diff --git a/.claude/CLAUDE.md b/.claude/CLAUDE.md
index dcaa712..780a7b8 100644
--- a/.claude/CLAUDE.md
+++ b/.claude/CLAUDE.md
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ Telnet MUD engine built on telnetlib3. Python 3.12+, managed with uv.
 
 ## Docs
 
-Three categories in `docs/`. Plain text, not markdown.
+Three categories in `docs/`. Plain text or rst, not markdown.
 
 - `docs/how/` - how things work. write one when you build something non-obvious.
   terrain generation, command system, etc. aimed at someone reading the code
@@ -50,7 +50,9 @@ Update docs when:
 - world definitions live in data files, runtime state lives in memory
 - SQLite for persistence (player accounts, progress)
 - session mode stack filters what events reach the player (normal/combat/editor)
-- combat system: state machine with TOML-defined moves (attacks, defends, counters)
+- combat system: state machine with TOML-defined moves (attacks, defends, counters). see `docs/how/combat.rst`
+  - moves with directional variants (punch left/right) use a single TOML with `[variants]` sections
+  - commands are always single words; direction is an argument, not part of the command name
 - content loading: TOML definitions for commands and combat moves, loaded at startup
 - entity model: Entity base class, Player and Mob subclasses sharing common interface
 - editor mode: in-world text editor with syntax highlighting and search/replace
diff --git a/content/combat/dodge_left.toml b/content/combat/dodge.toml
similarity index 53%
rename from content/combat/dodge_left.toml
rename to content/combat/dodge.toml
index 0ffbb9c..5579f21 100644
--- a/content/combat/dodge_left.toml
+++ b/content/combat/dodge.toml
@@ -1,8 +1,10 @@
-name = "dodge left"
-aliases = ["dl"]
+name = "dodge"
 move_type = "defense"
 stamina_cost = 3.0
-telegraph = ""
 timing_window_ms = 800
-damage_pct = 0.0
-countered_by = []
+
+[variants.left]
+aliases = ["dl"]
+
+[variants.right]
+aliases = ["dr"]
diff --git a/content/combat/dodge_right.toml b/content/combat/dodge_right.toml
deleted file mode 100644
index b1abd8d..0000000
--- a/content/combat/dodge_right.toml
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,8 +0,0 @@
-name = "dodge right"
-aliases = ["dr"]
-move_type = "defense"
-stamina_cost = 3.0
-telegraph = ""
-timing_window_ms = 800
-damage_pct = 0.0
-countered_by = []
diff --git a/content/combat/parry_low.toml b/content/combat/parry.toml
similarity index 53%
rename from content/combat/parry_low.toml
rename to content/combat/parry.toml
index 5923807..f106d92 100644
--- a/content/combat/parry_low.toml
+++ b/content/combat/parry.toml
@@ -1,8 +1,10 @@
-name = "parry low"
-aliases = ["v"]
+name = "parry"
 move_type = "defense"
 stamina_cost = 4.0
-telegraph = ""
 timing_window_ms = 500
-damage_pct = 0.0
-countered_by = []
+
+[variants.high]
+aliases = ["f"]
+
+[variants.low]
+aliases = ["v"]
diff --git a/content/combat/parry_high.toml b/content/combat/parry_high.toml
deleted file mode 100644
index 7afb437..0000000
--- a/content/combat/parry_high.toml
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,8 +0,0 @@
-name = "parry high"
-aliases = ["f"]
-move_type = "defense"
-stamina_cost = 4.0
-telegraph = ""
-timing_window_ms = 500
-damage_pct = 0.0
-countered_by = []
diff --git a/content/combat/punch_left.toml b/content/combat/punch.toml
similarity index 54%
rename from content/combat/punch_left.toml
rename to content/combat/punch.toml
index 6755332..3f6a279 100644
--- a/content/combat/punch_left.toml
+++ b/content/combat/punch.toml
@@ -1,8 +1,15 @@
-name = "punch left"
-aliases = ["pl"]
+name = "punch"
 move_type = "attack"
 stamina_cost = 5.0
-telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a left hook!"
 timing_window_ms = 800
 damage_pct = 0.15
+
+[variants.left]
+aliases = ["pl"]
+telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a left hook!"
 countered_by = ["dodge right", "parry high"]
+
+[variants.right]
+aliases = ["pr"]
+telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
+countered_by = ["dodge left", "parry high"]
diff --git a/content/combat/punch_right.toml b/content/combat/punch_right.toml
deleted file mode 100644
index e5101d6..0000000
--- a/content/combat/punch_right.toml
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,8 +0,0 @@
-name = "punch right"
-aliases = ["pr"]
-move_type = "attack"
-stamina_cost = 5.0
-telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
-timing_window_ms = 800
-damage_pct = 0.15
-countered_by = ["dodge left", "parry high"]
diff --git a/docs/how/combat.rst b/docs/how/combat.rst
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b188c60
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/how/combat.rst
@@ -0,0 +1,294 @@
+==============================
+combat system — moves as data
+==============================
+
+combat in this MUD is designed around the principle that moves are content,
+not engine code. the engine provides a state machine and timing system. moves
+are data files that define telegraphs, windows, and counters. this keeps the
+combat system extensible without touching python.
+
+
+core design principles
+======================
+
+1. combat moves are CONTENT (TOML files in content/combat/)
+2. the engine is a STATE MACHINE that processes timing and resolution
+3. direction matters — punch right is countered by dodge left
+4. no "fight" command — first attack initiates combat
+5. after combat starts, target is implicit until encounter ends
+
+
+command structure
+=================
+
+commands are always a single word. the dispatcher splits input on the first
+space: first word is the command, the rest is args.
+
+some moves have directional variants. the direction is an argument to the
+command, not part of the command name::
+
+  punch right frank    → command "punch", args "right frank"
+  punch left           → command "punch", args "left"
+  roundhouse frank     → command "roundhouse", args "frank"
+  sweep                → command "sweep", args ""
+
+variant moves (punch, dodge, parry) require a direction. simple moves
+(roundhouse, sweep, duck, jump) don't.
+
+each variant has its own short alias registered as a standalone command::
+
+  pr frank             → "punch right frank" (pr is a direct command)
+  dl                   → "dodge left"
+  f                    → "parry high"
+
+aliases are defined in the TOML file and registered at startup. they bypass
+the variant parsing entirely — the handler already knows which move it is.
+
+
+the state machine
+=================
+
+::
+
+  IDLE → TELEGRAPH → WINDOW → RESOLVE → IDLE
+
+IDLE:
+  no active move. attacker can initiate attack. defender can do nothing
+  combat-specific.
+
+TELEGRAPH:
+  attacker has declared a move. defender sees the telegraph message.
+  "goku winds up a right hook!"
+  defender can queue a defense during this phase.
+  duration: brief (implementation decides, not move-defined).
+
+WINDOW:
+  the timing window opens. defender can still queue defense.
