Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is one of the most celebrated crossover fighting games, developed by Nintendo. Released in December 2018 for the Nintendo Switch, it brings together characters from various gaming franchises to engage in fast-paced, action-packed battles. In this article, we will explore the gameplay, characters, stages, and tips to excel in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, making it easier for beginners and veterans alike to enjoy the game.
What is Super Smash Bros. Ultimate?
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the fifth installment in the Super Smash Bros. series, created by Masahiro Sakurai. It builds on the foundations of its predecessors, incorporating all past characters and introducing new ones, making it the most extensive roster ever seen in a fighting game. The game is known for its chaotic, yet strategic fighting style, offering both casual and competitive modes of play.
Key Features of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- Over 80 playable characters, including Mario, Link, Pikachu, Kirby, and newcomers like Ridley and Inkling.
- 103 stages, each offering unique elements that impact gameplay.
- Multiple game modes, including Classic Mode, Adventure Mode, and online multiplayer.
- Support for up to 8 players in local multiplayer battles.
Gameplay Mechanics
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate sets itself apart from traditional fighting games by focusing not on health bars but on knockback mechanics. Players must build up their opponent’s damage percentage and knock them off the stage to score points. The more damage a character has, the easier it is to knock them out of the arena.
Game Controls
Understanding the controls is crucial for success in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The basic controls include:
- Standard Attacks: Light hits that can be executed by pressing the attack button.
- Smash Attacks: Powerful blows that can knock opponents off the stage.
- Special Moves: Each character has unique moves activated using the special button.
- Dodges and Shields: Defend against incoming attacks by using the shield button and dodging moves.
Mastering these core mechanics will give you a solid foundation, but each character has different movesets, strengths, and weaknesses that need to be considered.
Game Modes
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers a wide variety of modes, each providing a different gaming experience.
Classic Mode
In Classic Mode, you pick a character and battle through a series of stages, facing AI-controlled opponents. Each character has a unique path and encounters different bosses, making the experience varied and engaging.
Adventure Mode (World of Light)
In Adventure Mode, known as World of Light, players traverse a map, defeating enemies and rescuing characters. This mode offers a deep narrative experience, where you collect spirits and battle powerful opponents to unlock fighters.
Multiplayer Mode
Multiplayer Mode is where Super Smash Bros. Ultimate truly shines. You can play locally or online with up to 8 players. The online mode allows for competitive battles, where players can climb ranks and face off against skilled opponents worldwide.
The Roster: Iconic Characters from Various Franchises
One of the standout features of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is its impressive roster, featuring characters from Nintendo franchises and guest characters from third-party titles.
Popular Characters
Mario
As the face of Nintendo, Mario is a well-balanced fighter with easy-to-learn moves. His fireballs, cape, and Super Jump Punch make him a formidable opponent in any battle.
Link
Link, from The Legend of Zelda series, uses a combination of sword attacks, bombs, and arrows. His versatile moveset allows him to engage opponents from both close and long range.
Pikachu
Pikachu is a fast and agile character with strong electric attacks. Its Thunder Jolt and Quick Attack are key to overwhelming opponents.
Newcomers
In addition to returning veterans, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate introduced several new characters, such as:
- Ridley: A large and powerful fighter from Metroid.
- Incineroar: A wrestling-themed Pokémon with powerful grappling attacks.
- Inkling: From the Splatoon series, who uses ink-based attacks to damage and slow down opponents.
DLC Fighters
Since its release, Nintendo has added numerous DLC fighters to the roster, including:
- Joker from Persona 5
- Banjo & Kazooie from the Banjo-Kazooie series
- Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII
Each new fighter brings a unique playstyle, further enhancing the variety and complexity of battles.
Stages: Dynamic and Interactive Battle Arenas
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate boasts a vast selection of stages, each representing different gaming worlds. Some stages are static, while others change dynamically during battle.
Popular Stages
- Final Destination: A simple, flat platform with no hazards, perfect for competitive play.
- Hyrule Castle: A large stage featuring multiple platforms and iconic Zelda-themed elements.
- Battlefield: Similar to Final Destination but with additional platforms for more tactical gameplay.
Stage Hazards
Many stages feature hazards like moving platforms, sudden drops, and enemy attacks, which can significantly impact the outcome of battles. Stage hazards add an extra layer of strategy to the game, requiring players to adapt to their environment.
Tips for Success in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these tips can help you improve your gameplay:
1. Master One Character at a Time
Instead of trying to learn every character, focus on mastering a single character’s moveset. This will allow you to develop a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.
2. Learn to Read Opponents
Success in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate often depends on predicting your opponent’s moves. Watch their patterns, learn their habits, and anticipate their attacks to gain an advantage.
3. Utilize Dodges and Shields
Blocking and dodging are essential mechanics that can save you from a knockout. Learn when to shield and when to roll to avoid incoming attacks and create counterattack opportunities.
4. Practice Edge Guarding
Edge guarding is a technique where you knock an opponent off the stage and then prevent them from returning. Mastering this skill can lead to more knockouts and secure your victory.
Conclusion
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a game that continues to captivate players with its deep mechanics, expansive roster, and various game modes. Whether you enjoy playing solo in Classic Mode or battling friends online, the game offers endless fun and excitement. With over 80 characters to choose from, players can enjoy a diverse range of playstyles and strategies. Mastering the controls, understanding your character, and adapting to the dynamic stages are key to becoming a formidable Smash player.
So grab your controller, pick your favorite fighter, and step into the chaotic world of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate—where anyone can be the ultimate champion!
