GGST/Zato-1: Difference between revisions

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* {{clr|4|]H[}} only works when Eddie is already summoned, whereas {{clr|4|236H}} can be done regardless if Eddie is summoned or not
* {{clr|4|]H[}} only works when Eddie is already summoned, whereas {{clr|4|236H}} can be done regardless if Eddie is summoned or not
* Uses 20 HP of Eddie gauge each frame the move is active. Each hit from the attack phase uses 520HP (upwards to 1560 HP)
* Uses 20 HP of Eddie gauge each frame the move is active. Each hit from the attack phase uses 500HP (upwards to 1560 HP)
* Key part of Zato's defense with many applications
* Key part of Zato's defense with many applications
* Can guardpoint anything except throws (whiffs), Overdrives, burst, or RRC
* Can guardpoint anything except throws (whiffs), Overdrives, burst, or RRC

Revision as of 22:17, 24 January 2022

Overview
Overview

Zato-1 is a puppet master who controls his alter-ego: Eddie. Zato and Eddie’s attacks can be used independently of each other, allowing the duo to launch deadly, coordinated attacks.

Eddie can be summoned or recalled at will or summoned directly into an attack with certain special moves. The Eddie Gauge depletes when Eddie is out and when he attacks, and refills when he’s recalled. If Eddie or Zato take damage the gauge is completely drained, unsummoning Eddie. An empty gauge refills slower than usual, so try to recall him before it empties.

The duo fight by using their moves in ways that cover each other. Zato’s 2S is a good poke due to its speed and range. Combine it with Eddie's "Leap", which attacks air space, to cover massive sections of the screen. Eddie’s "Pierce" is a double-hit poke. Zato can cover the gap between the hits with strikes like c.S or his command grab, Damned Fang, for a strike/throw mix-up. "Oppose" allow Eddie to absorb an attack from the enemy, letting Zato punish with powerful counter hit moves like 2H. During okizeme, setting up Eddie’s lockdown move, "That's a lot!", gives Zato a strong mix-up opportunity. Drunkard Shade can be used to reflect projectiles or to position Eddie behind the opponent, allowing Zato and Eddie to attack from both directions.

Zato struggles on defense due to his slow pokes, poor defense value and lack of reversals. While blocking, Zato can’t summon Eddie to cover for him, which leaves him quite vulnerable. Fret not, as their combined attacks make for great offense and space control, allowing you to stay out of defensive positions if you play your cards right.

Perhaps the most complex character in the roster, Zato and Eddie reward players who can master their unorthodox control scheme by providing a terrifying tag-team assault.

 Zato-1  Zato-1 , classified as a Technical type, is a shadow wielder who can pressure his opponent with simultaneous attacks.

Pros
Cons
  • Eddie Offense: Zato is essentially two characters in one. Eddie can keep the opponent locked down while Zato goes for a mixup option, and Eddie can keep Zato safe should it not work out or start a combo if Zato was right.
  • Eddie Neutral: Their partnership in pressure also extends to neutral. Eddie's Oppose can tank attacks while Zato runs in to punish. Drunkard Shade also launches Eddie very far, allowing Zato to threaten with Eddie from fullscreen.
  • Unconventional Movement: Zato has a fly instead of a double jump, which he can also use to approach while covering the ground with Eddie. Zato can also descend into the ground with Break The Law, letting him go under most things the opponent can throw at him.
  • Very Weak Defense: Zato has no real reversals, metered or not. Zato must rely on universal defensive mechanics.
  • Eddie Reliant: Zato is incredibly weak without Eddie to cover his mixups, neutral, and lack of combos.
  • Extended hurtboxes: Zato's normals often have large hurtboxes that extend before the move becomes active and linger afterwards. This leads to his normals being easily counter-poked and whiff punished.
  • Low Health: Zato's high damage multiplier and minimum guts rating places his effective health among the lowest in the game. Coupled with his aforementioned weak defense, this makes Zato very vulnerable to quick and painful rounds.

Zato has a gauge above his tension gauge for Eddie. The gauge signifies Eddie's health (3000 HP). When Eddie is summoned, it will gradually decrease by 5 HP every frame when idle, and each of Eddie's attacks use up a certain amount of the gauge.

