Editing Link (SSB4)

{{Disambig2|Link's appearance in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''|the character in other contexts|Link}}

|name         = Link

|image       = [[Image:Link SSB4.png|250px|Link]]

|game         = SSB4

|ssbgame1     = SSB

|ssbgame2     = SSBM

|ssbgame3     = SSBB

'''Link''' ({{ja|リンク|Rinku}}, ''Link'') is a playable character in ''Super Smash Bros. 4''. His return to the series was announced during the [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] [[Nintendo Direct]] on June 11th, 2013.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13D1I5s236o Nintendo Direct@E3 2013]</ref> He was also among the first wave of [[amiibo]] that are compatible with ''SSB4''. Akira Sasanuma reprises his role as Link's voice actor, albeit via voice clips recycled from ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess}}''.

Link is currently ranked 31st out of 55 on the [[tier list]], placing him in the D tier. In addition to rendering Link as the second highest ranking mid-tier character, this is a significant improvement over his bottom-tier placement in ''Brawl'', where he was ranked 35th out of 38. Link possesses multiple [[projectile]]s in the form of his [[Hero's Bow]], [[Gale Boomerang]] and [[Bomb (Link)|Bomb]], each of which serve as great tools for combos, [[camp]]ing, [[gimp]]ing, and disrupting [[approach]]es. Aside from his projectiles, Link's {{s|zeldawiki|Master Sword}} grants him [[disjoint]]ed range and above average power.

In addition to his retained strengths, his recovery has been greatly buffed from ''Brawl'', thanks to [[Spin Attack]] and [[Hookshot and Clawshot|Clawshot]] covering noticeably more distance, and Bomb's shorter fuse improving its [[Bomb (Link)#Bomb recovery|recovery potential]]. As a heavyweight, his respectable durability allows him to take advantage of the [[rage]] mechanic introduced in ''SSB4'', which further bolsters his already powerful attacks.

However, Link remains held back by his relatively sluggish frame data. He has moves that are quite easily [[punish]]able if they are whiffed, while his heavy weight and slow mobility without [[Glide toss#Dash item throw cancel item throw (DITCIT)|Bomb Sliding]] render him vulnerable to combos, especially from the fast, rushdown-oriented characters that are prevalent in the metagame. Despite Link's new assets, several of his fellow [[veteran]]s gained more significant buffs, which downplays the effects that his own buffs grant him in competitive play.

While Link's early tournament results were mediocre at best, he has managed to attain a dedicated playerbase that consists of professionals such as {{Sm|Izaw}}, {{Sm|Scizor}}, {{Sm|Sova Unknown}} and {{Sm|T}}, who have managed to achieve top 8 and 16 placements more frequently, even at the national level. T, in particular, has demonstrated Link's viability: in addition to placing 3rd at [[2GGC: Civil War]], one of the most competitive ''SSB4'' tournaments in the world, he was ranked 32nd on [[Panda Global Rankings]]' v3 list.

{{incomplete|Needs analysis of Custom Special options; all other characters have this so what happened?}}

Link is a [[Weight|heavyweight]] and the majority of his attributes are largely reflective of his weight class. His only attribute that is atypical of a heavyweight is his [[walk]]ing speed, which is above average. Like his [[Toon Link (SSB4)|alternate timeline counterpart]], Link possesses two [[shield]]s instead of just one. In Link's case, he wields the [[Shield (Link)|Hylian Shield]], which blocks opposing [[projectile]]s if he is standing still or walking.<ref name="Shield">[https://miiverse.nintendo.net/posts/AYMHAAABAABnUYnXguXRvQ Pic of the Day: October 10, 2013]</ref> Like Toon Link, Link also wields his respective version of the {{s|zeldawiki|Master Sword}}, which grants him disjointed range and above average strength, the latter of which is most evident in his forward tilt, smash attacks, dash attack and [[Spin Attack]]. However, his forward, up and down aerials also boast impressive power while possessing certain traits: his forward and back aerials can hit twice, his up aerial has a long-lasting hitbox, and his down aerial can [[meteor smash]].

Link is one of the handful of characters in ''SSB4'' with a [[Grab#Tether grab|tether grab]], with his [[Hookshot and Clawshot|Clawshot]] being a useful supplement not to his recovery, but also to his zoning and combo games. Although its damage output has been lowered since ''Brawl'', Clawshot still boasts impressive range, has no landing lag, and comes out even faster than before as an attack. It also assists his combo game, due to his down throw's impressive combo potential, while his up throw possesses KO potential. Lastly and most importantly, Clawshot is a pivotal part of Link's recovery, especially due to his sluggish mobility.

