<section begin="image"/>[[File:kof98_mai_win.png|right|thumb|200px|EX Mai is an alternate version of Mai, adapting her moveset from '''Real Bout Fatal Fury 2: The Newcomers''' into KOF's gameplay style.]]<section end="image"/>
<br clear=all>
'''Notation'''
'''Notation'''
Line 58:
Line 62:
Hana Arashi - [[image:qcf.gif]][[image:qcf.gif]] + [[image:a.gif]] / [[image:c.gif]]
Hana Arashi - [[image:qcf.gif]][[image:qcf.gif]] + [[image:a.gif]] / [[image:c.gif]]
== Gameplay Overview ==
== Introduction ==
EX Mai is a poking and zoning character, giving the player a more offensive and movement-oriented variant of Mai's toolkit. Using tools such as her two divekicks (including one with two follow-ups upon landing), signature command jump, a slide and a backdash that can be enhanced with her j.2A command normal, EX Mai can move around the screen at an extreme rate to wear down the opponent's mental stack and their health bar, while still having a plethora of tools to run mixups, pressure, and zoning. Alongside this, she also has some tricky execution for her strongest combos while still having routes that are possible with less execution. Overall, this makes EX Mai an amazing pick for all levels of play, whether you want to irritate the opponent with incredible keepout or overwhelm the opponent with fantastic movement and solid pressure.
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
Line 70:
Line 75:
'''Mai has a more well-rounded and relatively safer toolkit, including a DP.'''<br>
'''Mai has a more well-rounded and relatively safer toolkit, including a DP.'''<br>
|
|
'''EX Mai's toolkit is a mix between safe keepaway tools and risky offensive tools.'''<br>
'''EX Mai's toolkit is a mix between safe keepaway tools and explosive offensive tools.'''<br>
|-
|-
! '''Combo differences'''
! '''Combo differences'''
Line 86:
Line 91:
! '''Preferred System Mechanics'''
! '''Preferred System Mechanics'''
|
|
'''Mai necessitates both Extra and Attack Cancel Dodge to shine. Her zoning gameplan gives her many opportunities to charge her meter, but she needs red health to gain the most reward from these mechanics.'''
'''Mai necessitates both Extra and Attack Cancel Dodge to shine. Her zoning gameplan gives her many opportunities to charge her meter, but she needs red health to gain the most reward from these mechanics. Advanced can still work for regular Mai as an anchor, as she has a 5 bar touch-of-death combo on big-body characters. However, this is highly specific.'''
|
|
'''EX Mai is generally similar to regular Mai in the fact she is optimal with Extra and Attack Cancel Dodge, alongside the same opportunities to charge meter. However, her super routes are much better in and out of red health, often giving her very solid damage and a hard knockdown.'''
'''EX Mai is generally similar to regular Mai in the fact she is optimal with Extra and Attack Cancel Dodge, alongside the same opportunities to charge meter. However, her super routes are much better in and out of red health, often giving her very solid damage and a hard knockdown.'''
|-
|-
|}
|}
== Gameplay Overview ==
{{StrengthsAndWeaknesses
{{StrengthsAndWeaknesses
| intro = '''''EX Mai is a hybrid poking / zoning character with multiple movement options and fantastic keepout, alongside some decent offensive tools.'''''
| intro = '''''EX Mai is a poking character with multiple movement options and fantastic keepout, alongside some decent offensive tools. Compared to regular Mai, she has a movelist geared more towards offensive play.'''''
| pros=
| pros=
* '''Solid Movement''': EX Mai has some of the most interesting movement options in the game, including her signature command jump and two divekicks alongside a fast ground speed.
* '''Solid Movement''': EX Mai has some of the most interesting movement options in the game, including her signature command jump and two divekicks alongside a fast ground speed.
* '''Strong Zoning''': Using a combination of her Kachousen fireballs and Ryuuenbu special, EX Mai can easily control space and keep the opponent out while remaining relatively safe.
* '''Safety''': Using her good frame data and clever spacing, EX Mai can easily switch between a zoning heavy gameplan and an offensive gameplan while remaining very safe.
* '''High Reward with Extra Gauge''': Using Quick MAX and Dodge Cancel combos, EX Mai's payoffs for using the meter she can easily charge are very rewarding, often giving her very high damage and a hard knockdown.
* '''High Reward''': Using Quick MAX and Dodge Cancel combos, EX Mai's payoffs for using the meter she can easily charge are very rewarding, often giving her very high damage and a hard knockdown.
