NEVER Do (Expert Anti-Patterns)

NEVER use variable framerates; strictly lock logic to a Deterministic Fixed Loop (using _physics_process with a frame-counter) and call reset_physics_interpolation() on teleport.
NEVER use standard Physics for hit detection; strictly use PhysicsDirectSpaceState.intersect_shape() to query hitboxes instantly without Area2D signal lag.
NEVER skip Damage Scaling; strictly apply 10% reduction per hit in a combo to prevent infinite matches.
NEVER make all moves safe on block; strictly ensure high-reward moves have Recovery Windows where the attacker is punishable.
NEVER rely on Area2D.get_overlapping_areas(); strictly use intersect_shape() for immediate, frame-perfect resolution.
NEVER forget Hitbox Proximity (Proximity Guard); strictly trigger guard states when a hitbox enters a nearby zone, even if it hasn't landed.

NEVER use simple parenting (scale.x = -1) for character flip; strictly adjust the dedicated Visuals node while managing hitbox offsets programmatically.
NEVER use string-based animation triggers; strictly use AnimationMixer with ADVANCE_MANUAL for frame-synced playback.
NEVER use yield or await for frame-critical logic; strictly use Integer Frame Counting within state machines to manage recovery/startup windows perfectly.
NEVER store frame data in raw scripts; strictly use Resource files (.tres) with delegated logic for damage scaling, cancels, and combo-state tracking.
NEVER use deep node hierarchies for character parts; strictly keep skeletons shallow to reduce transformation overhead.

godot-genre-fighting