Getting hit over and over in Naruto x Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections usually happens for one reason: you do not know how to start an attack safely. For new players, finding a reliable starting Naruto combo is the first step to actually enjoying the game instead of just watching your health bar disappear. A solid opener gives you the damage and chakra meter you need to win rounds, while teaching you how to manage the space between you and your opponent.

What exactly is a starting combo in Storm Connections?

A starting combo is the initial sequence of melee attacks you use to catch an opponent off guard. In Connections, this usually means closing the distance and landing a basic button string that leads into a stronger move or a Ninjutsu attack. The game offers two control schemes: Simple Mode and Normal Mode.

Simple Mode maps an entire auto-combo to a single button tap. While it is fine for your first few hours of playing the story mode, you will hit a wall against human opponents. Normal Mode requires specific directional inputs combined with your attack button, giving you actual control over your melee strings. To understand the default controller inputs, you can review this basic breakdown of fighting mechanics to get comfortable with the buttons.

How do you execute a basic melee string on the controller?

Let us look at Naruto Uzumaki as a practical example. His standard neutral melee string starts with tapping the attack button four times (Circle on PlayStation, B on Xbox). This pushes the enemy back. However, if you hold up on the directional stick while tapping the attack button, you perform a tilt string. This specific variation launches the opponent into the air.

Once you launch them, you have a brief window to use a chakra attack or a special jutsu. If you want to see exactly how to finish these sequences with his signature move, this guide on using the Rasengan as a beginner combo ender explains the exact button timing you need to press.

What common mistakes do beginners make when attacking?

Many players come to this game from older titles. If you are used to the mechanics found in an easy Naruto combo for beginners in older games, you might try to rely heavily on shuriken canceling. Connections changed the pacing, and some older habits do not work as well here.

The biggest mistake new players make is spamming the exact same three-hit string from the same distance. Opponents will simply substitute out of the hitstun and punish you. You need to vary your openers. Throw a projectile first to force them to block, then dash in. Alternatively, dash in with a grab to catch them off guard. Predictability is the fastest way to lose a match.

How can you extend your combos off the ground?

Once you land a hit on the ground, you want to keep the pressure going. Launching an opponent gives you time to deal extra damage before they hit the floor. Learning how to do a beginner air combo is essential because it drains the enemy's substitution bar and prevents them from escaping immediately.

When you are ready to practice, setting up a dedicated training room routine for starting your offense will build your muscle memory much faster than jumping straight into ranked matches. You can also check the official Bandai Namco website for roster updates and patch notes that might change character frame data over time.

Next Steps for the Training Room

Before you play another online match, spend ten minutes in the training mode with the dummy set to "Stand" or "Block Randomly." Run through this checklist to lock in your fundamentals:

  • Test your neutral string: Walk up to the dummy and perform a basic four-hit attack without holding any directions. Watch how far it pushes them back.
  • Practice the launcher: Hold up on the stick and do your attack string. Confirm that the final hit sends the dummy into the air.
  • Add a Ninjutsu: Immediately after the launcher hits, press your chakra button followed by the attack button to cancel the animation into a jutsu.
  • Mix up the approach: Throw a single shuriken, wait a second, and then dash in with a grab. Notice how this breaks the opponent's rhythm.
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