+  if defender queued correct counter during TELEGRAPH or WINDOW, they succeed.
+  duration: move.timing_window_ms (defined in TOML).
+
+RESOLVE:
+  timing window closes. check if defense counters attack.
+  calculate damage based on attacker PL, damage_pct, and defense success.
+  apply stamina costs.
+  check for knockouts (PL = 0) or exhaustion (stamina = 0).
+  return to IDLE.
+
+
+entity stats
+============
+
+each Entity (player, mob, NPC) has::
+
+  pl: float = 100.0
+    power level. acts as both health AND damage multiplier.
+    when PL hits 0, entity is knocked out.
+
+  stamina: float = 100.0
+    current stamina. each move costs stamina.
+    when stamina hits 0, entity passes out.
+
+  max_stamina: float = 100.0
+    stamina ceiling. can be affected by training, items, etc (future).
+
+
+the move set
+============
+
+ATTACKS:
+  punch right/left (pr/pl)
+    basic hooks. fast, low cost.
+
+  roundhouse (rh)
+    big spinning kick. higher damage, tighter parry window.
+
+  sweep (sw)
+    leg sweep. knocks down if not countered.
+
+DEFENSES:
+  dodge right/left (dr/dl)
+    sidestep. counters opposite-side attacks.
+
+  parry high/low (f/v)
+    block attacks. tighter timing window than dodge.
+
+  duck
+    crouch under high attacks. counters roundhouse.
+
+  jump
+    leap over low attacks. counters sweep.
+
+
+counter relationships
+=====================
+
+defined in each move's TOML file via the "countered_by" field.
+
+::
+
+  punch right → countered_by: [dodge left, parry high]
+  punch left → countered_by: [dodge right, parry high]
+  roundhouse → countered_by: [duck, parry high, parry low]
+  sweep → countered_by: [jump, parry low]
+
+the engine doesn't know these relationships. it just checks:
+"is defender's move in attacker's move.countered_by list?"
+
+
+damage formula
+==============
+
+if defense succeeds (is in countered_by list)::
+
+  damage = 0
+  defender gets "you countered the attack!" message
+
+if defense fails (wrong move or no move)::
+
+  damage = attacker.pl * move.damage_pct
+  defender.pl -= damage
+
+if no defense was attempted::
+
+  damage = attacker.pl * move.damage_pct * 1.5
+  defender.pl -= damage
+  defender gets "you took the hit full force!" message
+
+stamina costs are always applied, regardless of outcome::
+
+  attacker.stamina -= move.stamina_cost
+  if defender attempted defense:
+    defender.stamina -= defense_move.stamina_cost
+
+
+starting combat
+===============
+
+NO explicit "fight" command. instead::
+
+  punch right goku
+    if player is not in combat: starts encounter with goku, pushes "combat" mode
+    if player is already in combat: error, already fighting someone else
+
+after combat starts, target is implicit::
+
+  punch left
+  dodge right
+  roundhouse
+
+all commands assume the current opponent.
+
+
+exiting combat
+==============
+
+combat ends when:
+
+- one combatant's PL reaches 0 (knockout)
+- one combatant's stamina reaches 0 (exhaustion)
+- one combatant flees (future: flee command)
+- one combatant is killed (future: lethal combat toggle)
+
+when combat ends, both entities' mode stacks pop back to "normal".
+
+
+TOML move definitions
+=====================
+
+moves live in content/combat/. two formats: simple and variant.
+
+**simple move** (one file, one command)::
+
+  # content/combat/roundhouse.toml
+  name = "roundhouse"
+  aliases = ["rh"]
+  move_type = "attack"
+  stamina_cost = 8.0
+  telegraph = "{attacker} spins into a roundhouse kick!"
+  timing_window_ms = 600
+  damage_pct = 0.25
+  countered_by = ["duck", "parry high", "parry low"]
+
+**variant move** (one file, directional variants)::
+
+  # content/combat/punch.toml
+  name = "punch"
+  move_type = "attack"
+  stamina_cost = 5.0
+  timing_window_ms = 800
+  damage_pct = 0.15
+
+  [variants.left]
+  aliases = ["pl"]
+  telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a left hook!"
+  countered_by = ["dodge right", "parry high"]
+
+  [variants.right]
+  aliases = ["pr"]
+  telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
+  countered_by = ["dodge left", "parry high"]
+
+shared properties (stamina_cost, timing_window_ms, damage_pct) are defined at
+the top level. variants inherit these and can override them. variant-specific
+properties (telegraph, countered_by, aliases) live under [variants.<key>].
+
+each variant produces a CombatMove with a qualified name like "punch left".
+the ``command`` field tracks the base command ("punch") and ``variant`` tracks
+the key ("left"). simple moves have command=name and variant="".
+
+TOML field reference:
+
+- name: the command name (simple) or base command (variant)
+- move_type: "attack" or "defense"
+- stamina_cost: stamina consumed when using this move
+- timing_window_ms: how long defender has to respond
+- telegraph: shown to defender during TELEGRAPH phase. {attacker} replaced
+- damage_pct: fraction of attacker's PL dealt as damage
+- countered_by: list of qualified move names that counter this move
+- aliases: short command aliases registered as standalone commands
+
+
+handler architecture
+====================
+
+three types of command handlers, created at registration time:
+
+**direct handler** — for simple moves (roundhouse, sweep) and variant aliases
+(pl, pr). the move is bound at registration via closure. args = target name.
+
+**variant handler** — for base variant commands (punch, dodge, parry). parses
+first arg as direction, looks up the variant, passes remaining args as target.
+
+**core functions** — do_attack() and do_defend() contain the actual combat
+logic. they take (player, target_args, move) and handle encounter creation,
+stamina checks, telegraph sending, etc. handlers call into these.
+
+this means adding a new move = add a TOML file. the registration code groups
+variants automatically, creates the right handler type, and registers aliases.
+
+
+future features (NOT YET IMPLEMENTED)
+======================================
+
+stuns:
+  successful parry stuns opponent for 1 tick.
+  during stun, engine shows combo sequence in shorthand:
+  "you can follow up with: pr/pl/sw or pr/pl/rh"
+  player has narrow window to input the sequence.
+
+combos:
+  if player executes shown sequence during stun window, bonus damage applied.
+  after successful combo, chance to chain (diminishing probability).
+  longer chains = exponentially harder timing.
+
+special moves:
+  moves that require conditions (opponent stunned, player at high PL, etc).
+  defined via "requires" field in TOML.
+
+lethal combat:
+  toggle that makes PL=0 mean death, not knockout.
+  affects NPC encounters in dangerous zones.
+
+multi-combatant:
+  extend encounter to support more than 1v1.
+  each attacker/defender pair still follows same state machine.
diff --git a/docs/how/combat.txt b/docs/how/combat.txt
deleted file mode 100644
index ffa37f4..0000000
--- a/docs/how/combat.txt
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,235 +0,0 @@
-combat system — fighting as content
-===================================
-
