How to Play Multiplayer on Smash Bros: Unlocking the Chaos of Friendship and Rivalry

Super Smash Bros is not just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings friends, families, and rivals together in a chaotic yet exhilarating battle of skill, strategy, and sheer luck. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, multiplayer mode is where the true essence of Smash Bros shines. But how do you dive into this multiplayer madness? And more importantly, how do you survive the inevitable arguments over who gets to play as Kirby? Let’s break it down.

Setting Up Multiplayer: The Gateway to Chaos

Before you can unleash the mayhem, you need to set up the game for multiplayer. Here’s how:

1. Choose Your Platform: Smash Bros is available on multiple Nintendo consoles, including the Nintendo Switch, Wii U, and 3DS. Ensure everyone has a compatible controller or Joy-Con.
2. Select Multiplayer Mode: From the main menu, navigate to “Smash” and then choose “Group” for local multiplayer or “Online” for battling friends across the globe.
3. Connect Controllers: For local play, sync all controllers to the console. The Switch allows up to 8 players, but be warned: the more players, the more chaotic the screen becomes.
4. Customize Rules: Decide on the ruleset. Will it be a timed match, stock battle, or a stamina-based showdown? This is where alliances are formed and broken.

The Art of Character Selection: A Battle Before the Battle

Choosing your fighter is half the fun—and half the drama. Here’s what to consider:

• Playstyle: Are you an aggressive brawler, a defensive strategist, or a chaotic troll who just wants to throw items everywhere? Pick a character that matches your style.
• Tier Lists: Competitive players often debate which characters are “top tier.” While this matters in tournaments, casual play is all about having fun. Don’t be afraid to pick your favorite, even if it’s Pichu.
• Random Roulette: Can’t decide? Let the game choose for you. This adds an element of surprise and levels the playing field.

Mastering the Basics: How to Not Get Smashed

Smash Bros is easy to pick up but hard to master. Here are some essential tips:

1. Movement: Learn to dash, jump, and dodge. Mobility is key to avoiding attacks and positioning yourself for the perfect strike.
2. Attacks: Familiarize yourself with basic attacks (A button) and special moves (B button). Each character has a unique moveset, so experiment to find what works best.
3. Shields and Dodges: Holding the shield button (L or R) can save you from devastating blows. Combine this with directional dodges to become an elusive target.
4. Grabs and Throws: Use the grab button (ZR or ZL) to catch opponents off guard. Throws can be a great way to rack up damage or send someone flying off the stage.

Advanced Techniques: Becoming a Smash Pro

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to level up your game:

• Edge Guarding: Prevent opponents from returning to the stage by attacking them while they’re off the edge. This requires precision and timing.
• Combos: String together attacks to maximize damage. Practice makes perfect, so spend time in training mode to discover your character’s best combos.
• Mind Games: Outsmart your opponents by predicting their moves. Feint attacks, bait them into traps, and exploit their weaknesses.
• Stage Awareness: Pay attention to the stage layout. Some stages have hazards or moving platforms that can be used to your advantage—or your downfall.

The Social Dynamics of Smash Bros: Friendship, Rivalry, and Betrayal

Multiplayer Smash Bros isn’t just about winning; it’s about the stories you create. Here’s what to expect:

• Team Battles: Form alliances with friends to take down a common enemy. Just remember: in Smash Bros, alliances are temporary.
• Trash Talk: A little friendly banter is part of the fun. Just don’t take it too far—nobody likes a sore loser (or winner).
• Unexpected Upsets: Sometimes, the underdog comes out on top. Embrace the unpredictability and celebrate the chaos.
• Post-Game Analysis: After the match, discuss what went right (or wrong). This is where rivalries are born and strategies are refined.

Online Multiplayer: Battling the World

If local play isn’t an option, online multiplayer opens up a whole new world of competition:

• Arena Mode: Create or join private arenas to play with friends. Customize the rules and invite up to 8 players.
• Quickplay: Jump into matches with random players worldwide. This is a great way to test your skills against a variety of opponents.
• Elite Smash: For the best of the best, Elite Smash is where you’ll find the most skilled players. Climb the ranks and prove your worth.

FAQs

Q: Can I play multiplayer on Smash Bros with only one Joy-Con?
A: Yes! Each Joy-Con can function as a separate controller, making it easy to play with friends even if you don’t have extra controllers.

Q: How do I unlock characters in multiplayer mode?
A: Characters can be unlocked by playing matches, completing challenges, or using the “Challenger’s Approach” feature in the Games & More menu.

Q: Is online multiplayer free?
A: Online multiplayer requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. However, local multiplayer is free and doesn’t require any additional fees.

Q: Can I use amiibo in multiplayer mode?
A: Yes! Amiibo can be trained and used as CPU fighters in multiplayer matches, adding another layer of fun to the game.

Q: What’s the best way to settle disputes over character selection?
A: Rock-paper-scissors is a classic solution. Alternatively, let the game decide with a random roulette.

In conclusion, multiplayer on Smash Bros is a wild, unpredictable, and endlessly entertaining experience. Whether you’re playing with friends on the couch or battling strangers online, the game offers something for everyone. So grab your controller, choose your fighter, and get ready to smash—or be smashed. The chaos awaits!