Sagat’s Complete Command List for Street Fighter 6: Mastering the Emperor of Muay Thai
Welcome, esteemed warriors of the digital arena, to an in-depth exploration of one of Street Fighter’s most iconic and enduring figures: Sagat. For decades, the “Emperor of Muay Thai” has stood as a formidable presence, a testament to raw power, calculated aggression, and an unwavering will to dominate. In Street Fighter 6, Sagat continues this legacy, offering a playstyle that is both punishing and deeply rewarding for those who master his comprehensive command list. At Gaming News, we pride ourselves on delivering the most thorough and insightful content to help you ascend the ranks. This guide is meticulously crafted to provide you with every piece of information needed to fully understand and execute Sagat’s devastating arsenal, aiming to outrank any other resource you might find.
Sagat’s design in Street Fighter 6 emphasizes powerful zoning tools, hard-hitting normals, and devastating close-range pressure. His command list is a reflection of this philosophy, offering players a spectrum of options for controlling space, punishing opponent mistakes, and unleashing overwhelming offense. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the series or a newcomer eager to learn the ways of this Muay Thai monarch, this guide will serve as your definitive resource. We will delve into each of his special moves, his unique mechanics, and his powerful Super Arts, ensuring you possess the knowledge to wield Sagat with unparalleled skill and effectiveness. Prepare to learn the intricacies of his tiger-like precision and unleash the fury of the Emperor upon your opponents.
Understanding Sagat’s Core Strengths and Playstyle
Before diving into the specifics of his command list, it is crucial to grasp Sagat’s fundamental strengths. Sagat excels at controlling the neutral game, using his impressive reach and projectiles to keep opponents at bay. His normal attacks, particularly his crouching heavy kick and standing heavy punch, boast significant frame advantage and range, allowing him to dominate the mid-screen. His signature Tiger Shots are not only effective zoning tools but also provide a consistent source of pressure and allow him to dictate the pace of the match.
However, Sagat is far from a one-dimensional character. While he can play a strong zoning game, he is also capable of intimidating close-range pressure and devastating punish combos. His command normals and special moves can open up opponents who are too passive, and his Super Arts offer game-ending potential when landed correctly. Understanding when to apply pressure, when to zone, and when to punish is the key to unlocking Sagat’s full potential. This guide will illuminate the specific commands and applications for each of his tools, enabling you to make these crucial decisions with confidence.
Sagat’s Special Moves: The Pillars of His Offense
Sagat’s special moves are the bread and butter of his offensive and defensive capabilities. Each move has been meticulously designed to complement his overall playstyle, offering versatility and impact.
Tiger Shot
The Tiger Shot is arguably Sagat’s most iconic special move, a flame projectile that has defined his zoning game for generations. In Street Fighter 6, it remains a cornerstone of his arsenal.
- Input: Quarter-circle forward + Punch (LP, MP, HP)
- Description: Sagat fires a projectile. The strength of the Punch button determines the projectile’s speed and trajectory.
- Light Punch (LP): Fires a fast, low-to-the-ground projectile. Excellent for applying consistent pressure and catching opponents trying to advance.
- Medium Punch (MP): Fires a standard projectile with a balanced speed and trajectory. A reliable tool for general zoning.
- Heavy Punch (HP): Fires a slower, but more potent projectile. This version travels higher and can be useful for catching opponents who are jumping or trying to block low. It also has more hit stun, allowing for follow-ups.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Shot:
- Zoning: The primary use of Tiger Shot is to control space and keep opponents at a distance. By firing shots at different speeds and heights, Sagat can force opponents to commit to specific defensive options, which can then be punished.
- Pressure: Continuously throwing Tiger Shots can build significant pressure, forcing the opponent to block or jump. This can lead to openings for Sagat to advance or capitalize on defensive errors.
- Punish: The Heavy Punch Tiger Shot is excellent for punishing predictable jumps or attempts to approach from a distance.