If Eddie is unsummoned before the gauge runs out, the gauge will turn white, and quickly recover (55 HP recovered each frame until full). Eddie can be summoned again at any time during this.

If Eddie or Zato is hit by an attack, or the shadow gauge is depleted fully, the gauge will turn red and will recover at a slower rate (15 HP recovered every frame until full, 200f duration). During this time, Zato cannot summon Eddie until the gauge is full again. Avoiding this as much as possible is important to preserving Eddie.

When summoned with either 214H, 632146S, or 236X, Zato will summon Eddie. Eddie can be moved backwards or forwards with the 4/6 directions respectively (you can also use 1/3 if you only want to move Eddie while keeping Zato stationary). To have Eddie attack, you can release P, K, S, or H, or doing 236X for the respective Eddie attack. Eddie attacks can be canceled into each other by using 236X, even into themselves, but makes Zato vulnerable as he does a clapping animation for a short period of time. To master Zato, you will have to master holding and releasing specific buttons while Eddie is out.

For more information on how to practice controlling Eddie, refer to novriltataki's How to Zato video below. (While the video uses Xrd for the example, most tips stated in the video are applicable to Zato in Strive.)

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Zato-1

Normal Moves

StartupThe time before an attack is active. Written startup values include the first active frame, so the startup on a frame chart will display one less square than the written value. Frames
Active The active frames of an attack refers to the amount of time an attack can hit the opponent. Frames
InactiveFrames in the middle of multi-hit attacks which cannot hit the opponent, but are after the move has become active at least once. Frames
Recovery The recovery of an attack refers to the amount of time an attacker must wait before they may perform another action, even blocking. Frames
Special RecoveryThe recovery of an attack refers to the amount of time an attacker must wait before they may perform another action.Recovery frames which happen under abnormal conditions, such as after landing. Frames
ProjectileIndicates an entity that exists separately from the character has become active. Usually something like a Fireball A projectile which usually travels slowly across the screen in a horizontal path above the ground.. Active
CancelA window in which to cancel a move. Can be varied in usage. Window

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
18 All 5 4 8 -2
Total: 16

  • Zato's fastest button
  • Solid range for a jab

Most commonly used in staggerLeaving gaps between attacks in block pressure. Can be used to condition and bait the opponent to try and attack at a bad time or do something risky to stop it. pressure or to mash out of gaps in the opponent's pressure. On Block 6P can be used to frametrap the opponent, this can allow you to get away with Eddie Summons that can normally be interrupted. On hit you can either go into repeated 5P/2Ps or 6P when close enough, allowing you to meaty with 236P.

Gatling Options: 5P, 2P, 6P, 6K, 6H

5K

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 All 8 6 10 +1
Total: 27

  • Combo/blockstring filler
  • Is jump cancelable
  • Good meaty option
  • Low range both horizontally and vertically

When blocked, you can go into 5H > 22H or 236P to create a frametrap, the latter of which is a great way to summon Eddie safely in pressure. A properly delayed 5H can lead to big reward on CH and deter the opponent from challenging after c.S allowing you to go for more risky options such as c.S > 236P or c.S > dash throw.

c.S can also be used in "Leap"GGST Zato-1 Leap.pngGuardAllStartup13Recovery34Advantage- loop combos (c.S > 2S > 2H > -S-...), but generally, doing 2S > 2H > -S- nets more damage. Use c.S in "Leap" loops to build more meter and gain more time for Eddie to recover and be moved.

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

f.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
20×2 All 10 3,3 23 -12
Total: 38

  • Long range 2 hit poke.

Not used often due to having slightly more recovery when whiffed compared to 2S and susceptibility to being low profileMoves that shift your hurtbox downwards to avoid higher hitting attacks., but can be useful to beat armored attacks like  Potemkin's Hammer Fall/Slide Head, or moves that high profileMoves that shift your hurtbox upwards to avoid lower hitting attacks. Also referred to as "low crush". 2S. Also has niche usage as an anti-air vs the larger characters like Goldlewis, Potemkin, and Nagoriyuki.

