failure to do so will leave Zato highly vulnerable.

Eddie Gauge is a resource unique to Zato. When Eddie is summoned, the Eddie Gauge will gradually deplete. Attacks using Eddie will deplete this gauge; the amount depending on the type of move used. If Eddie is hit by the opponent, the gauge will be locked, turn red, and slowly regenerate from 0% - during which Eddie cannot be re-summoned until the gauge completely refills. If he is recalled while already summoned, the gauge turns white & regenerates rapidly, and can be re-summoned at any point.

Normal Moves

5P

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
9	Mid	5	4	7	-1

Zato's fastest normal. Has good range for a 5P, and is commonly seen comboing into 2D for knockdown and okizeme.

5P is a fairly safe roundstart opener that can counter very specific roundstart options by the opponent, such as Johnny's Coin. Can situationally be used as an anti-air - for example, against I-no's hover dash or Raven's airdash.

Gatling Options: 5P, 2P, 6P, 5K, 2K, c.S, f.S, 2S, 5H, 2H, 5D, 2D

Initial: 90%

0

3

8

5K

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
12	Low	8	4	8	-2

Standing low with decent range. Can be jump cancelled.

While 2K has 1F faster startup, 5K is often used as the empty jump low option during flight mixups due to differences in gatlings.

Gatling Options: 6P, c.S, f.S, 2S, 5H, 2H, 5D

Initial: 70%

0

3

8

c.S

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
30	Mid	9	5	9	±0

Primarily a combo/blockstring filler, and occasionally used for punishes.

Can cancel into 2D (or somewhat situationally, 5H > 22S/22H) for a knockdown.

Also used to continue combos against airborne opponents in hitstun (most commonly from meaty 22S, counterhit Nobiru, corner counterhit 2H, and corner counterhit j.D).

Gatling Options: 6P, f.S, 2S, 5H, 2H, 5D, 2D

2

10

7

f.S

Don't whiff

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
20×4	Mid	7	3×4	20	-9

Primarily a combo/blockstring tool.

Can gatling into the next normal after any of its 4 hits, allowing for modular spacing at which to end your combos and blockstrings.

If hit close to the opponent, can be crouch confirmed for a knockdown (f.S > 5H > 22H). Using RRC is necessary against most standing characters (f.S > 2S > 22H). Being a multi-hit normal, f.S can be very effective against moves with armor (most notably, Potemkin's Hammer Fall)Guard:
MidStartup:
18[31]Recovery:
33Advantage:
-16.

Gatling Options: 2S, 5H, 2H, 6H, 5D

2

10

7

5H

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
25×3	Mid	13	2,6,3	15	+1

Another combo/blockstring tool with multiple (3) hits. Can be special cancelled after any of its 3 hits.

Achieving knockdown via 22H is particularly finnicky against standing opponents, and is highly dependant on momentum, spacing, and the opponent character's standing hurtbox.

Gatling Options: 5D

4

10

6

5D

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
22	High	25	3	24	-13	1～51 Foot

The universal overhead.

Thanks to Eddie, 5D is frequently used as a corner combo extender without the need for a wallslump, which many other characters require.

Common routes include:

2K > ]P[ > 5D6
c.S > ]P[ > 5D6
2S > ]K[ > (66) > 5D6

Zato is considered airborne for the duration of this move. This can lead to highly specific counterplay against Potemkin's Slide HeadGuard:
Low[Unblockable]Startup:
25[29]Recovery:
Total 54Advantage:
-11 (Example).

Provides some interesting but niche combo applications midscreen when used alongside Eddie. (Example 1, Example 2)

Initial: 80%

2

10

20

6P

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
22×2	Mid	13	4,4	12	-2	1～16 Upper Body

One of Zato's primary anti-airs.

6P is a 2-hit move, and its upper body invulnerability is lost by the time the second hit is active.

Can very situationally be used to punish long-ranged pokes such as Faust's f.S. Similarly to c.S, 6P can be used to continue combos against airborne opponents in hitstun.

Gatling Options: f.S, 2S, 5H, 2H, 5D

2

10

7

Stun value: 44x2

6K

Not special cancellable

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
30	High	23	5	14	-5

Overhead normal. Staggers on hit.

