8,008
edits
Link (SSBU): Difference between revisions
Seeing as Ultimate Meta Knight has his Dark alt displayed and this is also a significant alt change
m (→Most historically significant players: removing those that had little to no support on Discord. Prand Grix was mixed so leaving him here for now) |
(Seeing as Ultimate Meta Knight has his Dark alt displayed and this is also a significant alt change) |
||
| (38 intermediate revisions by 28 users not shown) | |||
| Line 3: | Line 3: | ||
{{Infobox Character | {{Infobox Character | ||
|name = Link | |name = Link | ||
|image = {{tabber|title1=Champion's Tunic| | |image = {{tabber|title1=Champion's Tunic|content1=[[File:Link SSBU.png|x250px]]|title2=Hero of the Wild|content2=[[File:Link-Alt1 SSBU.png|x250px]]|title3=Dark Link|content3=[[File:SSBU Dark Link Alt.png|x250px]]}} | ||
|game = SSBU | |game = SSBU | ||
|ssbgame1 = SSB | |ssbgame1 = SSB | ||
| Line 10: | Line 10: | ||
|ssbgame4 = SSB4 | |ssbgame4 = SSB4 | ||
|availability = [[Starter character|Starter]] | |availability = [[Starter character|Starter]] | ||
|tier = | |tier = C+ | ||
|ranking = | |ranking = 56 | ||
}} | }} | ||
'''Link''' ({{ja|リンク|Rinku}}, ''Link'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''. He was suggested to appear in the then unnamed ''Ultimate'' in its first [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3Gt42kVgCw teaser trailer] at the end of the March 8th, 2018 [[Nintendo Direct]], and officially announced in ''Ultimate''{{'}}s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L93H7YC-83o E3 2018 trailer] on June 12th. Link is classified as [[Fighter number|Fighter #03]]. | '''Link''' ({{ja|リンク|Rinku}}, ''Link'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''. He was suggested to appear in the then unnamed ''Ultimate'' in its first [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3Gt42kVgCw teaser trailer] at the end of the March 8th, 2018 [[Nintendo Direct]], and officially announced in ''Ultimate''{{'}}s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L93H7YC-83o E3 2018 trailer] on June 12th. Link is classified as [[Fighter number|Fighter #03]]. | ||
Kengo Takanashi | Kengo Takanashi reprises his role as Link in all regions with new voice clips that emulate the ones he recorded for the 2017 game ''{{iw|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild}}'', succeeding Akira Sasanuma's portrayal from the 2006 game ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess'' that was re-purposed in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl|Brawl]]'' and ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''. | ||
Link is currently ranked | Link is currently ranked 56th out of 82 characters on the current tier list, placing him in the C+ tier. Despite being buffed overall from ''SSB4'', this is a moderate drop from his placement in ''SSB4'', where he ranked 31st out of 54. Link has solid disjointed range, courtesy of the iconic Master Sword, with several strong KO moves that utilize it, such as his forward tilt, dash attack, forward aerial, his smash attacks, up aerial, down aerial, and [[Spin Attack]]. Link's non-sword moves also have amazing utility. His neutral aerial, in particular, is notorious for being a staple of his neutral game, being a strong landing, spacing, edgeguarding, and pressure tool. Link also has a strong projectile game, with his [[Remote Bomb]] acting as a dynamic tool for mindgames, item combos, edgeguarding, recovering, and ledgetrapping that he can activate at any time. His [[Boomerang]] is also good at catching approaches and keeping opponents in check. Overall, Link has a strong zoning game with powerful KO tools should his opponent get up close to him. | ||
However, Link has several weaknesses. He is on the slower side of the spectrum, so he struggles to keep up with faster characters who can get around his projectiles. Link's sword moves also have below-average frame data, which can cause him to be overwhelmed by faster moves. Link is also a heavyweight, making him one of the easiest characters to combo and juggle and keep in disadvantage. His recovery is also exploitable, as his Spin Attack travels in a predictable path, leaving his head vulnerable to spikes or lingering hitboxes. | |||
Overall, Link has the tools to keep out his opponents and KO them at fairly low percentages, but should his defenses be infiltrated, it makes it difficult for him to get back in neutral. Link had promising results in the early metagame thanks to strong performances from {{Sm|T}}; however, his results and representation declined significantly in the post-online metagame, with only a few notable performances from players such as {{Sm|Rido}} and {{Sm|Kyon}}. | |||
