Who Should I Play in Smash Ultimate? A Comprehensive Guide

Figuring out who to main in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate can feel like climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops. With over 80 characters, each possessing unique strengths, weaknesses, and playstyles, the choice is overwhelming. The real answer? It depends entirely on you. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario. Instead, consider your own preferences, playstyle, and goals within the game. Do you prefer a fast-paced, aggressive approach? Or a calculated, defensive one? Are you focused on competitive play or just having fun with friends?

If you’re a beginner, start with characters like Mario, Captain Falcon, or Ganondorf. These are considered excellent starting points because of their relatively straightforward move sets and balanced stats. They allow you to learn the core mechanics of the game without getting bogged down in overly complex strategies.

For intermediate players looking to refine their skills, characters like Link, Sheik, or Joker offer more nuanced gameplay. These characters require a deeper understanding of combos, spacing, and strategic decision-making.

Advanced players seeking a competitive edge often gravitate towards top-tier characters like Palutena, R.O.B., Roy, and Wolf. However, mastering these characters takes significant time, dedication, and practice. And remember, even a “low-tier” character can be deadly in the right hands! Ultimately, the best character to play is the one you enjoy playing the most. Experiment with different characters, learn their strengths and weaknesses, and find the one that clicks with your personal playstyle. Don’t be afraid to explore outside the typical recommendations.

FAQs: Finding Your Perfect Smash Ultimate Main

H2 Understanding Your Playstyle

It is important to understand your playstyle to choose a character that matches your specific style.

H3 Q1: What’s my general playstyle? Aggressive, defensive, or balanced?

Do you rush in for the attack, carefully control space, or try to do a bit of both? Identifying this is key to narrowing down your choices. Aggressive players might like characters with fast movement and strong combo potential like Fox or Sheik. Defensive players may prefer characters with good zoning tools and strong projectiles, such as Samus or Link. Balanced players can opt for characters like Mario or Lucina who can adapt to various situations.

H3 Q2: Do I prefer close-quarters combat or long-range zoning?

Are you more comfortable in the thick of things, or do you like to keep your distance? Close-quarters combatants might enjoy the power of Ganondorf or the agility of Captain Falcon. Long-range zoners could excel with characters like Min Min or Ness.

H3 Q3: Am I a combo enthusiast or a “one-hit wonder” type of player?

Some players love linking together complex strings of attacks, while others prefer landing single, powerful blows. Combo-heavy characters include Sheik, Joker, and Pikachu. Heavy-hitting characters are exemplified by Ganondorf, King K. Rool, and Ike.

H2 Character Archetypes

H3 Q4: What are the different character archetypes in Smash Ultimate?

Smash Ultimate features a diverse range of archetypes, each with distinct characteristics:

• Rushdown: Focused on aggressive, in-your-face gameplay (e.g., Fox, Sheik).
• Zoner: Relies on projectiles and spacing to control the stage (e.g., Samus, Link).
• Grappler: Excels at close-range grabs and throws (e.g., King K. Rool, Incineroar).
• Trapper: Sets up traps and controls the stage with unique tools (e.g., Steve, Pac-Man).
• Glass Cannon: Deals high damage but is easily KO’d (e.g., Pichu, Mewtwo).
• All-rounder: Balanced stats and versatile moveset (e.g., Mario, Lucina).

H3 Q5: Which character aligns with my favorite video game franchise?

A great way to connect with a character is through their origin story. If you’re a die-hard Legend of Zelda fan, naturally you’re gravitated to playing Link or Zelda. Loving Kingdom Hearts make Sora a must-play, or playing Snake if you enjoyed the Metal Gear series.

H2 Tier Lists and Competitive Viability

H3 Q6: Do tier lists matter when choosing a main?

Tier lists can be useful for understanding the relative strengths and weaknesses of characters in the competitive scene. However, they shouldn’t be the only factor. A skilled player can achieve success with any character, regardless of their position on a tier list. Focus on finding a character you enjoy and mastering their unique abilities.

H3 Q7: Are some characters inherently “better” than others?

Yes, some characters possess advantages in terms of movement speed, attack power, combo potential, and recovery options. However, these advantages don’t guarantee victory. Skill, strategy, and matchup knowledge are equally important.

H3 Q8: Can I be competitive with a “low-tier” character?

Absolutely! While it may require more effort and creativity, it’s entirely possible to compete at a high level with a character considered “low-tier.” Many skilled players have demonstrated success with unconventional choices. It’s also important to remember that tier lists are constantly evolving as the game changes and players develop new strategies.

H2 Character Specifics & Difficulty

H3 Q9: Which characters are considered easy to learn for beginners?

Mario, Captain Falcon, and Ganondorf remain excellent choices for beginners due to their relatively straightforward movesets and balanced stats. Other good options include Kirby, Pit, and Lucina.

H3 Q10: Which characters are considered difficult to master?

Characters with complex mechanics, unconventional movement options, or reliance on precise timing are generally considered more difficult to master. Examples include Sheik, Steve, Olimar, and Pichu.

H3 Q11: What resources can help me learn a specific character?

There are a wealth of resources available online, including:

• YouTube tutorials: Many experienced players create comprehensive guides on specific characters, covering their movesets, combos, and strategies.
• Online forums and communities: Websites like Reddit’s r/SmashBrosUltimate offer valuable discussions, tips, and advice.
• Training mode: Utilize the in-game training mode to practice combos, spacing, and recovery techniques.
• Watching professional gameplay: Observing how top players utilize specific characters can provide valuable insights.

H2 Personal Preference and Enjoyment

H3 Q12: Should I prioritize having fun over choosing a “strong” character?

Absolutely! At the end of the day, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a game, and the primary goal should be to have fun. If you’re not enjoying the character you’re playing, it’s unlikely you’ll stick with them long-term, regardless of their competitive viability.

H3 Q13: How many characters should I try before choosing a main?

There’s no magic number. Experiment with as many characters as possible until you find one that resonates with you. Don’t be afraid to try different characters at different times. Your main might change as your skill improves, or your playstyle shifts.

H3 Q14: Can I have multiple mains?

Yes! Many players choose to have a “pocket” character or two that they can switch to in specific matchups. This allows for greater flexibility and adaptability in competitive play.

H3 Q15: Where can I learn more about the broader implications of games and learning?

The Games Learning Society focuses on the intersection of gaming and education. You can find more information on their website: GamesLearningSociety.org.

Choosing a main in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process of experimentation, discovery, and self-improvement. The best character is the one that brings you the most joy and allows you to express your unique playstyle. Good luck, and happy smashing!