List of Super Smash Bros. series characters#Other
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{{DISPLAYTITLE:List of Super Smash Bros. series characters}}
File:Smash Bros Ultimate banner.png, which includes every playable character in the series]]
The fighting game series Super Smash Bros. from Nintendo, launched in 1999, features an assortment of video game characters from 40 different franchises. There are 89 playable characters across the series, mostly sourced from Nintendo franchises but with a number of third-party ones as well. There are also other non-player characters that take the form of enemies, bosses, and power-ups.
Playable characters
Each game in the series has a number of playable characters, referred to as "fighters", that are taken primarily from Nintendo franchises. There are 89 total fighters across the series.{{cite web |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/super-smash-bros-ultimate-characters-switch-5778 |title=Super Smash Bros Ultimate character unlock guide and Smash Bros character list |work=Eurogamer |last=Reynolds |first=Matthew |date=October 5, 2021 |accessdate=October 20, 2024}} Starting with Super Smash Bros. Brawl, characters from non-Nintendo franchises began to make playable appearances,{{cite web |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/super-smash-bros-characters-ranked/ |title=Super Smash Bros. Characters Ranked |work=Den of Geek |last=Jasper |first=Gavin |date=March 7, 2019 |accessdate=October 20, 2024}} Each character has multiple alternate costumes, some, such as Villager, having both male and female costumes.{{cite web |url=https://www.vg247.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-all-costumes-characters |title=Here's a look at all the costumes for each character in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate |work=VG247 |last=Nunneley-Jackson |first=Stephany |date=November 20, 2018 |accessdate=October 20, 2024}} Each game has multiple unlockable characters that can only be used if certain conditions are fulfilled.{{cite web |url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/87190/challenger-approaching-a-super-smash-bros-timeline |title=Challenger Approaching: A Super Smash Bros. timeline |work=Shack News |last=Mejia |first=Ozzie |date=November 20, 2014 |accessdate=October 20, 2024}}{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/03/04/super-smash-bros-brawl-review |title=Super Smash Bros. Brawl Review |work=IGN |last=Casamassina |first=Matt |date=March 4, 2008 |accessdate=October 20, 2024}}{{cite web |url=https://www.escapistmagazine.com/collecting-every-smash-amiibo-was-a-nightmare-and-i-dont-regret-it/ |title=Collecting Every Smash Amiibo Was a Nightmare – And I Don’t Regret It |work=The Escapist |last=Lab |first=Jesse |date=February 28, 2024 |accessdate=October 20, 2024}}{{cite web |url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/12/6/18129083/smash-bros-ultimate-character-unlock-save-game-nintendo-switch |title=Smash Bros. Ultimate fans are finding coping strategies for its character unlock system |work=Polygon |last=Kuchera |first=Ben |date=December 6, 2018 |accessdate=October 20, 2024}}
All games have featured fighters that largely share their moves and abilities with another fighter on the roster, but with minor differences in their presentation and gameplay. In Super Smash Bros. Melee, all of these characters, known as "model swap characters" according to the Japanese website,{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/n01/n64/software/nus_p_nalj/smash/flash/1211/index.html|title=速報スマブラ拳!! : ピチュー|access-date=2021-06-14|archive-date=2021-05-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210523092016/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/n01/n64/software/nus_p_nalj/smash/flash/1211/index.html|url-status=live}} were unlockable, but were distinguished from other unlockable characters in that their portrait was added next to the character they were based on instead of filling in one of the placeholder slots at the bottom of the select screen. In Ultimate, several of these characters were officially labeled as "Echo Fighters". They have an option either to be displayed next to or within the character portrait from which they are based on.{{cite web | last=Radulovic | first=Petrana | title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Everything we know | website=Polygon | date=June 22, 2018 | url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/6/22/17488470/super-smash-bros-ultimate-release-date-nintendo-switch-characters | access-date=April 14, 2025}}
class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" |
scope="col" | Fighter
! scope="col" style="width: 5em;"| N64 ! scope="col" style="width: 5em;"| Melee ! scope="col" style="width: 5em;"| Brawl ! scope="col" style="width: 5em;"| for 3DS/Wii U ! scope="col" style="width: 5em;"| Ultimate ! scope="col" | Franchise |
---|
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Banjo & Kazooie | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Bayonetta | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Bowser | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | rowspan="2"|Mario |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Bowser Jr.{{efn|Bowser Jr.'s alternate costumes change the character's name and appearance to be one of the Koopalings: Larry, Roy, Wendy, Iggy, Morton, Lemmy, or Ludwig.}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Byleth{{efn|name=AltGender|Both male and female variants are playable.}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Captain Falcon | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | F-Zero |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Charizard{{efn|In Brawl and Ultimate, Squirtle, Ivysaur, and Charizard are listed together under the name "Pokémon Trainer" on the character select screen. The Pokémon Trainer appears in the background while the player takes direct control of one of the Pokémon, and can switch between them during the battle. In 3DS/Wii U, only Charizard is available as a standalone character.|name=Pokémon Trainer}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Pokémon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Chrom{{efn|In Ultimate, this character is classified as an Echo Fighter.