* '''Small Frame''': EX Mai's standing hurtbox is among the shortest in the game, meaning some specific combos / moves can whiff on her even while standing.
* '''Small Frame''': EX Mai's standing hurtbox is among the shortest in the game, meaning some specific combos / moves can whiff on her even while standing, such as EX Terry's 214D.
| cons=
| cons=
* '''Weak Mixups''': While the reward for a successful mixup is high, EX Mai struggles to confirm from crouching lights, resulting in a diminished low threat alongside an already rather slow overhead.
* '''Slow Offence''': While EX Mai does have a plethora of options to mix the opponent up, they can often be slow. Her standing overhead has 28 frames of startup and her jump is quite floaty, meaning she requires a lot of conditioning to open the opponent up.
* '''Reversal has weaknesses''': EX Mai's only reversal, Kagerou no Mai, is weak to spacing, very unsafe, and is tied to a charge input. This can also harm her anti-air game, as she cannot anti-air against crossups without this charge.
* '''Reversal has weaknesses''': EX Mai's only reversal, Kagerou no Mai, is weak to spacing, very unsafe, and is tied to a charge input. This can also harm her anti-air game, as she cannot anti-air against crossups without this charge.
* '''Unsafe Offence''': Due to most of her offensive tools being very negative on block, EX Mai has to take major risks when on the offensive, and can get punished severely with a single mistake.
* '''Floaty Jump''': EX Mai's floaty jump arc has multiple weaknesses. First, it is easier to react to when used offensively, meaning good anti-airs can deny her the ability to utilise her divekicks and crossup. Second, this can result in accidentally jumping over the opponent without crossing them up, which could spell disaster.
}}
}}
== Changes to Previous Versions ==
===System Mechanics===
'''Run VS Step'''
* EX Mai does best with Run, as this gives her access to run pressure up-close, more versatile movement in general and an easier time setting up an offence due to the ability to run alongside an A Kachousen (236P). Also, she moves quite quickly anyway, meaning your movement will still be very strong and microwalk combos from Quick MAX are still very possible.
* EX Mai is also a very good pick for step dash, as this gives her amazing movement speed on the ground. This is also helped by the fact she has access to both her divekicks during a step, most importantly Genei Shiranui (j.236K) and followups, giving EX Mai access to a very long ranged overhead that will be made safe if spaced well.
'''Roll VS Dodge'''
* Dodge gives EX Mai access to all of her options alongside the natural benefits of dodge, meaning there's zero drawbacks.
* If you use Roll, you lose access to dodge cancels, and therefore lose an integral part of EX Mai's main appeal. Don't.
'''Advanced VS Extra'''
* Unlike with regular Mai, who has use for Advanced, EX Mai is easily best with Extra as there is so many benefits from simply having Quick MAX available. She can also charge meter effortlessly, so that will be no issue.
* Advanced has no Quick MAX, and neither does it have any benefit from instant SDM. Raw MAX can be useful, but isn't worth it.
'''Team Position'''
* EX Mai is completely flexible, being able to adapt to playing at any point in the match. A good point, a good mid, and a good anchor due to the massive amount of versatility granted through Extra gauge.
== Changes from Previous Versions ==
'''98 to 98UM'''
'''98 to 98UM'''
Line 210:
Line 241:
'''Koukaku no Mai:''' <code>3B</code>
'''Koukaku no Mai:''' <code>3B</code>
* A sliding kick that hits twice. The first hit can be dodge cancelled for a combo.
* A sliding kick that hits twice.
* Does not low-profile moves.
* The second hit causes a soft knockdown.
* Not cancelable, even if cancelled into.
* The first hit can be dodge cancelled with meter for a combo.
* Both hits are low even if cancelled into.
* Neither hit is special cancelable, even when cancelled into.
* The second hit causes a soft knockdown.
* Both hits are low, even when cancelled into.
'''Kurotsubame no Mai:''' <code>6B</code>
'''Kurotsubame no Mai:''' <code>6B</code>
* A long forwards-hopping kick. Hits overhead.
* A long overhead hopkick.
* Long startup, but is plus on block.
* Has a lengthy startup, but is plus on block.
* On hit, you can link a 2C afterwards for a combo if you're close enough.
* On hit, you can link 2C afterwards dependent on spacing.
* Can be used as a nice frametrap when canceled into.
* Cancelling into this move can enhance damage with Quick MAX or create a frametrap during pressure.
* Despite the speed, it is one of EX Mai's strongest mixup tools because of it's reward on hit
* Despite the speed, it is one of EX Mai's strongest mixup tools because of it's reward on hit, especially with Quick MAX.
