Hey guys! Ready to unleash the fiery fury of Akuma in Tekken 7 on your PS4? Akuma, the iconic demon from Street Fighter, brings a unique blend of Tekken's 3D movement and Street Fighter's 2D-style special moves to the game. Mastering Akuma's combos can be challenging but incredibly rewarding. This guide will walk you through some essential combos, tips, and strategies to dominate your opponents with Akuma.

Understanding Akuma's Unique Mechanics

Before diving into the combos, it’s crucial to understand what makes Akuma different from the rest of the Tekken 7 cast. Akuma retains his signature Gou-Hadoken, Zanku Hadoken, Goshoryuken, and Tatsumaki Zankukyaku from the Street Fighter series. These moves are executed with traditional quarter-circle and charge motions, setting him apart from typical Tekken characters who rely on directional inputs combined with attack buttons. Additionally, Akuma has a Rage Art and a Rage Drive, which are powerful moves that can turn the tide of a match when your health is low.

Key Differences and Advantages

• Meter Management: Akuma operates with a meter, similar to Street Fighter characters. This meter enhances certain moves, allowing for devastating combos and pressure.
• Airborne Combos: Akuma excels in juggling opponents. Many of his combos involve launching the opponent into the air and following up with a series of attacks.
• Versatility: Akuma can be played both offensively and defensively, adapting to different play styles and opponents. His fireballs can control space, while his quick attacks can punish aggressive opponents.

Essential Moves to Master

• Gou-Hadoken (Quarter Circle Forward + Punch): A classic fireball that can be used to control space and keep opponents at bay. Mastering the timing and spacing of this move is crucial for Akuma players.
• Zanku Hadoken (In Air, Quarter Circle Forward + Punch): An aerial fireball that can catch opponents off guard and extend combos.
• Goshoryuken (Forward, Down, Down-Forward + Punch): A powerful rising uppercut that launches opponents into the air, setting up further combo opportunities. This move is essential for starting and extending combos.
• Tatsumaki Zankukyaku (Quarter Circle Back + Kick): A spinning kick that can be used to approach opponents quickly or as a combo ender. Understanding the range and timing of this move is key to using it effectively.

Basic Akuma Combos for PS4

Let's start with some fundamental combos that every Akuma player should know. These combos are relatively easy to execute and provide a solid foundation for more advanced techniques. Remember, timing is crucial, so practice these combos until they become second nature. The notations used are standard Tekken notations where:

• 1 = Left Punch
• 2 = Right Punch
• 3 = Left Kick
• 4 = Right Kick
• f = Forward
• b = Back
• d = Down
• u = Up
• qcf = Quarter Circle Forward
• qcb = Quarter Circle Back
• CD = Crouch Dash (f, n, d, df)

Combo 1: Basic Launcher Combo

• f+2 > 1, 2 > qcf+1
• This combo starts with a forward punch to launch the opponent, followed by a quick punch combination, and ends with a Gou-Hadoken. It’s a reliable way to initiate damage and pressure.

Combo 2: Shoryuken Starter

• d/f+2 > 1, 2 > qcf+1
• Begin with a crouching uppercut to launch the opponent, then follow with a jab string and finish with a Gou-Hadoken. This is a variation of the launcher combo, providing an alternative starting point.

Combo 3: Tatsumaki Ender

• f+2 > 1, 2 > qcb+3
• Similar to the first combo, but ends with a Tatsumaki Zankukyaku. This variation can be used to create distance or set up further mix-ups.

Intermediate Combos to Up Your Game

Once you've mastered the basic combos, it's time to move on to more complex sequences that can significantly increase your damage output. These combos often involve utilizing Akuma's meter and require precise timing and execution. Don't get discouraged if you can't pull them off right away; practice makes perfect!

Combo 4: Metered Gou-Hadoken Extension

• f+2 > 1, 2 > qcf+1~f > EX qcf+1
• This combo uses an EX Gou-Hadoken to extend the combo. After the initial Gou-Hadoken, quickly input forward and then the EX Gou-Hadoken command (usually two punch buttons). This requires good timing but adds significant damage.

