Documented for this version

Which controls does this version use?

Actions

Power Instinct action controls
Joystick LeftJoystick Right
Move left or right
Joystick Up
Jump
Joystick Down
Crouch
Joystick direction away from opponent
Block

Hold away from the opponent.

A
Light punch
B
Heavy punch
C
Light kick
D
Heavy kick

Control notes

  • The original arcade control panel uses a joystick and four attack buttons.

  • Button assignments can vary on individual arcade cabinets.

How it plays

How does Power Instinct play?

Matches take place on a two-dimensional plane. The player moves horizontally, jumps, crouches, blocks, and attacks an opponent whose health must be depleted before the timer expires. A round is won by knockout or by having more remaining health when time runs out.

The arcade ladder consists of successive one-on-one battles. Each fighter has normal attacks, command attacks, throws, and character-specific special techniques. Winning matches advances the player toward the final confrontation, while losing all available rounds ends the game.

Plan your run

What is the best way to play Power Instinct?

Learn the range and recovery of each character's normal attacks before relying on special moves. Blocking and crouching are important because reckless attacks can leave a fighter open.

Use throws when an opponent blocks repeatedly, and punish missed heavy attacks with quick attacks or a throw. In arcade mode, conserve health during early rounds because later opponents can punish unsafe approaches consistently.

Meet the cast

Who are the key characters?

1

Oume Goketsuji

The elderly matriarch of the Gōketsuji family and one of the principal rivals in the succession contest.

2

Otane Goketsuji

Oume's twin sister and a powerful family elder who fights to claim control of the family.

3

Annie Hamilton

A stylish, agile fighter associated with the game's playable roster.

4

Angela Belti

A physically powerful woman who relies on strength and close-range attacks.

5

Keith Wayne

A male fighter with a conventional martial-arts-oriented fighting style.

6

Saizo Hattori

A ninja-themed combatant who uses speed and ninjutsu-inspired attacks.

7

Kinta Kokuin

A young, eccentric fighter whose appearance and techniques reflect the series' comic style.

8

White Buffalo

A large Native American-themed fighter built around power and heavy attacks.

Before you begin

What should you know before playing?

  1. 1

    Use jumping attacks carefully; predictable jumps are easy to counter.

  2. 2

    Heavy attacks cause more damage but are generally slower and riskier.

  3. 3

    Study each opponent's approach pattern before committing to a special move.

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