Link's special moves all have their uses. [[Hero's Bow]] is a strong option against characters who struggle at [[approach]]ing and is good for providing long-ranged pressure. [[Gale Boomerang]] is a decent spacing option and has follow-up potential upon contact or via its [[wind]]-based drag effect. Gale Boomerang's drag effect also grants it [[gimp]]ing potential in the form of [[Gale Guarding]]. [[Spin Attack]]'s overall recovery distance has noticeably improved since ''Brawl'', while its already impressive power has been further increased, which in turn improves its KO potential or as a way to punish rolls. However, Link's [[Bomb (Link)|Bomb]] is perhaps the most versatile weapon within his arsenal due to its utility. Throwing a Bomb at an opponent can cause enough [[hitstun]] to help Link's approach and/or set up combos. Conversely, if the opponent shields it, the Bomb simply bounces off, allowing it to be used for spacing. Even holding a Bomb long enough for it to explode can be useful; while doing so damages Link, it gives him a small vertical boost and removes him from being [[helpless]], aiding his recovery and/or allowing him to break out of combos. Like in ''Brawl'', his bombs can also be used for a technique called [[Glide toss#Dash item throw cancel item throw (DITCIT)|Bomb Sliding]], which noticeably supplements his ground mobility. When combined with the overall fastest [[item throw]] animations in the game, Link's Bomb allows him to pressure opponents at a deceptively fast speed.

Despite his benefits, Link retains some of his flaws from his previous appearances. Even though his recovery has been noticeably improved after formerly being one of his most significant flaws in ''[[Link (SSBB)|Brawl]]'', it still limits how far he can go offstage safely. Link is also still susceptible to combos from faster characters, such as {{SSB4|Sheik}}. As a result, he must make good use of reads, spacing camping to avoid giving the advantage to such characters. His neutral aerial also allows him to break out of many combos, although its start-up lag is merely average for a [[sex kick]]. As a tether, his grab is quite slow and punishable when whiffed. In addition, Link's KO potential is hindered by lag, particularly in regard to his forward tilt, dash attack, forward aerial and down aerial.

Overall, Link is a beginner-friendly character that is capable at both spacing and [[camping]]. However, unlike his fellow beginner-friendly characters {{SSB4|Mario}}, {{SSB4|Pit}} and {{SSB4|Cloud}}, Link is a generally defensive character who relies on appropriate use of both camping and his combo game to be successful, which is often dependent on the matchup. Additionally, his techniques can be difficult to utilize at higher levels of play, especially because of the speedy and combo-oriented characters that are prevalent in the metagame.

==Changes from ''Brawl''==

Link has been buffed significantly in the transition from ''Brawl'' to ''SSB4''. As he received many faster and stronger attacks in exchange for slightly lowered damage outputs, these buffs overall outweigh the nerfs. Both his ground and aerial games have been improved, and his combo game has strengthened as a whole. His grab game has also considerably improved, with some grabs having better angle placements or knockback altogether. He also is a potent [[edgeguard]]er, with his down aerial now being capable of [[meteor smash]]ing to go alongside his other offensive options against opponents on the edge. Additionally, significant buffs to [[Spin Attack]] and Clawshot improve his recovery, which in turn further improves his excellent endurance. Lastly, his camping game has also been improved due to his projectiles, most notably Bomb, being buffed in certain ways.

Link also benefits from the general physics changes brought about by ''SSB4''. The [[Edge-guarding#Ledge Trump|edge trump]] mechanic further improves his recovery, while the [[rage]] mechanic further boosts his power and can be utilized well due to his excellent endurance. Lastly, Link is one of the only characters to not be noticeably affected by the general nerf to camping. Ultimately, Link is significantly better than how he was in ''Brawl'' and is arguably better than he was was in ''Melee'', although his current viability is somewhat debatable due to the majority of the returning cast having also been buffed to varying degrees.

