Who Reigns Supreme? Deconstructing Power in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The question of who is the most powerful person in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate doesn’t have a single, definitive answer, precisely because it’s the wrong question. Power in Smash isn’t about raw strength or a character’s design, but rather a complex equation involving character viability, player skill, metagame adaptation, and ever-shifting tier lists. To put it another way: Character strength is subjective.
A character considered “powerful” can mean a few different things. The most common perspective views it through competitive viability. In that light, characters who consistently perform well in tournaments at the highest level are considered the strongest. As of the end of the game’s competitive lifecycle, and taking all the above into consideration, the title of “most powerful” arguably belongs to Steve.
Steve’s high placement is not to the exclusion of other powerful fighters. Characters such as Pikachu, Joker, Pyra/Mythra, and R.O.B. are typically at the top tier. However, even then, Steve’s unique mechanics and abilities allow for advantages that place him in the top spot.
The argument for Steve is simple: unmatched versatility and stage control. His ability to create platforms and walls with his mining and crafting system provides him with unrivaled defensive capabilities, stage control, recovery options, and gimping potential. While his execution is undoubtedly challenging, requiring a high level of technical skill and strategic thinking, the rewards are undeniable. He can disrupt opponents, extend combos, create safe zones, and control the flow of battle in ways no other character can replicate. This is what has cemented him as the game’s most powerful fighter.
The answer, of course, is not without nuance. Tier lists are perpetually debated and shift with character buffs, nerfs, and evolving strategies. A character dominating one tournament could be countered and fall out of favor in the next. Player skill is also essential. A skilled player can make seemingly “weaker” characters perform surprisingly well, while a less experienced player will struggle to utilize even the most powerful ones. It’s a constant interplay between character potential and player execution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Smash Ultimate Power
Is Pikachu really considered the strongest?
While Pikachu was often considered top tier, his placement has fluctuated over time. Pikachu possesses many strengths, including his excellent recovery and edgeguarding ability. However, in the later metagame, Steve surpassed him due to his stage control and versatility.
Who is considered the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) in Smash?
In terms of Smash, Mew2King is often considered the greatest overall Smash player. However, the GOAT in Super Smash Bros. Melee could be debated between Armada, Hungrybox, Mango, Mew2King, and PPMD. All these players have contributed to the overall competitive experience.
Who is the king of Smash Ultimate?
“King of Smash” is typically used to refer to Ken Hoang from the Super Smash Bros. Melee era, not specifically for Ultimate. There isn’t a single, undisputed “king” for Smash Ultimate, as the competitive scene is too diverse.
What is the strongest move in Smash Ultimate?
The “strongest” move is subjective and depends on the context. Ganondorf’s Warlock Punch deals immense damage but is slow and punishable. Moves that kill early, like Marth’s tipper F-Smash or Bowser’s F-Smash, are also contenders.
Why is Steve considered so powerful in Smash?
Steve’s power comes from his unique mining and crafting mechanics, allowing him to create platforms, walls, and tools. This grants him unparalleled stage control, recovery options, and combo potential, giving him a significant edge over other characters.
Is there an official tier list for Smash Ultimate?
Nintendo does not publish official tier lists. Tier lists are created by the community and are based on tournament results, character matchups, and general consensus among top players.
Is Steve banned in any Smash tournaments?
While Steve was considered one of the best in the game, Steve was temporarily banned from tournaments due to glitches, but is now allowed, with some stipulations.
What makes a character “high tier” in Smash Ultimate?
High-tier characters typically possess a combination of the following: excellent mobility, strong kill options, good recovery, favorable matchups, and versatility. They are also relatively easy to learn and execute at a high level.
Who is the “father of Smash”?
The creator of the Super Smash Bros. series is Masahiro Sakurai.
Who is the best Wolf player in Smash Ultimate?
Jakal, Ouch!?, and Masha are often considered to be the top Wolf players in the world.
Which characters are the hardest to master in Smash Ultimate?
Characters with high skill ceilings often require precise execution and complex strategies. Some of the most difficult characters to master include Peach, Ice Climbers, Rosalina & Luma, Kazuya, and Steve.
Does raw strength determine a character’s viability?
Raw strength (damage output) is only one factor. Mobility, recovery, frame data, and matchups are equally important in determining a character’s overall viability.
Who are the “Five Gods” of Smash?
The “Five Gods” refers to the five Melee players who dominated the competitive scene for much of the game’s lifetime: Armada, Hungrybox, Mango, Mew2King, and PPMD.
Is there a character that counters Steve?
While no character hard-counters Steve, certain characters like Olimar, Pikachu and Meta Knight can exploit his weaknesses by using projectiles to harass him.
What’s next for competitive Smash?
While Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has ceased development, the competitive scene is still very active. Fans are now waiting for future releases! Keep up to date with the latest trends with Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org.