Tier 1: Weak / Average (Beginner Level)

This tier is the best starting point for beginners. The goal is to create a working character that can fight normally without being completely overpowered or broken. Tier 1 cheapies are usually simple edits that still feel fair to play against.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Tier 1 Cheapie

1. Choose a Base
   Start with a simple existing character such as Kung Fu Man or any small, stable template.
2. Duplicate the Folder
   Copy the entire character folder and rename it to your new cheapie’s name.
3. Replace or Edit Sprites
   Open the sprites in Fighter Factory Studio or GIMP/Paint.NET and replace them with your desired images or edits.
4. Edit the .def File
   Open the .def file with Notepad++ and update the name and author.
5. Simplify Defense (Hit By Controllers)
   Overpowered cheapies are usually fully invincible. To keep your character average, limit their invincibility.
   Locate the [State -1, Hit By] or [State -1, Not Hit By] blocks and allow standard attacks to connect. Make them only invulnerable during specific frames instead of the entire match.
6. Implement a Basic AI
   Instead of instant reactions, program a simple AI with delay.
   In the .cmd file, use AILevel triggers so the AI only activates when AILevel > 0. Give it realistic reaction time so it occasionally drops combos.
7. Adjust Attack Damage
   Open the .cns file and reduce the damage values of moves to normal standards (e.g. normal punch = 10-20 damage, heavy special = 50-80 damage).
8. Add a Pseudo-Changestate (Optional Defensive Gimmick)
   Add a trigger that forces the character to exit hit states quickly if hit too many times in the air. This prevents infinite combos while staying fair.
9. Test Your Cheapie
   Load it in MUGEN or IKEMEN and test against Kung Fu Man and other normal characters.

Examples of Tier 1 Cheapies

• Homer Simpson (JudgeSpear's Cheap Edit) — A classic early gag cheapie with simple automated defenses but basic AI and predictable attacks.
• Annoying Orange (A487561's version) — Uses a tiny frustrating hitbox, but has low attack power and simple AI, making it beatable with projectiles.

Note

Characters in this tier also represent the standard baseline for "boss" characters. They usually have high health pools, rapidly regenerating super meters, and aggressive AI, but do not use engine exploits or instant-kills. A skilled human player or strong normal AI can still defeat them in a fair fight.

Common Tier 1 Cheapie Styles

• Simple sprite swaps or edits
• Meme / joke characters
• Dark or edgy original concepts
• Experimental characters

Tips for Tier 1

• Focus on finishing a working character first
• Don’t worry about balance or complexity yet
• Always credit the original base if you used someone else’s work
• Test thoroughly — make sure it doesn’t crash

Once your Tier 1 cheapie loads and works properly, you’re ready to move on to Tier 2: Strong / Evil.

— DJB Staff