That's a big problem I think with how DOA is played because most people just stay in each other's faces and mash buttons. I do that too with Kasumi, well, because Kasumi can outmash everyone in point-blank range lol.
Yeah, unfortunately it doesn't hold my interest too long as a result of various aesthetics. I agree if does help you with fundamentals, particularly regarding frame respect and spacing. It's just not really my speed.
DOA & VF share similar characteristics of mechanics but yeah, you can't lean heavily on the buttons like you can in DOA. Plus, VF is one game where you have to really & truly know frames. I mean your 2P is -5. So attack can beat you out if it's blocked lol. Great game.