Skullgirls 2nd Encore is a gorgeous, fast-paced 2D fighter set in a unique Dark Deco world. You'll take control of 14 distinct characters, each with their own intricate gameplay mechanics and vibrant personalities, battling through story modes, mastering controls, and diving into advanced strategies. Whether you're a casual player drawn to the fully voiced stories and stunning animation by Michiru Yamane, or a hardcore competitor looking for balanced, cross-platform multiplayer, this anime-inspired fighter has something for you.
This guide will help you navigate the intricate combat and unlock the secrets of New Diwali. We'll cover every character, mode, and technique, providing the comprehensive knowledge you need to succeed across all major platforms. Get ready to master the fundamentals and push your skills to the limit.
Getting Started
Your essential guide to starting Skullgirls 2nd Encore. Learn about new features, modes like Trials and Survival, and how to begin your journey in this enhanced fighting game.
Getting Started
Your essential guide to starting Skullgirls 2nd Encore. Learn about new features, modes like Trials and Survival, and how to begin your journey in this enhanced fighting game.





Basic Controls & Movement — Skullgirls 2nd Encore Guide
Learn the essential controls and movement mechanics for Skullgirls 2nd Encore. Master your character's abilities and dominate the battlefield with this comprehensive guide.
This guide covers the basic controls and movement options available in Skullgirls 2nd Encore. Understanding these fundamentals is crucial for mastering the game's complex fighting mechanics and executing effective strategies.
| Action | Default Button (PS4/Vita) | Default Button (Xbox) | Default Button (Switch) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Move Left | Left Stick / D-Pad Left | Left Stick / D-Pad Left | Left Stick / D-Pad Left |
| Move Right | Left Stick / D-Pad Right | Left Stick / D-Pad Right | Left Stick / D-Pad Right |
| Crouch | Left Stick / D-Pad Down | Left Stick / D-Pad Down | Left Stick / D-Pad Down |
| Jump | Left Stick / D-Pad Up | Left Stick / D-Pad Up | Left Stick / D-Pad Up |
| Light Punch | Square | X | Y |
| Medium Punch | Triangle | Y | X |
| Heavy Punch | Circle | B | A |
| Light Kick | X | A | B |
| Medium Kick | R1 | RB | R |
| Heavy Kick | R2 | RT | ZR |
| Block | L1 / L2 | LB / LT | L / ZL |
| Assist 1 | L2 | LT | ZL |
| Assist 2 | R2 | RT | ZR |
| Dash Forward | Double Tap Right | Double Tap Right | Double Tap Right |
| Dash Backward | Double Tap Left | Double Tap Left | Double Tap Left |
| Jump Cancel | While in air, press Jump | While in air, press Jump | While in air, press Jump |
| Throw | Medium Punch + Medium Kick | Y + B | X + A |
| Taunt | Select Button | View Button | - |
Note: Button configurations can be customized in the game's options menu.
Chapter 1: The Awakening
Master Chapter 1: The Awakening in Skullgirls 2nd Encore with our comprehensive guide. Learn strategies, tips, and unlock all secrets to conquer the early challenges.
- 1Begin your journey in Chapter 1: The Awakening.
- 2Familiarize yourself with the basic controls and mechanics introduced in this chapter.
- 3Engage with the initial set of opponents, learning their attack patterns and weaknesses.
- 4Progress through the story, understanding the narrative as it unfolds.
- 5Conclude Chapter 1 to unlock subsequent chapters and new characters.
- Master the tutorial to grasp fundamental combat techniques.
- Experiment with different characters to find a playstyle that suits you.
- Utilize blocking and evasion effectively to survive enemy onslaughts.
- Learn to perform basic combos to maximize damage output.
- Pay attention to the story elements to understand character motivations and the game's lore.
User Interface (UI) Overview — Skullgirls 2nd Encore Guide
Explore the User Interface (UI) of Skullgirls 2nd Encore. Learn about its new features, modes like Challenges, Trials, and Survival, and the fully voiced story mode.
Skullgirls 2nd Encore is an enhanced version of the original Skullgirls Encore, released for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita in 2015, with subsequent releases on PC, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox platforms. This version includes all DLC characters and stages, "All Play" multiplayer lobbies, and an extensive art gallery.
- Fully Voiced Story Mode: All 15 story modes are fully voice-acted in both English and Japanese, a feature exclusive to 2nd Encore.
- Challenges: Compete in battles with unique conditions against AI opponents.
- Trials: Master combos with a new button-by-button instructional system, including basic to advanced lessons.
- Survival Mode: Battle an endless stream of foes, with health recovery between rounds and increasing difficulty.
- Full Platinum Trophy Set: A new set of 43 trophies to earn across various gameplay modes.
- Online Cross-Play: Play with users across PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation Vita.
- PlayStation 3 Peripheral Support: Compatible with PS3 fightsticks on the PS4 version.
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