Stagger

A stagger is a mechanic in Street Fighter X Tekken where the victim staggers in the floor briefly after being hit.

Description
This mechanic is usually (but not always) a side effect of a successful counter hit of some attacks (such as Ibuki's Bonshogeri). However unlike other mechanics this one usually has some extra requirements, such as Boshogeri only staggering crouching counter hits (standing counter hit opponents will not be staggered). Some characters such as Kuma with his Wild Double Slap do not require a counter hit but rather the opponent be crouching. Usually the counter hit activated staggers can yield very positive Frame Data such as Bonshogeri being +29 frames on block while non counter hit variants usually yield less positive advantage on hit.

Tactics
As stumbles have some of the stricter conditions to activate, it is ideal to know the inner mechanics of the attack, such as activation speed, unique properties, and tactics that can help encourage the situation. Players should learn the habbits of their opponents also to maximize their stumble potential. For example Ibuki with her Bonshogeri requires a crouching counter hit, she can throw the opponent on their wakeup to encourage them to Crouch Tech which can be staggered by said attack. If the opponent starts stand teching the Ibuki player can Shimmy to discourage wake up actions and further throw the opponent. It is recommended for players to learn to maximize the damage follow up when a stagger is successfully connected as unlike ground bounces opponents are still considered grounded to the floor thus higher damage ground comboes rather than Juggles can be used.

Most stumbles also allow for enough time for the attacking character to use their launcher for a 100 damage combo starter. This is a good option for low damage characters who have partners who can do more damage off a juggle. Doing this can help against Damage Scaling as the next hit will also do 100% damage. Inversely it is highly advised to not start a followup combo from a stumble with a light attack of any sort as it will hurt the overall max damage that can be done.