Unlocking and Mastering Hiori in Azure Latch: A Complete Guide

Unlocking the Hiori Style in Azure Latch

The Hiori style has arrived in Azure Latch, and it is not your typical style that can simply be rolled for in the shop. Unlike many other styles, Hiori is locked behind a specific, multi-stage questline that requires dedication and a solid foundation of other styles.

If you are aiming to add this legendary forward to your arsenal, you first need to ensure you have the correct prerequisites. You cannot start the Hiori questline without first owning the Isagi, Kurona, and NEL Isagi styles.

The Prerequisites

Before you even approach the quest NPC, you need to manage your resources and inventory. The Isagi and Kurona styles are obtained via the shop for $250 each. Because these are randomized, it may take some time to roll them, so ensure you have enough in-game currency. If you are low on cash, check for active Azure Latch codes to boost your funds.

The NEL Isagi style is the most complex of the three, as it is a quest-based style itself. You must complete three distinct questlines involving Rin, Kaiser, and Isagi to unlock it. Once you have all three styles (Isagi, Kurona, and NEL Isagi) sitting in your storage, you are ready to begin the final journey.

1. Acquire Base Styles: Roll for and obtain the Isagi and Kurona styles from the shop.
2. Complete NEL Isagi Quests: Finish the questlines for Rin, Kaiser, and Isagi to unlock the NEL Isagi style.
3. Locate the NPC: Head to the main lobby and find the Blue-Hat NPC.
4. Start the Quest: Speak with the Blue-Hat NPC to initiate the Hiori-specific questline.
5. Grind the Objectives: Complete the specific challenges required by the questline.

Questline Requirements

The questline involves specific riddles that translate to actionable tasks on the field. Based on community findings, here is a breakdown of what you need to accomplish for each prerequisite style quest.

Note: According to player reports, you can complete these quests on private servers. Using a private server is highly recommended to avoid interference from other players who might disrupt your progress.

Understanding Hiori’s Moveset

Once you have successfully unlocked Hiori, the real challenge begins: learning how to use him. Hiori is widely considered a "team-based" character. If your team is underperforming, you will likely struggle to find value with this style. He is designed as a playmaker, performing best in the left or right wing positions.

Key Abilities

• Glacial Cut: This is your primary move. It functions differently from standard dribble frames because counter frames are not punishable by IQ's reflex or meta burst points. It is relatively slow, but its unique property is the side-shuffle variant (pressing A or D). Be aware that these moves have significant end lag.
• Frost Guard: A basic defensive move that acts as a deflect. Note that it lost its trap ability in recent updates. You will be stunned temporarily after using it, which can be dangerous if you accidentally pass to an opponent.
• Link Up: Initially considered one of the weaker moves, it has become a staple in Hiori’s kit. You leap forward and pass to a teammate, then force them to pass back. You can also shoot during this move.
• Shunning Pass: A controversial long-range pass. While it covers great distance, it lacks iframes during the charge-up and stays at a medium-wide height, making it easy for defenders to intercept. It is not ideal for moving targets due to its predictive passing mechanics.
• No Look Alley Cross: An exceptional passing ability that allows you to pass anywhere on the field within 10 blocks. You can use this twice within a Flow state.

Tip

The Flow Mechanic: Hiori has two flow variants. The standard variant requires you to be near a teammate. If you are near an "Annual Izziki" or "Kaiser," you may trigger special cutscenes, though the latter is primarily cosmetic. Be mindful that utilizing these special moves will cost you your Flow.

Strategic Pros and Cons

Hiori is a high-ceiling, high-risk character. Understanding the trade-offs is essential for competitive play.

The Pros

• Playmaking Brilliance: When paired with a functional team that understands positioning, Hiori’s passing capabilities are unparalleled.
• Unique Utility: He offers a different rhythm compared to standard strikers, making him a wildcard pick that can disrupt the enemy's defensive setup.
• Versatility: With the ability to pass across the field via the No Look Alley Cross, he can change the point of attack instantly.

The Cons

• High Dependency: As mentioned, he is heavily reliant on his teammates. If your team does not understand your playstyle or positioning, you will struggle to gain value.
• Defensive Vulnerability: The Frost Guard move leaves you stunned and vulnerable for several seconds, effectively removing your hitbox and making you useless during that window.
• Counter Limitations: Hiori’s shooting capability is tied to his T special (the counter). If you miss the counter or use it twice in a short period, you lose your ability to shoot, severely limiting your offensive threat.
• Predictive Passing Issues: The Shunning Pass can often overshoot if you are moving, which can lead to turnovers if not timed perfectly.

Advanced Tech and Gameplay Tips

To truly master Hiori, you need to go beyond the basic moveset and utilize the "tech" discovered by the community.

Frosty Link

This combo is effective against real goalkeepers. The sequence is:

1. Activate Link Up.
2. Pass to a teammate.
3. Force the receive back.
4. Press Frost Guard at the right moment. This creates a fast curve shot that is difficult to handle. Note that this is less effective against AI goalkeepers.

Shilling Link Up

Another technique involving the Link Up move:

1. Activate Link Up.
2. Pass towards your teammate.
3. Force the receive back.
4. Press the "forth" input at the precise timing to volley your pass to your teammate.

Warning

The Stability Factor: Community reports indicate that Hiori’s kit changes frequently. Tech that works one week might be nerfed or altered the next. Always stay updated with the latest patch notes or community discussions to ensure your combos are still viable.

FAQ

Is Hiori worth the grind?

Yes, for players who enjoy a playmaking style, Hiori is considered one of the strongest strikers when played correctly. However, he requires a high level of skill and team coordination.

How long does it take to unlock Hiori?

It typically takes 3 to 5 days of dedicated playtime. This includes the time needed to roll for Isagi and Kurona, and the time to complete the extensive questlines for NEL Isagi.

Can I do the quests on a private server?

Absolutely. In fact, using a private server is the recommended method to avoid interruptions from other players and to complete the objectives more efficiently.

Why does my Hiori feel weak?

Hiori is extremely team-reliant. If your teammates are not playing well or aren't positioned correctly for your passes, your effectiveness drops significantly. Additionally, ensure you are not overusing your counter, as it locks your shooting ability.