|name=Echo}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | Fire Emblem |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Cloud | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Corrin{{efn|name=AltGender}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | {{Ya}} | Fire Emblem |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Daisy{{efn|name=Echo}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | Mario |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Dark Pit{{efn|name=Echo}} |{{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Dark Samus{{efn|name=Echo}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | Metroid |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Diddy Kong | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | rowspan="2"|Donkey Kong |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Donkey Kong | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Dr. Mario{{efn|In Melee, this character is considered a model swap character.|name=Model swap}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Mario |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Duck Hunt{{efn|There are slight name variations between NTSC and PAL versions. The NTSC characters "Duck Hunt" and "Mii {{sic|Sword|fighter|hide=y}}" are referred to in PAL versions as "Duck Hunt Duo" and "Mii Sword Fighter."|name=version differences}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Falco{{efn|name=Model swap}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | rowspan="2"|Star Fox |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Fox | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Ganondorf{{efn|name=Model swap}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Greninja | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Pokémon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Hero{{efn|Despite the name referring to a single character, the Hero represents four different protagonists from the Dragon Quest series. His default appearance is the Luminary/Eleven from Dragon Quest XI, with Erdrick/Arusu from Dragon Quest III, Solo from Dragon Quest IV, and Eight from Dragon Quest VIII appearing as alternate costumes.}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Ice Climbers | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Ike | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Fire Emblem |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row" |Incineroar | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} |Pokémon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Inkling{{efn|name=AltGender}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | Splatoon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Isabelle | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row" | Ivysaur{{efn|name=Pokémon Trainer}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | rowspan="2"|Pokémon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Jigglypuff | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Joker | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | Persona |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Kazuya | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | scope="row" | Tekken |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Ken{{efn|name=Echo}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | scope="row" | Street Fighter |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| King Dedede | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | scope="row" | Kirby |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| King K. Rool | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | scope="row" | Donkey Kong |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Kirby | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | scope="row" | Kirby |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Link | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | The Legend of Zelda |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Little Mac | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Lucario | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Pokémon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Lucas | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Lucina{{efn|name=Echo}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Fire Emblem |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Luigi | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | rowspan="2"|Mario |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Mario | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Marth | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Fire Emblem |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Mega Man | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Mega Man |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Meta Knight | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Kirby |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Mewtwo | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | {{Ya}} | Pokémon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Mii Brawler{{efn|In 3DS/Wii U, Mii Brawler, Mii Swordfighter, and Mii Gunner are under one character slot labeled simply as "Mii". In Ultimate, they were separated into their own individual slots. However, stacking Echo Fighters also stacks the three Mii Fighters as they were in 3DS/Wii U.|name=Mii}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | rowspan="3"|Mii |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Mii Gunner{{efn|name=Mii}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Mii {{sic|Sword|fighter|hide=y}}{{efn|name=Mii}}{{efn|name=version differences}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Min Min | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | Arms |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Mr. Game & Watch | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Mythra{{efn|Pyra and Mythra share a slot on the character select screen; players can freely switch between the two during battle.