'''Daiwa Fuusha no Mai:''' <code>j.2A</code>
'''Daiwa Fuusha no Mai:''' <code>j.2A</code>
* A downwards hammerfist, similar to Kyo's j.2C. Has quite small range, but deals a lot of hitstun and blockstun, so it can be used as a combo starter as well as for pressure.
* A downwards hammerfist, similar to Kyo's j.2C. Has short range, but has a lot of hit/block stun, making it usable for pressure and combos.
* When used during a backdash, it makes the backdash go faster and further. The earlier you do j.2A, the further the backdash will go.
* Naturally combos into j.214P on hit, and is a true blockstring when blocked.
* Causes a hard knockdown on aerial hit.
* When used during a backdash, it makes the backdash go faster and further. The earlier you do j.2A, the further the backdash will go. This is incredibly useful for controlling the pace of the round.
* Causes a hard knockdown if it hits an aerial opponent.
== Special Moves ==
== Special Moves ==
Line 244:
Line 277:
'''Kachousen:''' <code>236A/C</code>
'''Kachousen:''' <code>236A/C</code>
* EX Mai chucks a fan as a projectile. Both versions travel fullscreen, but the A version travels slower than the C version.
* EX Mai throws a fan as a fullscreen projectile. The A version travels slowly, while the C version travels quickly.
* One of the key tools in EX Mai's long-range zoning game, as the A version recovers fast enough for EX Mai to react to the opponent's reaction to the fireball.
* A key tool for EX Mai, as it gives her a fullscreen presence.
* Not great to use at midrange, as the opponent can easily jump or hop over it for a punish, and at that range you have 214P, which covers a similar space but with less recovery.
* The A version recovers quick enough for you to react to your opponent trying to deal with it, or to cover an approach.
* Has less use midrange, due to it being hoppable and therefore very punishable. 214P is often the better tool at midrange as it covers more space and has much, much less recovery.
'''Sayo Chidori:''' <code>214B/D</code>
'''Sayo Chidori:''' <code>214B/D</code>
* A big arching swipe with her fan.
* An arching swipe with her fan.
* B version starts up faster than the D version, but has a little bit less range.
* B version starts up faster than the D version, but has less range.
* Can be used as a mixup alongside 214P, as it will catch people trying to jump over that move.
* Covers some of the aerial space that 214P does not, making it a very useful defensive tool.
* Unsafe on block.
* Unsafe on block, but can be cancelled into 214P to make it safe.
* Cancelable into 214P on contact, which makes it a good close combo ender.
* Cancelable into 214P on hit or block, which makes it a good close combo ender.
'''Ryuuenbu:''' <code>214A/C</code>
'''Ryuuenbu:''' <code>214A/C</code>
Line 266:
Line 301:
* EX Mai produces a flame strike with the tail of her dress.
* EX Mai produces a flame strike with the tail of her dress.
* Has a projectile hitbox, giving it amazing priority as the entire flame doesn't have a hurtbox. It's essentially a big fiery shield in front of EX Mai.
* Has a projectile hitbox, which essentially means it's a huge disjointed hitbox in front of EX Mai, that also nullifies projectiles.
* One of Ex Mai's go-to anti-airs for jumps from further away.
* One of EX Mai's go-to anti-airs for jumps from further away, as well as hops.
* It also works great as a safe pressure tool, as the opponent can't really contest it head-on and its large hitbox and generous amount of active frames make it good to catch hops, ill-timed jumps, and roll recovery frames.
* It can be used as a spaced pressure tool, as it is very hard to contest on the ground and can easily punish escape attempts such as hops or rolls.
* Causes a soft knockdown on hit and is safe on block.
* Causes a soft knockdown on hit.
* A version hits once and combos from heavies, C version has a second non-projectile hit that allows it to combo from lights.
* Both versions are safe on block.
* This move is really good, so use it a lot.
* The A version is only the projectile hitbox, while the C version has a second normal hitbox that allows it to combo from lights.
'''Musasabi no Mai:''' <code>[2]8A/C (can be held)</code>
'''Musasabi no Mai:''' <code>[2]8A/C (can be held)</code>
Line 291:
Line 326:
* This does the followup from [2]8P by itself from anywhere in the air, giving EX Mai a pretty standard divekick. This can be a good move to use, since it changes your jump arc and can beat out the opponent's air-to-airs. If spaced well, can be made fairly safe on block.
* This does the followup from [2]8P by itself from anywhere in the air, giving EX Mai a pretty standard divekick. This can be a good move to use, since it changes your jump arc and can beat out the opponent's air-to-airs. If spaced well, can be made fairly safe on block.
