Super Ultra Street Fighter 4 Turbo Alpha Gold Championship Edition'

[Thief Silver]

Never even seen someone try to land it till last night.

[Sinista]

So what's the best way to improve my countering/blocking skills? I know have a lot to learn because I'm unfamiliar with every character outside of the traditional pack as far as their special moves are concerned, just wondering if there are some general rules of thumb?

[Chux]

Block to avoid damage.

[Sinista]

WOW THX CHUX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Josh]

You do it by holding "back"

[Diff-chan]

So what's the best way to improve my countering/blocking skills? I know have a lot to learn because I'm unfamiliar with every character outside of the traditional pack as far as their special moves are concerned, just wondering if there are some general rules of thumb?

Observe the patterns other players are using, and block them. Eventually it becomes instinctual. Watch for throws, a lot of Ken/Ryu faggots do that to mix it up.

[Mzo]

Just play the game and learn what to block and when. Tick crouching lp+lk to counter jump in -> throw or jump in -> tick throw (or tick tick throw) games. If your timing is right you either keep blocking (blocking is absolute in SF4) their attacks, tech the throw attempt, or crap out a low short at the worst which will either hit them or you will quickly recover from.

[YellerDog]

Start playing with focus attacks here and there, too. Start out with simple stuff, like absorbing fireballs and dashing out of 'em. You net zero damage (unless you get hit immediately afterwards) and you can keep your distance.

[Mzo]

IMO people are too often worried about countering every attack and jump in when the best way to avoid taking damage is to just block well.

[YellerDog]

Or "stop jumping so damn much," something I should try!