*{{change|Due to the aesthetic used in ''SSB4'', Link's overall color scheme is significantly more vibrant, and his hair is of a significantly higher visual quality than in ''Brawl''. Link's hair is also sandy blonde, instead of blonde.}}

*{{change|The {{s|zeldawiki|Hylian Shield}}'s metal decals and rim are now silver and polished, instead of gray and tarnished.}}

*{{buff|Link's [[fast fall]]ing speed is faster (2.666 → 3.04), improving his air game and making him less susceptible to juggling.}}

*{{change|Link's [[gravity]] is higher (0.089 → 0.096). This slightly improves his aerial mobility, but slightly hinders his horizontal endurance.}}

*{{buff|[[Roll]]s have decreased ending lag (frame 38 → 31).}}

*{{nerf|[[Sidestep]] has increased ending lag (frame 23 → 28).}}

*{{buff|[[Air dodge]] has decreased ending lag (frame 50 → 34).}}

*{{nerf|Rolls and sidestep have decreased intangibility frames (frames 4-19 → 4-17 (rolls), frames 2-20 → 3-18 (sidestep)).}}

*{{change|Backward roll's animation has changed. It is now based on the backflip used by the {{s|zeldawiki|Hero of Time}}.}}

*{{buff|Dashing [[item throw]]'s animation is faster (8 frames → 18), making it the fastest in the game. This improves his [[item]]-based zoning potential.}}

*{{buff|The Hylian Shield now blocks projectiles even while Link is walking. Additionally, it now always protects his front while he is idle, thanks to his idle poses' updated animations. Lastly, Link now raises it when a projectile or an explosion hits it.<ref name="Shield"/> Altogether, these changes significantly improve its reliability.}}

*{{change|Neutral attack's first and second hits deal less damage (4% (hit 1)/3% (hit 2) → 2.5% (both)). This improves their [[jab cancel]]ing potentials, but hinders their damage racking potentials.}}

*{{buff|Forward tilt has decreased ending lag (frame 40 → 38).}}

*{{buff|Down tilt deals 1% less damage (12% → 11%), although its knockback growth was somewhat compensated (50 → 62/30). It also has decreased start-up (frame 13 → 11) and ending lag (frame 32 → 29). Altogether, these changes improve its combo potential. It will also now always meteor smash the opponent should they be close enough to the ledge, improving its reliability.}}

*{{nerf|Down tilt has drastically reduced base knockback, now not being able to KO offstage opponents until well beyond 100%. It also cannot meteor smash opponents on the ledge (excluding Charizard).}}

*{{buff|Link has a new dash attack, the {{s|zeldawiki|Jump Attack}} from ''The Legend of Zelda'' series. Compared to the previous dash attack, it deals more damage (10%/12%/11% → 14%/13%/12%) and knockback (30 (base)/80 (growth)/0 (set) → 70 (base)/85/77 (growth)/85 (set)), making it better at KOing. It also has significantly larger hitboxes. Like the previous dash attack, it has favorable launching angles (90°/80°/70°/60° → 45°/50°/55°), which make it equally ideal for follow-ups.}}

*{{nerf|Dash attack has more start-up (frame 8 → 20) and ending lag compared to the previous dash attack.}}

*{{nerf|Forward smash deals less damage (15%/14% (hit 1)/17%/20% (hit 2) → 14% (hit 1)/13%/12% (hit 2)) and its second hit has increased ending lag (frame 50 → 68).}}

*{{buff|Forward smash has altered knockback (25 (base)/90 (growth) → 47/100 (hit 1), 20/25/30 (base)/90 (growth) → 85/89 (hit 2)), improving its KO potential. Its new knockback values also allow its non-tippered first hit to combo into its second hit, similarly to {{SSB4|Toon Link}}'s forward smash.}}

*{{buff|Parts of forward smash are now irreversible.}}

*{{change|Forward smash's sourspot has been re-positioned.}}

*{{change|The window of time that the attack button can be pressed after forward smash's first hit has been significantly tightened. This decreases the possibility of accidentally using its second hit, but makes it so that the delay between the first and second hits cannot be abused before using the second hit.}}

*{{buff|Up smash's last hit deals 1% more damage (10%/9%/8% → 11%/10%/9%) and has altered knockback (70 (base)/80 (growth) → 60/96), improving its KO potential. Up smash's hits also connect together better.}}

*{{buff|Down smash has altered knockback (26 (base)/90 (growth) → 40/88 (hit 1), 20 (base)/90 (growth) → 80/63 (hit 2)), improving its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Due to its angles being altered (75° (both) → 78° (hit 1)/30° (hit 2)), down smash's second hit is now a [[semi-spike]].}}

*{{change|Clean neutral aerial no longer has a consistent damage output (10% → 11%/9%).}}

*{{buff|Neutral aerial's duration has increased (frames 7-27 → 7-31).}}

*{{nerf|Neutral aerial autocancels later (frames 1-6, 32> → 1-3, 36>).}}

*{{buff|Forward aerial deals more damage (9% (hit 1)/12% (hit 2) → 11%/13%) and has altered knockback (5 (base)/100 (growth) → 20/130 (hit 1), 20 (base)/110 (growth) → 30/100 (hit 2)), improving its KO potential.}}

