Ultimate Smash Bros fighter guide: 80 characters ranked, DLC details, and pro strategies
Introduction to Smash Ultimate’s Roster
Super Smash Bros Ultimate represents the pinnacle of Nintendo’s crossover fighting series, featuring the most diverse character roster in franchise history. With fighters spanning multiple gaming universes, mastering the current meta requires understanding each character’s strengths and matchups.
The game continues to dominate competitive fighting game circuits and casual play sessions alike, thanks to its perfect balance of accessibility and depth. Whether you’re preparing for tournament play or local multiplayer battles, this guide breaks down everything from base roster composition to advanced combat techniques.
How Many Fighters Are in Super Smash Bros Ultimate?
The complete Super Smash Bros Ultimate roster boasts 80 distinct playable characters, making it the largest fighting game crossover in history. This includes all base game fighters plus DLC additions up to Pyra and Mythra’s inclusion in May 2021.
Nintendo has confirmed two additional fighters are planned for future release, though their identities remain speculative among the community. When selecting mains, consider that roster size doesn’t equal balance – some characters consistently outperform others in competitive settings.
Who Are the DLC Characters in Smash?
The 10 DLC fighters available through separate purchase ($5.99 per pack) significantly expand Ultimate’s combat possibilities. These premium additions include:
- Super Mario series (Unique plant-based moveset)
- Iconic N64 duo with versatile projectile game
- Final Fantasy villain with devastating ranged attacks
- Xenoblade Chronicles characters with stance-changing mechanics
DLC Strategy: These characters often introduce unique mechanics not found in the base roster. Pyra/Mythra’s stance switching and Sephiroth’s wing mechanic add layers of complexity that can give experienced players an edge.
Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tier List – All Fighters Ranked
Our tier evaluation considers multiple competitive factors: combo potential, recovery options, matchup spread, and tournament results. Remember that tier placements reflect high-level play – skilled players can succeed with any character.
S Tier
The tournament dominators. Characters like Joker, Pikachu, and Peach boast exceptional frame data, combo trees, and few bad matchups. They require precise execution but reward mastery with tournament-winning potential.
A Tier
Strong contenders that can compete with S-tiers when piloted expertly. Includes versatile fighters like Wolf, Palutena, and Roy who have tools for most situations but may struggle against the absolute top tiers.
B Tier
Situational specialists with clear strengths and weaknesses. Characters here like Incineroar or Isabelle can surprise opponents but require matchup knowledge and stage control to excel consistently.
C Tier
The most challenging fighters to win with competitively. While no character is truly unviable, these fighters like Little Mac or Ganondorf often struggle against the roster’s faster, more versatile members.
Advanced Play Strategies and Common Pitfalls
Advanced Techniques: Master movement options like dash dancing and wave landing to outmaneuver opponents. Perfect shielding (parrying) at the right moment creates punish opportunities against aggressive players.
Common Mistakes: Over-relying on smash attacks leaves you vulnerable. Learn to use tilts and aerials for safer pressure. Avoid predictable recovery patterns that skilled opponents will punish.
Matchup Knowledge: Study how your main fares against popular tournament picks. Some mid-tier characters actually counter specific top tiers due to unique move properties.
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