- Anti-Air: While not a dedicated anti-air, a well-timed Tiger Shot can sometimes catch opponents attempting to jump over it.
Tiger Uppercut
Sagat’s Tiger Uppercut is his primary anti-air and reversal option. It’s a powerful rising attack that can shut down aerial approaches and escape pressure.
- Input: Dragon Punch motion (Forward, Down, Down-Forward) + Punch (LP, MP, HP)
- Description: Sagat performs a powerful rising uppercut. The strength of the Punch button dictates the height, speed, and invincibility frames of the attack.
- Light Punch (LP): A faster startup, primarily used for reversals against block strings or wakeup attacks. It has limited invincibility.
- Medium Punch (MP): Offers a good balance of startup, height, and damage. It’s a versatile option for both anti-air and pressure.
- Heavy Punch (HP): The slowest startup but possesses the most invincibility frames and deals the highest damage. This is Sagat’s most reliable reversal and anti-air, but it is susceptible to being baited.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Uppercut:
- Anti-Air: This is the move’s most crucial role. Mastering the timing for each Punch strength to shut down aerial opponents is paramount to Sagat’s success.
- Reversal: When Sagat is in block stun or facing wakeup pressure, the Tiger Uppercut serves as a powerful reversal option to regain momentum.
- Combo Enders: In certain combo routes, the Tiger Uppercut can be used to finish off a sequence, especially the Heavy Punch version for maximum damage.
Low Tiger Shot
The Low Tiger Shot adds another layer to Sagat’s zoning game, providing a low-profile projectile that can be tricky for opponents to deal with.
- Input: Quarter-circle backward + Punch (LP, MP, HP)
- Description: Sagat fires a low-profile projectile that travels close to the ground. The strength of the Punch button affects its speed.
- Light Punch (LP): Fires a fast low projectile.
- Medium Punch (MP): Fires a standard speed low projectile.
- Heavy Punch (HP): Fires a slower, but more damaging low projectile.
Strategic Applications of Low Tiger Shot:
- Ground Pressure: This move is excellent for forcing opponents to block low or jump, adding a different dimension to his zoning.
- Combo Starters: Certain Low Tiger Shots can be used to initiate combos when they hit an opponent off-balance.
- Countering Jumps: If an opponent is accustomed to jumping over standard Tiger Shots, the Low Tiger Shot can catch them mid-air, albeit at an awkward height.
Knee Strike
The Knee Strike is a quick, advancing kick that is valuable for closing distance and applying pressure.
- Input: Forward + Medium Kick (MK)
- Description: Sagat performs a short, forward-advancing knee strike. This is a command normal.
- Frame Data: Typically a safe move on block and can be canceled into special moves or Super Arts, making it a solid pressure tool.
Strategic Applications of Knee Strike:
- Pressure: Used to advance and apply pressure, forcing the opponent to react. It can be an effective way to get inside an opponent’s zoning.
- Combo Extender: Can be used in the middle of some combos to extend them or link into special moves.
- Punish: A quick option to punish whiffs or specific unsafe moves from a mid-range distance.
Tiger Kneel
The Tiger Kneel is a low-profile sweep that serves as a critical tool for punishing opponents who are blocking too high or attempting to advance aggressively.
- Input: Down, Down-Forward, Forward + Kick (LK, MK, HK)
- Description: Sagat performs a sliding sweep. The strength of the Kick button determines the range and speed.
- Light Kick (LK): A faster, shorter sweep. Good for quick punishes.
- Medium Kick (MK): A balanced sweep with good range.
- Heavy Kick (HK): The longest and slowest sweep, often used for maximum punish potential or as a combo ender.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Kneel:
- Punishing: The primary use is to punish opponents who are blocking high or are too passive.
- Corner Carry: In some combo routes, the Tiger Kneel can be used to push the opponent towards the corner.
- Combo Enders: The Heavy Kick Tiger Kneel is a reliable way to end certain combos with significant damage.
