Description
In the fighting games industry, a Grappler is a character archetype known for their prowess in close-quarters combat. Grapplers often have moves that allow them to grab or throw their opponents, dealing substantial damage and often bypassing an opponent's guard. These characters usually have a slower movement speed compared to other archetypes but compensate with high health and powerful attacks. The gameplay strategy for Grapplers revolves around closing the distance between them and their opponent, as their most effective moves require close proximity. They often have command grabs, which are special moves that cannot be blocked, making them a threat even to defensive players. While challenging to master due to their vulnerability at range, Grapplers are highly rewarding for players who excel at predicting and countering their opponent's moves.
Examples
- Zangief from the Street Fighter series: Known for his Spinning Piledriver and other powerful wrestling moves, Zangief is the quintessential Grappler, able to absorb damage and dish out devastating throws.
- King from the Tekken series: A professional wrestler with a lion mask, King combines flashy wrestling techniques with powerful grabs, making him a fan-favorite for those who enjoy close combat.
Additional Information
- Grapplers often have a hard time against characters with strong zoning abilities, as they struggle to close the distance.
- Mastering a Grappler requires excellent timing and a deep understanding of the opponent’s behavior to effectively land grabs and throws.