==Attributes== | ==Attributes== | ||
Link is a [[weight | Link is a heavy[[weight]] swordsman that sports powerful attacks and long [[range]] via the Master Sword. Link sports an above-average [[walking]] speed, the 15th slowest [[dashing]] speed, above-average [[initial dash]], the 10th slowest [[air speed]] (tied with {{SSBU|Diddy Kong}}), the 4th slowest [[air acceleration]], average [[gravity]], above-average [[falling speed]], the 6th highest [[fast fall|fast falling speed]], and above-average [[traction]]. Lastly, Link has among the lowest jumps in the game. Overall, these stats render Link's mobility generally poor. Like his [[Young Link (SSBU)|alternate timeline]] [[Toon Link (SSBU)|counterparts]] and {{SSBU|Hero}}, Link possesses two shields instead of just one. In Link's case, he wields the [[Passive shield|Hylian Shield]], which blocks opposing [[projectile]]s if he is standing still, walking, or crouching. Like Toon Link, Link also wields his respective version of the {{iw|ZeldaWiki|Master Sword}}, which sports overall better range compared to the previous installment. | ||
In addition to overall long range, Link's grounded moveset features other merits: neutral attack deals above-average damage and has a reliable [[semi-spike]] in its third hit. Forward tilt boasts both above-average damage and knockback, which in tandem with its good range and low ending lag, makes for a great [[spacing]] option. Up tilt also deals above-average damage which, in tandem with its low ending lag and large range, makes it a great [[juggling]] option. Down tilt possesses low ending lag, satisfactory damage, and high vertical knockback; altogether, these traits render it a great combo starter for devastating chains of aerial attacks. Dash attack possesses high damage, knockback, range, and traveling distance, all of which make it very useful for KOs at around 110%. | In addition to overall long range, Link's grounded moveset features other merits: neutral attack deals above-average damage and has a reliable [[semi-spike]] in its third hit. Forward tilt boasts both above-average damage and knockback, which in tandem with its good range and low ending lag, makes for a great [[spacing]] option. Up tilt also deals above-average damage which, in tandem with its low ending lag and large range, makes it a great [[juggling]] option. Down tilt possesses low ending lag, satisfactory damage, and high vertical knockback; altogether, these traits render it a great combo starter for devastating chains of aerial attacks. Dash attack possesses high damage, knockback, range, and traveling distance, all of which make it very useful for KOs at around 110%. | ||
| Line 43: | Line 47: | ||
==Changes from ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''== | ==Changes from ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''== | ||
Link has received arguably the most noticeable changes of any veteran in ''Ultimate''. Due to being the Hero of the Wild from ''{{iw|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild}}'', he incorporates multiple elements from that game into his moveset, such as the {{iw|zeldawiki|Remote Bomb}}, the {{iw|zeldawiki|Ancient Bow}} and {{iw|zeldawiki|Ancient Arrow}}, the {{iw|zeldawiki|Sword Beam}}, and the [[Bow and Arrows|ability to fire | Link has received arguably the most noticeable changes of any veteran in ''Ultimate''. Due to his appearance being updated to the Hero of the Wild from ''{{iw|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild}}'', he incorporates multiple elements from that game into his moveset, such as the {{iw|zeldawiki|Remote Bomb}}, the {{iw|zeldawiki|Ancient Bow}} and {{iw|zeldawiki|Ancient Arrow}}, the {{iw|zeldawiki|Sword Beam}}, and the [[Bow and Arrows|ability to fire two arrows at once]]. This has led to a much larger overhaul in his moveset compared to other veterans, as several of his attacks either have altered or completely new animations alongside mechanical changes. As a result, Link has gained a large mix of buffs and nerfs in his transition to ''Ultimate'', but has been buffed overall. | ||