|name=Pyra}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Ness | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Mother/Earthbound |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Olimar{{efn|In 3DS/Wii U and Ultimate, half of Olimar's alternate costumes change his name and appearance to Alph, a character from Pikmin 3.}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Pikmin |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Pac-Man | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Pac-Man |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Palutena | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Kid Icarus |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Peach | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Mario |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Pichu{{efn|name=Model swap}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | rowspan="2"|Pokémon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Pikachu | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Piranha Plant | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | Mario |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Pit | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Kid Icarus |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Pyra{{efn|name=Pyra}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | Xenoblade Chronicles |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Richter{{efn|name=Echo}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Ridley | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | Metroid |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| R.O.B. | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | R.O.B. |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Robin{{efn|name=AltGender}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Fire Emblem |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Rosalina & Luma | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Mario |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Roy{{efn|name=Model swap}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | {{Ya}} | Fire Emblem |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Ryu | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | {{Ya}} | Street Fighter |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Samus{{efn|In Brawl, Zero Suit Samus is an alternate form of Samus not displayed on the character select screen; players can switch back and forth between the two by using a specific attack. The two were separated and became independent characters beginning in 3DS/Wii U.|name=Samus}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Metroid |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Sephiroth | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} | Final Fantasy |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Sheik{{efn|In Melee and Brawl, Sheik is an alternate form of Zelda not displayed on the character select screen; players can switch back and forth between the two by using a specific attack. The two were separated and became independent characters beginning in 3DS/Wii U.|name=Zelda}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | The Legend of Zelda |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Shulk | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Xenoblade Chronicles |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Simon | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | Castlevania |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Snake | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Sonic | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Sora | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Squirtle{{efn|name=Pokémon Trainer}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | Pokémon |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Steve{{efn|Steve's alternate costumes change the character's name and appearance to Alex, a Zombie or an Enderman.}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Terry | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | data-sort-value="Y (DLC)" {{Yes2|{{Abbr|DLC|Downloadable content}}}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Toon Link | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | The Legend of Zelda |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Villager{{efn|name=AltGender}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Animal Crossing |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Wario | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Wario |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Wii Fit Trainer{{efn|name=AltGender}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Wii Fit |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Wolf | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | Star Fox |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Yoshi | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Yoshi |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Young Link{{efn|name=Model swap}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | rowspan="2"|The Legend of Zelda |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Zelda{{efn|name=Zelda}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} |
style="text-align:center;"
! scope="row"| Zero Suit Samus{{efn|name=Samus}} | {{Na}} | {{Na}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | {{Ya}} | Metroid |
style="text-align:center;" |
class="sortbottom" style="text-align: center"
! style="text-align: left" | Total | 12 | 26 | 39 | 51 (+7 DLC) | 76 (+13 DLC) | 40 different franchises |
=Roster development=
Originally designed as a prototype using only original characters, a prototype was later developed featuring Mario, Donkey Kong, Samus, and Fox.{{Cite journal |year=2008 |title=The Man Who Made Mario Fight |journal=Hobby Consoles |issue=202 |pages=22}} Another idea considered was to make the roster entirely made up by Kirby characters or dogs. He found Pokémon characters the hardest to get permission for due to how their image is "tightly supervised." Sakurai remarked that part of his aim when creating the game was to ensure that the characters were handled appropriately. According to Sakurai, some people within Nintendo were concerned about the optics of the game, particularly the idea of Mario attacking Pikachu.{{cite web |url=https://shmuplations.com/smashbros/ |title=Super Smash Bros. – 1999 Developer Interview |work=Nice Games |date=1999 |accessdate=October 20, 2024}}
