Remember: In the multiverse, every frame matters.

often utilizes moves with low recovery to maintain constant pressure, forcing opponents to remain defensive. Conversely, knowing a move is "minus" allows a defender to confidently counter-attack, knowing their opponent is still locked in a recovery animation. Impact on Character Tier Lists

Frame data is the primary factor in determining a character's viability. "Top tier" characters often possess: Fast "Out-of-Shield" options : Moves with minimal startup to escape pressure. Low Whiff Punishment

In fighting games like MultiVersus, "frames" are the smallest unit of time, with the game running at 60 frames per second (1 frame = 1/60th of a second). Frame data breaks every move into three distinct phases:

1. Identify safe moves: Moves with a lot of startup frames or invincibility can be used to safely approach or defend against opponents.
2. Punish opponents: Moves with high recovery frames can be punished with a well-timed counterattack, turning the tables on your opponent.
3. Optimize combos: Understanding the frame data of your character's moves helps you create efficient combos and minimize risk.
4. Improve your defense: By knowing the frame data of your opponent's moves, you can better anticipate and react to their attacks.

Common Misconceptions

• "Low startup means it beats everything." False. Range matters. Iron Giant has slow startup but massive range, beating close-range jabs via "piercing."
• "Frame data never changes." False. Player First Games (PFG) adjusts frame data almost every patch. A move that was +3 frames last month might be -5 frames today. Always check the patch notes.
• *"Lag ruins frame data." True and False. Online lag adds 3-5 frames of delay. While this changes raw numbers, the ranking of speed usually stays the same. A move that is faster offline is usually faster online.