The Two Types of Gamers (Honers vs. Innovators)

Core-A Gaming explores two contrasting player archetypes through the lens of fighting games: Honers refine existing systems and optimize known routes, while Innovators experiment across character selections and uncover new strategic angles. Vice and Makoto serve as case studies for how these mindsets approach labbing and tournament prep differently. The framework applies across all fighting games—understanding which tendency dominates your own practice reveals blindspots in your growth ceiling.