-combat in this MUD is designed around the principle that moves are content,
-not engine code. the engine provides a state machine and timing system. moves
-are data files that define telegraphs, windows, and counters. this keeps the
-combat system extensible without touching python.
-
-
-core design principles
-======================
-
-1. combat moves are CONTENT (TOML files in content/combat/)
-2. the engine is a STATE MACHINE that processes timing and resolution
-3. direction matters — punch right is countered by dodge left
-4. no "fight" command — first attack initiates combat
-5. after combat starts, target is implicit until encounter ends
-
-
-the state machine
-=================
-
-IDLE → TELEGRAPH → WINDOW → RESOLVE → IDLE
-
-IDLE:
-  no active move. attacker can initiate attack. defender can do nothing
-  combat-specific.
-
-TELEGRAPH:
-  attacker has declared a move. defender sees the telegraph message.
-  "goku winds up a right hook!"
-  defender can queue a defense during this phase.
-  duration: brief (implementation decides, not move-defined).
-
-WINDOW:
-  the timing window opens. defender can still queue defense.
-  if defender queued correct counter during TELEGRAPH or WINDOW, they succeed.
-  duration: move.timing_window_ms (defined in TOML).
-
-RESOLVE:
-  timing window closes. check if defense counters attack.
-  calculate damage based on attacker PL, damage_pct, and defense success.
-  apply stamina costs.
-  check for knockouts (PL = 0) or exhaustion (stamina = 0).
-  return to IDLE.
-
-
-entity stats
-============
-
-each Entity (player, mob, NPC) has:
-
-  pl: float = 100.0
-    power level. acts as both health AND damage multiplier.
-    when PL hits 0, entity is knocked out.
-
-  stamina: float = 100.0
-    current stamina. each move costs stamina.
-    when stamina hits 0, entity passes out.
-
-  max_stamina: float = 100.0
-    stamina ceiling. can be affected by training, items, etc (future).
-
-
-the move set
-============
-
-ATTACKS:
-  punch right (pr)
-    basic right hook. fast, low cost.
-
-  punch left (pl)
-    basic left hook. fast, low cost.
-
-  roundhouse (rh)
-    big spinning kick. higher damage, tighter parry window.
-
-  sweep (sw)
-    leg sweep. knocks down if not countered.
-
-DEFENSES:
-  dodge right (dr)
-    sidestep to the right. counters left-side attacks.
-
-  dodge left (dl)
-    sidestep to the left. counters right-side attacks.
-
-  parry high (f)
-    block high attacks. tighter timing window than dodge.
-
-  parry low (v)
-    block low attacks. tighter timing window than dodge.
-
-  duck
-    crouch under high attacks. counters roundhouse.
-
-  jump
-    leap over low attacks. counters sweep.
-
-
-counter relationships
-=====================
-
-defined in each move's TOML file via the "countered_by" field.
-
-punch right → countered_by: [dodge left, parry high]
-punch left → countered_by: [dodge right, parry high]
-roundhouse → countered_by: [duck, parry high, parry low]
-sweep → countered_by: [jump, parry low]
-
-the engine doesn't know these relationships. it just checks:
-  "is defender's move in attacker's move.countered_by list?"
-
-
-damage formula
-==============
-
-if defense succeeds (is in countered_by list):
-  damage = 0
-  defender gets "you countered the attack!" message
-
-if defense fails (wrong move or no move):
-  damage = attacker.pl * move.damage_pct
-  defender.pl -= damage
-
-if no defense was attempted:
-  damage = attacker.pl * move.damage_pct * 1.5
-  defender.pl -= damage
-  defender gets "you took the hit full force!" message
-
-stamina costs are always applied, regardless of outcome:
-  attacker.stamina -= move.stamina_cost
-  if defender attempted defense:
-    defender.stamina -= defense_move.stamina_cost
-
-
-starting combat
-===============
-
-NO explicit "fight" command. instead:
-
-  punch right goku
-    if player is not in combat: starts encounter with goku, pushes "combat" mode
-    if player is already in combat: error, already fighting someone else
-
-after combat starts, target is implicit:
-
-  punch left
-  dodge right
-  roundhouse
-
-all commands assume the current opponent.
-
-
-exiting combat
-==============
-
-combat ends when:
-  - one combatant's PL reaches 0 (knockout)
-  - one combatant's stamina reaches 0 (exhaustion)
-  - one combatant flees (future: flee command)
-  - one combatant is killed (future: lethal combat toggle)
-
-when combat ends, both entities' mode stacks pop back to "normal".
-
-
-TOML move definition
-=====================
-
-example: content/combat/punch_right.toml
-
-  name = "punch right"
-  aliases = ["pr"]
-  move_type = "attack"
-  stamina_cost = 5.0
-  telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
-  timing_window_ms = 800
-  damage_pct = 0.15
-  countered_by = ["dodge left", "parry high"]
-
-move_type: "attack" or "defense"
-telegraph: shown to defender during TELEGRAPH phase. {attacker} replaced with name
-timing_window_ms: how long defender has to respond
-damage_pct: fraction of attacker's PL dealt as damage
-countered_by: list of move names that counter this move
-
-
-future features (NOT YET IMPLEMENTED)
-======================================
-
-stuns:
-  successful parry stuns opponent for 1 tick.
-  during stun, engine shows combo sequence in shorthand:
-    "you can follow up with: pr/pl/sw or pr/pl/rh"
-  player has narrow window to input the sequence.
-
-combos:
-  if player executes shown sequence during stun window, bonus damage applied.
-  after successful combo, chance to chain (diminishing probability).
-  longer chains = exponentially harder timing.
-
-special moves:
-  moves that require conditions (opponent stunned, player at high PL, etc).
-  defined via "requires" field in TOML.
-
-lethal combat:
-  toggle that makes PL=0 mean death, not knockout.
-  affects NPC encounters in dangerous zones.
-
-multi-combatant:
-  extend encounter to support more than 1v1.
-  each attacker/defender pair still follows same state machine.
-
-
-implementation notes
-====================
-
-the engine provides:
-  - CombatMove dataclass + TOML loader
-  - CombatEncounter state machine (attack/defend/tick/resolve)
-  - global encounter list + management functions
-  - process_combat() called each game loop tick
-  - command handlers that look up moves and call encounter methods
-
-content provides:
-  - TOML files for each move in content/combat/
-  - balance tuning (stamina costs, damage_pct, timing windows)
-
-the command registry makes moves available as commands automatically.
-"punch right" is both a move name AND a command name. the command handler
-looks up the move definition and feeds it to the encounter.
-
-this keeps the python side generic. adding a new move = add a TOML file,
-no code changes. balance changes = edit TOML values, no restart needed
-(future: hot-reload content).
diff --git a/mud.tin b/mud.tin
index 69f4be2..ed6044f 100644
--- a/mud.tin
+++ b/mud.tin
@@ -12,12 +12,7 @@
 #alias {fse} {fly southeast}
 #alias {fsw} {fly southwest}
 