*{{nerf|Forward aerial is interruptible 2 frames later (frame 48 → 50).}}

*{{nerf|Back aerial deals less damage (4% (hit 1)/7% (hit 2) → 3%/5%) and each hit has a shorter duration (4 frames → 3 (hit 1), 6 frames → 5 frames (hit 2)).}}

*{{buff|Up aerial has decreased landing lag (30 frames → 23).}}

*{{buff|Up aerial has an altered animation. Link now leans further backward while performing the {{s|zeldawiki|Up Thrust}}. This makes improves its range and makes his hurtbox narrower.}}

*{{nerf|Clean and late down aerial deal less damage (22% (clean)/18% (late) → 18%/15%). Down aerial is also more difficult to land and all of its hits have decreased base knockback (40/30 → 30 (early, clean), 40/50 → 30 (late, bounce)), hindering its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Down aerial's bouncing hit deals 3% more damage (8% → 11%). Additionally, it can now [[meteor smash]] during start-up,<ref>[https://miiverse.nintendo.net/posts/AYMHAAACAADMUKlaxXyxNw Pic of the Day: November 6, 2013]</ref> similarly to [[Toon Link (SSBB)|Toon Link]]'s down aerial in ''Brawl''. However, it does not meteor smash grounded opponents, allowing it to connect into its second hit. Lastly, it has decreased landing lag (50 frames → 32) and increased range, improving its safety.}}

*{{nerf|Grab aerial deals less damage (4% (hit 1)/6% (hit 2) → 2.5%/4%) and has increased start-up lag (frame 11 → 12).}}

*{{buff|Grab aerial has significantly increased range as a [[tether recovery]], significantly improving its recovery potential. It also transitions faster as an attack (frames 11-16 (hit 1)/frames 23-24 (hit 2) → 12-21/22-23).}}

*{{buff|All grabs have decreased ending lag (frame 86 (standing)/frame 96 (dash/pivot) → 62 (standing)/66 (dash)/67 (pivot)).}}

*{{buff|Forward throw has decreased ending lag (frame 39 → 34).}}

*{{buff|Down throw deals 1% less damage (7% → 6%), has decreased knockback growth (90 → 85), and its angle has been altered (110° → 83°). Altogether, these changes significantly improve its combo potential.}}

*{{change|Link has a new edge attack, a crouching thrust that resembles the Crouch Stab used by the Hero of Time.}}

*{{buff|[[Hero's Bow]] charges faster and has increased knockback (7 (base)/50 (growth) → 10/66), improving its spacing potential.}}

*{{nerf|[[Quickdraw (technique)|Quickdrawing]] has been removed, hindering Hero's Bow's utility.}}

*{{buff|[[Gale Boomerang]] has slightly improved follow-up potential at close range and at low percentages.}}

*{{buff|Uncharged [[Spin Attack]] deals 2% more damage (12% → 14%) and has increased knockback growth (72 (hit 1)/80 (hits 2-3) → 86 (early, clean)/82 (late)), improving its KO potential. It also has decreased start-up lag (frame 12 → 8).}}

*{{buff|Due to consisting of nine hits instead of five, aerial Spin Attack deals 8% more damage (14% → 22%). Additionally, its last hit has increased knockback growth (160 → 200), significantly improving its KO potential. Lastly, it covers much more vertical and horizontal distance, Link retains much more momentum upon performing it, and it can now hit an opponent behind him, significantly improving its recovery potential and safety.}}

*{{change|Spin Attack's animation has slightly changed. Link now spins while swinging the Master Sword in a slight undulating motion, causing the hitboxes to move around while doing so.}}

*{{buff|The weakening of [[Smash directional influence|SDI]] makes aerial Spin Attack significantly more difficult to escape from.}}

*{{change|{{b|Bomb|Link}} deals 1% more damage at Link's feet or an opponent's feet when thrown from the ground (7% → 8%). It also deals consistent damage at Link's feet or an opponent's feet when smash thrown in the air (5%-9% → 9%).}}

*{{buff|Bombs no longer damage Link if they explode by colliding with an opponent or another projectile and are more durable, improving their follow-up potential and safety. They also have shorter fuses, improving their [[Bomb (Link)#Bomb recovery|recovery]] potential.}}

*{{nerf|Bomb's explosion is now [[Absorption|absorbable]].}}

*{{change|{{GameIcon|ssb4-u}}Bomb is slightly larger. However, this is merely aesthetic.}}