Compared to his predecessors (the {{iw|zeldawiki|Hero of Time}} and the Hero of Twilight) in ''Smash'', Link has better close combat and spacing capabilities, thanks to his faster movement speed, a stronger and longer ranged [[Boomerang]] (which also improved his [[combo]] game), and the longer range on his Master Sword, now having range on par with other swordfighters, such as {{SSBU|Ike}} or {{SSBU|Marth}}. Particularly, the latter change has either improved or outright granted his attacks' more utility: [[forward tilt]] is now much more effective as a ledge-trapping option due to its wider arc, [[down tilt]]'s reduced damage output allows the move to combo for much longer (even serving as a potential KO confirm at higher percents), [[up smash]] serves as a more threatening anti-air option, [[forward aerial]] is more effective as a spacing option while the first hit can now be used to start combos, [[up aerial]] catches airborne opponents from a farther distance, and [[Spin Attack]] has increased reliability as an [[out of shield]] option and KOing tool due to its faster start-up and larger sweetspot. | Compared to his predecessors (the {{iw|zeldawiki|Hero of Time}} and the Hero of Twilight) in ''Smash'', Link has better close combat and spacing capabilities, thanks to his faster movement speed, a stronger and longer ranged [[Boomerang]] (which also improved his [[combo]] game), and the longer range on his Master Sword, now having range on par with other swordfighters, such as {{SSBU|Ike}} or {{SSBU|Marth}}. Particularly, the latter change has either improved or outright granted his attacks' more utility: [[forward tilt]] is now much more effective as a ledge-trapping option due to its wider arc, [[down tilt]]'s reduced damage output allows the move to combo for much longer (even serving as a potential KO confirm at higher percents), [[up smash]] serves as a more threatening anti-air option, [[forward aerial]] is more effective as a spacing option while the first hit can now be used to start combos, [[up aerial]] catches airborne opponents from a farther distance, and [[Spin Attack]] has increased reliability as an [[out of shield]] option and KOing tool due to its faster start-up and larger sweetspot. | ||
Furthermore, Link benefits from some of the universal gameplay mechanics, all of which have improved his previously below average close combat game. His grab game has slightly improved due to him now possessing a more standard grab; while the [[Hookshot]] and [[Clawshot]] granted his predecessors a long-ranged grab, they were unsafe due to their high startup and ending lag. ''Ultimate''{{'}}s improved [[dash-canceling]], when coupled with Link's faster mobility, above average traction and the Master Sword's overall improved range, altogether improve his ground game | Furthermore, Link benefits from some of the universal gameplay mechanics, all of which have improved his previously below average close combat game. His grab game has slightly improved due to him now possessing a more standard grab; while the [[Hookshot]] and [[Clawshot]] granted his predecessors a long-ranged grab, they were unsafe due to their high startup and ending lag. ''Ultimate''{{'}}s improved [[dash-canceling]], when coupled with Link's faster mobility, above average traction and the Master Sword's overall improved range, altogether improve his ground game's utility noticeably. | ||
Link's air game has also benefitted from gameplay changes: the combination of his standardized jumpsquat (which is much faster than his predecessors') and the universal reduction of landing lag make his aerial combo game significantly more potent, as well as result in him having somewhat less difficulty when it comes to landing safely. This has been demonstrated with [[neutral aerial]]'s weak hit allowing him to set-up for a grab at low percents, forward aerial's first hit comboing into other moves until very high percentages, [[back aerial]]'s [[SHFF]]'d first hit now serving as a KO setup at high percents, and his aerials' damage outputs making them safer on shield despite the reduced [[shieldstun]] for aerial attacks. | Link's air game has also benefitted from gameplay changes: the combination of his standardized jumpsquat (which is much faster than his predecessors') and the universal reduction of landing lag make his aerial combo game significantly more potent, as well as result in him having somewhat less difficulty when it comes to landing safely. This has been demonstrated with [[neutral aerial]]'s weak hit allowing him to set-up for a grab at low percents, forward aerial's first hit comboing into other moves until very high percentages, [[back aerial]]'s [[SHFF]]'d first hit now serving as a KO setup at high percents, and his aerials' damage outputs making them safer on shield despite the reduced [[shieldstun]] for aerial attacks. | ||
