Return to Strategy
The complete flood of bullets in these games can be overwhelming at first. Here are some tips to help you get better at dodging them.
Basic
Learn the hitboxes
Danmaku games specialize in using visual distraction to confuse the player. The main component for this is the hitbox, which is almost always smaller than the actual sprite. This applies to both your character and the bullets. Experience will show you just how close you can get to a bullet without fear.
Thankfully, the later games have introduced a picture to show the character's hitbox, so the guessing of the earlier games is less prominent.
(We need pictures)
Use the whole screen
There is a tendency for new players to hug the bottom of the screen to try and get as much response time as possible. The problem with this is that you restrict yourself to only one dimension, left and right. Many advanced patterns require the use of the second dimension to successfully escape, and the only way you'll figure these out is if you are comfortable with the idea of using the whole screen.
The POC helps erase this tendency, but you should still make an effort to stay off the bottom during bosses.
Intermediate
Streaming
Streaming is the principle of controlling bullets. The majority of the enemy shots are aimed directly at you. To take advantage of this, move as little as possible so that you have a general idea of where the bullets will go. The most common method is to move left or right, although up and down streaming does exist. Some cards where streaming is essential include Sakuya's, Yuyuko's, and Kaguya's.
Advanced
Memorization
Sadly, this is a necessary skill to get good at all games. While there is enough randomization to keep it interesting, learning the general flow of the patterns is essential for success, particularly in the Extra stages.
Expand your visual range
Don't focus on just your character and the boss marker on the bottom. Try to look at a greater area, so you can read more bullets and try to determine their paths. With enough practice, you should be able to interpret the bullets around you and figure out the best way to move.
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