Gatling Options: 5H, 2H

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
48 All 13 9 19 -9
Total: 40

  • Combo/blockstring filler.
  • High attack level An attack attribute that determines the default value for hitstun, blockstun, hitstop, damage, etc.(varies by game) of a move. makes this the strongest way to summon Eddie on block.
  • Very active, gains more range in later active frames.
  • Hits low to the ground as well as decently high in the air.
  • On grounded counterhit, causes Stagger State

On hit, can combo into 22H for a soft knockdown. On block, you can cancel it into either 22H or 236P for a frametrap, the latter being a great way to summon Eddie in pressure safely. On counterhit, the slowdown allows both hits of 236P to combo, making a variety of CH 5H > 236P combos possible.

Due to the stagger property on CH, dash 623S will also combo from close range.

5D

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
40 High 20 3 26 -15 -
50 High 28 3 26 -10 -
Total: 48
Total: 56

Uncharged Dust
  • Fast overhead
  • Uncharged dust on-hit is 0 or neutral frame advantage and causes float
  • Causes 80% proration on-hit

Universal overhead attack that's pretty fast. Can gatling from 5K, 2K, and c.S for a mixup. Zato is one of a few characters that can combo from this move without meter. Combined with 2D this move makes up a core part of Zato's mixups. With Eddie out 5D can combo into ]P[ or ]S[.


Charged Dust
  • Charged dust leads to soft knockdown (+36).
  • Holding up during the hitstop frames of charged dust will activate homing jump:
    • Doing a homing jump will cause an area shift and put the opponent into a unique high damaging air combo state.
    • Pressing any attack twice without jump/dash cancel will activate the homing jump finisher causing a hard knockdown (+23).
    • Homing jump combos can sometimes increase meter balance enough to activate positive bonus.

Similar to uncharged but is slow enough to be reacted to, but if connects it gives a decently damaging combo.

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
30 All 12 8 12 -6 1-3 Upper Body
4-15 Above Knees
Total: 31

  • Universal anti-air with invul from the first frame until halfway through the active frames.
  • On counterhit, causes hard knockdown
  • On normal hit, causes soft knockdown
  • Very active, with low recovery

One of the best anti-airs and counterpokes in the game. Due to having a large amount of active frames and a lot of disjoint, even after the upper body invul ends, it will beat many long range pokes such as  Sol's 6SGGST Sol Badguy 6S.pngGuardAllStartup15Recovery20Advantage-9. On normal hit, you can follow up with 236P to meaty with Eddie or 22H for a small combo. On counterhit, it will cause a hard knockdown allowing you to cancel into 214H (Empty SummonGGST Zato-1 Summon Eddie.pngGuardStartup20Recovery8Advantage-) for extremely strong oki.

Use this move in combination with 22H and various Eddie Summons to control neutral and hold your space.

6K

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
65 All 30 6 17 -6
Total: 44

  • Command normal mixup tool in which Zato leaps into the air and puts out an attack.
  • Airborne frames 8-33
  • Hard knockdown on air hit.
  • Can be canceled with flight on hit/block.

Great way to bait lower hitting attacks or throw attempts, as you can combo after on counter hit. Because you can airdash out of this move, it is a great mixup tool at your disposal. This can be mashed out of so it is best often used in sync with Eddie to ensure the opponent cannot punish you.

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
18 All 6 4 9 -3
Total: 18

  • 1 frame slower than Zato's 5P, but with slightly more range.
  • Solid range for a jab

Most commonly used in stagger pressure or to mash out of gaps in the opponent's pressure. On hit you can either go into repeated 5P/2Ps or 6P when close enough, allowing you to meaty with 236P. Does not hit low profile moves like  I-No's 236HGGST I-No Stroke the Big Tree.pngGuardLowStartup28Recovery16Advantage-2.

Gatling Options: 5P, 2P, 6P, 6K, 6H

2K

2S

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
35 All 11 4 20 -10
Total: 34

  • Zato's prime poking normal
  • Hurtbox extends before the hitbox becomes active

Fairly fast, covers good range. Can cancel 2S into 22H, summon Eddie, or do nothing and see how the opponent responds after. Take note that every characater, except Potemkin and Nagoriyuki, can jump out of 2S > 22H (Potemkin can Megafist out), so only cancel into 22H to condition players to jump or when you know they will respect you. 2S does have an extended hurtbox when used, so exercising caution when throwing out this move is important. This also allows it to be fairly easy to punish on whiff.