* Naturally combos from j.2A, and frametraps from her cancelable jumping buttons.
* EX Mai does a cartwheeling kick that carries her forward.
* EX Mai does a cartwheeling kick that pushes her forward.
* Mostly good as a combo ender, since it's very unsafe on block and thus is risky to throw out in neutral. However, it can technically function as an anti-air.
* Mostly good as a combo ender, since it's very unsafe on block and thus is risky to throw out in neutral. However, it can technically function as an anti-air.
* Causes a soft knockdown.
* Causes a soft knockdown.
* Very good corner carry, learning to confirm into this move is very useful.
'''Genei Shiranui:''' <code>236B/D (in air)</code>
'''Genei Shiranui:''' <code>236B/D (in air)</code>
* EX Mai rolls up into a spinning ball in midair and descends diagonally. Her other divekick.
* EX Mai descends diagonally from the air. Identical to Andy's divekick.
* Unsafe on block if done without a followup.
* Unsafe on block if done without a followup.
* Can be used for some crossup shenanigans by jumping over the opponent and doing it.
* Can be used for some crossup shenanigans by jumping over the opponent and doing it.
* Both followups autocorrect if EX Mai switches sides.
:* This followup to j.236K does a mid-hitting forwards strike with the fan.
:* EX Mai performs a mid-hitting fan strike.
:* Combos from j.236K and creates a true blockstring on block if done right away.
:* Combos from j.236K and creates a true blockstring on block if done right away.
:* Fairly safe when properly spaced.
:* Safe when properly spaced.
:* Causes soft knockdown.
:* Causes soft knockdown.
Line 324:
Line 365:
:* Hits overhead.
:* Hits overhead.
:* Leaves you open to reversals.
:* Can be used as a frametrap due to the gap.
:* The big problem with this followup is that it's less safe than her other one, and since that one hits mid, there's actually no mixup from this. The opponent can always stand block the whole thing, regardless of followup.
:* Despite being an overhead, there is little mixup, as the other followup is a mid.
:* Causes a soft knockdown.
:* Causes a soft knockdown.
:* Doing this followup after doing j.236K from a backdash or Extra step dash allows you to perform a very fast overhead. Can also be done using a Tiger Knee input for j.236K.
'''Kagerou no Mai:''' <code>[2]8B/D</code>
'''Kagerou no Mai:''' <code>[2]8B/D</code>
* EX Mai creates a projection of herself out of fire that then travels around her a bit.
* EX Mai creates two fire afterimages that travel from side-to-side. Functionally identical to a flash kick.
* EX Mai's meterless reversal.
* EX Mai's go-to meterless anti-air and reversal choice.
* Highly punishable if it does not hit.
* Punishable on block or whiff.
* Very useful for anti-airing jumps that go past the angle of 214P and 214K, making it very good for stopping cross-ups.
* Has invincibility throughout startup and the entire first hit.
* Has invincibility throughout startup and the entire first hit.
* EX Mai does cartwheeling kick similar to her 41236K, but this one is more fiery and travels diagonally upwards.
* EX Mai does an enhanced version of her 41236K.
* B version travels upwards directly, and D version travels forward for 2 hits before shooting upwards.
* B version travels upwards directly, and D version travels forward for 2 hits and then upwards.
* B version makes for a good metered anti-air and reversal.
* B version makes for a good metered anti-air.
* D version is better for combos.
* D version is good for combo-ing into.
* Has startup invincibility, making it her metered reversal.
* Has startup invincibility.
* Very unsafe on block.
* Causes a soft knockdown.
* Causes a soft knockdown.
Line 360:
Line 407:
'''Hana Arashi:''' <code>236236A/C (can be held)</code>
'''Hana Arashi:''' <code>236236A/C (can be held)</code>
* A forwards-rushing move that flies straight upwards on contact or when you choose to.
* EX Mai performs multiple rising strikes with her fans.
* If you push and hold the button she'll charge forward and you can release at will before you hit the opponent; if you don't hold & charge, she'll go straight up like a DP.
* A good combo DM, since it causes a hard knockdown, which gives you more time to set up oki.
* Has startup invincibility.
== Combos ==
'''General Notes:'''
===Meterless===
''Low''
: <code>2B, 5A, (214K), 214C</code>
: Most damaging meterless combo from a low starter. The 214K, 214C has to be done fast or the last 214C will whiff. You can choose to just do the 214C for more consistency at the cost of a small amount of damage.
