Very interesting. This is something you could sort of feel when playing but not put on paper.. Until now :)

hey

For full-game runs I guess there are some advanced techniques like keeping track of which weapons/items the opponents have and taking advantage of that. After a while you will notice specific places where you are likely get attacked. Also you can hear sounds when items are used if you listen closely. You should be able to deflect attacks as well by doing a grab just when the attack is about to hit you which is a lot easier said than done (jumping over the attack is simpler).

Hold down A/crouch for about 4 seconds and release it for a speed boost.