Documented for this version

Which controls does this version use?

Actions

Power Instinct 2 action controls
Joystick
Move the fighter and select menu options.
A
Perform a light attack.
B
Perform a stronger attack.
C
Perform another attack or character-specific technique.
D
Perform the remaining attack button function.

Control notes

  • The exact button layout can vary between arcade cabinets and regional versions.

  • Directional inputs and button functions should be confirmed from the cabinet's instruction card.

How it plays

How does Power Instinct 2 play?

Matches are viewed from a side-on perspective and use a traditional one-on-one format. The objective is to deplete the opponent's health before time expires, usually by combining normal attacks, special moves, jumping attacks, throws, and defensive movement.

Arcade mode presents a sequence of computer-controlled opponents, while versus play supports direct matches. Characters differ in speed, reach, special techniques, and transformation-related abilities. Winning rounds advances the player through the tournament until the final encounter.

Plan your run

What is the best way to play Power Instinct 2?

Learn the range and recovery of each character's strongest normal attacks before relying on special moves. Staying close can be effective for grapplers, while faster characters benefit from repeated movement and quick attacks.

Watch the opponent's habits between rounds. Punish missed heavy attacks, use jumping attacks sparingly, and preserve enough health to survive the final exchange. In versus play, practice each character's transformation and special-move timing.

Meet the cast

Who are the key characters?

1

Oume Goketsuji

The elderly matriarch of the Gōketsuji family and one of the series' central rivals.

2

Otane Goketsuji

Oume's sister and rival, whose comic appearance disguises her formidable fighting ability.

3

Annie Hamilton

A stylish fighter who uses acrobatic movement and distinctive special attacks.

4

Keith Wayne

A confident male fighter specializing in direct, athletic combat.

5

Angela Belti

A powerful wrestler-style fighter with strong close-range attacks.

6

Kintaro Kokuin

A young fighter with a distinctive, heavily armored appearance.

7

Saizo Hattori

A ninja-themed combatant who relies on speed and evasive techniques.

8

Clara Hanamura

A magical girl-style fighter associated with the series' playful transformation mechanics.

9

Chinnen Batsu

A martial-arts fighter with a strong emphasis on disciplined close combat.

10

Reiji Oyama

A serious fighter whose techniques contrast with the game's more comedic characters.

Before you begin

What should you know before playing?

  1. 1

    Use training and versus matches to learn each character's attack range.

  2. 2

    Do not assume that the most visually powerful attack is safe when blocked.

  3. 3

    Against computer opponents, bait a missed heavy attack and punish its recovery.

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