''Mid/Jump-In''
: <code>(j.X), 2C, (214K), 214C</code>
: 214C is the most consistent ender for your combos. 214K, 214C can be used point-blank.
: <code>(j.X), 2C, 41236D</code>
: More damaging than the above combo, but much more unsafe if not confirmed.
''Overhead''
: <code>6B, 2C, 214C</code>
: Link combo after hitting the overhead fairly close.
===With Meter===
''Low''
: <code>2B, 5A, 2141236D</code>
''Mid/Jump-In''
: <code>(j.X), 2C, 2141236D</code>
: Very consistent, because it carries forward before going upwards.
''Overhead''
* Holding the button makes EX Mai travel forward.
: <code>6B, 2C, 2141236D</code>
* Causes a hard knockdown, making it useful for combos.
''Dodge Cancel''
* Has startup invincibility, but isn't a true reversal.
: <code>3B, AB, A/B/C/D, 41236D/2141236D</code>
* Very unsafe on block.
: Slide conversion with Extra mode or Ultimate mode with dodge.
== Strategy & Tips ==
* After ending a combo with this super, you can safely charge a full Extra gauge bar by backdashing with j.2A.
== Videos ==
== Videos ==
{{#ev:youtube|yDXo4lk1gSQ|||'''King of Fighters 98 UMFE: Mai / EX Mai Quick MAX Combos ''' by [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEOjSH3T-KHHA4Ym-VLh0NQ surabu!] (Note: Most combos are shown being done by regular Mai, but will work exactly the same with EX Mai)|frame}}
{{#ev:youtube|yDXo4lk1gSQ|||'''King of Fighters 98 UMFE: Mai / EX Mai Quick MAX Combos ''' by [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEOjSH3T-KHHA4Ym-VLh0NQ surabu!] (Note: Most combos are shown being done by regular Mai, but will work exactly the same with EX Mai)|frame}}
== External Links ==
== Navigation ==
{{CharNavbox_98FE}}
{{Navbox 98UMFE}}
{{Navbox 98UMFE}}
[[Category:The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match Final Edition]]
[[Category:The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match Final Edition]]
EX Mai is an alternate version of Mai, adapting her moveset from Real Bout Fatal Fury 2: The Newcomers into KOF's gameplay style.
Notation
- Light Punch
- Light Kick
- Heavy Punch
- Heavy Kick
Throws
Shiranui Gorin - (close) / +
Fuusha Kuzushi - (close) / +
Yume Zakura - / / + (Midair Only)
Command Normals
Koukaku no Mai - +
Kurotsubame no Mai - +
Daiwa Fuusha no Mai - + (Midair Only)
Special Moves
Kachousen - + /
Sayo Chidori - + /
Ryuuenbu - + /
Musasabi no Mai - ~ + /
Musasabi no Mai (Air) - + / (Midair Only)
Hissatsu Shinobi Bachi - + /
Genei Shiranui - + / (Midair Only)
┗ Genei Shiranui Shimo Agito - /
┗ Genei Shiranui Uwa Agito - /
Kagerou no Mai - ~ + /
Desperation Moves
Chou Hissatsu Shinobibachi - + /
Hana Arashi - + /
Introduction
EX Mai is a poking and zoning character, giving the player a more offensive and movement-oriented variant of Mai's toolkit. Using tools such as her two divekicks (including one with two follow-ups upon landing), signature command jump, a slide and a backdash that can be enhanced with her j.2A command normal, EX Mai can move around the screen at an extreme rate to wear down the opponent's mental stack and their health bar, while still having a plethora of tools to run mixups, pressure, and zoning. Alongside this, she also has some tricky execution for her strongest combos while still having routes that are possible with less execution. Overall, this makes EX Mai an amazing pick for all levels of play, whether you want to irritate the opponent with incredible keepout or overwhelm the opponent with fantastic movement and solid pressure.
Mai
EX Mai
Mai vs EX Mai - Character Comparison
Gameplan differences
Mai has a more well-rounded and relatively safer toolkit, including a DP.
EX Mai's toolkit is a mix between safe keepaway tools and explosive offensive tools.
Combo differences
Mai has high damage using Quick MAX and Dodge Cancel, but requires red health to do solid damage.
EX Mai has even higher damage than Mai using the same mechanics, with less of a requirement for red health. Her most damaging routes also give her a hard knockdown, allowing her to charge more meter or run strong okizeme.
Neutral
Both versions of Mai have extremely similar neutral presences. However, regular Mai has access to a DP for her reversal-style anti-air.
