TL;DR
- Infinity Stones provide two abilities: Surge (L1/LB) builds meter, Storm (L1+R1/LB+RB) consumes it for powerful effects
- Each stone offers unique tactical advantages – Power Stone extends combos, Reality Stone controls space, Time Stone accelerates meter gain
- Strategic stone selection depends on playstyle: aggressive players favor Power, defensive players prefer Reality, technical players excel with Time
- Master stone activation timing – Storm requires 50% meter minimum and can completely shift momentum in matches
- Advanced techniques include using Stone effects to cover approach, extend combos, and create unpredictable pressure situations
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Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite introduces a revolutionary gameplay mechanic centered around six distinct Infinity Stones, each granting unique tactical capabilities that can dramatically alter match outcomes. These powerful artifacts enable players to customize their strategic approach and create devastating combo opportunities that weren’t previously possible in the series. Understanding how to leverage these stones effectively separates casual players from tournament competitors.
Every Infinity Stone features two distinct abilities: the Infinity Surge and Infinity Storm. The Surge ability activates with a single button press (L1 on PlayStation, LB on Xbox), while the Storm requires simultaneous input of both shoulder buttons (L1+R1 or LB+RB). This dual-function system creates dynamic resource management decisions throughout each match.
The strategic depth comes from managing your Infinity Meter – Surge attacks gradually build this resource, while Storm abilities consume the entire meter for dramatically enhanced effects. For example, the Power Stone’s Surge creates a knockback effect ideal for combo extension, while its Storm supercharges all attacks with additional knockback properties and damage amplification.
Critical Insight: Many players mistakenly activate Storm abilities too early. The optimal strategy involves building meter to at least 75% before committing to a Storm, ensuring you have sufficient resources to capitalize on the powerful effects. Storm activation requires a minimum of 50% meter, but waiting for higher percentages often yields better returns on your investment.
Selecting the right Infinity Stone for your playstyle and team composition is crucial for competitive success. Each stone caters to different strategic approaches and synergizes uniquely with various character combinations.
Power Stone: Ideal for aggressive, combo-focused players. Its Surge creates immediate space and enables extended pressure sequences, while the Storm transforms your entire offense into a relentless pushing machine. Advanced technique: Use Power Surge during blockstrings to create frame advantage for continued pressure.
Reality Stone: Excellent for zoning and control-oriented strategies. The Surge projects a slow-moving energy field that controls horizontal space, while the Storm creates multiple projectiles that fill the screen. Pro tip: Activate Reality Storm when your opponent is in the corner to create inescapable pressure situations.
Time Stone: Perfect for technical players who master multiple Hyper Combo levels. Its rapid meter regeneration enables frequent Super usage, creating overwhelming offensive cycles. Expert strategy: Chain Time Stone activations between character swaps to maintain constant meter advantage.
Selection Matrix: Choose Power Stone if you favor rushdown and close-quarters combat. Select Reality Stone for keepaway and projectile-based strategies. Opt for Time Stone when your gameplan revolves around frequent Super usage and meter-dependent tactics.
Many intermediate players struggle with stone selection consistency. Rather than frequently switching stones, master one that complements your main team’s strengths. Consistency with a single stone often yields better results than constantly adapting to new mechanics.
Beyond basic stone functions, high-level play involves sophisticated integration of stone abilities into your overall gameplan. The most successful players use stones to cover their character’s weaknesses and amplify their strengths.
Combo Extension Mastery: Power Stone’s knockback property enables dramatic combo extensions that can increase damage by 25-40%. Time Stone’s meter acceleration allows for back-to-back Hyper Combos that would normally be impossible due to meter constraints.
Team Composition Synergy: Pair Power Stone with characters who have strong combo tools but lack reliable knockback options. Combine Time Stone with meter-hungry characters who rely on Supers for damage or utility. Reality Stone complements zoning characters who benefit from additional projectile coverage.
Common Advanced Mistake: Players often waste Storm activations when their opponent has available resources to counter. Always assess your opponent’s meter and defensive options before committing to a Storm sequence.
For players looking to deepen their understanding of character-specific strategies, our Class Guide provides detailed breakdowns of optimal stone pairings for specific fighters.
Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite represents a significant evolution in the series’ mechanics, and mastering the Infinity Stone system is essential for competitive viability. The strategic depth these artifacts add creates dynamic, evolving matches where resource management becomes as important as execution skill.
Action Checklist
- Practice basic Surge activations in training mode until inputs become muscle memory
- Test each stone’s Storm ability at different meter levels to understand effect scaling
- Identify which stone best complements your main team’s playstyle and weaknesses
- Develop 2-3 combo extensions using your chosen stone’s Surge ability
- Practice stone activation during blockstrings and pressure situations
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Marvel Vs. Capcom: Infinite Tips – Which Infinity Stone Is Right For You? Master Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite's Infinity Stones with expert strategies and tactical insights for competitive play