Against experienced players, 6K is mostly unreliable as a mixup option due to its relatively lengthy startup and should be used sparingly - especially if Eddie is not summoned.

Should you be willing to spend meter, RRC > Damned FangGuard:
Ground Throw: 122500Startup:
6Recovery:
Whiff Total: 43FAdvantage:
+62 or 5D6 are excellent options on hit to stall for Eddie gauge.

6K cannot be cancelled into nor out of any other move, including special moves.

Initial: 75%

2

10

7

Staggers opponent on hit. Max duration 39F, Frame Adv: +1 to +21

6H

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
60	Mid	13	12	23	-16

The big arm. Has a deceptively small hitbox which follows only the hand, rather than the entire arm.

6H's hurtbox covers a third of the entire screen, is exceptionally unsafe on block, and has a somewhat lengthy startup. The move does reach quite far and knocks down on counterhit, but usage is advised to be kept to a minimum due to its risks.

Very niche use cases exist by exploiting its massive hurtbox (e.g. causing Faust's LoveGuard:
AllStartup:
21Recovery:
Total 43Advantage:
(bomb bag) to explode in range of himself).

4

20

6

2P

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
8	Mid	6	4	8	-2

An alternative poke to 5P. Likewise, 2P can combo into 2D for knockdown.

Has some unique use cases apart from 5P due to the lower positioning of the hitbox and hurtbox.

Gatling Options: 5P, 2P, 6P, 5K, c.S, f.S, 2S, 5H, 2H, 5D, 2D

Initial: 80%

0

3

8

2K

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
18	Low	7	2	9	+3

Candidate for Zato's best normal. 2K is one of his only plus-on-block normals alongside 5H, and can be used to begin strike/throw mindgames.

2K > 5P creates a 2f gap frametrap, and can usually knock down afterwards via 2D.

On normal hit, can crouch confirm into f.S > 5H > 22H or be linked to 5P > 2D.
On counterhit, can be linked to 5P > 2D, or be cancelled into 22S for a knockdown.

Gatling Options: f.S, 2S, 2H, 6H, 5D

Initial: 80%

2

10

7

2S

Infamously large hurtbox

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
24	Mid	9	4	16	-6

Zato's ground-to-ground poke normal. Decent range, but suffers from a lengthy recovery. Additionally, 2S's (rather large) hurtbox extends prior to its active frames, leaving Zato prone to all sorts of counterpokes.

On counterhit, 2S can be cancelled into 22H for a successful combo as long as the opponent is in range of the drill.

Gatling Options: 5H, 2H, 5D

2

10

7

2H

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
50	Mid	11	6	19	-6

Primarily used as a pressure tool (frametraps into Summon > NobiruGuard:
MidStartup:
9[20]Recovery:
50
[Total 38]Advantage:
[+15]) and as a preemptive anti-air.

Similarly to 2S, 2H's hurtbox appears before its hitbox; take caution when using it as an anti-air. However, unlike 6P, it covers a much larger area, has 2 frames faster startup, and guarantees a knockdown on counterhit. Works well in tandem with Eddie as a frametrap tool, and can catch jump outs in the corner.

Gatling Options: 5D, 2D

4

20

6

2D

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
20	Low	9	6	15	-7

Zato's most stable knockdown option from normals such as 5P. Very frequently cancelled into Summon (236H) on hit in order to prepare Eddie mixups/pressure.

Highest damage option as a low mixup starter; in the corner, can lead to the following combo if Eddie is summoned: ]S[ > j.H > j.D > ]S[ > Shadow GalleryGuard:
AllStartup:
7 After LandingRecovery:
24+3 After LandingAdvantage:
-31 > ... Example

2D > Break the LawGuard:
Startup:
13Recovery:
Total 29(Maximum 169)Advantage:
is notably a Burst-safe point, as Zato will be fully underground by the time the opponent's Burst is active. K must be held for a very short duration for this to be the case. Example

Note that while 2D is a stable knockdown option for Zato standards, its somewhat poor reach can sometimes cause even very simple gatlings such as c.S > 2D, or 5P > 2D, to drop.