*{{nerf|[[Triforce Slash]] deals 23% less damage (83% → 60%).}}

Link has been heavily buffed via game updates. In update [[1.0.4]], the knockback of the first hit of his forward smash was lowered, allowing it to connect better into the second hit. In update [[1.0.6]] though, he received a mix of buffs and nerfs, which hindered his KO and damage racking potentials, but improved his range and combo game. However, update 1.0.8 brought Link significant buffs in the form of a much more effective grab game and better KOing options, the latter of which helped mitigate the nerfs to his KOing potential that update 1.0.6 brought. In update [[1.1.0]], his grab game was buffed by slightly decreasing the start-up lag of his dash and pivot grabs. Updates [[1.1.3]] and [[1.1.5]] also brought several buffs, which further increased his already high KO potential. Lastly, he was indirectly buffed due to the changes on the shield mechanics in updates 1.1.0 and [[1.1.1]], as the increased [[shieldstun]] and the fact that [[hitlag]] modifiers now apply on shielding opponents improve Link's close-range game by making his moves safer on shield. Altogether, these buffs have resulted in Link being viewed as a better character than how he was in ''Brawl'' and even better than during the initial release of ''SSB4'', much like {{SSB4|Samus}}.

*{{change|{{GameIcon|ssb4-3ds}}Quickfire Bow and Power Bow now function like they do in the {{GameIcon|ssb4-u}} version.}}

*{{nerf|Neutral attack's first hit's hitbox duration decreased: 27 frames → 19 and its [[interruptibility]] frames have been removed. These changes remove Link's jab cancel "death combo".}}[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10sepuQSpds]

*{{change|Down tilt's knockback growth decreased. This improves its combo potential, but hinders its KO potential.}}

*{{nerf|Down tilt no longer [[Meteor smash|meteor smashes]] characters hanging on a ledge except for [[Charizard]].}}

*{{nerf|Down tilt also no longer has a hitbox that trails with the movement of the attack, and is one singular hitbox with an extremely tiny hitbox that meteors aerial opponents. As well, the hitbox was raised, removing its 2-frame potential at the ledge.}}

*{{nerf|Non-tipped dash attack deals 1% less damage|13%|12% and its knockback growth decreased: 78 → 72, hindering its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Dash attack's start-up lag decreased|frame 21|20.}}

*{{change|Forward smash's sourspot placement adjusted.}}

*{{buff|Parts of forward smash have been made irreversible.}}

*{{buff|Down aerial's range increased by 50%.}}

*{{buff|Uncharged [[Spin Attack]] deals 2% more damage|12%|14% and KOs 17% earlier, improving its KO potential.}}

*{{nerf|Spin Attack's back half KOs 19% later.}}

*{{buff|Spin Attack's start-up|frame 11|8 and ending lag decreased: frame 86 → 82.}}

*{{change|Spin Attack and Shocking Spin Attack's second hitboxes' Z-offsets increased|6.6u|7u.}}

*{{change|Down tilt deals 1% less damage|12%|11%, its knockback decreased and it comes out faster. This improves its combo potential, but hinders its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Up smash's hits connect together better, as all three hits now connect when it lands and its first two hits now drag the opponent toward Link instead of stunning them.}}

*{{buff|Clawshot's range has been doubled in terms of length and grab distance, and it grabs an opponent just before it droops back down to the ground.}}

*{{change|{{GameIcon|ssb4-u}}Clawshot now behaves like it does in the {{GameIcon|ssb4-3ds}} version.}}

*{{buff|All grabs' ending lag decreased|frame 66/frame 77/frame 79|62/66/67.}}

*{{buff|Grab's start-up lag decreased|frame 14|12.}}

*{{buff|Forward throw's ending lag decreased|frame 39|34.}}

*{{nerf|Down throw deals 1% less damage|7%|6%.}}

*{{buff|Down throw's angle altered|110°|83°, improving its combo potential.}}

*{{buff|[[Spin Attack]]'s knockback growth increased|84 (stage 1)/80 (stage 2)/80 (stage 3)|86/86/82, improving its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Stage 2 Shocking Spin Attack's knockback growth increased|80|82, improving its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Dash and pivot grabs' start-up lag decreased|frame 15 (dash)/frame 16 (pivot)|14/15.}}

*{{buff|Shocking Spin deals more damage|14%/9%/7%/5%|16%/11%/8%/6% and it received an additional hitbox that deals 14%.}}

|neutraldesc=A downward slash, followed by an outward slash, followed by a thrust. It is a [[natural combo]] with fast start-up and low knockback, but can also be [[jab cancel]]ed, with notable follow-ups including down tilt, a grab, or [[Spin Attack]]. It is based on the final series of strikes that the {{s|zeldawiki|Hero of Time}} deals to [[Ganondorf|Ganon]] in ''The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time''.