-#NOP combat aliases
-#alias {pr} {punch right}
-#alias {pl} {punch left}
+#NOP combat aliases (pr/pl/dr/dl/f/v are built into the MUD)
+#NOP these are extras for single-key convenience
 #alias {o} {sweep}
 #alias {r} {roundhouse}
-#alias {f} {parry high}
-#alias {v} {parry low}
-#alias {dr} {dodge right}
-#alias {dl} {dodge left}
diff --git a/src/mudlib/combat/commands.py b/src/mudlib/combat/commands.py
index 2c71462..d0b4135 100644
--- a/src/mudlib/combat/commands.py
+++ b/src/mudlib/combat/commands.py
@@ -1,5 +1,6 @@
 """Combat command handlers."""
 
+from collections import defaultdict
 from pathlib import Path
 
 from mudlib.combat.engine import get_encounter, start_encounter
@@ -11,46 +12,22 @@ from mudlib.player import Player, players
 combat_moves: dict[str, CombatMove] = {}
 
 
-async def cmd_attack(player: Player, args: str) -> None:
-    """Handle attack commands.
+async def do_attack(player: Player, target_args: str, move: CombatMove) -> None:
+    """Core attack logic with a resolved move.
 
     Args:
         player: The attacking player
-        args: Command arguments (move name and optional target name)
+        target_args: Remaining args after move resolution (just the target name)
+        move: The resolved combat move
     """
-    # Get or create encounter
     encounter = get_encounter(player)
 
-    # Parse arguments: move name (possibly multi-word) and optional target name
-    parts = args.strip().split()
-    if not parts:
-        await player.send("Attack with what move?\r\n")
-        return
-
-    # If not in combat, last word might be target name
+    # Parse target from args
     target = None
-    move_name = args.strip()
-
-    if encounter is None and len(parts) > 1:
-        # Try to extract target from last word
-        target_name = parts[-1]
+    target_name = target_args.strip()
+    if encounter is None and target_name:
         target = players.get(target_name)
 
-        if target is not None:
-            # Remove target name from move_name
-            move_name = " ".join(parts[:-1])
-
-    # Look up the move
-    move = combat_moves.get(move_name.lower())
-    if move is None:
-        await player.send(f"Unknown move: {move_name}\r\n")
-        return
-
-    # Check if it's an attack move
-    if move.move_type != "attack":
-        await player.send(f"{move.name} is not an attack move.\r\n")
-        return
-
     # Check stamina
     if player.stamina < move.stamina_cost:
         await player.send("You don't have enough stamina for that move.\r\n")
@@ -91,12 +68,13 @@ async def cmd_attack(player: Player, args: str) -> None:
     await player.send(f"You use {move.name}!\r\n")
 
 
-async def cmd_defend(player: Player, args: str) -> None:
-    """Handle defense commands.
+async def do_defend(player: Player, _args: str, move: CombatMove) -> None:
+    """Core defense logic with a resolved move.
 
     Args:
         player: The defending player
-        args: Command arguments (move name)
+        _args: Unused (defense moves don't take a target)
+        move: The resolved combat move
     """
     # Check if in combat
     encounter = get_encounter(player)
@@ -104,23 +82,6 @@ async def cmd_defend(player: Player, args: str) -> None:
         await player.send("You're not in combat.\r\n")
         return
 
-    # Parse move name
-    move_name = args.strip()
-    if not move_name:
-        await player.send("Defend with what move?\r\n")
-        return
-
-    # Look up the move
-    move = combat_moves.get(move_name.lower())
-    if move is None:
-        await player.send(f"Unknown move: {move_name}\r\n")
-        return
-
-    # Check if it's a defense move
-    if move.move_type != "defense":
-        await player.send(f"{move.name} is not a defense move.\r\n")
-        return
-
     # Check stamina
     if player.stamina < move.stamina_cost:
         await player.send("You don't have enough stamina for that move.\r\n")
@@ -131,6 +92,49 @@ async def cmd_defend(player: Player, args: str) -> None:
     await player.send(f"You attempt to {move.name}!\r\n")
 
 
+def _make_direct_handler(move: CombatMove, handler_fn):
+    """Create a handler bound to a specific move.
+
+    Used for simple moves (roundhouse) and variant aliases (pl, pr).
+    Args are just the target name.
+    """
+
+    async def handler(player: Player, args: str) -> None:
+        await handler_fn(player, args, move)
+
+    return handler
+
+
+def _make_variant_handler(
+    base_name: str, variant_moves: dict[str, CombatMove], handler_fn
+):
+    """Create a handler for a move with directional variants.
+
+    Used for base commands like "punch" where the first arg is the direction.
+    """
+
+    async def handler(player: Player, args: str) -> None:
+        parts = args.strip().split(maxsplit=1)
+        if not parts:
+            variants = "/".join(variant_moves.keys())
+            await player.send(f"{base_name.capitalize()} which way? ({variants})\r\n")
+            return
+
+        variant_key = parts[0].lower()
+        move = variant_moves.get(variant_key)
+        if move is None:
+            variants = "/".join(variant_moves.keys())
+            await player.send(
+                f"Unknown {base_name} direction: {variant_key}. Try: {variants}\r\n"
+            )
+            return
+
+        target_args = parts[1] if len(parts) > 1 else ""
+        await handler_fn(player, target_args, move)
+
+    return handler
+
+
 def register_combat_commands(content_dir: Path) -> None:
     """Load and register all combat moves as commands.
 
@@ -142,35 +146,70 @@ def register_combat_commands(content_dir: Path) -> None:
     # Load all moves from content directory
     combat_moves = load_moves(content_dir)
 
-    # Track which moves we've registered (don't register aliases separately)
-    registered_moves: set[str] = set()
+    # Group variant moves by their base command
+    variant_groups: dict[str, dict[str, CombatMove]] = defaultdict(dict)
+    simple_moves: list[CombatMove] = []
+    registered_names: set[str] = set()
 
-    for _move_name, move in combat_moves.items():
-        # Only register each move once (by its canonical name)
-        if move.name in registered_moves:
+    for move in combat_moves.values():
+        if move.name in registered_names:
             continue
+        registered_names.add(move.name)
 
-        registered_moves.add(move.name)
+        if move.variant:
+            variant_groups[move.command][move.variant] = move
+        else:
+            simple_moves.append(move)
 