Unlike his predecessors, Link uses the [[Remote Bomb]] instead of a standard {{b|Bomb|Link}}. Compared to standard Bombs, Remote Bombs can be detonated at will, making it function similarly to [[C4]], and feature both much higher knockback and a much larger blast radius. | Unlike his predecessors, Link uses the [[Remote Bomb]] instead of a standard {{b|Bomb|Link}}. Compared to standard Bombs, Remote Bombs can be detonated at will, making it function similarly to {{SSBU|Snake}}'s [[C4]], and feature both much higher knockback and a much larger blast radius. These changes modify his set-up and combo routes, as the Remote Bomb can now be detonated or [[Item throw|Z-dropped]] into one of Link's own attacks. They also significantly improve Link's pressuring, edgeguarding and edge trapping abilities, since the bomb can be thrown while only being detonated at command. Lastly, the move possesses potential as a strong, albeit difficult recovery option, as it can also be Z-dropped and detonated to launch Link a considerable distance forward. | ||
However, Link is not without his fair share of nerfs. As a result of the several changes and alterations his moveset received, he has inadvertently lost several key strengths that his predecessors possessed. While Link has a much faster grab than his predecessors, his lack of a Hookshot/Clawshot | However, Link is not without his fair share of nerfs. As a result of the several changes and alterations his moveset received, he has inadvertently lost several key strengths that his predecessors possessed. While Link has a much faster grab than his predecessors, his lack of a Hookshot/Clawshot significantly worsens his overall grab range (having, in fact, one of the shortest and least disjointed grabs among the cast), but also effectively removed one of his more potent recovery and spacing options. Some of his sword-based attacks also received hitbox reductions, now mapping them strictly to the Master Sword itself. While this does not necessarily affect the reach of his attacks that involve swinging his sword from above (i.e. forward tilt, up tilt, forward smash), it has reduced the vertical reach of his attacks that are swung in front of him (i.e. down tilt), while also hindering the horizontal range of his thrusting sword attacks (i.e. up aerial, down aerial), making them slightly harder to land overall. | ||
Link's lack of standard Bombs also hinders him in a variety of ways, as he can no longer pull out Bombs as a way to potentially break out of combos, making him slightly more vulnerable to them. Since Remote Bombs no longer explode on impact, KO set-ups with them have effectively become harder to perform. Link can only have one Remote Bomb out a time, resulting in them becoming a worse zoning option overall. | |||
Finally, despite sporting less landing lag and a better Spin Attack than his predecessors, the majority of his frame data is more sluggish in comparison, especially on the ground. A considerable number of his attacks have either increased endlag (such as forward tilt or down tilt) or increased start-up lag (such as neutral attack, [[forward smash]], [[down smash]], and forward aerial), making it | Finally, despite sporting less landing lag and a better Spin Attack than his predecessors, the majority of his frame data is more sluggish in comparison, especially on the ground. A considerable number of his attacks have either increased endlag (such as forward tilt or down tilt) or increased start-up lag (such as neutral attack, [[forward smash]], [[down smash]], and forward aerial), making it harder for him to defend himself up close against opponents with superior frame data, such as {{SSBU|Fox}} or {{SSBU|Mario}}. This requires Link to be more wary when fighting opponents with such strong boxing capabilities and use the longer range of his Master Sword to his advantage, as his weaker frame data can put him at a greater risk of being thrown into a disadvantage state easier. | ||