|ftiltdesc=A lunging downward slash. It has moderate start-up, but has good range and above average knockback for a tilt attack.

|utiltdesc=An overhead arcing slash. Has good juggling potential at low percentages, good combo potential at medium percentages, and decent KO potential at high percentages.

|dtiltdesc=A kneeling inward slash. Deals vertical knockback, which grants it good combo potential, while its fast start-up and ending lag makes it somewhat safe on shield. It can also [[meteor smash]] opponents in contact with the base of the Master Sword to Link's arm, except for those hanging on edges.

|dashname=&nbsp;

|dashdmg=14% (tip), 13%/12% (non-tip)

|dashdesc=The {{s|zeldawiki|Jump Attack}}. Has high horizontal knockback when tipped and vertical knockback when hit close, and will KO at early percentages. Has high start-up and ending lag, making it very punishable if whiffed or used recklessly.

|fsmashname=&nbsp;

|usmashdesc=Three overhead arcing slashes. The first two hits naturally combo into each other, while the third hit finishes the combo. Covers a wide range and can KO before 100%, but has high ending lag.

|dsmashdesc=A kneeling inward slash in front of himself, followed by a kneeling outward slash behind himself. The first hit launches opponents at a vertical trajectory while having slightly increased damage and knockback the closer one is to Link. Conversely, the second hit is a powerful semi-spike that deals slightly more damage and knockback on the Master Sword's blade.

|nairdmg=11%/9% (clean), 6% (late)

|nairdesc=A flying kick. It is a [[sex kick]] with relatively fast start-up and little [[landing lag]]. Deals more damage and knockback in its first few active frames, especially at Link's foot, while its late hitbox deals minimal knockback. Overall, this is one of Link's most useful moves, as it allows him to break opponents' combos or start his own.

|fairdesc=Two alternating, spinning outward slashes. The first hit has more knockback, while the second hit can only connect if the first hit does not or if the opponent has low damage. Has good KOing potential.

|bairdesc=A hook kick followed by a mid-level roundhouse kick. Link's fastest aerial and has very little landing lag, but is one of his least damaging attacks.

|uairdesc=The {{s|zeldawiki|Up Thrust}}. It has moderate landing lag unless used alongside a full hop. It is quite powerful and has a long-lasting hitbox that is difficult to dodge, making it a good KOing and juggling option.

|dairdesc=The {{s|zeldawiki|Down Thrust}}. It has a different knockback angle against grounded opponents, which allows Link to "bounce" on targets and hit them twice for a large amount of damage (26%), provided he is not [[fast fall]]ing. The early hit is a powerful [[meteor smash]] against aerial opponents. Has a strong non-meteor smash hitbox afterward that is capable of KOing under 130%. However, it is more difficult to land the clean hit than the early hit, as it requires Link to hit with the rising hilt during its start-up, or immediately after the early hit, but before the weak hit.  

|zairname=[[Hookshot and Clawshot|Clawshot]]

|zairdesc=Fires his {{s|zeldawiki|Clawshot}} forward. Has great range and very little landing lag. Link can cancel his [[air dodge]] at any point via his tether, though it will not cancel the landing lag suffered from the dodge. The Clawshot also serves as a [[tether recovery]] that auto-snaps the edge.

|grabname=Clawshot

|grabdesc=Fires his Clawshot forward. In {{for3ds}}, the chain snaps straight back once fully extended, like the Hookshot from ''SSB''. In {{forwiiu}}, the chain drags on the ground like his Hookshot did in ''Melee'' and ''Brawl''. The Clawshot grants each of Link's grabs very long ranges. However, each of his grabs have high start-up and ending lag due to being tether grabs.

|fthrowdesc=A front kick. Mainly used to launch opponents off-stage, but has little utility beyond that.

|bthrowdesc=A back kick. Mainly used to launch opponents off-stage, but has little utility beyond that.

|uthrowdesc=Raises the opponent overhead and slashes them upward. Has relatively high knockback growth, which allows it to KO around 170% without [[rage]].

|dthrowdesc=Pins the opponent to the ground and then performs an [[wikipedia:Professional wrestling attacks#Elbow drop|elbow drop]]. It can combo reliably into his up tilt, up smash, and aerial attacks.

|edgedesc=Performs a thrust while climbing up.