-        if move.move_type == "attack":
-            # Attack moves work from any mode (can initiate combat)
-            register(
-                CommandDefinition(
-                    name=move.name,
-                    handler=cmd_attack,
-                    aliases=move.aliases,
-                    mode="*",
-                    help=f"Attack with {move.name}",
-                )
+    # Register simple moves (roundhouse, sweep, duck, jump)
+    for move in simple_moves:
+        handler_fn = do_attack if move.move_type == "attack" else do_defend
+        mode = "*" if move.move_type == "attack" else "combat"
+        action = "Attack" if move.move_type == "attack" else "Defend"
+        register(
+            CommandDefinition(
+                name=move.name,
+                handler=_make_direct_handler(move, handler_fn),
+                aliases=move.aliases,
+                mode=mode,
+                help=f"{action} with {move.name}",
             )
-        elif move.move_type == "defense":
-            # Defense moves only work in combat mode
-            register(
-                CommandDefinition(
-                    name=move.name,
-                    handler=cmd_defend,
-                    aliases=move.aliases,
-                    mode="combat",
-                    help=f"Defend with {move.name}",
-                )
+        )
+
+    # Register variant moves (punch, dodge, parry)
+    for base_name, variants in variant_groups.items():
+        # Determine type from first variant
+        first_variant = next(iter(variants.values()))
+        handler_fn = do_attack if first_variant.move_type == "attack" else do_defend
+        mode = "*" if first_variant.move_type == "attack" else "combat"
+
+        # Collect all variant aliases for the base command
+        all_aliases = []
+        for move in variants.values():
+            all_aliases.extend(move.aliases)
+
+        # Register base command with variant handler (e.g. "punch")
+        action = "Attack" if first_variant.move_type == "attack" else "Defend"
+        register(
+            CommandDefinition(
+                name=base_name,
+                handler=_make_variant_handler(base_name, variants, handler_fn),
+                aliases=[],
+                mode=mode,
+                help=f"{action} with {base_name}",
             )
+        )
+
+        # Register each variant's aliases as direct commands (e.g. "pl" → punch left)
+        for move in variants.values():
+            for alias in move.aliases:
+                action = "Attack" if move.move_type == "attack" else "Defend"
+                register(
+                    CommandDefinition(
+                        name=alias,
+                        handler=_make_direct_handler(move, handler_fn),
+                        aliases=[],
+                        mode=mode,
+                        help=f"{action} with {move.name}",
+                    )
+                )
diff --git a/src/mudlib/combat/moves.py b/src/mudlib/combat/moves.py
index 576f940..8491078 100644
--- a/src/mudlib/combat/moves.py
+++ b/src/mudlib/combat/moves.py
@@ -25,16 +25,24 @@ class CombatMove:
     damage_pct: float = 0.0
     countered_by: list[str] = field(default_factory=list)
     handler: CommandHandler | None = None
+    # base command name ("punch" for "punch left", same as name for simple moves)
+    command: str = ""
+    # variant key ("left", "right", "" for simple moves)
+    variant: str = ""
 
 
-def load_move(path: Path) -> CombatMove:
-    """Load a combat move from a TOML file.
+def load_move(path: Path) -> list[CombatMove]:
+    """Load combat move(s) from a TOML file.
+
+    If the file has a [variants] section, each variant produces a separate
+    CombatMove with a qualified name (e.g. "punch left"). Shared properties
+    come from the top level, variant-specific properties override them.
 
     Args:
         path: Path to TOML file
 
     Returns:
-        CombatMove instance
+        List of CombatMove instances (one per variant, or one for simple moves)
 
     Raises:
         ValueError: If required fields are missing
@@ -49,18 +57,52 @@ def load_move(path: Path) -> CombatMove:
             msg = f"missing required field: {field_name}"
             raise ValueError(msg)
 
-    # Build move with defaults for optional fields
-    return CombatMove(
-        name=data["name"],
-        move_type=data["move_type"],
-        stamina_cost=data["stamina_cost"],
-        timing_window_ms=data["timing_window_ms"],
-        aliases=data.get("aliases", []),
-        telegraph=data.get("telegraph", ""),
-        damage_pct=data.get("damage_pct", 0.0),
-        countered_by=data.get("countered_by", []),
-        handler=None,  # Future: parse handler reference
-    )
+    base_name = data["name"]
+    variants = data.get("variants")
+
+    if variants:
+        moves = []
+        for variant_key, variant_data in variants.items():
+            qualified_name = f"{base_name} {variant_key}"
+            moves.append(
+                CombatMove(
+                    name=qualified_name,
+                    move_type=data["move_type"],
+                    stamina_cost=variant_data.get("stamina_cost", data["stamina_cost"]),
+                    timing_window_ms=variant_data.get(
+                        "timing_window_ms", data["timing_window_ms"]
+                    ),
+                    aliases=variant_data.get("aliases", []),
+                    telegraph=variant_data.get("telegraph", data.get("telegraph", "")),
+                    damage_pct=variant_data.get(
+                        "damage_pct", data.get("damage_pct", 0.0)
+                    ),
+                    countered_by=variant_data.get(
+                        "countered_by", data.get("countered_by", [])
+                    ),
+                    handler=None,
+                    command=base_name,
+                    variant=variant_key,
+                )
+            )
+        return moves
+
+    # Simple move (no variants)
+    return [
+        CombatMove(
+            name=base_name,
+            move_type=data["move_type"],
+            stamina_cost=data["stamina_cost"],
+            timing_window_ms=data["timing_window_ms"],
+            aliases=data.get("aliases", []),
+            telegraph=data.get("telegraph", ""),
+            damage_pct=data.get("damage_pct", 0.0),
+            countered_by=data.get("countered_by", []),
+            handler=None,
+            command=base_name,
+            variant="",
+        )
+    ]
 
 
 def load_moves(directory: Path) -> dict[str, CombatMove]:
@@ -84,29 +126,30 @@ def load_moves(directory: Path) -> dict[str, CombatMove]:
     all_moves: list[CombatMove] = []
 
     for toml_file in sorted(directory.glob("*.toml")):
-        move = load_move(toml_file)
+        file_moves = load_move(toml_file)
 
-        # Check for name collisions
-        if move.name in seen_names:
-            msg = f"duplicate move name: {move.name}"
-            raise ValueError(msg)
-        seen_names.add(move.name)
-
-        # Check for alias collisions
-        for alias in move.aliases:
-            if alias in seen_aliases or alias in seen_names:
-                msg = f"duplicate move alias: {alias}"
+        for move in file_moves:
+            # Check for name collisions
+            if move.name in seen_names:
+                msg = f"duplicate move name: {move.name}"
                 raise ValueError(msg)
-            seen_aliases.add(alias)
+            seen_names.add(move.name)
 
-        # Add to dict by name
-        moves[move.name] = move
+            # Check for alias collisions
+            for alias in move.aliases:
+                if alias in seen_aliases or alias in seen_names:
+                    msg = f"duplicate move alias: {alias}"
+                    raise ValueError(msg)
+                seen_aliases.add(alias)
 
-        # Add to dict by all aliases (pointing to same object)
-        for alias in move.aliases:
-            moves[alias] = move
+            # Add to dict by name
+            moves[move.name] = move
 
-        all_moves.append(move)
+            # Add to dict by all aliases (pointing to same object)
+            for alias in move.aliases:
+                moves[alias] = move
+
+            all_moves.append(move)
 
     # Validate countered_by references
     for move in all_moves:
diff --git a/tests/test_combat_commands.py b/tests/test_combat_commands.py
index 63ae81d..23db5a5 100644
--- a/tests/test_combat_commands.py
+++ b/tests/test_combat_commands.py
@@ -63,10 +63,31 @@ def inject_moves(moves):
     combat_commands.combat_moves = {}
 