2S is also a cornerstone in Leap loop combos (-S- > 2S > 2H > ...), making it an essential combo filler piece with Eddie in play.

Gatling Options: 5H, 2H

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
40 All 13 7 26 -13
Total: 45

  • Vertically long range anti-air.
  • Extends Zato's hurtbox so it can trade or lose to many moves when timed incorrectly.
  • Incredible reward on counterhit

While it does not have any upper body invul like 6P, 2H is great at catching opponents above Zato, and has ridiculously good reward on counter hit, allowing you to do Leap loops anywhere on the screen, or go into j.D if hit high enough for a solo conversion. On normal hit, can combo into 22H for a soft knockdown, but can also be used as an ender to summon Eddie and go for oki. Also an integral combo filler piece in many of Zato's combos incorporating Eddie. Do note that 2H does extend Zato's hurtbox.

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
27 Low 10 6 17 -9
Total: 32

  • Low sweep
  • Hard knockdown on grounded hit.
  • Essential tool to safely bring out Eddie and start your Okizeme.

Connecting this attack while naked allows Zato to bring Eddie into play safely, as well as start okizeme with Eddie afterwards. If you can combo into this attack and Eddie is ready to be summoned, it is best to go into it. Also seen as a low option in Zato's high/low mixups with Eddie.

j.P

j.K

j.S

j.H

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 11 4 22 -7 (Airborne)
Total: 36

  • Aerial biting attack that quickly moves Zato forwards
  • Can be used as an alternative airdash
  • On grounded counterhit, causes stagger
  • On grounded block, flight cancel is ~+4.

Great way to check people in the air from far away. Used in a variety of setups for left/right or high/low mixups. Hitting airborne opponents with this move will launch them upwards, allowing Zato to combo off it if he's close to the ground - especially on Counterhit. Counter hitting grounded opponents guarentees a hard knockdown with 2K > 2D or a 623S command throw.

When combined with PRC, it can carry Zato across the screen very fast, which is very useful in matchups where he can have trouble approaching as easily, such as  Axl.

Universal Mechanics

Ground Throw

6D or 4D

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
80 Ground Throw 2 3 38
Total: 42

  • Can throw the opponent either forward or backwards.
  • Hard knockdown on hit.
  • 75% forced proration before all damage is dealt, 50% forced proration after all damage is dealt.
  • If Eddie is already summoned, can be converted into a meterless combo with moves like "Leap"
  • Range of 90000

Great opportunity to summon Eddie afterwards. If you can't summon, you can go for a safejump with j.66 > j.S.

Air Throw

j.6D or j.4D

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
80 200000 (Air) 2 3 38 or Until Landing + 10
Total: 12

  • Can throw the opponent either forward or backwards.
  • Hard knockdown on hit.
  • 75% forced proration before all damage is dealt, 50% forced proration after all damage is dealt.
  • If Eddie is already summoned, can be converted off with moves like "Leap"
  • Range of 200000

Solid anti air option. Advantage depends on how close you are to the ground. If close enough to the ground on grab, can be used to safely summon Eddie and start your okizeme.

Special Moves

Flight

Dash in any direction (Air only)

By inputting the same direction quickly twice while airborne or pressing the dash button while holding a direction, Zato will fly in the specified direction (e.g. 66 to fly forwards). If you dash directly up, Zato will fly in place. While flight is activated, Zato can be move around freely in 8 different directions and ends either when an attack is inputted during flight, Zato lands, a Faultless Defense A special type of blocking in Guilty Gear that negates chip damage and pushes the opponent back further than usual. This type of blocking comes at the cost of a resource. cancel is used, or Zato has been flying for too long. Zato can cancel 6H and all air normals into flight on hit or block as long as he still has an air action available.

Flight as a replacement to a normal airdash is both a strength and a weakness for Zato. Flight allows Zato to have very tricky air movement that can be used creatively both offensively and defensively and enables him to mix in ways not available to any other character. However, Flight is slow compared to a normal airdash and when combined with his slow dash speed Zato can have a very tough time getting in and chasing down quick characters and Zoners.

Summon Eddie

214H

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
20 8
0 32

  • Summon/Unsummon Eddie
  • Integral move to playing Zato
  • When summoning, Eddie becomes actionable on frame 21
  • When unsummoning, Eddie disappears on frame 1 as long as he is not locked in an attack.