|nsdefdesc=Wields his [[zeldawiki:Bow|Hero's Bow]] and fires an {{s|zeldawiki|arrow}} forward. Charging increases the arrow's speed, distance and damage output; at full charge, the arrow flies almost completely straight and covers a very long distance. Good for [[gimp]]ing recoveries or simply pressuring opponents from afar.

|nsc2desc=Fires [[magic]]al arrows that charge quickly and travel in a straight line. Uncharged arrows are decently [[spam]]mable due to being fired faster, but charged arrows have a lower maximum damage output. The arrows also have shorter range.

|ssdefdesc=Throws the {{s|zeldawiki|Gale Boomerang}}, which flies forward and then returns to Link. It damages opponents as it flies away and [[Wind#Pulling attacks|pulls]] opponents toward him during its return. It can be angled up or down, while a [[Item throw#Directions and strength|smash throw]] (which is similar to when performing the input for a smash attack) increases the distance it can travel. Unlike [[Boomerang]], a [[reflection|reflected]] Gale Boomerang is not threatening to Link, as it will only fly past him with its non-damaging windbox. It has set-up potential, albeit only at close range and at low percentages.

|ssc1desc=The Gale Boomerang functions like the {{s|zeldawiki|Boomerang}}, as it deals damage upon returning instead of pulling an opponent toward him. It deals more damage and, [[Boomerang|like in ''SSB'' and ''Melee'']], it damages opponents upon returning. It can also be aimed easier, but deals less knockback.

|usdefdmg=12%/9%/7%/5% (grounded), 4% (aerial hit 1), 2% (aerial hits 2-8), 4% (aerial hit 9)

|usdefdesc=[[zeldawiki:Spin Attack|A spinning, outward slash]]. Much like in the ''The Legend of Zelda'' series, it is a powerful attack, even while uncharged. Conversely, an aerial Spin Attack is a series of spinning, inward slashes and is Link's primary recovery move, as it covers a respectable amount of vertical distance, but minimal horizontal distance.

|usc1desc=An [[electric]]al version that deals more damage and knockback. However, it grants much less distance and has poor horizontal momentum, making it function very similarly to how Spin Attack did in ''SSB'' and ''Brawl''. The aerial version can semi-spike, but cannot hit backward.

|dsdefdmg=5% (grounded and aerial throws/smash throws at body), 8% (grounded throw/smash throw at feet), 9% (aerial throw/smash throw at feet)

|dsdefdesc=Pulls out a {{s|zeldawiki|Bomb}}. It explodes 3.66 seconds (220 frames) after being pulled out, or upon contact with a surface, an attack, or an opponent. The explosion can hurt Link unless it hits an opponent first. When used skillfully, [[Bomb (Link)#Bomb recovery|the explosion can remove Link from helplessness]] and thus allow him to perform an extra Spin Attack, improving his recovery. Oddly, it will deal more damage when it hits the opponent's feet.

|dsc1dmg=8%-10% (grounded and aerial throws/smash throws at body, feet)

|dsc1desc=A massive Bomb with a large explosion hitbox, which deals more damage and knockback. However, it cannot explode when thrown at the opponent, and instead explodes based on time or an attack. Deals damage based on range.

|dsc2dmg=5%, 7% (grounded throw/smash throw at body), 8% (grounded throw/smash throw at feet), 5% (aerial throw/smash throw at body), 6% (aerial throw/smash throw at feet)

|dsc2desc=A smaller and weaker Bomb with a much shorter fuse. However, it meteor smashes anyone hit with moderate knockback. As a result, it is not practical for recoveries in any way, as it simply meteor smash Link, though it allows him to survive vertical KOs longer with luck. On the ground, it will halt opponents in their tracks due to its considerable hitstun.

|fsdmg=1% (hit 1), 3% (hits 2-15), 2% (hit 16), 15% (hit 17)

|fsdesc=Emits a thin beam of light from the [[zeldawiki:Triforce|Triforce of Courage]] symbol on the back of his hand to stun an opponent in front of himself. If the beam comes in contact with an opponent, Link dashes forward and performs a barrage of slashes while they are trapped in a Triforce-shaped energy field before concluding with an outward slash that shatters the energy field and launches them. Although its damage output has lowered since ''Brawl'', it is still among the most powerful [[Final Smash]]es in the game. It can hit multiple opponents, but all non-trapped opponents are launched out the energy field after the penultimate hit.

|desc-up=Swings the Master Sword twice and twirls it behind him before sheathing it. It is similar to his victory pose in ''Twilight Princess'', which he performs after learning a {{s|zeldawiki|Hidden Skill}} or defeating a boss/particularly difficult enemies.

|desc-down=Assumes a {{s|wikipedia|Fujian White Crane}}-like stance while rearing the Master Sword behind his head. Originates from ''SSB'' and may be loosely based on the attacking pose used by the Link from ''Zelda II: The Adventure of Link''.}}

|victory-desc=An orchestral remix of Get Triforce Fanfare, the theme that plays when [[Link]] obtains a [[zeldawiki:Triforce|Triforce Piece]] in ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda (Game)|The Legend of Zelda]]'' and has since become the main theme of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series.

