GGACR Tier List (March 2026): Ultimate Character Rankings

Updated by Rudra Sethi
November 2, 2025
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If you’re looking to dominate the competitive scene in Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus R, you’ve come to the right place. As someone who’s spent countless hours analyzing the meta and studying tournament footage, I’m excited to share the most comprehensive GGACR tier list available. This guide will break down every character’s strengths, weaknesses, and competitive viability to help you make informed decisions about your main or secondary characters.

What Makes GGACR Special?

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus R represents the pinnacle of the classic Guilty Gear XX series, featuring refined mechanics, balanced gameplay, and a dedicated competitive community that’s still thriving in 2026. Unlike modern fighting games, GGACR maintains the fast-paced, technical gameplay that made the series famous while offering incredible character diversity and strategic depth.

Game Aspect	GGACR Features	Competitive Impact
Release Year	2012 (Arcade), 2015 (Steam)	Established meta with proven balance
Character Roster	25 playable characters + EX versions	Huge variety in playstyles
Gameplay Speed	Extremely fast	High skill ceiling, rewarding execution
Mechanics	Roman Cancels, Faultless Defense, Instant Kills	Deep strategic options
Community	Active tournaments, Discord servers, online play	Thriving competitive scene

Complete GGACR Tier List Rankings (2026)

After analyzing data from multiple sources including EventHubs community voting, Dustloop Wiki expert opinions, and tournament results, I’ve compiled the definitive GGACR tier list. These rankings reflect character performance at high-level play, considering matchup spreads, tournament results, and community consensus.

S-Tier: The Meta Definers

These characters consistently dominate tournaments and have favorable matchups against most of the cast. If you’re looking to win, these are your best bets.

1. Zappa (Score: 134.4)

Why S-Tier: Zappa’s unpredictable summon mechanics and insane pressure make him terrifying to face. His ghost summons can control space effectively, while his Raoh install turns him into a monster.
Key Strengths: Unpredictable playstyle, high damage, excellent okizeme
Main Weaknesses: Reliant on summons, can be inconsistent
Best Matchups: Potemkin (6.5), Kliff (6.4), ABA (6.3)
Tournament Presence: Extremely high in Japanese and American tournaments

2. Faust (Score: 127.7)

Why S-Tier: Faust’s item toss game and incredible pokes make him a zoning nightmare. His ability to control space and frustrate opponents is unmatched.
Key Strengths: Excellent zoning, unpredictable items, great pokes
Main Weaknesses: Can be overwhelmed by rushdown, weak up-close
Best Matchups: Most characters struggle with his zoning
Tournament Presence: Consistent top 8 finishes worldwide

3. Dizzy (Score: 127.6)

Why S-Tier: Dizzy’s fish and bubble control create oppressive pressure that’s difficult to escape. Her screen control and damage output are exceptional.
Key Strengths: Amazing screen control, high damage, great pressure
Main Weaknesses: Low health, can be vulnerable to rushdown
Best Matchups: Potemkin (6.2), Kliff (6.1)
Tournament Presence: Strong representation in competitive play

4. Millia (Score: 126.4)

Why S-Tier: Millia’s incredible mixup potential and okizeme game make her a threat from any position. Her ability to convert off any hit is unmatched.
Key Strengths: Best okizeme in the game, high mobility, great mixups
Main Weaknesses: Low health, requires high execution
Best Matchups: Most cast when she gets knockdown
Tournament Presence: Very popular among top players

A-Tier: Tournament Viable

These characters are solid choices that can win tournaments with the right player. They have some challenging matchups but are generally well-rounded.

