Slash Elbow

The Slash Elbow is one of Alex's special attacks, introduced in the Street Fighter III series.

Input

All appearances	+

Description

Executed by charging backward, then pressing forward and kick, Alex rushes forward towards his opponent and swings his elbow at them.

Tactics

This move is a solid combo ender. It can absorb any single-hit projectiles, giving Alex a tool against zoners. The startup, distance traveled, and damage output is determined by the strength of the kick button pressed. In addition, the move's properties change, depending which the strength of the kick button.

The Light version has the fastest startup. However, it travels the shortest distance and inflicts the least amount of damage. Unlike the other versions, the Light version does not lead to a knockdown on hit. If Alex hits his opponent with this version, he'll be +3, allowing him to maintain offensive pressure and keeping his opponent on their heels with frame traps and command throws. The Light version is also the safest on block at -4. While this is unsafe in many situations, this move pushes the opponent back a bit further than other special attacks, making it harder for them to counterattack.

The Medium version has a slower startup, compared to the Light version. However, it deals more damage and travels about 2/3 of the screen. Alex can link his Heavy Punch into this version. Unlike the Light version, the Medium version does lead to a knockdown. Similar to the other versions, it is unsafe on block. If Alex properly spaces this move, he can still be safe, even on block, due to the amount of pushback the move has.

The Heavy version deals more damage than the Light and Medium version. It also travels the entire screen, making it one of Alex's longest reaching poke. However, it has the slowest startup, making it easy for his opponent to read and intercept the attack. Similar to the Medium version, the Heavy version leads to a knockdown. The only difference is that the Heavy version has excellent juggle potential on hit. Serving as an excellent combo extender, Alex can link his Heavy Slash Elbow into EX Flash Chop or EX Air Knee Smash in the corner.

The EX version has the fastest startup. It also hits his opponent twice and deals more damage than the other versions. In addition, Alex can negate two-hit projectiles with this version. The EX version also grants Alex two hits of armor, allowing him to absorb his opponent's attacks, while pressuring them with damage and position at the same time.

Sprites

Gallery

Alex's Light, Medium, Heavy, and EX Slash Elbow.

Trivia

• The move is likely inspired by the Elbow Smash, where the wrestler performs a punching motion, but tucks their hand towards the chest so that thee elbow and forearm make contact with the opponent. This is a very common attack in professional wrestling, since striking with a clenched fist is illegal in most matches.