Overall, the changes to Link have somewhat repurposed his playstyle from that of a hard-hitting zoner with long-ranged melee attacks to one that also incorporates more stage control and trapping tactics with his Remote Bomb, simiarly | Overall, the changes to Link have somewhat repurposed his playstyle from that of a hard-hitting zoner with long-ranged melee attacks, to one that also incorporates more stage control and trapping tactics with his Remote Bomb, simiarly to Snake. Link's playstyle has noticeably deviated from not only his predecessors, but also {{SSBU|Young Link}} and {{SSBU|Toon Link}}, due to these changes. Even so, while Link's buffs eclipse his nerfs, the extent of how much is debatable given other veterans have been buffed to varying degrees as well, and various DLC characters have been introduced through game updates. In the end, Link is agreed to fare better than in ''SSB4'', but hasn't improved enough to raise his standing compared to the rest of the cast. | ||
{{SSB4 to SSBU changelist|char=Link}} | {{SSB4 to SSBU changelist|char=Link}} | ||
| Line 66: | Line 70: | ||
Link received a mix of buffs, a single nerf and glitch fixes via game updates, but was buffed slightly overall. The most significant nerf Link received was in Version 3.0.0 where Boomerang now deals much less shield damage as part of the universal projectile nerf, worsening his zoning potential. However, most of the buffs specifically improve Link's combo potential, as his combo starters were altered to more reliably connect into each other and the kill potential of some combo enders has been increased. Another small but significant buff came in Version 4.0.0 with Link being able to Shield SDI projectiles, allowing him to more easily escape combos that characters set up with projectiles. | Link received a mix of buffs, a single nerf and glitch fixes via game updates, but was buffed slightly overall. The most significant nerf Link received was in Version 3.0.0 where Boomerang now deals much less shield damage as part of the universal projectile nerf, worsening his zoning potential. However, most of the buffs specifically improve Link's combo potential, as his combo starters were altered to more reliably connect into each other and the kill potential of some combo enders has been increased. Another small but significant buff came in Version 4.0.0 with Link being able to Shield SDI projectiles, allowing him to more easily escape combos that characters set up with projectiles. | ||
Overall, Link fares mildly better than he did at launch. His projectiles have not been significantly affected and his combo game has been improved across the board, making him more | Overall, Link fares mildly better than he did at launch. His projectiles have not been significantly affected and his combo game has been improved across the board, making him more effective with a bait-and-punish style of setting traps and rushing down caught opponents. | ||
'''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|1.1.0}}''' | '''{{GameIcon|ssbu}} {{SSBU|1.1.0}}''' | ||
| Line 126: | Line 130: | ||
|fsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|7}} (blade), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|14}} (tip), 5%-13% (Sword Beam) | |fsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|7}} (blade), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|14}} (tip), 5%-13% (Sword Beam) | ||
|fsmash2dmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|13}} (blade), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|12}} (body) | |fsmash2dmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|13}} (blade), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|12}} (body) | ||
|fsmashdesc=A two-handed, lunging downward slash. If the attack button is pressed again, Link will perform a single-handed outward slash. The first hit deals respectable damage and knockback at the blade's tip, but only deals half as much damage with much lower knockback when not tipped; however, the non-tipped hit is a [[natural combo]] into the second slash. Extremely powerful when both hits connect, being one of the strongest forward smashes in the game. If Link is at 0% damage, the first swing will launch a {{iw|zeldawiki|Sword Beam}}, a reoccurring ability of Link's since the first ''The Legend of Zelda'' game. However, the Sword Beam may occasionally push opponents out of range, not allowing the second hit to connect. This depends on the weight and body size of the opponent. The Sword Beam disappears after 32 [[frame]]s (0.5<span style="text-decoration:overline">3</span> seconds) when | |fsmashdesc=A two-handed, lunging downward slash. If the attack button is pressed again, Link will perform a single-handed outward slash. The first hit deals respectable damage and knockback at the blade's tip, but only deals half as much damage with much lower knockback when not tipped; however, the non-tipped hit is