The matrix defines how the main attack types interact with guard states and zone reads.
- Start from the base TN interaction between the attack and defense.
- Apply the correct, adjacent, or opposed read result.
- Track hit and miss momentum shifts for attacker and defender.
- Note special effects like ripostes and forced withdrawals.
- Basic Guard rewards correct reads.
- Full Guard broadens protection but costs more momentum.
- Parry and Riposte can punish misses with immediate damage.
- Sidestep trades defense for positional reset.
- Wide Open represents the absence of prepared defense.