kobayan
#15
Zangief
Tier
A
All stats are based on performance in tournaments recorded within the last 12 months.
Current Performance Snapshot
Character Performance Viability
42.21
Character Momentum Score
1
Tournament Popularity
43
Performance Floor
63.89
T3R
10.24
Avg. Player FGPI
18.8
Tournament Specialization
17.06
Top Region
Asia
Character Overview
A command grab specialist who enforces fear through spacing control and immense reward per hit.
Zangief corners opponents using Drive Rush armor, SPD threat, and high stun potential. One mistake can end the round.
Key Strengths
- Reward: Highest damage from single reads.
- Durability: Takes punishment and still wins.
- Pressure: Corner vortex with command grabs.
Key Weaknesses
- Mobility: Slow approach and jump arc.
- Zoning: Loses to strong projectile play.
- Whiff Risk: SPD misses are highly punishable.
Counter-Strategy
Keep him outside his Drive Rush range and deny his forward movement with low pokes. If cornered, spend meter to escape rather than gambling on a command grab read. When you knock him down, use meaty strikes or throws to beat his Lariat and backdash options.