Critical Counter

Critical Counter is a mechanic in The King of Fighters XII.

Description
Critical Counters, as the name implies, are counterattacks use to counter incoming attacks. By pressing the button (or  button for Kim, Clark and Duo Lon) on an opponent's attack, the opponent is instantly stunned in place, allowing the user to perform a free punish on the opponent. This can only happen if the Critical Counter Gauge is full. However, when the Critical Counter Gauge is full, it will slowly decrease, and lowers the opportunity to use whenever you want. Almost all attacks are cancelable while using combos during Critical Counters.

Trivia

 * The Shatter Strike mechanic in The King of Fighters XV has noticeably been compared with Critical Counters due to the similarity in function.