This article is a translation of the following Japanese article:
Original: 【スマブラSP】もうナーフは来ない前提で考えるキャラ選び|最終環境で勝つためのファイター選び方ガイド
“Super Smash Bros. SPECIAL (Super Smash Bros. SP/Ultimate)” has completed the major official adjustments with the final balance update (Ver.13.0.1) in 2025. This means that it is highly likely that there will be no major changes in character performance due to nerfs (weakening) or buffs (strengthening).
In this “final environment”, the criteria and way of thinking for character selection will also change. Rather than simply looking at the tier list, choosing a game based on the compatibility with your play style, compatibility, and approach will directly impact your win rate.
In this article, we will carefully explain how to choose a character with the assumption that there will be no nerfs, and what point of view you should consider when choosing a fighter.
Author: “Super Smash Bros. SP is not a game where winning or losing is determined by “character performance alone.” Because the environment is now fixed, players who understand the “essence” of how to make choices are achieving results.”
1. Now that nerfs are not coming, don’t rely too much on tier only
The most important point to keep in mind is
The tier list shows the ranking and does not guarantee the winning rate.
That is.
For example, higher tier characters are often stronger in matches, but higher tier does not necessarily mean that you will win.
This is something that is often pointed out in the community, and there are some opinions that “even low-tier characters can win with familiar characters.” In other words,
Even at low tiers, you can win at high ranks depending on the skill of the user»
The phenomenon is not uncommon.
Author: “Right now, with no nerfs coming, Tier is just a reference value.” Rather, “mastering the characters you can handle” is directly linked to your winning rate.”
2. My preferences/style and picks
When choosing a character, the first thing to think about is “Is it fun to use?”
This is not just a matter of mood, but The more time you play and the more trial and error you do, the deeper your understanding of the maneuvers.
Even the overseas “Smash Bros. Ultimate Guide” clearly states that “selecting characters based on tier alone is not recommended.” It has been pointed out that certain upper tier characters for strong players are difficult for beginners to handle, while on the other hand even lower tier characters can fight well if they understand their quirks.
For example,
- I like projectile objects
- Good at close range combat
- I want to use techniques with long reach
- I like characters that are easy to return to.
As mentioned above, it is important to prioritize your own playstyle.
Author: “If you use your favorite character, you may be able to become a winning person faster.Tier is just an auxiliary indicator.”
3. Tactics to win with familiar characters
Since Smash Bros. SP has over 81 characters in total, it is impossible to use all characters at the same level.
So now that the environment is fixed,
“Fix one or two characters to a fixed fighting style”
The tacticwill be effective.
The reason for this is that since the character’s performance does not change, the player has a great advantage of fully understanding how to use the character. Even if you are not a high-tier character, there are many situations where you can have a sufficient advantage with proficiency.
Author: “In an environment where there are no nerfs, character performance is an “unchanged standard.” The big influence here is “your own skills.”
4. Combine compatibility and stage selection
Character selection is not a complete process.
Compatibility with the opponent character and stage selection must also be considered as a set.
For example,
- A stage with strong projectile ability
- A stage where air mobility is important
- A stage where attacking the cliff is advantageous
etc. serve as conditions to make the most of a character’s strengths. This is also emphasized in the tournament environment, where stage pick strategy often determines the outcome.
Author: “By considering character selection and stage selection together, there will be a difference in winning rate that cannot be explained by tier alone.”
5. Decide your “strongest character” through practice and repetition
In the final environment,
“Use this character because it is the strongest”
Rather than the idea of
“Character that can increase your winning rate the most”
It is important to find.
This is an effective strategy for continuing to win in ranked matches and tournaments.
In fact, even in the community of top players, there is often the opinion that “Tier may be helpful, but in the end it’s best to win with your favorite character.” This is of course more noticeable for more skilled players.
Author: “Rather than looking for an ‘all-purpose character,’ thinking about creating a winning strategy using characters you are good at will lead to far better results.”
6. Conclusion | How to choose a character in the final environment without nerfs
The following are important points when choosing a character assuming there will be no nerfs or balance adjustments:
- Tier list is for reference only
- Put your playstyle first
- Increase your winning rate with familiar characters
- Create a strategy including compatibility and stage selection
- Practice and repeat with emphasis on winning rate
Author: “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a fighting game where differences in character performance are not everything. Because it is a final environment, you are required to maximize your winning rate by choosing a character that suits you.”