Super Smash Bros. Melee features multiple characters that were considered for inclusion but ultimately turned down. During development, Sakurai wanted to include a character from a classic Nintendo game, including the protagonists of Balloon Fight, Excitebike, Clu Clu Land, and Urban Champion, before settling on Ice Climbers. Ayumi Tachibana from the Famicom Detective Club series was also considered, but was not included due to her lack of presence among international audiences.{{cite web |url=https://gamerant.com/super-smash-bros-melee-every-character-cut/ |title=Super Smash Bros. Melee: Every Character Cut From The Roster |work=Game Rant |last=Fontes |first=Renan |date=May 31, 2020 |accessdate=October 26, 2024}} Marth and Roy were both considered to be removed from international versions of Melee. Marth was originally included due to Sakurai's desire to include more sword users, specifically so Link would be able to "cross blades" with someone else. He also campaigned to include Roy, whose game would not be released until after Melee.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/48555/features/fire-emblem-through-the-ages/|title=Fire Emblem through the ages|author=East, Thomas|magazine=Official Nintendo Magazine|date=April 13, 2013|access-date=July 17, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130416201524/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/48555/features/fire-emblem-through-the-ages/|archive-date=April 16, 2013|url-status=dead}} Sakurai stated that having characters speak Japanese in English releases was rare at the time, and that there was more dispute over Roy. He ultimately succeeded in convincing them to remain in international versions.{{Cite web|url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/98904/how-super-smash-bros-melee-introduced-fire-emblem-to-western-audiences|title=How Super Smash Bros. Melee Introduced Fire Emblem to Western Audiences|website=Shacknews|access-date=2021-08-23|archive-date=2021-08-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210823224630/https://www.shacknews.com/article/98904/how-super-smash-bros-melee-introduced-fire-emblem-to-western-audiences|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/48555/features/fire-emblem-through-the-ages/?page=6|title=Nintendo Feature: Fire Emblem through the ages – Official Nintendo Magazine|date=April 13, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141010141758/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/48555/features/fire-emblem-through-the-ages/?page=6|archive-date=2014-10-10}} Lucas was considered for Melee as a replacement for Ness, but he was kept out of the roster due to the cancellation of the Nintendo 64 version of Mother 3. Third-party characters, including Solid Snake and Sonic the Hedgehog, were considered as well. Snake's creator, Hideo Kojima, requested it, but it was too late in development. Time restraints similarly affected Sonic's inclusion according to Yuji Naka. Wario was also considered, with Sakurai stating that he would have included him if he had more development time.
Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U introduced the ability for players to create their own Mii Fighters, which use customizable moves from one of three different fighting styles (Brawler, {{not a typo|Swordfighter}} and Gunner).{{cite web | last=Corriea | first=Alexa Ray | title=You can import your Mii to fight in the next Super Smash Bros. | website=Polygon | date=June 10, 2014 | url=https://www.polygon.com/e3-2014/2014/6/10/5792076/super-smash-bros-wii-u-mii-fighter | access-date=April 14, 2025}} These Miis can be further customized with costume pieces unlocked through gameplay or purchased as downloadable content. Several of these costumes are based on characters and franchises not otherwise represented, such as Sans from Undertale,{{cite web |last1=Minor |first1=Jordan |title='Undertale's' Sans Is Basically a Brand New 'Smash Bros.' Fighter |url=https://www.geek.com/games/undertales-sans-is-basically-a-brand-new-smash-bros-fighter-1803088/ |website=Geek.com |access-date=10 September 2019 |archive-date=9 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190909035313/https://www.geek.com/games/undertales-sans-is-basically-a-brand-new-smash-bros-fighter-1803088/ |url-status=dead }}{{cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/sans-from-undertale-is-getting-a-costume-in-smash-ultimate-565839.phtml | title = Sans from Undertale is getting a costume in Smash Ultimate | first = Peter | last = Glogowski | date = September 4, 2019 | access-date = September 4, 2019 | work = Destructoid | archive-date = August 9, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200809184205/https://www.destructoid.com/sans-from-undertale-is-getting-a-costume-in-smash-ultimate-565839.phtml | url-status = live }} Shantae from the eponymous series,{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/22553963/super-smash-bros-ultimate-dante-devil-may-cry-skyrim-dovahkiin-mii-fighters|title=Dante from the Devil May Cry series coming to Smash Bros. as Mii Fighter|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|website=Polygon|date=28 June 2021|access-date=28 June 2021|archive-date=28 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210628145719/https://www.polygon.com/22553963/super-smash-bros-ultimate-dante-devil-may-cry-skyrim-dovahkiin-mii-fighters|url-status=live}} and Doom Slayer from Doom.{{cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/22710541/super-smash-bros-ultimate-final-mii-fighters-dlc|title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate gets Doom Slayer from Doom as a Mii Fighter|date=5 October 2021|first=Nicole|last=Carpenter|access-date=11 October 2021|language=en|website=Polygon|archive-date=11 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011165230/https://www.polygon.com/22710541/super-smash-bros-ultimate-final-mii-fighters-dlc|url-status=live}} According to Sakurai, the addition of Miis and Mii costumes was to allow players to simulate playing as characters that would not otherwise be included in the game.
