Why approach fighting games like this?
Having learned a second language, I have found a great appreciation for “‘immersion”. However it is often a misconception that “immersive learning” also requires a preexisting environment.
Immersion can take on many forms. Recently I wanted to learn more about proposed alternatives to our established economy. Reading articles is one way of acquiring information but here are a few others I used as well:
- Summaries of key books (Wealth of Nations, Das Kapital, 101 intros)
- Audio books, Podcasts with modern day Economists
- Essay on forms of oppression through markets
- Essay on the economic collectives, a perspective from Greek philosophers
- School of Life YouTube channel videos John Maynard Keynes
The point is that immersion can be simulated by creating a bunch of different stimuli for the different parts of the brain. You’re an information sponge.
And most importantly the variety keeps it fresh and fun. You’ll notice a myriad of resource types being used.
This doesn’t seem special, it’s just immersion, right?
1. Choose a concept to learn.
Select a new topic or one that you need to work on. Write it at the top of your document.
(whiff-punishes, anti-airs, throw teching, etc…)
2. Teach it to yourself or someone else.
Write everything you know about a topic out as if you were explaining it to yourself.
Alternately, actually teach it to someone else. (notes taken from theoretical principles, mechanics, match reviews, etc…) as a single concept.
3. Return to the source material if you get stuck.
Go back to whatever resource you are using and look for gaps in your knowledge.
It is very important to revisit lessons with newly acquired knowledge to tweak misunderstandings and see your own improvement. I’m on my 3rd re-watch of some videos from James’ First Attack series for example.
4. Simplify your explanations and create analogies.
Streamline your notes and explanation, further clarifying the topic until it seems obvious. Additionally, think of analogies and media that feel intuitive
I tweet bite-sized lessons at #fgc451_termbase and progress at #fgc451_learning
“If I couldn’t reduce it to the freshman level. That means we really don’t understand it.” — Richard Feynman
Bruh, you know about frame-data right?
100%. More “optimized” routes to fighting game knowledge exist but for the new player it isn’t as attainable without the experience.
Beyond the romance of the 90s arcade scene, there was more going on.
The three allies of the old ways
The Constraint Ally
Some may be quick to attribute the skills of a Justin Wong to experience for example. While, it does play a factor (ignoring pun); the “lack of resources” that were available also inspired creativity.
Constraints being an ally to creative thinking isn’t revolutionary but what isn’t discussed so much is the the impact on skill-acquisition.
The Curiosity Ally
With your most active creativity state you need to focus on things that genuinely interest you. Your naturally curiosity is always an ally when seeking knowledge.
It’s important to keep stoking this fire and never let it go out. If that means changing from a topic that you cant figure out or trying out a brand new game or character, that’s fine. Watch some streams, engage with the community, keep being curious at all costs or try something else.
The Depth Ally
The final ally already exists in fighting games and in fact are a main reason that people never stop playing. Depth.
Even from the early days of Street Fighter, the genre has an almost endless amount of depth to provide. This has only grown in years but has managed to outpace ventures and even keeps them learning.