Sagat’s Unique Mechanics and Powerful Tools
Beyond his standard special moves, Sagat often features unique mechanics or powerful tools that further define his playstyle. In Street Fighter 6, these are crucial for maximizing his offensive and defensive potential.
Tiger Catapult (Unique Attack)
This powerful command normal is a staple for Sagat’s close-range pressure and combo game.
- Input: Standing HP + HK (simultaneously)
- Description: Sagat performs a rising knee attack that launches the opponent. This move is often used as a combo starter or extender.
- Frame Data: Can be unsafe on block if not properly followed up, but its high damage potential and launching properties make it a risk worth taking in the right situations.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Catapult:
- Combo Starter: This move is a primary combo starter, leading into a variety of follow-ups for significant damage.
- Pressure: Can be used to close the gap and start offensive pressure, forcing the opponent to guess between blocking high or low after the launch.
- Punishing: A good option for punishing certain moves from a mid-range or when an opponent commits to an unsafe approach.
Tiger Burst (Unique Attack)
A command normal that provides a solid mid-range poke and can lead to combos.
- Input: Standing HK
- Description: Sagat performs a long-reaching roundhouse kick. This is one of his most versatile normal attacks.
- Frame Data: Generally safe on block and has excellent hit stun, allowing for cancels into special moves or Super Arts.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Burst:
- Neutral Control: Its impressive range makes it a primary tool for controlling neutral and deterring opponents from approaching.
- Pressure: Can be used to apply pressure and force the opponent to block, leading into potential mix-ups.
- Combo Extender: Frequently used to link into Tiger Shots or Tiger Uppercuts for combo extensions.
Tiger Driver (Command Grab)
A powerful command grab that rewards Sagat for successfully applying pressure and closing the distance.
- Input: Forward, Down, Down-Forward + Kick (LK, MK, HK)
- Description: Sagat dashes forward and performs a devastating throw. This is a command grab, meaning it cannot be blocked.
- Frame Data: Has a moderate startup and is unsafe on block, making it a high-risk, high-reward option.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Driver:
- Punishing Defensive Play: Essential for punishing opponents who are blocking too much or are too passive.
- Mix-ups: Can be used in conjunction with other offensive options to create unblockable setups or force the opponent into a guessing game.
- Corner Pressure: Especially effective in the corner, where the opponent has fewer escape options.
Sagat’s Super Arts: Unleashing Ultimate Power
Super Arts are the pinnacle of a character’s offensive potential in Street Fighter 6, offering immense damage and game-changing capabilities. Sagat’s Super Arts are no exception, reflecting his raw power and mastery of Muay Thai.
Super Art 1: Tiger Cannon
A classic Sagat move, the Tiger Cannon is a long-range projectile super that can be used to finish off opponents or control space from afar.
- Input: Quarter-circle forward twice + Punch (LP, MP, HP)
- Description: Sagat charges and fires a massive, screen-filling projectile. The strength of the Punch button affects the startup and damage.
- Light Punch (LP): Fastest startup, good for catching opponents off guard.
- Medium Punch (MP): Balanced startup and damage.
- Heavy Punch (HP): Slowest startup, but deals the most damage and has a larger hitbox.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Cannon:
- Punishing Whiffs: Can be used to punish large whiffs from across the screen.
- Edge of Screen Pressure: Excellent for locking down opponents at the edge of the screen, forcing them to take chip damage or risk a risky approach.
- Combo Ender: Can be used to end combos for significant damage, especially if the opponent is low on health.
Super Art 2: Tiger Assault
A powerful close-range super that showcases Sagat’s raw physicality and Muay Thai prowess.
- Input: Quarter-circle backward twice + Kick (LK, MK, HK)
- Description: Sagat performs a devastating multi-hit flurry of punches and kicks, culminating in a powerful overhead strike. The strength of the Kick button determines the range and damage.
- Light Kick (LK): Shortest range, but quickest startup.
- Medium Kick (MK): Good balance of range and speed.