===Notable players===

<!--If you are planning to add a player you consider to be notable, please provide tournament results in some shape or form in the edit summary (be it a link to a results thread or bracket of them placing high in a tournament of other notable players or a video of them beating a notable player). Winning tournaments without notable players present is generally not enough to warrant a spot. Using that criteria, please refrain from adding Lythero.-->

 

*{{Sm|Ansatsuken420|UK}} - A notable Link player from England. Placed 4th at [[Animal Crossing VS Smashers]] and has a win over {{Sm|Dark-Kong}}. Initially known as EdgyHyrule, he changed his name to Ansatsuken420 in May 2017.

*{{Sm|LinkEa|Chile}} - The best Link player in South America. His results can be found [http://smashboards.com/threads/link-tournament-results-thread-25th-october.404196 here]. Ranked 7th in the [https://smash.gg/rankings/smash4/series/chile-2 Chilean Power Rankings]

*{{Sm|Slenderman|USA}} - One of the best Link players in the United States.  Ranked 14th on the [[Chicago Smash 4 Power Rankings]]. Placed 17th at [[Smash 'N' Splash 3]].  He has wins over {{Sm|JJROCKETS}}, {{Sm|Marshall}}, and {{Sm|Dan}}.

 

*{{Sm|Drigo Toes|Chile}} - One of the best Link players in South America prior to his retirement. His results can be found [http://smashboards.com/threads/link-tournament-results-thread-25th-october.404196 here].

 

 

 

After T placed 3rd at [[2GGC: Civil War]], one of the most competitive tournaments in ''SSB4''{{'}}s lifespan, Link's perception has further improved, to the point that he is viewed as deserving to be in the upper portion of the mid-tier. This has been reflected in the fourth and current tier list, in which Link is ranked 31st.

 

 

{{Trophy games|console1=nes|game1=The Legend of Zelda (08/1987)|console2=snes|game2=The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (04/1992)}}

:'''Link (Alt.)'''

::{{flag|ntsc}} ''If Link was on a desert island and could only pick one item, it'd be his powerful sword. This weapon is key to his down-air attack, a move with great launching potential and the ability to strike twice. He can also strike twice with his side smash—the second blow deals more damage and launches harder.''

::{{flag|pal}} ''Of all of his weapons, Link's sword may be the most lethal. His down air attack has incredible launching power. What's more, he'll bounce up afterwards, allowing for a follow-up strike. His side smash can also be followed up with a more powerful second blow that sends foes flying - just press the button again straight away.''

{{Trophy games|console1=nes|game1=The Legend of Zelda (08/1987)|console2=snes|game2=The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (04/1992)}}

 

:'''Triforce Slash (Link)'''

 

::{{flag|ntsc}} ''Link makes use of the Triforce of Courage to trap foes, and then he launches a 16-blow combo. The final mighty blow has the power to launch opponents off the stage. When Link prepares the attack, the ray of light he emits must strike a rival, or the attack will fail. Shielding will do nothing to stop this powerful attack.''

::{{flag|pal}} ''Link traps a foe in mid-air with the power of the Triforce of Courage, then he delivers a 16-strike sword combo. The final strike has formidable launching power. If the ray of light at the start of the attack doesn't hit, the whole thing ends there. Helpfully, though, the ray of light's range and speed are incredible, and shields won't block it.''

LinkTrophy3DS1.png|Classic (3DS)

LinkTrophy3DS2.png|Alt. (3DS)

LinkTrophyWiiU.png|Classic (Wii U)

LinkAltTrophyWiiU.png|Alt. (Wii U)

TriforceSlashLinkTrophyWiiU.png|[[Triforce Slash]]

Link and Peach.jpg|Link and {{SSB4|Peach}} on {{SSB4|Battlefield}}.  

[[File:LinkT-PoseSSBU.png|thumb|right|Link's bind pose in {{forwiiu}}.]]

{{reflist|1}}

 

[[Category:Link (SSB4)]]