Zato summons Eddie, which can then use all of his following attacks by releasing P, K, S or H, or by doing 236P/K/S/H, the latter input allowing you to cancel Eddie attacks into other attacks (e.g. 236P > 236S), but leaves Zato vulnerable for a short period of time.

Use this summon after a knockdown to set up your okizeme or if you want to summon Eddie in neutral without doing an attack immediately, so you can decide how to respond to what the opponent is doing after.

Note that Eddie becomes actionable before Zato does. This little gap allows you to move and input attacks for Eddie without having to worry about negative edge while still being able to act freely as Zato once the animation is over.

To unsummon Eddie, do 214H while Eddie is already summoned, allowing you to preserve Eddie's longevity and summon him again much faster.

"Pierce"

]P[ when summoned or 236P

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
20×2 All 13 3(17)2 24
20×2 All 21 [25] 3(17)2 24

  • ]P[ only works when Eddie is already summoned, whereas 236P can be done regardless if Eddie is summoned or not.
  • Quick, long ranged, two hit pressure starter and grounded space control tool.
  • ]P[ and 236P use 500 HP of the Eddie gauge for each attack (1000 HP total). If Eddie is already summoned 236P uses 325 HP of the Eddie gauge for each attack (650 HP total).
  • Between the first and second hit there is a 7f gap on block, 4f on hit.
  • Zato is +4 if the first hit of 236P is blocked, meaning at close range the gap can be filled to frametrap the opponent.
  • Zato is +19 if the first hit of ]P[ is blocked, making if significantly easier to fil the gap between hits.
  • On grounded opponents the first hit does not combo into second hit, but can on airborne opponents.

Can be used to push your offense on grounded opponents from neutral. Also an essential move in Zato's pressure strings. You can use 236P after a blocked 5H to create a frametrap for slower than 3f buttons while summoning Eddie.

There is rps Rock Paper ScissorsA situation wherein an attacker and a defender have options that only beat certain responses from their opponent. For example, on wakeup a defending opponent may use a reversal to stop an attacker from using an attack, but the attacker can also block to defeat the reversal. If the attacker blocks, the defender can use the opportunity to take the offensive. around the gap in "Pierce" that is very important to play correctly. Every character can 2P or jump the gap between the two hits or and stop your pressure before it begins. When using 236P if you are able to summon from close by such as after a single c.S or in sandwich pressure, you can use a 5P to frametrap or true string the gap. If you are further, out such as after c.S > 5H, you have several options. 236P(1) > 236P can space out 2Ps and punish then, allowing you to continue pressure. 236P(1) > 236K does much the same thing but spends more Eddie meter in exchange for locking the opponent down. 236P(1) > 236S will force attempts at jumping the gap to block all the way to the ground and is hard to AA on reaction. 236P(1) > 236H will absorb their attempt to mash the gap and can be cancelled into other Eddie specials to keep the pressure up. Lastly, 236P(1) > 214S will use the invul given to Eddie during his dash to shoot past the opponent and then ]P[ or ]K[ can be used to punish a 2P attempt or start pressure and ]S[ can be used to punish attempts to jump out. It's very important to identify whether or not your opponent tends to attack or jump during the gap or not, if they do not attempt to contest the gap simply letting both hits of "Pierce" come out is often your best option.

When using ]P[ you are at much more frame advantage after the first hit and it's much easier to fill the gap with large buttons, from range such as 2S and keeping your pressure going. Filling the gap in "Pierce" also has the benefit of often comboing both hits of pierce.

"That's a lot!"

]K[ when summoned or 236K

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
20×4 All 19→34→49→64 71 (15×4) Total 66
20×4 All 27→42→57→72 [31→46→61→76] 71 (15×4) Total 74 +55

  • ]K[ only works when Eddie is already summoned, whereas 236K can be done regardless if Eddie is summoned or not
  • Uses 375 HP of Eddie gauge for each attack (upwards to 1500 HP)
  • Staple okizeme and pressure tool

Eddie creates 4 lingering drills that, one after the other, go across the screen horizontally. Because of the attack's long duration, it's an effective tool to lock an opponent in blockstun, allowing Zato to close distance or create a variety of ambiguous mixups. In neutral it can be used to cover a lot of ground, denying your opponent space and allowing Zato to take it. This move also makes it very tricky for certain characters, such as I-no, to approach Zato.