2

10

7

j.P

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
13	High / Air	6	4	11

Similar to j.K but hits higher up. Useful for capitalizing off of awkward air-to-air j.K hits, as it will gatling into j.D for a decent combo.

Unlike j.K, cannot be jump cancelled.

Gatling Options: j.P, j.K, j.S, j.H, j.D

1

6

7

j.K

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
18	High / Air	7	6	11

Covers a decent range. Zato's most reliable fast air normal for scrambles.

Begins Zato's F-ShikiSometimes known as "Fuzzy Overhead". When you are in blockstun, you can switch high/low blocking, but your blocking animation and hurtbox does not change until you leave blockstun or block another attack. F-Shikis take advantage of this and use overheads that would miss on crouching characters, but not on standing characters. MawaruGuard:
AllStartup:
14[25]Recovery:
66
[Total 38]Advantage:
[+26] mixups using its jump-cancellable property.

Zato's hurtbox retracts instantly when this move is used, making it useful when jumping out of pressure.

Gatling Options: j.P, j.S, j.H

Initial: 90%

2

10

7

j.S

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
22	High / Air	7	12	12

Covers a unique area of attack. The hitbox initially appears below Zato, then extends upwards in front of him, all the way above his head.

Like j.K, j.S can begin Zato's F-ShikiSometimes known as "Fuzzy Overhead". When you are in blockstun, you can switch high/low blocking, but your blocking animation and hurtbox does not change until you leave blockstun or block another attack. F-Shikis take advantage of this and use overheads that would miss on crouching characters, but not on standing characters. MawaruGuard:
AllStartup:
14[25]Recovery:
66
[Total 38]Advantage:
[+26] mixups thanks to its jump-cancellable property. j.S also hits slightly behind Zato and can therefore be used as a crossup in niche situations.

Additionally, j.S is a suitable normal for IADAn air dash performed from a standing position as quickly and as low to the ground as possible from a jump. Done by inputting 956 754, and depending on the game, using a dash macro right after a jump. approaches as it can lead into knockdown against standing opponents via IAD > j.S > (dl.) j.H > 5P > 2D.

Gatling Options: j.H

2

10

7

j.H

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
33	High / Air	11	6	12

Primarily a combo filler. Not jump-cancellable.

Most frequently seen being used in Zato's BnB air combo (... > j.K/j.S > j.H > j.D).

Gatling Options: j.D

2

10

7

j.D

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
40	High / Air	11	4	19

Amazing air-to-air normal. j.D covers a huge amount of space and is especially useful against characters with strong aerial approaches such as Chipp and Millia, among many others. It is also Zato's staple air combo ender.

On regular hit, enough time is bought for Zato to run forwards and summon Eddie.

Counterhit j.D guarantees a knockdown from any height. However, if the opponent is close enough to the corner, a wallbounce will occur and the knockdown will no longer be guaranteed.

Initial: 90%

2

10

7

Universal Mechanics

Ground Throw

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
0,50	Ground Throw: 85750	1			+39

Standard universal ground throw.

Can't be combo'd off of without Eddie, but provides enough time to set up MawaruGuard:
AllStartup:
14[25]Recovery:
66
[Total 38]Advantage:
[+26]} pressure midscreen after a short forward run.

Can OTG via Throw > 66 > 2K > f.S to finish off near-death opponents.

Forced: 65%

0

NA

6,0

Stun value: 25

Air Throw

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
0,60	Air Throw: 192500	1

The frame advantage for Zato decreases the higher up the air throw occurs, as well as the opponent being flung further away.

As a result, Zato's air throw will often fail to provide him with the time needed to properly set up his pressure afterwards.

Despite the above, air throw is an indispensable tool as a counter to aerial approaches due to Zato's limited anti-air options when Eddie isn't summoned.

Forced: 65%

0

NA

6,0

Stun value: 30

Dead Angle Attack

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
25	All	13	9	18	-13	1～21 Full 22～36 Throw

Same animation as 2H. Slightly slower startup than your average Dead Angle Attack.

Note that this DAA can be low profiled, but also reaches quite far diagonally upwards.

Knocks down on counterhit only.

