Counter Mode

Counter Mode is a reoccurring mechanic in The King of Fighters series.

Description
The fighter strikes a pose, and then flashes yellow for the duration of Counter Mode. The Special Meter Gauge slowly depletes during this time, indicating how long Counter Mode will last. This power-up costs 3 stocks of the Power Gauge in order to be used. At MAX power, press ++ at a time to wage to activate Counter Mode. The red timer gauge lasts for about 15 seconds.

While Counter Mode is active:
 * The damage output of Command and Special Moves increases.
 * Can execute the fighter's Super Special Moves indefinitely.
 * Can perform Guard Cancels and Guard Escapes infinitely.
 * Move names in red are cancellable into Super Special Moves.
 * If life is flashing red, MAX Super Special Moves are unavailable.
 * (2000 only) Light normals inflict much more hitstun, comparable to heavy normals
 * This allows new combos and even infinites for some characters.

The Power Gauge is unusable shortly after Counter Mode ends.

Appearances

 * The King of Fighters '99
 * The King of Fighters 2000

Similar Mechanics

 * Armor Mode
 * MAX Mode
 * Advance Mode
 * Extra Mode
 * Critical Counter
 * Hyperdrive Mode