Following the release of Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, an open ballot was held to allow fans to submit their requests for new character inclusions.{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2015/4/1/8327907/super-smash-bros-characters-fighter-ballot-wii-u-3ds|title=Nintendo taking suggestions on new Super Smash Bros. characters in online ballot|author=Samit Sarkar|work=Polygon|date=April 2015|access-date=April 1, 2015|archive-date=April 2, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402172016/http://www.polygon.com/2015/4/1/8327907/super-smash-bros-characters-fighter-ballot-wii-u-3ds|url-status=live}} These votes would go on to influence the roster of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, with several characters being added as a direct result of their popularity in the fan ballot.{{cite web | last=Phillips | first=Tom | title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate nearly featured Decidueye instead of Incineroar | website=Eurogamer.net | date=January 21, 2019 | url=https://www.eurogamer.net/super-smash-bros-ultimate-nearly-featured-decidueye-instead-of-incineroar | access-date=April 18, 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/super-smash-bros-ultimate-banjo-kazooie-sora-fan-ballot-result/|title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Director Reveals Banjo-Kazooie Only Trailed Sora in Fan Ballot|last=Moore|first=Logan|website=ComicBook.com|date=November 3, 2021|access-date=November 4, 2021|archive-date=November 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211103173842/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/super-smash-bros-ultimate-banjo-kazooie-sora-fan-ballot-result/|url-status=live}}
According to Daniel Kaplan, a former business developer for Mojang, discussion about Steve's inclusion began in 2015. Sakurai stated that a Nintendo employee asked at one point about the prospect of including Minecraft in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, at which point he agreed.{{cite web |url=https://dotesports.com/fgc/news/talks-about-minecraft-in-the-smash-bros-series-began-at-least-5-years-ago |title=Talks about Minecraft in the Smash Bros. series began “at least” 5 years ago |work=Dot Esports |last=Linhares |first=Nadia |date=October 2, 2020 |accessdate=October 26, 2024}}
Each Super Smash Bros. game features multiple characters who were initially considered for playable inclusion, but were either decided against or omitted due to limited development resources. Some of these characters were later added in subsequent entries; for example, Bowser and King Dedede were originally planned for the roster of the first game, but did not get added to the series until Melee and Brawl respectively.
=Competitive use=
Sakurai remarked that it was difficult to balance Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 64 due to certain characters being better in four-player matches and others being better in one-on-one matches. He also stated that he heard from tournament players that Kirby and Ness were too strong. He agreed about Ness, and one of Ness' attacks was nerfed in overseas versions to make it weaker.
In competitive Melee, the top characters among the roster tended to include Fox, Sheik, Falco, Jiggypuff, Captain Falcon, Ice Climbers, Peach, and Marth. Yoshi, considered one of the worst fighters in Super Smash Bros. Melee, was used by competitive Melee player aMSa to win the first "super-major tournament" with a Yoshi ever. Donkey Kong, another low tier, was also able to perform better. This, combined with other low-tier picks, inspired other players to use characters like Yoshi and Donkey Kong in competitive play. It has also led to players reconsidering Yoshi and Donkey Kong's placement in the tier list, with competitive Melee player Hungrybox considering Yoshi among the best of the characters.{{cite web |url=https://dotesports.com/nintendo/news/smash-melee-unique-competitive-history-makes-tier-lists-difficult-to-track |title=Smash Melee’s unique competitive history makes tier lists difficult to track |work=Dot Esports |last=Flynn |first=Christian |date=September 30, 2023 |accessdate=October 26, 2024}}
Some tournaments have banned characters from competitive use in the past due to being particularly imbalanced, such as Meta Knight in Brawl and Steve and Kazuya in Ultimate.{{cite web | last=George | first=Richard | title=Meta Knight: Banned From Super Smash Bros. Brawl | website=IGN | date=2011-10-03 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/10/03/meta-knight-banned-from-super-smash-bros-brawl | access-date=2025-04-14}}{{cite web |url=https://dotesports.com/fgc/news/smash-ultimate-event-bans-steve-alongside-another-popular-fighter |title= Smash Ultimate event bans Steve alongside another popular fighter |work=Dot Esports |last=Pabriga |first=Cedric |date=April 5, 2023 |accessdate=October 26, 2024}}
Non-playable characters
In addition to the roster of playable fighters, several non-playable characters appear, some of which were created for the Super Smash Bros. series. These can take the form of bosses, summonable characters, enemies, and other minor appearances.
