Ever since its inception in 1996, Super Smash Bros. has been a staple in the gaming community, particularly among competitors. A standout feature of this series has been the diverse roster of characters, each with their unique attributes, movesets, and playstyles. One character that has captured the hearts of many players is Mario, and one question that often arises is: which version of Mario is the best? Today, we're focusing on the Mario model in Super Smash Bros. 64, affectionately known as Smash 64 Mario. Let's look back at why this version of Mario remains a favorite among many players.
Before diving into the specifics, it's important to remember that determining the 'best' version of Mario, or any character for that matter, can be subjective and depends heavily on individual playstyle and preference. However, there are objective factors that make the Smash 64 version of Mario stand out.
Unparalleled Mobility
One of the most striking aspects of Smash 64 Mario is his exceptional mobility. He possesses a unique ability to move at great speeds both horizontally and vertically, making him highly agile and versatile in combat. This mobility allows players to execute intricate combos, swiftly reposition, and make quick escapes, contributing to a dynamic and unpredictable playstyle.
To illustrate this, consider the Forward Air (F-Air) and Up Special (Short Hop) moves. These moves enable Mario to quickly traverse platforms and neutralize opponents' attacks, making him a formidable force on the ground and in the air.
Forward Air (F-Air)
The F-Air move allows Mario to rapidly approach opponents, enabling him to initiate offense and capitalizing on openings. Moreover, its speed and candy-like sweet spot make it an effective punishing tool, rewarding players who can read their opponents' movements accurately.
With proper spacing and execution, F-Air can combo into other attacks, creating numerous opportunities for edgeguarding and mix-ups, further demonstrating Mario's deadly mobility.
Up Special (Short Hop)
Mario's Up Special move, Short Hop, serves multiple purposes. It can be used for fast recovery, to escape pressure, or even to disrupt opponents' combos. The move's quick startup and low ending lag make it a versatile tool in various situations, encouraging creative and adaptable play.
A well-timed Short Hop can send opponents flying, providing opportunities for follow-up attacks or even leading to a kill at low percentages. Conversely, using Short Hop to escape pressure allows Mario to reset the advantageous situation, keeping the opponent on their toes.
Power and Survivalism
Besides his mobility, Smash 64 Mario's power and survivalism make him a force to be reckoned with in the heat of battle. His high damage output and powerful moves enable him to podease opponents and rack up percentages quickly, while his robust recovery and disrespect for combo game make him a tough opponent to keep down.
Nowhere is this more evident than in his kit's anchor, the Final Smash, Mario tornado.
Mario Tornado (Final Smash)
The Mario Tornado remains one of the most iconic and terrifying moves in the Smash Bros. series. This powerful Final Smash can heal Mario's damage, displace opponents, and even KO them at high percentages, making it an excellent tool for both getting out of jail and pushing the opponents into terrifying situations.
Plus, the Tornado's unpredictable and random nature makes it a wild card that can turn the tide of any match, adding an exciting layer of unpredictability and chaos to the game.
High Knocks Back & Low Handle
Smash 64 Mario's high knockback on his landings and low susceptibility to combos further cement his status as a survivable powerhouse. Despite his high damage output, Mario can take a beating and still find ways to fight back, making him an incredibly tough nut to crack.
This combination of offense and defense creates a character that is simultaneously scary to play against and fun to master, striking a balance that few other characters in the Smash Bros. series can match.
In the end, the Smash 64 Mario model remains a beloved and iconic iteration of the character, praised for his agility, power, and unpredictability. Whether you're a seasoned Smash Bros. veteran or a newcomer looking to enter the fray, mastering this version of Mario can be an enriching and exciting journey. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your Nintendo 64 controller, dust off your N64 cartridge, and rediscover why Smash 64 Mario continues to captivate players to this day.