- Heavy Kick (HK): Longest range and highest damage, often used as a primary combo finisher.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Assault:
- Combo Finisher: The primary use for this Super Art is to end combos for substantial damage.
- Punishing: Can be used to punish opponents who are too close or commit to unsafe moves.
- Close-Range Pressure: If an opponent is close and blocking, a well-timed Tiger Assault can be a devastating punishment.
Super Art 3: Tiger Destruction
Sagat’s Level 3 Super Art is the ultimate expression of his power, a guaranteed damage super that can turn the tide of any match.
- Input: Quarter-circle forward, Quarter-circle backward + Punch (LP, MP, HP)
- Description: Sagat unleashes a series of brutal Muay Thai strikes, culminating in an explosive finale. This super is typically a cinematic super with high damage.
- Unique Property: Often associated with invincibility on startup or command grab properties, making it excellent for reversals or punishing unsafe moves.
Strategic Applications of Tiger Destruction:
- Comeback Potential: This Super Art provides immense comeback potential, capable of eliminating large portions of an opponent’s health bar.
- Reversal Option: Its invincibility frames make it a powerful reversal option against aggressive pressure.
- Punishing Fatal Mistakes: Can be used to punish significant mistakes by the opponent, such as poorly spaced unsafe moves or predictable approaches.
Mastering Sagat: Advanced Techniques and Tips
To truly excel with Sagat, beyond simply knowing the commands, one must understand how to integrate these tools effectively into a cohesive strategy.
Zoning and Spacing
Sagat’s Tiger Shots are his primary zoning tools. Mastering the use of different Punch strengths is key. Use LP Tiger Shot for constant pressure, MP Tiger Shot for mid-range control, and HP Tiger Shot to catch jumps or punish specific approaches. Mix in Low Tiger Shots to keep opponents guessing and force them to block low. The goal is to create a wall of projectiles that limits your opponent’s options and forces them into predictable patterns.
Punish Game
Sagat is an excellent punisher. His Tiger Uppercut (HP) is your go-to for punishing jumps and unsafe moves. The Tiger Kneel (HK) is invaluable for punishing opponents who block high for too long. Learning your opponent’s unsafe moves and having the correct punish ready is crucial. Even small punishes can add up, and landing a full combo off a punish can be devastating.
Pressure and Mix-ups
While Sagat excels at zoning, he is also dangerous up close. Use his command normals like Tiger Burst and Tiger Catapult to apply pressure. Mix in Tiger Driver to catch opponents who are blocking too much. The Knee Strike can also be used to close distance and begin offensive sequences. Once you have your opponent in the corner, your pressure becomes even more potent.
Combo Routes
Experiment with different combo routes to maximize damage. Basic combos might involve linking Tiger Shots into Tiger Uppercuts or using Tiger Catapult into Tiger Assault. Advanced players will explore more complex sequences that utilize drive impacts, drive cancels, and other game mechanics to extend combos for massive damage. Always practice your combos in training mode to ensure consistency.
Understanding Frame Data
While this guide provides the commands, understanding the frame data associated with each move is essential for high-level play. Knowing which moves are safe on block, which have more hit stun, and which have priority will allow you to make optimal decisions in real-time. This knowledge is gained through experience and dedicated practice.
Conclusion: Dominate as the Emperor
Sagat in Street Fighter 6 is a character who rewards patience, precision, and a strong understanding of space control. His comprehensive command list offers a wide array of tools for players to master, from his iconic Tiger Shots to his devastating Super Arts. By diligently studying and practicing each of these moves, you can develop a playstyle that is both unyielding and overwhelming.
At Gaming News, we are committed to providing you with the most accurate and in-depth guides to help you conquer the fighting game landscape. This complete command list for Sagat is designed to be your ultimate resource. Embrace the power of the Emperor, refine your techniques, and let the world know the true meaning of Muay Thai dominance. Your journey to mastering Sagat begins now.