Initial: 50%

2

10

7

Blitz Attack

Version	Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
Blitz Attack	50	Mid	(15-48)+13	3	20	-2
Blitz Attack Max Charge	50	Mid	50+13	3	20	+5

One of Zato's few reversal options.

Thanks to Eddie, Zato has some unique combo routes that incorporate Blitz Attack. (Midscreen Example, Corner Example)

Version

Blitz Attack

Initial: 55%

1

Blitz Attack Max Charge

4

Blitz:

Hitstop 30F
Slighty refills own Burst and slightly drains opponent's Burst on hit
Blows opponent away and wall sticks opponent on hit (untechable for 40F/ 80F on CH)
Crumples opponent on ground CH (79F)

[Blitz]:

Hitstop 30F
Slighty refills own Burst and slightly drains opponent's Burst on hit
Slightly blows opponent away on air hit (untechable for 50F/ 100F on CH)
Crumples opponent on ground hit

Special Moves

Invite Hell

22S/H

Version	Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
22S	40	Low	18	48	Total 44	0
22H	40	Low	18	48	Total 44	0

Zato's single most important neutral tool.

22S summons a drill close to Zato, while 22H summons it further away. Both drills must be blocked low.

Drills can be used to combo into a knockdown (mainly via 5H > 22S/22H and CH 2S > 22H), as well as be set up meaty for followup pressure.
Each drill creates a "puddle" of shadow which Eddie can be summoned from via 214H, albeit costing a small amount of Eddie gauge. Puddles are destroyed when attacked by the opponent.

Drills cannot be YRC'd in the conventional sense of YRCing a projectile. Attempting to Drill > YRC will only produce a puddle, which has its own merits.

Version

22S

2

19

22H

2

19

22S: 22H:

Break the Law

214K (Hold OK)

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
		13		Total 29(Maximum 169)		1～12 Throw 13～16～138 Full 17～20～139 Strike

Zato dips underground, becoming fully invulnerable on frame 13.

Holding the K button extends the time spent underground. Take caution as the move's recovery will increase alongside the duration of the hold.

A strong neutral option to consider if Eddie is summoned and you predict the enemy to commit to an approach. Generally speaking, avoid using this in neutral for extended durations if Eddie is not summoned, as its recovery is fairly easily punishable without Eddie around to protect Zato's recovery.

Used frequently as a cancel from 2D in order to create a burst-safe point. K must be held for a very small duration for this to be the case.

Break the Law can be YRC'd out of, significantly reducing its recovery.

After releasing button 1～3 Full,4～8 Strike
Reappearing animation depends on how long Zato spends underground.
16-??F Underground: 16F recovery, ??-??F Underground: 24F recovery, ??-120F Underground: 36F recovery

Summon Eddie (Recall)

236P/K/S/H

Version	Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
Eddie Summon					Total 38
Eddie Unsummon					Total 33

Summons Eddie to do your bidding.

Inputting 236P/236K/236S will summon Eddie and have it immediately perform the respective button's attack. Inputting 236H will simply summon with no followup.

Eddie can be maneuvered left or right by holding 1/4/7 or 3/6/9 respectively. 1 and 3 are particularly useful for moving only Eddie (and not Zato alongside him).

Once summoned, any of the above inputs (236P/236K/236S/236H) can be used again to unsummon Eddie.

Zato is in counterhit state for the entire duration of this move, and his hurtbox extends upwards on startup. Take caution against aggressive approaches when summoning/unsummoning.

Version

Eddie Summon

Eddie Unsummon

236P/K/S/H:

10～summon can perform actions,Summon Gauge maximum 6000,-10 every 1F

Eddie > 236P/K/S/H:

Eddie is recalled on frame 7

Shadow Puddle Eddie Summon

214H

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
				Total 38

Summons Eddie from the puddle's location. Consumes a small amount of Eddie Gauge to preform.

Eddie becomes actionable after about 11f into the animation. This typically causes the fastest possible Eddie move after this summon method to come out 1-2f slower than it would if the alternative methods were used, though it is possible to perfectly input the release and get the same startup as you would have you summoned Eddie doing a move of your choice. The advantage with this method is the flexibility of moving Eddie as well as creating micro delays that enable greater advantage when the opponent is inactive.

