Some ideas for ALL characters to add more options to the fight which would make it more fluent and enjoyable (in my opinion).

-- variable timed heavies
-> every character should have variable timed heavies (e. g. like Shugoki, Hitokiri, Centurion)
-> this would make parrying harder and attacking more viable
-> some characters still can charge their heavies to the unblockable stage

(Yh I know that with the CCU attacking already became stronger)

-- no guaranteed damage from bashes
-> bashes do not guarantee damage afterwards
-> light after bash can't be parried
-> light after bash can be blocked
-> light after bash can't be dodged
-> light after bash is enhanced and counts as chain starter

-- no guaranteed damage from parries
-> every attack after a parry can be parried
-> every attack after a parry can't be blocked
-> attacks after a parry can be dodged
-> crushing counters can be parried
-> crushing counters do have variable timings (to not make them too obvious)

Some characters have special parry reposts, so they should get special treatment. Suggestions are appreciated.

-- no guaranteed damage from "grabs" (Demon's Embrace, Shaman's Bite, etc.)
-> if you get caught by a grab, you can free yourself by pressing a randomly selected button a fast as possible to counter the grab (something like a quick-time event)
-> the attacker has to do the same
-> pressing the button drains the Opponent's stamina
-> running out of stamina causes the player to lose the event
-> the loser of the QuickTime event gets damaged
-> damage / rewards of grabs / counter grabs are immensely increased (cause you're losing all of your stamina)

-- stamina
-> every move, every attack in the game costs stamina
-> every offense
-> every defense
-> players who are oos will regenerate their stamina without interruptions
-> bashes and grabs do not pause your stamina regeneration when oos
-> dodging, attacking or parrying will pause your regeneration for a short duration

-- "Time of Battle" (tob)
-> the longer you live, the less overall stats you will have
-> battle will leave scars on you
-> the amount of attacks and moves you did or you received results in a slight decrease of your maximum stamina and health
-> resets to maximum when dead and respawned

-- lethal and increased chip damage
-> chip damage is increased to 30%
-> chip damage can kill an opponent