5. Testament (Score: 125.2)

Why A-Tier: Testament’s trap-based gameplay and excellent neutral game make him a formidable opponent. His ability to control space and punish mistakes is top-tier.
Key Strengths: Great neutral, excellent traps, good damage
Main Weaknesses: Can be predictable, struggles with certain matchups
Best Matchups: Potemkin (6.0)
Tournament Presence: Regular tournament appearances

6. Eddie (Score: 124.1)

Why A-Tier: Eddie’s shadow mechanics create incredible pressure and mixup potential. His ability to lock opponents down is exceptional.
Key Strengths: Amazing pressure, great mixups, good damage
Main Weaknesses: Shadow can be killed, inconsistent without shadow
Best Matchups: Testament and other setup characters
Tournament Presence: Strong in the right hands

7. Jam (Score: 122.9)

Why A-Tier: Jam’s rushdown and damage output are among the best in the game. Her ability to convert and pressure is outstanding.
Key Strengths: Excellent rushdown, high damage, good mobility
Main Weaknesses: Can struggle with zoning, requires good execution
Best Matchups: Axl (6.2)
Tournament Presence: Popular among aggressive players

8. I-No (Score: 122.7)

Why A-Tier: I-No’s mixup potential and mobility make her a constant threat. Her ability to approach from multiple angles is excellent.
Key Strengths: Great mobility, excellent mixups, good damage
Main Weaknesses: Can be fragile, struggles with defensive play
Best Matchups: Most characters when she gets in
Tournament Presence: Regular tournament showings

9. Baiken (Score: 122.6)

Why A-Tier: Baiken’s defensive capabilities and counter-based gameplay make her unique. Her ability to turn defense into offense is unmatched.
Key Strengths: Excellent defense, good counters, solid damage
Main Weaknesses: Can be passive, predictable approach
Best Matchups: Characters with obvious approaches
Tournament Presence: Niche but effective

10. Venom (Score: 121.7)

Why A-Tier: Venom’s ball formations and zoning capabilities make him a strategic mastermind. His ability to control space is exceptional.
Key Strengths: Excellent zoning, great setplay, good damage
Main Weaknesses: Weak up close, requires setup time
Best Matchups: Characters who struggle with projectiles
Tournament Presence: Technical players’ favorite

B-Tier: Solid Mid-Tier

These characters are viable but have more pronounced weaknesses or challenging matchups. They can still perform well with dedicated players.

11. Chipp (Score: 121.5)

Why B-Tier: Chipp’s speed and mixup potential are incredible, but his low health makes him fragile. High risk, high reward character.
Key Strengths: Fastest character, great mixups, high mobility
Main Weaknesses: Lowest health, can be burst down quickly
Best Matchups: Slower characters
Tournament Presence: Occasional tournament success

12. Axl (Score: 120.7)

Why B-Tier: Axl’s long-range pokes and zoning are excellent, but he struggles up close. Great at controlling space but vulnerable to rushdown.
Key Strengths: Excellent range, great pokes, good zoning
Main Weaknesses: Weak up close, slow movement
Best Matchups: I-No (6.2)
Tournament Presence: Solid but not dominant

13. Sol Badguy (Score: 119.4)

Why B-Tier: Sol’s straightforward rushdown and high damage make him accessible, but he lacks the tools of higher-tier characters.
Key Strengths: Simple but effective, high damage, good rushdown
Main Weaknesses: Predictable, limited options
Best Matchups: ABA (6.2)
Tournament Presence: Popular but not top-tier

14. Slayer (Score: 119.2)

Why B-Tier: Slayer’s command grab game and high damage are excellent, but his neutral can be challenging.
Key Strengths: Great command grabs, high damage, good mobility
Main Weaknesses: Challenging neutral, can be zoned out
Best Matchups: Characters who can’t deal with grabs
Tournament Presence: Niche but effective

15. Ky Kiske (Score: 119.2)

Why B-Tier: Ky’s well-rounded toolkit makes him solid but not exceptional. Good at everything but great at nothing.
Key Strengths: Well-rounded, good projectiles, solid pressure
Main Weaknesses: Lacks exceptional tools, can be outclassed
Best Matchups: Most characters evenly
Tournament Presence: Consistent but not dominant

C-Tier: Challenging but Viable

These characters have significant weaknesses but can still win with the right player and matchup.