Unsummoning during this move is also safer than usual, since the lingering drills will continue to cover the space in front of you during the unsummon recovery.

"Leap"

]S[ when summoned or 236S

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
20, 50 All 13 11(6)9 34
20, 50 All 21 [25] 11(6)9 34 +46

  • ]S[ only works when Eddie is already summoned, whereas 236S can be done regardless if Eddie is summoned or not
  • Uses 1500 HP of Eddie gauge
  • Devastating Anti air and combo tool.
  • First hit whiffs on crouchers.
  • Second hit causes hard knockdown.

Anti air attack that drags the opponent back to the ground when blocked, allowing you to continue your offense. If the second hit hits, it will cause a hard knockdown, allowing you to dash up and continue the string with 2S > 2H > ... Very plus on block. Use this move to make your opponent think twice about jumping and airdashing. Do keep in mind that opponents can 6P to kill Eddie out of it if they don't get hit/block the first hit and you don't cover for Eddie.

Also a staple in Zato's higher damage combos, as Zato can loop into this move so long as he has enough Eddie gauge available. Example of the loop would be (corner) c.S > 2H > -S- > ...

While Eddie is off the ground, you can input any 236X Eddie move or 214H and the action will be "buffered" - causing Eddie to perform it the moment he lands. 236S/]S[ > 214H in particular is incredibly useful since Leap will cover the entire unsummon animation, even leaving Zato plus on block, allowing him to continue his pressure and summon again.

"Oppose"

]H[ when summoned or 236H

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
30×3 All 66 3×6 (Summon Vanishes) 8-59F Guardpoint
30×3 All 74 {78} 3×6 (Summon Vanishes) [36 Zato] 16-67 {20-71} Guardpoint

  • ]H[ only works when Eddie is already summoned, whereas 236H can be done regardless if Eddie is summoned or not
  • Uses 20 HP of Eddie gauge each frame the move is active. Each hit from the attack phase uses 500HP (upwards to 1560 HP)
  • Key part of Zato's defense with many applications
  • Can guardpoint anything except throws (whiffs), Overdrives, burst, or RRC

Eddie enters an armored stance while very slowly advancing forwards. Almost any attack Eddie comes into contact with during this stance is nullified, making it an incredible defensive tool with many applications. After a set period of time spent in the armored stance, Eddie attacks.

You can use this move in response to predictable approaches or overly aggressive opponents. Examples include anti-airing blocked aerial attacks with 2H, usually to be followed up by a damaging Leap Combo, or taking advantage of blocked grounded attacks by using 623S or 2S > 214S > Leap. Taking advantage of blocked hits will often net you a counter hit, allowing you to do your most damaging combos.

Other applications include moving Eddie forwards and then activating "Oppose", allowing Zato to safely take space, or cancelling the first hit of 236P into "Oppose" to protect Eddie from harm if Zato isn't in range.

In most situations you want to avoid letting Eddie do the attack of this move since the only way you can cancel it is with 214S and letting it play out will result in an empty, red Eddie bar. The armored stance can be cancelled into any Eddie move as usual - even itself if you want to refresh the armor.

Note that Overdrives, Bursts and RRC cannot be armored. Opponents can also still grab you, so don't get too comfortable when Oppose is covering you.

Invite Hell

22H

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 All 18 32 2 -7
Total: 51

  • Very active grounded projectile
  • Solo combo and blockstring ender
  • Combo and blockstring filler when Eddie is in play
  • Soft knockdown on hit

Good move for controlling neutral. This move has a ton of active frames, which make it easy to meaty people on wakeup and can be very advantageous if it meaties on later active frames. Often cancelled into after a blocked 2S and 5H. 2S > 22H cannot be jumped, the opponent will be forced to block in the air or take a hit. 5H > 22H is a true string or can be delayed for a frametrap. This attack is also often used to cover a blocked Eddie attack from afar, allowing Eddie to continue his onslaught.

Cancelling this move with Drift PRC can also allow Zato to cover the ground while being able to react to what the opponent is doing, such as anti airing someone who jumped over the drill.

