The Ultimate Showdown: Ranking the Super Smash Bros. Games and What Lies Ahead

Attention, fellow Smashers! Ever wondered how the Super Smash Bros. series has evolved over the years, or which game reigns supreme? In this post, we'll rank each game in the beloved Super Smash Bros. franchise, delve into their gameplay, discuss the changes and improvements (and occasional missteps) they brought to the table, and even reveal my favorite character to play as. So, without further ado, let's jump into the fray and see how the series has grown and where it's headed next!

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5. Super Smash Bros. (1999)

The original Super Smash Bros. deserves recognition for starting it all, but its age and lack of features compared to its successors place it at the bottom of our ranking.

Gameplay Overview:

• Classic four-player battles with a simple control scheme

• 12-character roster from various Nintendo franchises

• Introduction of iconic game modes like "Classic" and "Break the Targets"

Favorite Character: Pikachu – This electric mouse Pokémon was already a fan favorite, and its agile moves and powerful attacks made it a force to be reckoned with in the original game.

4. Super Smash Bros. Brawl (2008)

While Brawl introduced some great new features, it ranks lower due to its slower pace and controversial mechanics.

Gameplay Overview:

• Introduction of Final Smash moves

• "Subspace Emissary" adventure mode

• Assist Trophies and new items

Changes from Previous Game:

• Slower, more floaty gameplay

• Introduction of "tripping" mechanic

• Newcomer Solid Snake, marking the first third-party character in Smash

Favorite Character: Meta Knight – Brawl's Meta Knight was undeniably overpowered, but his swift and relentless attacks made him an exciting character to play as.

3. Super Smash Bros. for Wii U (2014) / Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS (2014)

Released simultaneously for the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, these twin titles marked the series' first foray into HD graphics and handheld play.

Gameplay Overview:

• Customizable character movesets

• 8-Player Smash (Wii U only)

• Exclusive stages and game modes for each version

Changes from Previous Game:

• HD graphics on Wii U

• Improved online play and the introduction of the "For Glory" mode

• Removal of story-driven adventure mode from Brawl

Favorite Character: Mega Man – This iconic Capcom character made his Smash debut in these games, sporting a moveset that pays homage to his classic games.

2. Super Smash Bros. Melee (2001)

As the second game in the series, Super Smash Bros. Melee has a special place in many fans' hearts for its fast-paced gameplay and impressive roster for its time.

Gameplay Overview:

• Faster gameplay than its predecessor

• Introduction of side special moves

• New "Adventure" and "All-Star" modes

Changes from Previous Game:

• Expanded roster with 26 characters

• Introduction of "trophies" as collectibles

• Greater emphasis on advanced techniques and competitive play

Favorite Character: Marth – This Fire Emblem swordsman is both elegant and deadly, and his introduction in Melee marked the first time Western audiences were introduced to the Fire Emblem series.

1. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2018)

The latest entry in the series, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, takes the top spot for its sheer breadth of content and gameplay improvements. With a staggering roster of over 80 characters, this game truly lives up to its name as the ultimate Smash experience.

Gameplay Overview:

• Massive roster featuring characters from various franchises

• Refined combat mechanics, including perfect shielding and directional air dodging

• New "World of Light" adventure mode and "Spirits" system

Changes from Previous Game:

• Improved online multiplayer

• Return of every character from previous Smash games

• More balanced gameplay and faster pace

Favorite Character: King K. Rool – This heavyweight crocodile king from the Donkey Kong series packs a punch and has a unique moveset that's both fun and challenging to master.

Outlook on the Future of the Franchise

Super Smash Bros. has come a long way since its humble beginnings on the Nintendo 64. With each new entry, the series has expanded and improved upon its gameplay, roster, and features. The future of the franchise seems promising, as there is always room for new characters, stages, and mechanics. As long as there is a demand for fast-paced, competitive brawling and a love for iconic video game characters, the Super Smash Bros. series will continue to thrive.

In conclusion, the Super Smash Bros. games have offered countless hours of fun and excitement for gamers worldwide. Each title has brought unique elements and improvements to the series, while also providing a platform for friendly competition and memorable battles. As we look forward to the future of the franchise, one thing is for sure – Super Smash Bros. will remain a beloved staple in the world of video games for years to come.