= Original characters =
Master Hand is a glove-like being that appears in all games to date, frequently serving as the final boss of the games' single player modes.{{cite web | last=Richman | first=Olivia | title=What is the secret story behind Master Hand in Smash? | website=InvenGlobal | date=May 2, 2022 | url=https://www.invenglobal.com/articles/17090/what-is-the-secret-story-behind-master-hand-in-smash | access-date=April 14, 2025}} In Melee, Master Hand is playable via a system glitch.{{cite web | last=Lozada | first=David | title=Video Game Secrets That Weren't Discovered for Years | website=GameRevolution | date=August 7, 2018 | url=https://www.gamerevolution.com/originals/414407-video-game-secrets | access-date=April 14, 2025}} He is also playable in Ultimate{{'s}} Adventure Mode if certain requirements are met.{{cite web | last=Mejia | first=Ozzie | title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: The World of Light true ending | website=Shacknews | date=December 12, 2018 | url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/108994/super-smash-bros-ultimate-the-world-of-light-true-ending | access-date=April 14, 2025}} Super Smash Bros. Melee introduces a left-hand counterpart to Master Hand named {{anchor|Crazy Hand}}Crazy Hand, who appears alongside him in all subsequent games under certain conditions. Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U features a new form, {{anchor|Master Core}}Master Core, a mass of black particles that emerge from Master Hand and Crazy Hand after their defeat and shapeshift into multiple forms.{{cite web | last=Carlson | first=Alex | title=Smash Bros. Wii U Brings New Master Core Form | website=Hardcore Gamer | date=October 23, 2014 | url=https://hardcoregamer.com/news/smash-bros-wii-u-brings-new-master-core-form/113595/ | access-date=April 14, 2025}} Master Hand and Crazy Hand share a voice with each game's announcer, who provides commentary over the game's menus and battles and frequently narrates promotional videos for the series.{{cite web | last=Penwell | first=Christopher | title=We're Pretty Certain Master Hand Is The Announcer In Super Smash Bros | website=TheGamer | date=January 30, 2021 | url=https://www.thegamer.com/master-hand-announcer-super-smash-bros/ | access-date=April 18, 2025}}{{cite web | last=Mejia | first=Ozzie | title=Super Smash Bros. for Wii U: The Nintendo Direct recap | website=Shacknews | date=October 23, 2014 | url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/86852/super-smash-bros-for-wii-u-the-nintendo-direct-recap | access-date=April 14, 2025}}{{cite web | last=Good | first=Owen S. | title=Smash Bros.’ announcer says ‘Banned!’ for NeoGAFfers | website=Polygon | date=November 9, 2014 | url=https://www.polygon.com/2014/11/9/7180587/smash-bros-announcer-neogaf-clips | access-date=April 14, 2025}}{{cite web | last=Bukacek | first=Jacob | title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Announcer Explains it All in Overview Trailer | website=Hardcore Gamer | date=November 21, 2018 | url=https://hardcoregamer.com/news/super-smash-bros-ultimate-announcer-explains-it-all-in-overview-trailer/318491/ | access-date=April 14, 2025}} The two have gone on to make cameo appearances outside of the Super Smash Bros. series, most notably appearing as bosses in Kirby & the Amazing Mirror.{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/05/feature_a_fit-to-burst_history_of_kirby_games|title=Feature: A Fit-To-Burst History Of Kirby Games|first=Tim|last=Latshaw|publisher=Nintendo Life|date=May 5, 2015|accessdate=June 19, 2021|archive-date=June 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624201058/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/05/feature_a_fit-to-burst_history_of_kirby_games|url-status=live}}
Tabuu is the primary antagonist and final boss of Super Smash Bros. Brawl{{'s}} story mode, "The Subspace Emissary". He is the humanoid embodiment of Subspace, a void-like alternate dimension, and seeks to consume the world. He takes possession of Master Hand to manipulate others into doing his bidding, with his Subspace Army forces pulling parts of the world into Subspace at his behest. Though he is temporarily able to turn all the fighters into trophies using his "off waves" attack, he is weakened by the sudden arrival of Sonic the Hedgehog, and the revived fighters destroy him, restoring the world to normal.{{cite web | last=Mejia | first=Ozzie | title=Re-visiting Super Smash Bros. Brawl's 'Subspace Emissary' story mode | website=Shacknews | date=November 17, 2014 | url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/87146/re-visiting-super-smash-bros-brawls-subspace-emissary-story-mode | access-date=April 14, 2025}}
