How to Play Multiplayer on Smash Bros: And Why Bananas Might Be the Secret Weapon

Super Smash Bros is not just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings friends, families, and even strangers together in chaotic, button-mashing glory. But how do you truly master the art of multiplayer in this iconic fighting game? And why does everyone keep talking about bananas? Let’s dive into the world of Smash Bros multiplayer, exploring strategies, tips, and the occasional absurdity that makes this game so unforgettable.

1. Choose Your Fighter Wisely

The first step to dominating multiplayer in Smash Bros is selecting the right character. With over 80 fighters to choose from, the roster can be overwhelming. Do you go for the speed of Sonic, the power of Donkey Kong, or the versatility of Mario? Each character has unique moves, strengths, and weaknesses. Experiment with different fighters to find one that suits your playstyle. And remember, sometimes the underdog (like Piranha Plant) can surprise everyone.

2. Understand the Game Modes

Smash Bros offers a variety of multiplayer modes, each with its own quirks:

• Smash: The classic free-for-all mode where the goal is to knock opponents off the stage.
• Team Battle: Team up with a friend to take down another duo. Communication and synergy are key.
• Stamina Mode: A more strategic mode where players have a set amount of health. It’s less about knockouts and more about precise attacks.
• Special Smash: Customize the rules with crazy modifiers like giant characters, slow motion, or even bunny ears.

3. Master the Controls

While Smash Bros is easy to pick up, mastering the controls takes time. Learn the basics:

• Movement: Use the joystick to move, dash, and dodge.
• Attacks: Standard attacks, special moves, and grabs are essential. Don’t forget about smash attacks, which can send opponents flying.
• Shields and Dodges: Defense is just as important as offense. Use your shield to block attacks and dodge to avoid them entirely.

4. Stage Awareness

The stage you choose can make or break a match. Some stages are straightforward, while others are filled with hazards like moving platforms, lava, or even stage bosses. Learn the layout of each stage and use it to your advantage. For example, on the Great Plateau Tower stage, you can use the moving platforms to escape danger or set up surprise attacks.

5. Items: Friend or Foe?

Items can turn the tide of a match in an instant. From Poké Balls to Final Smash orbs, these power-ups can give you the edge—or backfire spectacularly. Some players prefer to turn items off for a more skill-based match, while others embrace the chaos. And then there’s the banana peel, a seemingly harmless item that can trip up opponents and create hilarious moments.

6. Mind Games and Psychology

Multiplayer Smash Bros isn’t just about reflexes; it’s also about outsmarting your opponents. Use feints, baiting, and unpredictable moves to keep your opponents guessing. For example, pretend to go for a smash attack, then quickly switch to a grab. The mental aspect of the game is just as important as the physical.

7. Practice, Practice, Practice

Like any competitive game, practice is key. Play against friends, join online matches, or even challenge the AI to improve your skills. The more you play, the better you’ll understand the mechanics, timing, and strategies needed to win.

8. The Bananas Theory

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: bananas. Some players swear by the banana peel as the ultimate weapon. It’s not just about tripping opponents; it’s about controlling the stage. By strategically placing banana peels, you can limit your opponent’s movement and create opportunities for attacks. Is it a gimmick? Maybe. But in the world of Smash Bros, sometimes the silliest strategies are the most effective.

9. Online Multiplayer Tips

If you’re playing online, there are a few additional things to keep in mind:

• Lag: Online matches can sometimes suffer from lag. Adjust your playstyle to account for potential delays.
• Arenas: Create or join arenas to play with friends or strangers. You can set custom rules and even spectate matches.
• GSP (Global Smash Power): This ranking system determines your skill level. The higher your GSP, the tougher your opponents will be.

10. Have Fun!

At the end of the day, Smash Bros is about having fun. Whether you’re playing competitively or just messing around with friends, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience. So grab a controller, pick your favorite character, and let the chaos begin!

FAQs

Q: Can I play Smash Bros multiplayer with more than four players? A: Yes! Depending on the version of the game, you can play with up to eight players in local multiplayer.

Q: What’s the best way to practice for competitive play? A: Focus on mastering one or two characters, learn advanced techniques like short-hopping and teching, and watch professional players for inspiration.

Q: Are items allowed in competitive Smash Bros? A: Typically, competitive matches are played with items turned off to emphasize skill over luck.

Q: Why do bananas keep appearing in my matches? A: Bananas are one of the many items in Smash Bros. If you don’t want them, you can turn off items in the rules menu.

Q: Can I play Smash Bros multiplayer on the Nintendo Switch Lite? A: Yes, but you’ll need additional controllers since the Switch Lite doesn’t have detachable Joy-Cons.