Tier 2: Strong / Evil (Intermediate Level)

This tier focuses on creating cheapies that are significantly stronger than normal characters. They have good pressure, annoying tools, and unfair advantages, but still don’t rely on major engine exploits.

How to Make a Tier 2 (Strong/Evil) Cheapie

1. Start with a Good Base
   Use a solid mid-tier character or a Tier 1 cheapie you already made as your foundation.
2. Adjust Stats and Hitboxes
   Open the main .cns file and modify the [Data] section:
   life = 9999 (very high health)
   attack = 250 (much higher damage)
   defence = 150 (reduced incoming damage)
   In the .air file, shrink or remove hurtboxes (clsn2) during attack animations to make them harder to hit.
3. Buff the HitDefs (Attacks)
   In your attack states, modify the [HitDef] parameters:
   hitflag = MAF (hits Mid, Air, and Low)
   guardflag = N (unblockable)
   p2stateno = [Attack State Number] (force opponent into hit-stun or looping state)
   p2facing = 1 (force opponent to face the wrong way)
4. Create Aggressive AI
   Open the .cmd file.
   Use AILevel triggers so the AI activates properly.
   Add commands that automatically trigger strong moves and supers when power is available.
   Create helpers that spawn screen-wide hazards to limit the opponent’s movement.
5. Give Infinite Power
   In the -2.cns or -3.cns file (continuous states), add:
   type = PowerAdd
value = 100
trigger1 = 1
   This allows the character to spam powerful moves constantly.
6. Test and Refine
   Test against multiple normal characters. Adjust damage and AI until it feels strong but not completely broken.

Common Tier 2 Cheapie Traits

• Super armor on many moves
• Unblockable or hard-to-block attacks
• Aggressive AI that pressures constantly
• High damage output with fast recovery

Tips for Tier 2

• Focus on making the character feel unfair but still playable
• Balance is less important than fun and strong pressure
• Always credit bases and templates you use
• Test against both human players and strong AI

Once your Tier 2 cheapie feels strong and consistent, you’re ready to move on to Tier 3: Mad / Crazy.

— DJB Staff