 
+@pytest.fixture
+def punch_right(moves):
+    """Get the punch right move."""
+    return moves["punch right"]
+
+
+@pytest.fixture
+def punch_left(moves):
+    """Get the punch left move."""
+    return moves["punch left"]
+
+
+@pytest.fixture
+def dodge_left(moves):
+    """Get the dodge left move."""
+    return moves["dodge left"]
+
+
+# --- do_attack tests ---
+
+
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_attack_starts_combat_with_target(player, target):
-    """Test attack command with target starts combat encounter."""
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right Vegeta")
+async def test_attack_starts_combat_with_target(player, target, punch_right):
+    """Test do_attack with target starts combat encounter."""
+    await combat_commands.do_attack(player, "Vegeta", punch_right)
 
     encounter = get_encounter(player)
     assert encounter is not None
@@ -76,26 +97,28 @@ async def test_attack_starts_combat_with_target(player, target):
 
 
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_attack_without_target_when_not_in_combat(player):
-    """Test attack without target when not in combat gives error."""
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right")
+async def test_attack_without_target_when_not_in_combat(player, punch_right):
+    """Test do_attack without target when not in combat gives error."""
+    await combat_commands.do_attack(player, "", punch_right)
 
     player.writer.write.assert_called()
     message = player.writer.write.call_args[0][0]
-    assert "not in combat" in message.lower() or "need a target" in message.lower()
+    assert "need a target" in message.lower()
 
 
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_attack_without_target_when_in_combat(player, target):
-    """Test attack without target when in combat uses implicit target."""
+async def test_attack_without_target_when_in_combat(
+    player, target, punch_right, punch_left
+):
+    """Test do_attack without target when in combat uses implicit target."""
     # Start combat first
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right Vegeta")
+    await combat_commands.do_attack(player, "Vegeta", punch_right)
 
     # Reset mock to track new calls
     player.writer.write.reset_mock()
 
     # Attack without target should work
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch left")
+    await combat_commands.do_attack(player, "", punch_left)
 
     encounter = get_encounter(player)
     assert encounter is not None
@@ -104,31 +127,21 @@ async def test_attack_without_target_when_in_combat(player, target):
 
 
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_attack_unknown_move(player, target):
-    """Test attack with unknown move name gives error."""
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "kamehameha Vegeta")
-
-    player.writer.write.assert_called()
-    message = player.writer.write.call_args[0][0]
-    assert "unknown" in message.lower() or "don't know" in message.lower()
-
-
-@pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_attack_insufficient_stamina(player, target):
-    """Test attack with insufficient stamina gives error."""
+async def test_attack_insufficient_stamina(player, target, punch_right):
+    """Test do_attack with insufficient stamina gives error."""
     player.stamina = 1.0  # Not enough for punch (costs 5)
 
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right Vegeta")
+    await combat_commands.do_attack(player, "Vegeta", punch_right)
 
     player.writer.write.assert_called()
     message = player.writer.write.call_args[0][0]
-    assert "stamina" in message.lower() or "exhausted" in message.lower()
+    assert "stamina" in message.lower()
 
 
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_attack_sends_telegraph_to_defender(player, target):
-    """Test attack sends telegraph message to defender."""
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right Vegeta")
+async def test_attack_sends_telegraph_to_defender(player, target, punch_right):
+    """Test do_attack sends telegraph message to defender."""
+    await combat_commands.do_attack(player, "Vegeta", punch_right)
 
     # Check that encounter has the move
     encounter = get_encounter(player)
@@ -137,10 +150,13 @@ async def test_attack_sends_telegraph_to_defender(player, target):
     assert encounter.current_move.name == "punch right"
 
 
+# --- do_defend tests ---
+
+
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_defense_only_in_combat(player):
-    """Test defense command only works in combat mode."""
-    await combat_commands.cmd_defend(player, "dodge left")
+async def test_defense_only_in_combat(player, dodge_left):
+    """Test do_defend only works in combat mode."""
+    await combat_commands.do_defend(player, "", dodge_left)
 
     player.writer.write.assert_called()
     message = player.writer.write.call_args[0][0]
@@ -148,10 +164,10 @@ async def test_defense_only_in_combat(player):
 
 
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_defense_records_pending_defense(player, target):
-    """Test defense command records the defense move."""
+async def test_defense_records_pending_defense(player, target, punch_right, dodge_left):
+    """Test do_defend records the defense move."""
     # Start combat
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right Vegeta")
+    await combat_commands.do_attack(player, "Vegeta", punch_right)
     player.writer.write.reset_mock()
 
     # Switch to defender's perspective
@@ -159,7 +175,7 @@ async def test_defense_records_pending_defense(player, target):
     target.mode_stack = ["combat"]
 
     # Defend
-    await combat_commands.cmd_defend(target, "dodge left")
+    await combat_commands.do_defend(target, "", dodge_left)
 
     encounter = get_encounter(target)
     assert encounter is not None
@@ -168,60 +184,107 @@ async def test_defense_records_pending_defense(player, target):
 
 
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_defense_unknown_move(player, target):
-    """Test defense with unknown move gives error."""
+async def test_defense_insufficient_stamina(player, target, punch_right, dodge_left):
+    """Test do_defend with insufficient stamina gives error."""
     # Start combat
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right Vegeta")
-    target.writer = player.writer
-    target.mode_stack = ["combat"]
-
-    player.writer.write.reset_mock()
-    await combat_commands.cmd_defend(target, "teleport")
-
-    target.writer.write.assert_called()
-    message = target.writer.write.call_args[0][0]
-    assert "unknown" in message.lower() or "don't know" in message.lower()
-
-
-@pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_defense_insufficient_stamina(player, target):
-    """Test defense with insufficient stamina gives error."""
-    # Start combat
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right Vegeta")
+    await combat_commands.do_attack(player, "Vegeta", punch_right)
     target.writer = player.writer
     target.mode_stack = ["combat"]
     target.stamina = 1.0  # Not enough for dodge (costs 3)
 
     player.writer.write.reset_mock()
-    await combat_commands.cmd_defend(target, "dodge left")
+    await combat_commands.do_defend(target, "", dodge_left)
 
     target.writer.write.assert_called()
     message = target.writer.write.call_args[0][0]
-    assert "stamina" in message.lower() or "exhausted" in message.lower()
+    assert "stamina" in message.lower()
+
+
+# --- variant handler tests ---
 
 
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_attack_alias_works(player, target):
-    """Test attack using alias (pr for punch right)."""
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "pr Vegeta")
+async def test_variant_handler_parses_direction(player, target, moves):
+    """Test the variant handler parses direction from args."""
+    variant_moves = {
+        "left": moves["punch left"],
+        "right": moves["punch right"],
+    }
+    handler = combat_commands._make_variant_handler(
+        "punch", variant_moves, combat_commands.do_attack
+    )
+
+    await handler(player, "right Vegeta")
 
     encounter = get_encounter(player)
     assert encounter is not None
-    assert encounter.current_move is not None
     assert encounter.current_move.name == "punch right"
 