EX Mai has more movement options due to being granted regular Andy's divekick (Genei Shiranui, j.236K), and her reversal-style anti-air is more akin to a flash kick.
Preferred System Mechanics
Mai necessitates both Extra and Attack Cancel Dodge to shine. Her zoning gameplan gives her many opportunities to charge her meter, but she needs red health to gain the most reward from these mechanics. Advanced can still work for regular Mai as an anchor, as she has a 5 bar touch-of-death combo on big-body characters. However, this is highly specific.
EX Mai is generally similar to regular Mai in the fact she is optimal with Extra and Attack Cancel Dodge, alongside the same opportunities to charge meter. However, her super routes are much better in and out of red health, often giving her very solid damage and a hard knockdown.
Gameplay Overview
EX Mai is a poking character with multiple movement options and fantastic keepout, alongside some decent offensive tools. Compared to regular Mai, she has a movelist geared more towards offensive play.
Pros
Cons
Solid Movement: EX Mai has some of the most interesting movement options in the game, including her signature command jump and two divekicks alongside a fast ground speed.
Safety: Using her good frame data and clever spacing, EX Mai can easily switch between a zoning heavy gameplan and an offensive gameplan while remaining very safe.
High Reward: Using Quick MAX and Dodge Cancel combos, EX Mai's payoffs for using the meter she can easily charge are very rewarding, often giving her very high damage and a hard knockdown.
Small Frame: EX Mai's standing hurtbox is among the shortest in the game, meaning some specific combos / moves can whiff on her even while standing, such as EX Terry's 214D.
Slow Offence: While EX Mai does have a plethora of options to mix the opponent up, they can often be slow. Her standing overhead has 28 frames of startup and her jump is quite floaty, meaning she requires a lot of conditioning to open the opponent up.
Reversal has weaknesses: EX Mai's only reversal, Kagerou no Mai, is weak to spacing, very unsafe, and is tied to a charge input. This can also harm her anti-air game, as she cannot anti-air against crossups without this charge.
Floaty Jump: EX Mai's floaty jump arc has multiple weaknesses. First, it is easier to react to when used offensively, meaning good anti-airs can deny her the ability to utilise her divekicks and crossup. Second, this can result in accidentally jumping over the opponent without crossing them up, which could spell disaster.
System Mechanics
Run VS Step
EX Mai does best with Run, as this gives her access to run pressure up-close, more versatile movement in general and an easier time setting up an offence due to the ability to run alongside an A Kachousen (236P). Also, she moves quite quickly anyway, meaning your movement will still be very strong and microwalk combos from Quick MAX are still very possible.
EX Mai is also a very good pick for step dash, as this gives her amazing movement speed on the ground. This is also helped by the fact she has access to both her divekicks during a step, most importantly Genei Shiranui (j.236K) and followups, giving EX Mai access to a very long ranged overhead that will be made safe if spaced well.
Roll VS Dodge
Dodge gives EX Mai access to all of her options alongside the natural benefits of dodge, meaning there's zero drawbacks.
If you use Roll, you lose access to dodge cancels, and therefore lose an integral part of EX Mai's main appeal. Don't.
Advanced VS Extra
Unlike with regular Mai, who has use for Advanced, EX Mai is easily best with Extra as there is so many benefits from simply having Quick MAX available. She can also charge meter effortlessly, so that will be no issue.
Advanced has no Quick MAX, and neither does it have any benefit from instant SDM. Raw MAX can be useful, but isn't worth it.
Team Position
EX Mai is completely flexible, being able to adapt to playing at any point in the match. A good point, a good mid, and a good anchor due to the massive amount of versatility granted through Extra gauge.
Changes from Previous Versions
98 to 98UM
Normals:
5B's priority has been reduced
2D's priority has been reduced
Specials:
Kachousen (236P)'s recovery has been shortened
Kagerou no Mai ([2]8K) has been added; series of flame pillars that work well as an anti-air
Genei Shiranui (j.236K) has been added; K and P followups have also been added
Sayo Chidori (214K)'s startup has been reduced, B version can combo from lights and D version can combo from heavies
Supers:
Chou Hissatsu Shinobi Bachi (2141236K) now travels diagonally upwards
Hana Arashi (236236P) can now have its travel distance modified by holding the button
98UM to 98UMFE
Specials:
Kagerou no Mai ([2]8K) now has invincible startup, but less damage and longer recovery as a result.