16. May (Score: 118.4)

Why C-Tier: May’s dolphin-based mobility and damage are good, but her large hurtbox and limited approach options hold her back.
Key Strengths: Good damage, unique mobility, solid pressure
Main Weaknesses: Large hurtbox, limited approach options
Best Matchups: Characters who can’t deal with dolphins
Tournament Presence: Rare but possible

17. Order-Sol (Score: 117.2)

Why C-Tier: Order-Sol’s charge mechanics and high damage are interesting, but his gameplay can be predictable.
Key Strengths: High damage, good charge mechanics
Main Weaknesses: Predictable gameplay, limited options
Best Matchups: Characters who can’t deal with pressure
Tournament Presence: Very rare

18. Bridget (Score: 116.2)

Why C-Tier: Bridget’s yo-yo setplay and zoning are unique, but his damage output and consistency are lacking.
Key Strengths: Unique setplay, good zoning, tricky movement
Main Weaknesses: Low damage, inconsistent, can be gimmicky
Best Matchups: Characters who struggle with projectiles
Tournament Presence: Extremely rare

19. Anji (Score: 116.2)

Why C-Tier: Anji’s autoguard and rushdown are interesting, but his neutral game and consistency are weak.
Key Strengths: Good autoguard, solid rushdown, unique mechanics
Main Weaknesses: Weak neutral, inconsistent, can be predictable
Best Matchups: Characters with obvious approaches
Tournament Presence: Very rare

20. Robo-Ky (Score: 115.8)

Why C-Tier: Robo-Ky’s unique mechanics and zoning are interesting, but his gameplay is often seen as gimmicky.
Key Strengths: Unique mechanics, good zoning, tricky gameplay
Main Weaknesses: Gimmicky, can be inconsistent, low damage
Best Matchups: Characters unfamiliar with the matchup
Tournament Presence: Extremely rare

21. Johnny (Score: 115.8)

Why C-Tier: Johnny’s coin-based gameplay and high damage are good, but his neutral game and approach are weak.
Key Strengths: High damage, good coin mechanics, solid pressure
Main Weaknesses: Weak neutral, limited approach options
Best Matchups: Characters who can’t deal with coins
Tournament Presence: Very rare

D-Tier: Significant Weaknesses

These characters have major flaws that make them challenging to use at high levels of play.

22. Potemkin (Score: 113.1)

Why D-Tier: Potemkin’s slow movement and limited approach options make him struggle against most of the cast, despite his high damage.
Key Strengths: High damage, good command grabs, solid defense
Main Weaknesses: Extremely slow, limited approach, bad matchups
Best Matchups: Very few favorable matchups
Tournament Presence: Almost non-existent

23. Justice (Score: 112.9)

Why D-Tier: Justice’s large size and slow movement make her an easy target, despite her good projectiles and damage.
Key Strengths: Good projectiles, high damage, solid range
Main Weaknesses: Large hurtbox, slow movement, bad matchups
Best Matchups: Zappa (6.2)
Tournament Presence: Extremely rare

24. ABA (Score: 112.1)

Why D-Tier: ABA’s morph mechanics and high damage are interesting, but her gameplay is often inconsistent and predictable.
Key Strengths: High damage, unique morph mechanics, good pressure
Main Weaknesses: Inconsistent, predictable, bad matchups
Best Matchups: Very few favorable matchups
Tournament Presence: Almost non-existent

25. Kliff (Score: 107.2)

Why D-Tier: Kliff’s large hurtbox and limited options make him the weakest character in the game, despite his high damage potential.
Key Strengths: Very high damage, good range, solid pressure
Main Weaknesses: Largest hurtbox, limited options, terrible matchups
Best Matchups: Almost none
Tournament Presence: Virtually non-existent

Tier List Methodology and Criteria

Creating an accurate tier list for GGACR requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Here’s how I arrived at these rankings:

Data Sources Used

EventHubs Community Voting: 490-558 votes per character with matchup data
Dustloop Wiki Expert Analysis: Opinions from top players like Klaige, Quash, Teresa
Tournament Results: Analysis of recent competitive play
Japanese Arcade Data: Historical winrate data from Japanese arcades
Community Consensus: General agreement across multiple sources

Ranking Criteria

Matchup Spreads: How characters perform against the entire cast
Tournament Results: Actual performance in competitive play
Character Tools: Availability of strong moves and mechanics
Consistency: Reliability across different matchups and situations
Skill Ceiling: Maximum potential in the hands of top players
Community Perception: General consensus among experienced players

Why Tier Lists Matter (And When They Don’t)

Tier lists are valuable tools for understanding the competitive landscape, but they’re not absolute. Here’s my take on when to trust tier lists and when to ignore them:

When Tier Lists Are Useful:

Learning which characters are strong in the current meta
Understanding matchup spreads and counter-picks
Deciding which character to main for competitive play
Identifying which characters might need buffs/nerfs

When Tier Lists Don’t Matter:

You’re playing casually with friends
You have a personal connection to a character
You’re playing at low/mid skill levels
You’re more interested in fun than winning

2026 Pro Strategies for Each Tier

S-Tier Character Strategies

Zappa Master Tips:

Learn summon management – knowing which ghost to call and when
Practice Raoh confirm routes for maximum damage
Use unpredictability to your advantage – mix up approaches
Master the “ghost okizeme” for unblockable setups

Faust Pro Techniques:

Control space with item tosses – learn item properties
Use pokes to keep opponents at optimal distance
Master the “item okizeme” for tricky wakeup situations
Learn anti-air options to deal with approaches

Dizzy Advanced Play:

Master fish and bubble formations for screen control
Learn conversion routes off any hit
Use mobility to control space effectively
Practice defensive options since Dizzy is fragile

A-Tier Optimization

Testament Tournament Play:

Master trap placement and activation timing
Learn optimal punish routes for maximum damage
Use neutral game effectively to control space
Practice defensive options since Testament can be rushed down

Eddie High-Level Play:

Learn shadow management and preservation
Master unblockable setups with shadow
Practice conversion routes for consistent damage
Use shadow to control space effectively

Mid-Tier Character Development

Making B-Tier Characters Work:

Focus on character-specific strengths
Learn matchups thoroughly
Develop unique playstyles that exploit opponent weaknesses
Master execution to maximize damage output

2026 Community Resources and Learning Tools

Official and Community Sources

Dustloop Wiki: Comprehensive frame data and character guides
Discord Servers: Active communities for matchmaking and discussion
Reddit r/Guiltygear: General discussion and strategy sharing
EventHubs: Tier lists and matchup data
YouTube Channels: Tutorial content and match footage

Learning Path for New Players

Start with the basics: Learn fundamental fighting game mechanics
Choose your main: Pick a character that fits your playstyle
Study frame data: Understand your character’s options
Practice execution: Master combos and confirms
Play matches: Get real experience against opponents
Analyze your play: Review matches and identify improvements
Join the community: Learn from experienced players

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Beginner Errors

Mashing buttons: Focus on deliberate inputs and spacing
Ignoring defense: Learn blocking and defensive options
Overcommitting: Don’t throw out unsafe moves recklessly
Not learning matchups: Understand how to fight each character

Intermediate Mistakes

Poor resource management: Misusing tension, burst, and other resources
Predictable play: Mixing up approaches and options
Bad neutral game: Not controlling space effectively
Inconsistent execution: Dropping combos and confirms

Advanced Player Pitfalls

Overthinking: Sometimes simple is better
Character loyalty: Sticking with a character that doesn’t fit the meta
Mental blocks: Getting tilted or frustrated during matches
Stagnation: Not continuing to learn and adapt

Future of GGACR Competitive Scene

Current Meta Trends

Zappa dominance: His unpredictable playstyle continues to win tournaments
Rise of zoning: Characters like Faust and Venom are seeing more success
Defensive play: Players are focusing more on solid defense and punishes
Character diversity: More characters are seeing tournament success than ever