Unlike a regular Summon, using different buttons such as 214P will not result in a summon followed by an attack - for that matter, it will not result in a summon, period.

If no puddles are present, 214H will simply result in a regular Summon. This will not consume the initial amount of Eddie Gauge that a Puddle Summon normally costs.

Summon Gauge:-720

Small Attack

]P[ while summoned

Shou

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
25	All	7[18]	2	23 [Total 38]	[-3]

A far-reaching poke that advances Eddie slightly forwards. Consumes approx. 12% Eddie Gauge on use.

]P[ is an exceptionally useful multi-purpose tool. Sees usage in combos, hitconfirms, blockstrings, pokes, frametraps, tick throws - just about anything you can imagine.

Many combos involving Mawaru/]K[ can be substituted with ]P[ in order to conserve Eddie Gauge. Differences in damage are often negligible.

1

2

7

Summon Gauge:-720
[ ] Values for Eddie not summoned &gt
236P

Traversing Attack

]K[ while summoned

Mawaru

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
20×3	All	14[25]	29(4 Hit)	66 [Total 38]	[+26]

The buzzsaw. Consumes approx. 29% Eddie Gauge on use.

Mostly used as a pressure tool and a combo extender. Raw usage in neutral is typically not recommended, as it considerably expands Eddie's hurtbox forwards.

When blocked, locks the opponent in enough blockstun to set up Zato's signature F-ShikiSometimes known as "Fuzzy Overhead". When you are in blockstun, you can switch high/low blocking, but your blocking animation and hurtbox does not change until you leave blockstun or block another attack. F-Shikis take advantage of this and use overheads that would miss on crouching characters, but not on standing characters. Buzzsaw mixup. Details

2

8

Summon Gauge:-1800
[ ] Values for Eddie not summoned &gt
236K

Anti-air Attack

]S[ while summoned

Nobiru

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
50	Mid	9[20]	12	50 [Total 38]	[+15]

Eddie's anti-air. Consumes approx. 20% of Eddie Gauge.

Possibly the single strongest anti-air move in the game in a vacuum. Covers an incredible amount of vertical space.
Aside from anti-air purposes, ]S[ can also be used as a frametrap; 5H/2H > ]S[ has a 2f gap, and has massive reward on counterhit. Example

Used in an incredibly easy Option SelectA technique where one command (or series of commands) will perform a different action depending on the circumstances, thereby allowing one action to be able to handle two distinct situations. - inputting 623S (tap S) while Eddie is summoned and on top of the opponent. If the opponent stays blocking, they will get command grabbed. If they jump, Nobiru will catch it.

4

2

6

Summon Gauge:-1200
[ ] Values for Eddie not summoned &gt
236S

Shadow Dive

]H[ while summoned

Moguru

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
				Total 41		1～35 Summon Invulnerable

Eddie dips underground for a set period of time while advancing forwards. Consumes approx. 11% of Eddie Gauge.

Full Invulnerability begins on frame 1. Offers very strong maneuverability around opponents' projectiles and pokes.

Eddie's movement speed during ]H[ is slightly faster than its walk speed, making it useful after certain knockdown situations for setting up sandwich pressure.

Summon Gauge:-720

Drill Special

]D[ while summoned

Setplay drill

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
34×3	Low / Air,Mid / Air×2	146	36(3 Hit)	(Summon Vanishes)

Chou Doriru! Eddie turns into a land mine(?). After a set period of time, it transforms into a very big Invite Hell. Consumes 100% of Eddie Gauge.

The first hit must be blocked low, and is used to perform Zato's unblockable. Usage of this move for anything other than unblockables is highly inadvisable due to the extreme startup and gauge costs. Unblockable Setup Example

When the unblockable is performed correctly (Drill and jump normal hit on the same frame), the Drill is registered before the jump normal.
Thusly, Low Blitz is an effective counter to Zato's unblockable. However, Zato can slightly delay ]D[ in order to connect the overhead first, effectively forcing a 50/50 between High and Low Blitz.

Initial: 85%

2

10

7

Summon Gauge:-6000
[ ] Values for Eddie not summoned &gt
236D

Dead Man's Hand

214D while summoned

EVO winning hand

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
0, 55	Ground Throw	30		Summon Total 77

Eddie's command grab.

