Option select is one of the trickier fighting game mechanics to learn because the game picks an input to register based on the situation. Here’s how it works, why you should use it, the best way to counter option selects, and the different types.

What are Option Selects?

Part of fighting games is figuring out what to do or which buttons to input in different situations. An option select is when you use two inputs or buttons at the same time to cover multiple outcomes. The game then decides which move your character performs based on what your opponent does. Fortunately for you, the game always chooses the optimal input.

The most common option select example is Street Fighter crouch tech. In SFIV, players press light punch (LP) and light kick (LK) at the same time to throw. To tech the throw, a player needs to press LK + LP at the same time. However, if there’s no throw, the player will light kick.

There are two rules at play made by the developers. One is that you can’t throw from a crouch position. Two is that if a punch and kick of equal strength are thrown at the same time, the kick will take priority. So in this example the options are either tech a throw or get in a light kick, which will back the player up a little bit and potentially allow for an opening. You’re covered whether your opponent attempts to throw you or not.

Option selects require game specific mechanic and character knowledge to execute.

Why should I learn Option Selects?

You should learn option selects to expand your ability to react in any given situation. It goes without saying that they require research, although the advantage is well worth the time, especially against opponents that don’t know what they are or how they work.

What’s the best way to counter an Option Select?

The thing to remember about option select is that it’s only two inputs at once, meaning only one of two outcomes are going to happen.  Once you learn to recognize when an opponent is using an option select, you can avoid using the input they’re looking for to punish accordingly. 

Look for repetitive moves and punishes to help recognize if your opponent is using an option select. If it happens too quickly to seem natural, they might be capitalizing on the mechanic. Research game or character specific option selects to counter some of their tech.

Are there different types of Option Selects?

There are option selects that react to what a player does like the crouch tech example, ones that are more offensive, and others that rely on meter. Learn more about option selects from Sea Leaf Dojo.