 
 @pytest.mark.asyncio
-async def test_defense_alias_works(player, target):
-    """Test defense using alias (dl for dodge left)."""
-    # Start combat
-    await combat_commands.cmd_attack(player, "punch right Vegeta")
-    target.writer = player.writer
-    target.mode_stack = ["combat"]
+async def test_variant_handler_no_direction(player, moves):
+    """Test the variant handler prompts when no direction given."""
+    variant_moves = {
+        "left": moves["punch left"],
+        "right": moves["punch right"],
+    }
+    handler = combat_commands._make_variant_handler(
+        "punch", variant_moves, combat_commands.do_attack
+    )
 
-    await combat_commands.cmd_defend(target, "dl")
+    await handler(player, "")
 
-    encounter = get_encounter(target)
+    player.writer.write.assert_called()
+    message = player.writer.write.call_args[0][0]
+    assert "which way" in message.lower()
+
+
+@pytest.mark.asyncio
+async def test_variant_handler_bad_direction(player, moves):
+    """Test the variant handler rejects invalid direction."""
+    variant_moves = {
+        "left": moves["punch left"],
+        "right": moves["punch right"],
+    }
+    handler = combat_commands._make_variant_handler(
+        "punch", variant_moves, combat_commands.do_attack
+    )
+
+    await handler(player, "up Vegeta")
+
+    player.writer.write.assert_called()
+    message = player.writer.write.call_args[0][0]
+    assert "unknown" in message.lower()
+
+
+# --- direct handler tests ---
+
+
+@pytest.mark.asyncio
+async def test_direct_handler_passes_move(player, target, punch_right):
+    """Test the direct handler passes the bound move through."""
+    handler = combat_commands._make_direct_handler(
+        punch_right, combat_commands.do_attack
+    )
+
+    await handler(player, "Vegeta")
+
+    encounter = get_encounter(player)
     assert encounter is not None
-    assert encounter.pending_defense is not None
-    assert encounter.pending_defense.name == "dodge left"
+    assert encounter.current_move.name == "punch right"
+
+
+@pytest.mark.asyncio
+async def test_direct_handler_alias_for_variant(player, target, punch_right):
+    """Test alias handler (e.g. pr) works for variant moves."""
+    handler = combat_commands._make_direct_handler(
+        punch_right, combat_commands.do_attack
+    )
+
+    await handler(player, "Vegeta")
+
+    encounter = get_encounter(player)
+    assert encounter is not None
+    assert encounter.current_move.name == "punch right"
+    assert encounter.attacker is player
+    assert encounter.defender is target
diff --git a/tests/test_combat_moves.py b/tests/test_combat_moves.py
index 0a46f25..1f433b9 100644
--- a/tests/test_combat_moves.py
+++ b/tests/test_combat_moves.py
@@ -16,6 +16,8 @@ def test_combat_move_dataclass():
         timing_window_ms=800,
         damage_pct=0.15,
         countered_by=["dodge left", "parry high"],
+        command="punch",
+        variant="right",
     )
     assert move.name == "punch right"
     assert move.move_type == "attack"
@@ -26,6 +28,8 @@ def test_combat_move_dataclass():
     assert move.damage_pct == 0.15
     assert move.countered_by == ["dodge left", "parry high"]
     assert move.handler is None
+    assert move.command == "punch"
+    assert move.variant == "right"
 
 
 def test_combat_move_minimal():
@@ -44,32 +48,115 @@ def test_combat_move_minimal():
     assert move.timing_window_ms == 500
     assert move.damage_pct == 0.0
     assert move.countered_by == []
+    assert move.command == ""
+    assert move.variant == ""
 
 
-def test_load_move_from_toml(tmp_path):
-    """Test loading a combat move from TOML file."""
+def test_load_simple_move_from_toml(tmp_path):
+    """Test loading a simple combat move from TOML file."""
     toml_content = """
-name = "punch right"
-aliases = ["pr"]
+name = "roundhouse"
+aliases = ["rh"]
 move_type = "attack"
-stamina_cost = 5.0
-telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
-timing_window_ms = 800
-damage_pct = 0.15
-countered_by = ["dodge left", "parry high"]
+stamina_cost = 8.0
+telegraph = "{attacker} spins into a roundhouse kick!"
+timing_window_ms = 600
+damage_pct = 0.25
+countered_by = ["duck", "parry high", "parry low"]
 """
-    toml_file = tmp_path / "punch_right.toml"
+    toml_file = tmp_path / "roundhouse.toml"
     toml_file.write_text(toml_content)
 
-    move = load_move(toml_file)
-    assert move.name == "punch right"
-    assert move.move_type == "attack"
-    assert move.aliases == ["pr"]
-    assert move.stamina_cost == 5.0
-    assert move.telegraph == "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
-    assert move.timing_window_ms == 800
-    assert move.damage_pct == 0.15
-    assert move.countered_by == ["dodge left", "parry high"]
+    moves = load_move(toml_file)
+    assert len(moves) == 1
+    move = moves[0]
+    assert move.name == "roundhouse"
+    assert move.command == "roundhouse"
+    assert move.variant == ""
+    assert move.aliases == ["rh"]
+    assert move.damage_pct == 0.25
+
+
+def test_load_variant_move_from_toml(tmp_path):
+    """Test loading a variant combat move from TOML file."""
+    toml_content = """
+name = "punch"
+move_type = "attack"
+stamina_cost = 5.0
+timing_window_ms = 800
+damage_pct = 0.15
+
+[variants.left]
+aliases = ["pl"]
+telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a left hook!"
+countered_by = ["dodge right", "parry high"]
+
+[variants.right]
+aliases = ["pr"]
+telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
+countered_by = ["dodge left", "parry high"]
+"""
+    toml_file = tmp_path / "punch.toml"
+    toml_file.write_text(toml_content)
+
+    moves = load_move(toml_file)
+    assert len(moves) == 2
+
+    by_name = {m.name: m for m in moves}
+    assert "punch left" in by_name
+    assert "punch right" in by_name
+
+    left = by_name["punch left"]
+    assert left.command == "punch"
+    assert left.variant == "left"
+    assert left.aliases == ["pl"]
+    assert left.telegraph == "{attacker} winds up a left hook!"
+    assert left.countered_by == ["dodge right", "parry high"]
+    # Inherited from parent
+    assert left.stamina_cost == 5.0
+    assert left.timing_window_ms == 800
+    assert left.damage_pct == 0.15
+
+    right = by_name["punch right"]
+    assert right.command == "punch"
+    assert right.variant == "right"
+    assert right.aliases == ["pr"]
+    assert right.countered_by == ["dodge left", "parry high"]
+
+
+def test_variant_inherits_shared_properties(tmp_path):
+    """Test that variants inherit shared properties and can override them."""
+    toml_content = """
+name = "kick"
+move_type = "attack"
+stamina_cost = 5.0
+timing_window_ms = 800
+damage_pct = 0.10
+
+[variants.low]
+aliases = ["kl"]
+damage_pct = 0.08
+timing_window_ms = 600
+
+[variants.high]
+aliases = ["kh"]
+damage_pct = 0.15
+"""
+    toml_file = tmp_path / "kick.toml"
+    toml_file.write_text(toml_content)
+
+    moves = load_move(toml_file)
+    by_name = {m.name: m for m in moves}
+
+    low = by_name["kick low"]
+    assert low.damage_pct == 0.08
+    assert low.timing_window_ms == 600  # overridden
+    assert low.stamina_cost == 5.0  # inherited
+
+    high = by_name["kick high"]
+    assert high.damage_pct == 0.15
+    assert high.timing_window_ms == 800  # inherited
+    assert high.stamina_cost == 5.0  # inherited
 
 
 def test_load_move_with_defaults(tmp_path):
@@ -83,7 +170,9 @@ timing_window_ms = 600
     toml_file = tmp_path / "basic.toml"
     toml_file.write_text(toml_content)
 
