Martial Arts
Summary and Analysis |
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A big part of the series is the fighting and the martial
arts techniques that come from that fighting. "Anything-Goes Martial Arts", as well as the other unique and interesting styles
in the series show that, in effect, anything and everything can become a part of the style, and I do mean _everything_.
Takahashi-san,
it seems, has given each of the characters (that have martial-arts skills) a unique style that labels them. Here is
a short breakdown of each characters strengths and weaknesses, and the techniques they use... | | |
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Fighters' Breakdown Listing |
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Generally, fighting styles can be broken down into 5 categories:
Anything-Goes Style refers to the school of martial arts practiced by the Tendos and the Saotomes. Unless otherwise specified, these
are the only two families in the world who practice this style of martial arts, passed down from its originator and
master, Happosai. The Anything-Goes style is one of the most flexible styles of martial arts, able to adapt to any situation
and always open to change or revision. A "Revised" technique can be created almost on the spot, as can any other new
techniques. This lack of structure is its greatest strength (and also, perhaps, its greatest weakness).
Chinese
Martial Artists are those martial artists in the series whose styles originate from China or who trained in China. This
includes the Chinese Amazons, as well as anyone else who received basic training there. Chinese styles vary in method and
name, so it is difficult to pinpoint any generalities in technique.
Freestyle refers to martial arts styles that have been improvised or enhanced from "normal", Karate/Kenpo based moves.
These particular styles use unique objects, methods, and weapons in order to defeat their opponents. This is the most inclusive
category since there are a variety of "improvised" or innovative styles in Ranma 1/2.
Power Players are martial
artists who may or may not use traditional styles - however, their power is potentially immense, usually based on energy or
chi-based attacks. These martial artists are more liable to use their advanced power and stamina to beat their foes rather
than any real finesse or style of attack.
Miscellaneous refers to any other martial artists who don't fit in
the above four categories.
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