Break The Law

214[K]

No results
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

  • Values in [] refer to when 214[K] is fully held down
  • Situational alternative movement tool that turns Zato invulnerable
  • Often used to shorten the recovery of certain normals such as 2H

Zato sinks into the ground, becoming invincible as long as K is held down. The longer Zato spends invincible, the longer the move's recovery becomes once he resurfaces. Zato will resurface by either releasing K or by being forced out after a set period of time.

This move synergizes well with Eddie out, as you can continue to control him while Zato is safe from any danger. This becomes particularly useful during blockstrings in which the opponent is between Zato and Eddie, allowing Zato to cross up the opponent between the hits of "Pierce", creating a terrifying left/right mixup.

Other applications include cancelling normals such as 2H into this move. This allows Zato to recover quicker from 2H than normal, as the total duration of this move is shorter than the active frames + recovery of some normals. Additionally, Zato can use bait bursts, reversals, and YRC with this move in combos and in blockstrings. The invulnerability when K is held for a small amount of time is longer than the active frames of YRC and Burst. Baiting this way rather than by blocking allows for better punishes as the recovery of Break the Law is shorter than the blockstun of Burst and YRC and you aren't pushed away. Note that YRC does not kill Eddie unless it connects with Zato, so if you bait YRC with Break the Law Eddie will remain out and ready for a punish.

You can also PRC while Zato is inside the ground, often catching opponents by surprise.

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
1x13, 69 [82] Ground Throw 6 2 38 1-7F Throw
Total: 45

  • Command grab
  • Animation is long enough to recover an empty Eddie gauge to full.
  • Hard knockdown on hit, +7.
  • Range of 12000

A command grab with more damage and range than Zatos regular throw, albeit with mediocre okizeme afterwards if midscreen. When it connects, Eddie is unsummoned and a long attack animation plays, giving the Eddie Gauge plenty of time to refill. With a full Eddie Gauge and 50% of tension. You can RRC for better okizeme midscreen or for a wallbreak at the corner. See the Combos section for more information.

Connecting this move close to the corner will position your opponent closer to you. This allows you to keep your turn with a meaty 2K, for example.

Mix this in your pressure to punish opponents respecting you too much.

Drunkard Shade

214S

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
31 All 9 10 12 -8 3-18F Projectile Reflect
30 Total
Total: 30

  • Anti-projectile and Eddie-repositioning tool
  • Reflects projectiles starting Frame 3
  • Surprisingly active
  • On aerial hit, causes hard knockdown
  • On grounded counterhit, launches opponent and causes hard knockdown

Attack that covers the space in front of Zato - mostly vertically. Often trades with opponent's attacks leading to a CH, this is almost always in Zato's favor. Can reflect a variety of non-overdrive projectiles such as Sol's Gunflame or Ky's Stun Edge.

In addition, if Eddie is summoned and nearby while this move is performed, Eddie will swiftly dash forwards with a bit of invulnerability. This will cancel whatever Eddie is doing. If the opponent is within Eddie's dash range, Eddie will cross them up and stop dashing, making it a great way to sandwich the opponent between Zato and Eddie, allowing for the duo's scariest pressure.

Note that Eddies invulnerability only lasts for a short duration at the start of his dash - smart opponents will kill Eddie for free if you just throw him at them without much thought.