-    move = load_move(toml_file)
+    moves = load_move(toml_file)
+    assert len(moves) == 1
+    move = moves[0]
     assert move.name == "basic move"
     assert move.aliases == []
     assert move.telegraph == ""
@@ -149,32 +238,31 @@ stamina_cost = 5.0
 
 def test_load_moves_from_directory(tmp_path):
     """Test loading all moves from a directory."""
-    # Create multiple TOML files
-    punch_toml = tmp_path / "punch_right.toml"
+    # Create a variant move
+    punch_toml = tmp_path / "punch.toml"
     punch_toml.write_text(
         """
-name = "punch right"
-aliases = ["pr"]
+name = "punch"
 move_type = "attack"
 stamina_cost = 5.0
-telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
 timing_window_ms = 800
 damage_pct = 0.15
-countered_by = ["dodge left", "parry high"]
+
+[variants.right]
+aliases = ["pr"]
+telegraph = "{attacker} winds up a right hook!"
+countered_by = ["dodge left"]
 """
     )
 
-    dodge_toml = tmp_path / "dodge_left.toml"
+    # Create a simple move
+    dodge_toml = tmp_path / "dodge.toml"
     dodge_toml.write_text(
         """
-name = "dodge left"
-aliases = ["dl"]
+name = "duck"
 move_type = "defense"
 stamina_cost = 3.0
-telegraph = ""
 timing_window_ms = 500
-damage_pct = 0.0
-countered_by = []
 """
     )
 
@@ -184,19 +272,19 @@ countered_by = []
 
     moves = load_moves(tmp_path)
 
-    # Should have entries for both names and all aliases
+    # Should have entries for variant qualified names, aliases, and simple moves
     assert "punch right" in moves
     assert "pr" in moves
-    assert "dodge left" in moves
-    assert "dl" in moves
+    assert "duck" in moves
 
-    # All aliases should point to the same object
+    # Aliases should point to the same object
     assert moves["punch right"] is moves["pr"]
-    assert moves["dodge left"] is moves["dl"]
 
-    # Check move properties
-    assert moves["punch right"].name == "punch right"
-    assert moves["dodge left"].name == "dodge left"
+    # Check variant properties
+    assert moves["punch right"].command == "punch"
+    assert moves["punch right"].variant == "right"
+    assert moves["duck"].command == "duck"
+    assert moves["duck"].variant == ""
 
 
 def test_load_moves_empty_directory(tmp_path):
@@ -264,26 +352,30 @@ def test_load_moves_validates_countered_by_refs(tmp_path, caplog):
     """Test that invalid countered_by references log warnings."""
     import logging
 
-    # Create a move with an invalid counter reference
-    punch_toml = tmp_path / "punch_right.toml"
+    punch_toml = tmp_path / "punch.toml"
     punch_toml.write_text(
         """
-name = "punch right"
+name = "punch"
 move_type = "attack"
 stamina_cost = 5.0
 timing_window_ms = 800
 damage_pct = 0.15
+
+[variants.right]
 countered_by = ["dodge left", "nonexistent move"]
 """
     )
 
-    dodge_toml = tmp_path / "dodge_left.toml"
+    dodge_toml = tmp_path / "dodge.toml"
     dodge_toml.write_text(
         """
-name = "dodge left"
+name = "dodge"
 move_type = "defense"
 stamina_cost = 3.0
 timing_window_ms = 500
+
+[variants.left]
+aliases = ["dl"]
 """
     )
 
@@ -303,36 +395,43 @@ def test_load_moves_valid_countered_by_refs_no_warning(tmp_path, caplog):
     """Test that valid countered_by references don't log warnings."""
     import logging
 
-    # Create moves with valid counter references
-    punch_toml = tmp_path / "punch_right.toml"
+    punch_toml = tmp_path / "punch.toml"
     punch_toml.write_text(
         """
-name = "punch right"
+name = "punch"
 move_type = "attack"
 stamina_cost = 5.0
 timing_window_ms = 800
 damage_pct = 0.15
+
+[variants.right]
 countered_by = ["dodge left", "parry high"]
 """
     )
 
-    dodge_toml = tmp_path / "dodge_left.toml"
+    dodge_toml = tmp_path / "dodge.toml"
     dodge_toml.write_text(
         """
-name = "dodge left"
+name = "dodge"
 move_type = "defense"
 stamina_cost = 3.0
 timing_window_ms = 500
+
+[variants.left]
+aliases = ["dl"]
 """
     )
 
-    parry_toml = tmp_path / "parry_high.toml"
+    parry_toml = tmp_path / "parry.toml"
     parry_toml.write_text(
         """
-name = "parry high"
+name = "parry"
 move_type = "defense"
 stamina_cost = 3.0
 timing_window_ms = 500
+
+[variants.high]
+aliases = ["f"]
 """
     )
 
@@ -346,3 +445,40 @@ timing_window_ms = 500
 
     # Should have no warnings
     assert len(caplog.records) == 0
+
+
+def test_load_content_combat_directory():
+    """Test loading the actual content/combat directory."""
+    from pathlib import Path
+
+    content_dir = Path(__file__).parent.parent / "content" / "combat"
+    moves = load_moves(content_dir)
+
+    # Verify variant moves have correct structure
+    assert "punch left" in moves
+    assert "punch right" in moves
+    assert moves["punch left"].command == "punch"
+    assert moves["punch left"].variant == "left"
+
+    assert "dodge left" in moves
+    assert "dodge right" in moves
+    assert moves["dodge left"].command == "dodge"
+
+    assert "parry high" in moves
+    assert "parry low" in moves
+    assert moves["parry high"].command == "parry"
+
+    # Verify simple moves
+    assert "roundhouse" in moves
+    assert moves["roundhouse"].command == "roundhouse"
+    assert moves["roundhouse"].variant == ""
+
+    assert "sweep" in moves
+    assert "duck" in moves
+    assert "jump" in moves
+
+    # Verify aliases
+    assert "pl" in moves
+    assert moves["pl"] is moves["punch left"]
+    assert "pr" in moves
+    assert moves["pr"] is moves["punch right"]