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate{{'s}} story mode, "World of Light", introduces {{anchor|Galeem}}Galeem, an evil entity described as the "Lord of Light". Aided by an army of Master Hand puppets, he destroys the Smash Bros. world and captures the spirits of the world's inhabitants, placing them under his control. Only Kirby is able to escape, exploring Galeem's recreated world to free the other fighters and restore the captured spirits to normal.{{cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/super-smash-bros-director-says-there-s-a-practical-reason-why-kirby-survived-the-apocalypse-in-the-last-trailer-533204.phtml | title = Super Smash Bros. director says there's a practical reason why Kirby survived the apocalypse in the last trailer | first = Chris | last = Carter | date = December 2, 2018 | access-date = December 6, 2018 | work = Destructoid | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190409121331/https://www.destructoid.com/super-smash-bros-director-says-there-s-a-practical-reason-why-kirby-survived-the-apocalypse-in-the-last-trailer-533204.phtml | archive-date = April 9, 2019 | url-status=live | df = mdy-all }} After Galeem is defeated, its dark counterpart {{anchor|Dharkon}}Dharkon emerges, and it uses its Crazy Hand puppets to take control of the remaining spirits, attempting to consume the world in darkness. Upon Dharkon's defeat, it and Galeem escape to a new world, with their forces waging war against one another. Defeating only Galeem or Dharkon individually will result in an ending in which the survivor consumes the universe. However, by defeating an equal amount of light and dark Spirits on the final map, players are able to challenge and destroy both of them, freeing the Spirits from their control.{{cite web |last1=Little |first1=Riley |title=Super Smash Bros Ultimate: All Three Endings Explained & How To Get Them |url=https://screenrant.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-endings-explained-guide/ |website=Screen Rant |access-date=June 16, 2023 |date=December 18, 2018 |url-status=live |archive-date=June 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230616133527/https://screenrant.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-endings-explained-guide/ }}
= Others =
Villains from different game franchises have appeared as bosses in the games' single player modes, such as Pokémon{{'s}} Rayquaza and Castlevania{{'s}} Dracula.{{cite web | title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Adds Simon Belmont and King K. Rool, Details Stages and Gameplay Modes | website=Paste Magazine | date=July 27, 2022 | url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/super-smash-bros/smash-bros-ultimate-adds-simon-belmont-and-king-k | access-date=April 14, 2025}} One boss, a more powerful form of Bowser known as Giga Bowser, was created for Super Smash Bros. Melee and has alternately featured throughout the series as a boss and playable character via Bowser's Final Smash attack.{{cite web | last=Stevens | first=Jon | title=From the Archive: Top Ten: Creepiest Nintendo Moments | website=Nintendojo | date=October 31, 2016 | url=https://www.nintendojo.com/features/columns/top-ten/from-the-archive-top-ten-creepiest-nintendo-moments/2 | access-date=April 14, 2025}}{{cite web | last=Hinkle | first=David | title=Dojo update: Giga Bowser and Smash Attacks | website=Engadget | date=July 5, 2007 | url=https://www.engadget.com/2007-07-05-dojo-update-giga-bowser-and-smash-attacks.html | access-date=April 14, 2025}} Other bosses appear on individual stages to disrupt battles, such as Mega Man{{'s}} Yellow Devil.{{cite web | last=Peeples | first=Jeremy | title=Yellow Devil Coming to Super Smash Bros. | website=Hardcore Gamer | date=April 8, 2014 | url=https://hardcoregamer.com/news/yellow-devil-coming-to-super-smash-bros/80882/ | access-date=April 14, 2025}}