Drunkard Shade Reflectable Projectiles Table
Character Move
 Anji Mito
  • ShitsuGGST Anji Mito 236P.pngGuardAllStartup29RecoveryTotal 52Advantage-6 (Both butterfly and bird.)
 Axl Low
  • N/A
 Chipp Zanuff
  • N/A
 Faust
  • LoveGGST Faust j236P.pngGuardAllStartup27RecoveryTotal 48Advantage-
  • Love (With Afro)GGST Faust j236P.pngGuardAll (Guard Crush)Startup27RecoveryTotal 48Advantage-
 Giovanna
  • N/A
 Goldlewis Dickinson
  • N/A
 Happy Chaos
  • N/A
 I-No
  • Antidepressant ScaleGGST I-No Antidepressant Scale.pngGuardAllStartup29RecoveryTotal 51Advantage-8
  • Chemical LoveGGST I-No Chemical Love.pngGuardAllStartup11Recovery22Advantage-9 (Nullifies it.)
 Jack-O'
  • j.DGGST Jack-O jD.pngGuardAllStartup21RecoveryTotal 44Advantage-
 Ky Kiske
  • j.DGGST Ky Kiske jD.pngGuardAllStartup13Recovery15Advantage- (Nullifies it.)
  • Stun EdgeGGST Ky Kiske 236S.pngGuardAllStartup13RecoveryTotal 46Advantage-14
  • Aerial Stun EdgeGGST Ky Kiske j236X.pngGuardAllStartup21RecoveryUntil Landing+10Advantage-
  • Charged Stun EdgeGGST Ky Kiske 236H.pngGuardAllStartup39RecoveryTotal 62Advantage+22 [+25]
 Leo Whitefang
  • Gravierte Würde [4]6SGGST Leo Whitefang Graviert Wurde.pngGuardAllStartup10RecoveryTotal 50FAdvantage-12
  • Gravierte Würde [4]6HGGST Leo Whitefang Graviert Wurde.pngGuardAllStartup35RecoveryTotal 66FAdvantage+17
 May
  • N/A
 Millia rage
  • Tandem Top 236SGGST Millia Rage Tandem Top Full.pngGuardAllStartup12RecoveryTotal 45Advantage-10 (Nullifies it.)
  • Tandem Top 236HGGST Millia Rage Tandem Top Full.pngGuardAllStartup73RecoveryTotal 51Advantage+36 (Nullifies it.)
 Nagoriyuki
  • N/A
 Potemkin
  • F.D.B.GGST Potemkin FDB Reflect.pngGuardAllStartup1RecoveryAdvantage+11 (Reflected projectile only.)
 Ramlethal Valentine
  • Bajoneto 236SGGST Ramlethal Valentine Bajoneto S.pngGuardAllStartup20RecoveryTotal 37Advantage+9 (Explosion follow-up only.)
  • Bajoneto 236HGGST Ramlethal Valentine Bajoneto H.pngGuardAllStartup20RecoveryTotal 43Advantage+3 (Explosion follow-up only.)
 Sol Badguy
  • Gun FlameGGST Sol Badguy 236P.pngGuardAllStartup18RecoveryTotal 54Advantage-10
 Zato-1
  • "That's a lot!"GGST Zato-1 That's a lot.pngGuardAllStartup27→42→57→72 [31→46→61→76]RecoveryTotal 74Advantage+55 (Nullifies it.)
  • Invite HellGGST Zato-1 Invite Hell 1.pngGuardAllStartup18Recovery2Advantage-7 (Only reflects one drill, if not the final drill the rest will hit you.)

Overdrives

Amorphous

632146H

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
135 All 8+8 Total 43 +12

  • Costs 50% tension
  • Damage Super
  • Hard knockdown on hit.
  • Hits pretty high
  • No Invulnerability

Zato creates a shadow projectile that moves forward along the ground. Once it's under an opponent it will activate, dealing solid damage while also reaching very high. Moves very slowly, characters with moves that travel forward quickly such as  Sol Night Raid Vortex can avoid it. However, Zato recovers very quickly and even if he is hit after the super flash, Amorphous will remain out.

Great for securing knockdowns before a wallbreak when you don't need to refill the Eddie Gauge with 632146S or for closing out rounds.

Sun Void

632146S (Air OK)

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
20×3 All 11+14 +3
20×3 All 11+14

  • Costs 50% tension
  • Utility Super
  • Mediocre damage, but refills the Eddie gauge and allows you to continue your pressure

Zato launches Eddie in the form of a sword towards the opponent. If Eddie is already summoned he will track the opponent from his current position. If he isn't summoned, he will appear over Zato and track the opponent from there. On hit, block, or if the sword whiffed the opponent and a certain amount of time passes, Eddie will turn into a small black ball, falling onto the ground. After landing, Eddie will be in his normal form with a full Eddie gauge.

On block, ]P[ is true string and ]K[ is a frame trap. On hit, ]P[ and ]S[ combo.

Use this super to continue your offense with Eddie, end a combo will a full Eddie gauge, whiff punish long recovery fullscreen moves, or to revive Eddie when you really can't wait for the gauge to refill.

External References

Navigation

To edit frame data, edit values in GGST/Zato-1/Data.