Mixed strategy

A pure strategy always picks the same action in a given situation. A mixed strategy spreads choices across options so an opponent cannot predict the next one. In game theory it is usually described as picking with fixed probabilities, as a goalkeeper facing penalties dives left or right in proportions the kicker cannot read.

Mixed strategies matter in any game with a counter for every option. If you always pick the same thing, a thinking opponent will find the counter.

BOTVBOT’s rules have no randomness at all, so a fighter cannot roll a die to decide. Variety has to come from the plan and from reading the fight. A plan might say: lead with Jabs, switch to a Feint after they Block twice, and Dodge when they have the stamina for a Heavy. The result behaves like a mixed strategy to the opponent, because the triggers depend on their own play.

This matters because the counter cycle is closed. Throw the same action twice and a competent opponent counters it on the third. Recover is the exception to plan around: it is the only large stamina refill, but you take 1.5× damage that exchange.