Certain items in the Super Smash Bros. series can be used to temporarily summon other characters to assist the player or disrupt the battle. These include the Poké Ball, introduced in the original Super Smash Bros., which can be thrown to call forth a random Pokémon; and the Assist Trophy, added in Brawl, which summons a character from one of various gaming franchises, such as Super Mario{{'s}} Waluigi, Star Fox{{'s}} Andross, and the eponymous character of Shovel Knight{{cite news |last1=Park |first1=Gene |title=Waluigi was robbed and humiliated by Nintendo, and his fans are furious |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-intersect/wp/2018/06/12/waluigi-was-robbed-and-humiliated-by-nintendo-and-his-fans-are-furious/?noredirect=on |newspaper=The Washington Post |access-date=12 November 2018 |archive-date=21 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921025350/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-intersect/wp/2018/06/12/waluigi-was-robbed-and-humiliated-by-nintendo-and-his-fans-are-furious/?noredirect=on |url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Andross Returns as an Assist Trophy in Smash Bros. | website=Nintendo World Report | date=March 28, 2014 | url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/36962/andross-returns-as-an-assist-trophy-in-smash-bros | access-date=April 15, 2025}}{{cite web | last=Goslin | first=Austen | title=Rathalos and Shovel Knight are coming to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate as Assist Trophies | website=Polygon | date=August 8, 2018 | url=https://www.polygon.com/nintendo-switch/2018/8/8/17664120/rathalos-shovel-knight-super-smash-bros-ultimate-assist-trophies | access-date=April 15, 2025}} Some Assist Trophies, such as Little Mac and Isabelle, have gone on to appear as playable fighters in later installments.{{cite web | title=Little Mac's movelist for Smash Bros. dissected | website=GamesRadar+ | date=February 27, 2014 | url=https://www.gamesradar.com/little-macs-movelist-smash-bros-wii-u/ | access-date=April 15, 2025}}{{cite web | last=Good | first=Owen S. | title=Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s next character is Isabelle from Animal Crossing | website=Polygon | date=September 13, 2018 | url=https://www.polygon.com/nintendo-switch/2018/9/13/17856880/super-smash-bros-ultimate-nintendo-switch-playable-character-list-isabelle-animal-crossing | access-date=April 15, 2025}}
Each game includes a group of generic enemy characters fought in large groups in the games' single-player campaigns and "Multi-Man Smash" minigames, known as the {{nihongo|"Mysterious Small Fry Enemy Corps"|謎のザコ敵軍団}} in Japanese. In English, they are given names that describe their physical form in each game: the Fighting Polygon Team in Super Smash Bros., the Fighting Wire Frames in Melee, the Fighting Alloy Team in Brawl, and the Fighting Mii Team in for Nintendo 3DS/Wii U and Ultimate. Minor enemies from other games also appear as opponents in certain modes throughout the series, including Adventure Mode in Melee and Smash Run in Nintendo 3DS.{{cite web | last=Oloman | first=Jordan | title=Adventure Mode Was Super Smash Bros. Melee's Most Underrated Feature | website=IGN | date=July 20, 2018 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/07/20/adventure-mode-was-super-smash-bros-melees-most-underrated-feature | access-date=April 14, 2025}} Other characters appear in non-interactive forms that do not affect gameplay, such as collectible trophies depicting their likeness or as spectators watching a battle on specific stages.{{cite web | last=Wong | first=Alistair | title=Sakurai Talks A Few Extra Details Regarding Joker In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate | website=Siliconera | date=April 17, 2019 | url=https://www.siliconera.com/sakurai-talks-a-few-extra-details-regarding-joker-in-super-smash-bros-ultimate/ | access-date=April 14, 2025}}{{cite web | last=Michael | first=Cale | title=All cameos on King of Fighters Stadium in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate | website=Dot Esports | date=November 6, 2019 | url=https://dotesports.com/fgc/news/all-cameos-on-king-of-fighters-stadium-in-super-smash-bros-ultimate | access-date=April 14, 2025}}
Notes
{{Notelist}}
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
- {{Officialwebsite|https://www.smashbros.com/en_US/fighter/index.html|Super Smash Bros. Ultimate fighter list}}
{{Super Smash Bros.}}