Normal Moves
Close
cl.A: Fairly standard cl.A. Her best choice when it comes to combos from lights. Chainable and cancelable.
cl.B: Mai's only other cancelable light except for cl.A, and simply a worse choice than it when it comes to combos and cancels. Cancelable.
cl.C: Works well as an anti-air when they're close enough for it to activate. Cancelable.
cl.D: Hits a good vertical portion in front of Mai. Another decent anti-air if they're up close, but it doesn't have as much range as cl.C, so stick to that one for anti-airing purposes. Cancelable.
Standing
5A: Fast poke, but with short reach and bad priority.
5B: Fast and long-ranged. Excellent poke to stop the opponent's hops. Whiffs on all crouchers.
5C: Poke with decent range that can function as an anti-air for hops and occasionally jumps. Can also be used as an occasional poke to try and beat an opponent's button.
5D: Has low invincibility starting from the active frames through half of the recovery frames.
Crouching
2A: Long range and good priority for a 2A, so it works well as a poke; unfortunately, unlike most 2As it's not chainable or cancelable.
2B: EX Mai's only low combo starter and therefore an important tool, but when compared to other 2Bs it is quite slow. Chainable.
2C: EX Mai's main combo normal alongside 2B. It comes out fast, has good range, and has a nice amount of active frames, making it good for meaties. This also makes it a good hit-confirming tool. Cancelable.
2D: It has good range and a nice amount of active frames, making it good for meaties, and is cancelable into 236P or something like [2]8P. Altogether a nice sweep. Cancelable.
Jumping
j.A: Has a nice long hitbox below her, so it can be used as a jump-in, though it is outclassed by j.D for this. Cancelable.
nj.A: A jumping attack, very similar to j.A, but with her fan fully unfolded. Just like with j.A, EX Mai has better options for downwards-hitting attacks than this.
j.B: This move has nice priority, making it useful as an air-to-air. Can also crossup.
nj.B: Has a long hitbox in front of her, but doesn't have good priority, so it's prone to trading or getting beaten as an air-to-air. Therefore, it's best to avoid this move.
j.C: This move comes out fast and has a good hitbox for air-to-airs. On grounded opponents, it has less hitstop than other jumping heavies, making it trickier to combo out of as you need to do the following attack in the combo very quickly. Cancelable.
nj.C: Can hit people above EX Mai, but has no other real uses.
j.D: EX Mai's main jump-in attack of choice, as it is fairly fast and has a good hitbox. It can also be used as an air-to-air when jumping back. Cancelable.
nj.D: Your best air-to-air normal when you happen to be neutral jumping.
Throws
Shiranui Gorin:4/6C (close)
Regular throw, techable. Launches the opponent fullscreen, causing a soft knockdown.
Fuusha Kuzushi:4/6D (close)
Regular throw, techable. Launches the opponent fullscreen behind EX Mai, causing a backturned hard knockdown.
Yume Zakura:4/2/6C (close, in air)
Air throw, not techable. Travels straight down, causing a hard knockdown.
Despite the hard knockdown, there is no time for oki, even in the corner.
By holding a direction that isn't up, you can option select the grab with j.C for air-to-airs.
Command Moves
Koukaku no Mai:3B
A sliding kick that hits twice.
The second hit causes a soft knockdown.
The first hit can be dodge cancelled with meter for a combo.
Neither hit is special cancelable, even when cancelled into.
Both hits are low, even when cancelled into.
Kurotsubame no Mai:6B
A long overhead hopkick.
Has a lengthy startup, but is plus on block.
On hit, you can link 2C afterwards dependent on spacing.
Cancelling into this move can enhance damage with Quick MAX or create a frametrap during pressure.
Despite the speed, it is one of EX Mai's strongest mixup tools because of it's reward on hit, especially with Quick MAX.
Daiwa Fuusha no Mai:j.2A
A downwards hammerfist, similar to Kyo's j.2C. Has short range, but has a lot of hit/block stun, making it usable for pressure and combos.
Naturally combos into j.214P on hit, and is a true blockstring when blocked.
When used during a backdash, it makes the backdash go faster and further. The earlier you do j.2A, the further the backdash will go. This is incredibly useful for controlling the pace of the round.
Causes a hard knockdown if it hits an aerial opponent.
Special Moves
Kachousen:236A/C
EX Mai throws a fan as a fullscreen projectile. The A version travels slowly, while the C version travels quickly.
A key tool for EX Mai, as it gives her a fullscreen presence.
The A version recovers quick enough for you to react to your opponent trying to deal with it, or to cover an approach.
Has less use midrange, due to it being hoppable and therefore very punishable. 214P is often the better tool at midrange as it covers more space and has much, much less recovery.
