Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Newbie Review
I was drawn into playing Smash Ultimate for the first time in 2019. I had no experience with a Game Cube controller and no idea what I was doing in general, so I flailed and screeched a lot – much to the amusement of my boyfriend. Since then, we have played many more hours and I have learned at least enough to write this rookie review.
I have found that Smash Ultimate is both wildly entertaining and incredibly versatile. The latest DLC was released this January 28th with the addition of Byleth and the Garreg Mach Monastery from Fire Emblem: Three Houses. These additions increased the already vast number of fighters and stages available in the game. Boasting 74 fighters (plus DLC), 100+ stages, and 800+ musical compositions, this game never ceases to amuse. Inexperienced players, as well as professional ones, can enjoy hours of play without falling into the treacherous pits of boredom.
One of the strengths of the game is its ability to cater to different interests. If a player wants to pass the time or to have fun with friends, they can turn stage hazards on for unpredictable complications or they can add items. Professional players can just as easily enjoy the regular three stocks, eight-minute limits and choose between agreed-upon stages without randomization.
Even with such a vast list of fighters, I have stuck with a character that consistently makes the bottom few of every Smash Ultimate tier list: Kirby. The lovable round icon seems very out of place next to Ike, Ken, and Ganondorf – the fighters my friends mostly pick. However, as recreational players, the fighters’ abilities are not markedly different. The movement, attacks, and shielding across the fighters are similar enough for new players to learn whoever they choose. From what I understand, it is at the professional level that the characters’ skills begin to matter significantly.
Another way that Smash Ultimate is the gift that keeps on giving is through mini-games. I am such a fan of the Home-Run Contest for inexplicable reasons. This is a mini-game where you beat up a sandbag and strive to launch it as far as possible. It is a fun way to learn precision and realize the strength and weaknesses of your fighter. For single players, there is also Adventure Mode where you go through a series of quests.
The graphics throughout the entire game are fantastic and there are options to take in-game pictures from almost any angle. I have shamefully taken several pictures of Kirby after absorbing Piranha Plant. I’ve also recorded a match or two where I accidentally did something very cool like perfect shielding or spiking. The game also has speed settings that allow the fighters to move very quickly or very slowly. The latter helps new players like myself see what is really happening on the stage and is yet another quality that promotes learning and improvement.
Here are a few links to more accredited Smash Ultimate reviews, such as the Ars Technica and the Business Insider articles. There is also a beginner’s guide by Screen Rant that highlights just how easy the game is to learn. Whether you wish to participate in local tournaments or just want to admire the Nintendogs in the Living Room stage, there is a lot of fun to be had with this game.
Written by: Isabella Massardi | Instagram