Potential Balance Changes

While GGACR is a mature game with established balance, the community still discusses potential changes:

Bottom tier buffs: Characters like Kliff and ABA could use improvements
Top tier nerfs: Some argue Zappa and Faust are too strong
System mechanic tweaks: Minor adjustments to universal mechanics
EX character legalization: Discussion about allowing EX characters in tournaments

Long-term Viability

GGACR continues to thrive in 2026 due to:

Steam rollback netcode: Excellent online play
Active community: Dedicated player base worldwide
Tournament support: Regular events and competitions
Timeless gameplay: Mechanics that remain engaging and deep

FAQ: Common GGACR Tier List Questions

What makes a character S-tier in GGACR?

S-tier characters in GGACR typically have exceptional tools that allow them to control matches effectively. They usually have strong neutral games, high damage output, good matchup spreads, and options that work in most situations. Characters like Zappa, Faust, and Dizzy excel because they can control space, convert off any hit, and have favorable matchups against most of the cast.

Is GGACR balanced compared to modern fighting games?

GGACR is actually quite well-balanced for its age, especially compared to many modern fighting games. While there are clear tier separations, every character is technically viable at high levels of play. The game has been refined over many years, and the +R version specifically addressed many balance issues. The tier gaps are smaller than in many contemporary fighters.

How often do GGACR tier lists change?

GGACR tier lists are relatively stable because the game is mature and no longer receives balance patches. However, tier lists can evolve as players discover new tech, develop new strategies, and as the meta shifts. Major tournament results can also influence tier list perceptions, but changes are usually gradual rather than dramatic.

Should I pick a top-tier character to win?

While top-tier characters like Zappa and Faust give you the best tools to win, character comfort and personal skill matter more than tier placement. A player who masters a mid-tier character will almost always beat someone who picks a top-tier character without putting in the work. Choose a character that fits your playstyle and commit to learning them deeply.

What’s the difference between GGACR and other Guilty Gear games?

GGACR is the final version of the XX series, featuring faster gameplay, more mechanics, and better balance than earlier versions. Compared to modern Guilty Gear games like Strive, GGACR is much faster, more technical, and has more complex mechanics. It’s considered the pinnacle of classic Guilty Gear gameplay before the series evolved into its modern form.

How important are matchups in GGACR?

Matchups are very important in GGACR, with some matchups being extremely lopsided (6-4 or worse). Understanding matchups is crucial for competitive play, as it helps you know which strategies work against which characters. However, player skill and matchup knowledge can often overcome tier list disadvantages.

Can low-tier characters win tournaments in GGACR?

While it’s extremely rare, low-tier characters can win tournaments in GGACR in the right circumstances. This usually requires a combination of exceptional player skill, favorable matchups, opponents being unfamiliar with the character, and some luck. However, for consistent tournament success, higher-tier characters are generally recommended.

What resources are best for learning GGACR?

The best resources for learning GGACR include Dustloop Wiki for frame data and character guides, Discord servers for matchmaking and discussion, YouTube channels for tutorials and match footage, and EventHubs for tier lists and matchup data. Playing regularly and analyzing your own matches is also crucial for improvement.

Conclusion: Finding Your Place in GGACR

GGACR remains one of the most deep and rewarding fighting games ever created, even in 2026. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting your fighting game journey, there’s a character and playstyle for you in this classic title.

Remember that tier lists are tools, not rules. The most important factor in your success will be your dedication to learning and improving. Pick a character that resonates with you, put in the practice time, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies.

The GGACR community is welcoming and always eager to help new players improve. Join the Discord servers, participate in online tournaments, and most importantly, have fun with this incredible game.

Ready to climb the ranks? Bookmark this guide for regular updates, and check out our other fighting game content including our Guilty Gear Strive tier list and best fighting games of all time lists. The world of Guilty Gear awaits – see you in the arena!