Sayo Chidori:214B/D
An arching swipe with her fan.
B version starts up faster than the D version, but has less range.
Covers some of the aerial space that 214P does not, making it a very useful defensive tool.
Unsafe on block, but can be cancelled into 214P to make it safe.
Cancelable into 214P on hit or block, which makes it a good close combo ender.
Ryuuenbu:214A/C
EX Mai produces a flame strike with the tail of her dress.
Has a projectile hitbox, which essentially means it's a huge disjointed hitbox in front of EX Mai, that also nullifies projectiles.
One of EX Mai's go-to anti-airs for jumps from further away, as well as hops.
It can be used as a spaced pressure tool, as it is very hard to contest on the ground and can easily punish escape attempts such as hops or rolls.
Causes a soft knockdown on hit.
Both versions are safe on block.
The A version is only the projectile hitbox, while the C version has a second normal hitbox that allows it to combo from lights.
Musasabi no Mai:[2]8A/C (can be held)
EX Mai jumps to the wall at the end of the screen behind her.
When done without the followup, EX Mai simply falls to the ground below the wall. This can be a good occasional escape option if you want to create some distance from the opponent.
If done with the followup by holding the button, EX Mai does a diving attack diagonally downwards. Actually hitting an opponent with this followup can be tricky, as it will most likely miss if they're not committing to some forward movement.
Followup causes a soft knockdown.
Musasabi no Mai (Air):214A/C (in air)
This does the followup from [2]8P by itself from anywhere in the air, giving EX Mai a pretty standard divekick. This can be a good move to use, since it changes your jump arc and can beat out the opponent's air-to-airs. If spaced well, can be made fairly safe on block.
Naturally combos from j.2A, and frametraps from her cancelable jumping buttons.
Hissatsu Shinobi Bachi:41236B/D
EX Mai does a cartwheeling kick that pushes her forward.
Mostly good as a combo ender, since it's very unsafe on block and thus is risky to throw out in neutral. However, it can technically function as an anti-air.
Causes a soft knockdown.
Very good corner carry, learning to confirm into this move is very useful.
Genei Shiranui:236B/D (in air)
EX Mai descends diagonally from the air. Identical to Andy's divekick.
Unsafe on block if done without a followup.
Can be used for some crossup shenanigans by jumping over the opponent and doing it.
Both followups autocorrect if EX Mai switches sides.
Genei Shiranui Shimo Agito:A/C (during j.236K)
EX Mai performs a mid-hitting fan strike.
Combos from j.236K and creates a true blockstring on block if done right away.
Safe when properly spaced.
Causes soft knockdown.
Genei Shiranui Uwa Agito:B/D (during j.236K)
EX Mai does a downwards arching kick from j.236K.
Hits overhead.
Can be used as a frametrap due to the gap.
Despite being an overhead, there is little mixup, as the other followup is a mid.
Causes a soft knockdown.
Doing this followup after doing j.236K from a backdash or Extra step dash allows you to perform a very fast overhead. Can also be done using a Tiger Knee input for j.236K.
Kagerou no Mai:[2]8B/D
EX Mai creates two fire afterimages that travel from side-to-side. Functionally identical to a flash kick.
EX Mai's meterless reversal.
Highly punishable if it does not hit.
Very useful for anti-airing jumps that go past the angle of 214P and 214K, making it very good for stopping cross-ups.
Has invincibility throughout startup and the entire first hit.
Causes a soft knockdown.
Desperation Moves
Chou Hissatsu Shinobi Bachi:2141236B/D
EX Mai does an enhanced version of her 41236K.
B version travels upwards directly, and D version travels forward for 2 hits before shooting upwards.
B version makes for a good metered anti-air and reversal.
D version is better for combos.
Has startup invincibility, making it her metered reversal.
Very unsafe on block.
Causes a soft knockdown.
Hana Arashi:236236A/C (can be held)
EX Mai performs multiple rising strikes with her fans.
Holding the button makes EX Mai travel forward.
Causes a hard knockdown, making it useful for combos.
Has startup invincibility, but isn't a true reversal.
Very unsafe on block.
After ending a combo with this super, you can safely charge a full Extra gauge bar by backdashing with j.2A.
King of Fighters 98 UMFE: Mai / EX Mai Quick MAX Combos by surabu! (Note: Most combos are shown being done by regular Mai, but will work exactly the same with EX Mai)
- Light Punch
- Light Kick
- Heavy Punch
- Heavy Kick
/ 
+ 
/ 
+ 
+ 
+ 
+ 
+ 
/ 
/ 