Combo 5: Aerial Rave

• d/f+2 > 1, 2 > Jump > 2, 1 > qcf+1
• Launch the opponent with a crouching uppercut, follow with a jab string, jump after them, and perform an aerial punch combination before finishing with a Gou-Hadoken. This combo is all about timing your jump and aerial attacks to keep the opponent airborne.

Combo 6: Utilizing the Demon Flip

• f+2 > 1, 2 > d, d/f, f+2+3 > 2, 1 > qcf+1
• This combo incorporates Akuma's Demon Flip. After launching the opponent, perform the Demon Flip motion and follow up with a punch combination and a Gou-Hadoken. The Demon Flip adds a stylish and unpredictable element to your combos.

Advanced Akuma Combo Strategies

To truly master Akuma, you need to understand advanced combo strategies and how to adapt them to different situations. These strategies involve utilizing walls, incorporating rage arts, and understanding frame data to maximize your damage output.

Wall Carry Combos

Walls play a significant role in Tekken 7, and Akuma is no exception. Use wall carry combos to push your opponent towards the wall, where you can unleash devastating wall splat combos.

• f+2 > 1, 2 > qcf+1 (near wall) > Wall Splat > b+2, 1
• This combo pushes the opponent towards the wall with a Gou-Hadoken, causing a wall splat. Follow up with a back punch combination for extra damage.

Rage Art Integration

Akuma's Rage Art is a powerful tool that can deal massive damage. Incorporate it into your combos to finish off opponents or turn the tide of a match.

• d/f+2 > 1, 2 > Rage Art
• Launch the opponent with a crouching uppercut, follow with a jab string, and then activate your Rage Art to finish the combo. This is a simple but effective way to use your Rage Art.

Frame Data Awareness

Understanding frame data is crucial for maximizing your combo potential. Learn which moves are safe on block, which moves can be used to punish opponents, and how to create frame traps to open up your opponent for combos. Websites and apps dedicated to Tekken 7 frame data can be invaluable resources.

Tips and Tricks for Akuma on PS4

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you improve your Akuma gameplay on PS4:

• Practice Mode is Your Friend: Spend time in practice mode to master the execution of combos and experiment with different variations. Record your inputs and play them back to identify areas for improvement.
• Learn Matchups: Understanding how Akuma fares against different characters is essential. Some characters may be more susceptible to certain combos or strategies.
• Mix-Up Your Offense: Don't rely solely on combos. Mix up your offense with throws, pokes, and movement to keep your opponent guessing.
• Stay Calm Under Pressure: Tekken 7 can be a tense game, but it's important to stay calm and focused. Don't panic and make mistakes when you're under pressure.
• Watch Pro Players: Watch videos of professional Tekken 7 players using Akuma. Pay attention to their combo execution, movement, and decision-making.

Mastering Movement with Akuma

Movement is super crucial in Tekken 7, and Akuma is no exception. Effective movement allows you to evade attacks, create space, and set up combos. Here are some movement techniques to master:

• Backdashing: Use backdashes to create distance between you and your opponent. This can be useful for avoiding attacks and setting up fireballs.
• Sidestepping: Sidestepping allows you to evade linear attacks and reposition yourself for a counterattack. Practice sidestepping different attacks to get a feel for the timing.
• Crouch Dashes: Crouch dashes can be used to close the distance quickly and launch into a combo. Mastering the crouch dash is essential for Akuma players.

Customizing Your Akuma on PS4

One of the fun aspects of Tekken 7 is customizing your character's appearance. On the PS4, you can unlock various costumes, accessories, and hairstyles for Akuma. Experiment with different combinations to create a unique look that reflects your personal style. Some customization items can even affect Akuma's gameplay, such as adding effects to his fireballs or changing the appearance of his Rage Art.

Conclusion: Becoming an Akuma Master

Mastering Akuma in Tekken 7 on PS4 takes time, practice, and dedication. By understanding his unique mechanics, mastering essential combos, and implementing advanced strategies, you can unleash the full potential of this iconic character. Don't be afraid to experiment, learn from your mistakes, and have fun along the way. With enough practice, you'll be dominating your opponents and striking fear into the hearts of your rivals. So, grab your controller, fire up your PS4, and start your journey to becoming an Akuma master today! Keep practicing those Gou-Hadokens and Goshoryukens, and you'll be a force to be reckoned with in no time. Good luck, and have fun battling it out in the world of Tekken 7!