Very slow startup, drains a huge chunk of Eddie Gauge, has horrible combo proration, and loses both the corner and the knockdown (unless 50 meter is spent on ExecutorGuard:
AllStartup:
8+5Recovery:
0 After LandingAdvantage:
). Has niche use cases in tandem with Zato in order to make escaping more difficult, but still suffers from exceptionally poor reward. Example

However, this move is useful for an entirely different application - Unsummoning while this move is ongoing allows Eddie to be Recalled, even if it completely depletes the Eddie Gauge. This is not the case with any other Eddie move, and is a property unique to Dead Man's Hand. DMH Unsummon Example

Forced: 50%

0

NA

6,0

Summon Gauge:-2100
When Summon Gauge is above 50%, damage is 0, 65

Damned Fang

623S

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
92	Ground Throw: 122500	6		Whiff Total: 43F	+62

Command grab. Massive frame advantage of +62, buying enough time to set up BuzzsawGuard:
AllStartup:
14[25]Recovery:
66
[Total 38]Advantage:
[+26] mixups. Can be combo'd into 5P and 2K (and situationally, 2D) in the corner.

Damned Fang has a very long animation on success, which serves two purposes:

Refilling the Eddie Gauge, should it not be full.
Positioning Eddie to use ]D[ and set up an unblockable. Example

Forced: 50%

0

NA

6,0

Stun value: 46

Drunkard Shade

214S

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
30	Mid	9	10	10	-6	1～18 Throw 3～18 Reflect

A close ranged attack that reflects certain projectiles on contact.

Wall bounces the opponent on counterhit if close enough to the screen's edge.

Drunkard Shade can reflect the following projectiles:

Gunflame (236P)Guard:
AllStartup:
20Recovery:
Total 50Advantage:
-4
Stun Edge (236S)Guard:
AllStartup:
10Recovery:
Total 46Advantage:
-10 / Charged Stun Edge (236H)Guard:
AllStartup:
38Recovery:
Total 69Advantage:
+14 / Aerial Stun Edge (j.236S/j.236H)Guard:
AllStartup:
21Recovery:
41+14 LandingAdvantage:
+2 (Fortified Stun Edge cannot be reflected)
Don't Miss It! (214P)Guard:
AllStartup:
37Recovery:
Total 45Advantage:
/(214K)Guard:
AllStartup:
37Recovery:
Total 55Advantage:

Tandem Top (236S)Guard:
AllStartup:
11Recovery:
Total 38Advantage:
-1/(236HGuard:
AllStartup:
60Recovery:
Total 35Advantage:
)
Ball HitGuard:
AllStartup:
1Recovery:
Advantage:
(Only reflects balls in motion; includes QV-charged balls)
Antidepressant Scale (214PGuard:
AllStartup:
18Recovery:
Total 50Advantage:
-12/(j.214P)Guard:
AllStartup:
15Recovery:
Until LandingAdvantage:
/ Chemical Love (214K)Guard:
AllStartup:
11Recovery:
13+8 After LandingAdvantage:
+3/(j.214K)Guard:
AllStartup:
11Recovery:
12 After LandingAdvantage:
/ Vertical Chemical Love (214S)Guard:
AllStartup:
11Recovery:
11+9 After LandingAdvantage:
-4/(j.214S)Guard:
AllStartup:
11Recovery:
8 After LandingAdvantage:

Cassius (214P)Guard:
AllStartup:
19Recovery:
Total 46Advantage:
-1
Graviert Wurde ([4]6S)Guard:
AllStartup:
10Recovery:
36(46T)Advantage:
-8/([4]6H)Guard:
AllStartup:
35Recovery:
(72T)Advantage:
+11
Tuning Ball (236S)Guard:
AllStartup:
12Recovery:
Total: 48Advantage:
-16/(236H)Guard:
AllStartup:
38Recovery:
Total: 69Advantage:
+22
Schmerz Berg (236P)Guard:
AllStartup:
13Recovery:
36 + landing 12Advantage:
-9 / Gebrechlich Licht (j.236P/j.236K)Guard:
AllStartup:
21Recovery:
Total 45 + landing 8Advantage:
-4
YashagatanaGuard:
AllStartup:
33Recovery:
Total 48Advantage:
+5

2

10

7

Shadow Gallery

j.41236S

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
40,25	All	7 After Landing	6(12)3	24+3 After Landing	-31	7～Until 1st Landing Strike

Air-only 2-hit special move. Mostly a combo tool.

