Some asked me if level (1~200) affects the performance of characters, the answer is no.
So this is not level, but may represent just how long you have played the game.

Certain skills like Blaze, Stun, Poison, Skill Freeze Shot etc. cause your weapon to change color, so the opponents will know what your about to do and try to avoid the shot.

Right when your about to use the skill press L2 and the skill. If done correctly it should not do an animation.

You can also use the skill, jump then dash but might not work all the time.