The Ultimate Guide to Dominating Manon In Street Fighter 6

Manon is a fierce Power-Type fighter, specializing in mid-range combat with a Judo-inspired moveset. She joins the roster of Street Fighter 6 as one of the seven new characters, bringing the total number of mid-rangers to 12. What sets Manon apart from the rest is her unique Medal Level system, granting her a permanent buff after executing each special throw.

While this system elevates her gameplay and adds an element of surprise to her combos, it may prove challenging for novice Street Fighter 6 players attempting to master Manon. Fear not, as this guide offers comprehensive move lists, effective combos, and valuable insights into her fighting style, allowing players to fully grasp the intricacies of Manon's archetype.

Manon’s Medal Levels, Explained

Whenever Manon executes a Renversé or Manège Doré Command Grab that brings down her opponent, she earns one Medal point, which contributes towards her ongoing grapple buff. The Medal ability can reach a maximum of five points, increasing her grapple damage to an impressive 2960 per throw, surpassing even powerful grapplers like Zangief. It's important to note that the Medal Levels don't reset between rounds and last until the end of the match, but only Renversé and Manège Doré throws will earn players Medal points.

Manon Strategies

Manon, a judoka, uses a variety of techniques to break through her enemy's guard and engage in close-range combat. She employs checking moves with her lights and mediums to poke, lure, and position herself for a throw. However, this approach also puts her at risk of taking punishment. To enhance her grappling skills, Manon focuses on buffing her throws by leveling up her Medal, which is the icon displayed under her Vitality Bar.

Prioritize Command Grabs in the First Round

To maximize her Medal, Manon must utilize Command Grabs. One effective technique is to execute her Special Move, Manège Doré, in order to secure at least five knockdowns during the initial round. This will ensure that the Medal's effect carries over to the second round, significantly increasing the damage dealt by her grappling skills by up to 30%.

A Command Grab is a grappling move executed via a special input, not the one performed with the Throw button.

Mix Highs and Lows When Checking

When playing as Manon, it is essential to incorporate the two main principles of Judo - Kata and Randori - into your playstyle and strategy. Kata encompasses Manon's non-Special combos, including her light, medium, and heavy attacks, while Randori involves utilizing unpredictable combos to keep opponents on their toes. To effectively balance Kata and Randori, incorporate a mix of high kicks and punches with their low counterparts. Utilizing feints whenever possible will also keep your opponent guessing. Manon's Down Special, a fake spin, can be particularly useful as a primary feint in your gameplay.

Keep the Fight Mid-Range

Manon's mid-range game is greatly aided by her long legs, which allow her to maintain a safe distance from her opponents while still being able to strike effectively. She is skilled at creating the illusion of distance and then suddenly lunging forward when her opponent least expects it. To ensure that she maintains the desired space, Manon must constantly check her opponent's movements.

Manon’s Move List

Manon's moveset in Street Fighter 6 is not as extensive as some of the other characters, with only 16 Uncommon Moves available. However, she does have six Unique Attacks, five Special Moves, three Special Arts, and two Throws. Despite the limited number of moves, her permanent Medal Level buff helps to make up for this.

Best Combos for Manon

Manon can execute her combos in a strategic order for maximum effectiveness. Firstly, she checks her opponent by using light and medium attacks to identify any openings. This is followed by breaking her opponent's defense with a knockback kick, allowing her to start a combo. Finally, she finishes off her opponent with a grappling technique, using throwing to secure her victory. Remember, the ideal order for Manon's combos is check, break, and throw.

Beginner Combo: Drive Impact + Révérence + Renversé

Retaining her Drive Gauge may be advantageous for Manon, but it is crucial for her to secure Throws, particularly when facing defensive adversaries. To accomplish this, she executes a Drive Impact that shatters blocks, followed by a forceful punch that propels the opponent into the air and concludes with a knockdown that earns a Medal point.

Intermediate Combo: Medium Punch + Cancel Drive Rush + Révérence + Renversé + Pas de Deux

This combination strikes a balance with a strategic order of moves, beginning with a check move, followed by armor-breaking techniques, and ending with a series of grapples. However, it should be noted that the initial half of the combo leaves one vulnerable to punishment, making it imperative to execute precise leg and punch checks beforehand.

Advanced Combo: Medium Punch + OD Dégagé + Medium Punch + Rond-Point

The Dégagé into Rond-Point is a strategic maneuver used to regain control of the ring. This combination packs a punch with its powerful pushback effect, which can quickly trap your opponent in a corner. This leaves them vulnerable to follow-up combos or devastating finisher Special Arts. However, mastering this move requires great timing and skill.

Tips for Winning with Manon

When executing Manon’s combos, it’s important to pay attention to the opponent’s position and adjust accordingly. Manon’s moves can be adapted to hit opponents who are standing, crouching, or in mid-air. Additionally, certain moves can be canceled into other moves for even more combo potential. Mastering these techniques will make Manon a formidable opponent in any match.

Exploit the enemy's vulnerability in the air with Manon's crouching punches to cancel their aerial attacks and deliver a crushing blow that sets up a follow-up combo. Extend your reach and power up your throws by pressing the Drive Gauge button during the grab animation. Use Manon's Down Special, a spinning feint, to evade enemy projectiles and advance on the battlefield. And when you find yourself cornered, unleash Manon's Level 1 Special Art, Arabesque, to escape and turn the tables on your opponent.

How to Counter Manon

To counter Manon's Power-Type archetype and mid-range reach, JP and Dhalsim are the perfect opponents due to their tricky long-range fighting style. They can effectively keep Manon at a distance, disrupt her combos with projectiles, and defeat her with minimal physical combat.

Experienced players can utilize close-range speed archetypes like Juri’s to counter Manon, but it demands quick reflexes and exceptional reading skills. Street Fighter 6 is currently accessible for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X & S.