Second hit knocks down midscreen. If the opponent hits the corner, they will wallsplat and can usually be combo'd further (depending on the travel distance prior to the wallsplat). Can also be used in tandem with Eddie to bait responses such as Burst and Dead Angle Attacks. Example

Note that Zato is vulnerable to throws for the entire duration of this move, and can be ground/air thrown at any point of time. Example

3

14

6

Startup changes based on height off ground

Flight

Double jump

Tapping up while in the air results in Flight, rather than a Double Jump. Zato can somewhat freely maneuver in the air for a brief duration.

Flight enables and is essential for Zato's BuzzsawGuard:
AllStartup:
14[25]Recovery:
66
[Total 38]Advantage:
[+26] F-Shiki mixup.

Also sees use in baiting anti-airs and stalling time for Eddie Gauge to replenish.

Overdrives

Amorphous

632146H or 632146D

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
72×2 [90×2]	Mid	10+5	9(2 Hit)	28	-17	1～12 Strike [1~12 Full, 13-20 Throw]

Zato's one and only invincible reversal attack, albeit not a very good one. Strike invulnerability runs out 3 frames before active frames, though hitting Zato does not remove Amorphous.

Has slow startup frames, a blind spot directly in front of Zato, and has no initial throw invulnerability. However, due to its rather large amount of pushback, punishing this super on block can be very difficult for most characters.

Can be YRC'd.

2

10

7

Values in [ ] are for Burst version
Minimum damage: 20% [50%]

Executor

j.236236S

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
14×N	All	8+5	Until Corner	0 After Landing		8 Strike

Air-only super. Combo tool only. (Unless...)

Can carry opponents from corner to corner, dealing more damage the longer it travels. Guarantees a knockdown.

Using this super at an insufficient height may lead to disaster. Caution advised.

2

10

3

Minimum damage: 20%

Great White

632146S while summoned

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
30×3	All	6 After Searching for Opponent	17	Total 22

Eddie transforms into a large shark and dives underground. It then traverses towards the opponent and leaps into the air when in horizontal proximity. Repeats for a total of 3 reps.

Cannot be easily airteched on hit. In many cases, somehow manages to deal worse damage than meterless variants of combos that involve Great White.

Potentially has some very niche uses as a method of closing rounds against opponents with very low health, and works well in tandem with Break the LawGuard:
Startup:
13Recovery:
Total 29(Maximum 169)Advantage:
. But really, just spend that meter elsewhere.

Reduces Meter Gain upon activation
Consumes 50% of total Eddie Gauge
Attacks 3 times regardless of the amount of Eddie Gauge available at the time of activation.
If usage of Great White does not entirely deplete the Eddie Gauge, Eddie remains summoned after the super's completion.

Forced: 80%

3

10

7

Summon Gauge:-3000
Eddie appears summoned after Great White ends if Summon Gauge is not empty
Minimum damage: 20%

Instant Kill

Guzmania Magnifica

During IK Mode: 236236H

Damage	GuardHow this attack can be blocked.	StartupThe number of frames between inputting an attack and when the attack becomes active. Includes first active frame.	ActiveThe number of frames for which a move has hitboxes. Occurs after Startup.	RecoveryThe number of frames after a move's active frames during which the character cannot act assuming the move is not canceled.	On-BlockThe difference between the attacker's recovery and the period that the opponent is in blockstun. This Frame Advantage value is based off the fact that the very first active frame touches the opponent.	Invuln
DESTROY	All	9+21 [5+18]	12	23	-18	9～41 Full [5～34 Full]

Can be combo'd into through various routes during Hellfire. (]K[ > IK Activate > IK), (Damned Fang > IK Activate > IK), (Dead Man's Hand > IK Activate > IK), (Corner Shadow Gallery > RRC > IK Activate > IK), ...