a [[natural combo]] into the second slash. Extremely powerful when both hits connect, being one of the strongest forward smashes in the game. If Link is at 0% damage, the first swing will launch a {{iw|zeldawiki|Sword Beam}}, a reoccurring ability of Link's since the first ''The Legend of Zelda'' game. However, the Sword Beam may occasionally push opponents out of range, not allowing the second hit to connect. This depends on the weight and body size of the opponent. The Sword Beam disappears after 32 [[frame]]s (0.5<span style="text-decoration:overline">3</span> seconds) when forward smash is uncharged and 40 frames (0.6<span style="text-decoration:overline">6</span> seconds) when fully charged | ||
|usmashname=Triple Sword Slice ({{ja|三段斬り|Sandan Giri}}) | |usmashname=Triple Sword Slice ({{ja|三段斬り|Sandan Giri}}) | ||
|usmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|4}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|3}} (hit 2), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|11}}/{{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|10}}/{{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|9}} (hit 3) | |usmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|4}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|3}} (hit 2), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|11}}/{{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|10}}/{{ChargedSmashDmgSSBU|9}} (hit 3) | ||
| Line 135: | Line 139: | ||
|nairname=Link Kick ({{ja|リンクキック|Rinku Kikku}}) | |nairname=Link Kick ({{ja|リンクキック|Rinku Kikku}}) | ||
|nairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|11}} (clean foot), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|9}} (clean leg), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|6}} (late) | |nairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|11}} (clean foot), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|9}} (clean leg), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|6}} (late) | ||
|nairdesc=A flying kick. It is a [[sex kick]] with relatively low startup (frame 7), ending and [[landing lag]]. | |nairdesc=A flying kick. It is a [[sex kick]] with relatively low startup (frame 7), ending and [[landing lag]]. While it cannot autocancel in a short hop, it has gained notoriety for its sheer effectiveness in Link's arsenal, as it lets him escape pressure, is safe on shield with proper timing, and can even [[lock]] and combo into other moves on landing especially with the late hit, a notable followup being dash attack as a KO setup at high percents. Additionally, it has a rather large disjoint and can anti-air opponents reliably. As such, it is considered to be one of the best neutral aerials and sex kicks in the game. | ||
|fairname=Spiral Slash ({{ja|螺旋斬り|Rasen Kiri}}) | |fairname=Spiral Slash ({{ja|螺旋斬り|Rasen Kiri}}) | ||
|fairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|8}} (hit 1), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|10}} (hit 2) | |fairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|8}} (hit 1), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|10}} (hit 2) | ||
|fairdesc=Two alternating, spinning outward slashes. The first hit has weak knockback in order to connect into the second hit, which deals high enough knockback to be one of Link's most reliable KO options. The move deals high damage if both hits connect, and due to its low landing lag and long range, it is also safe on shield | |fairdesc=Two alternating, spinning outward slashes. The first hit has weak knockback in order to connect into the second hit, which deals high enough knockback to be one of Link's most reliable KO options. The move deals high damage if both hits connect, and due to its low landing lag and long range, it is also safe on shield with proper spacing and timing. However, its slow startup at frame 16, high ending lag and inability to [[autocancel]] before it can be interrupted leave it easy to punish if overused, as it only autocancels in a double jump. | ||
|bairname=Double Kick ({{ja|二段蹴り|Nidan Geri}}) | |bairname=Double Kick ({{ja|二段蹴り|Nidan Geri}}) | ||
|bairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|5}} (hit 1), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|7}} (hit 2) | |bairdmg={{ShortHopDmgSSBU|5}} (hit 1), {{ShortHopDmgSSBU|7}} (hit 2) | ||
| Line 192: | Line 196: | ||
|fsdmg=35% | |fsdmg=35% | ||
|fsdesc=Wields an {{iw|zeldawiki|Ancient Bow}} and fires an {{iw|zeldawiki|Ancient Arrow}} straight forward, which explodes upon impact with the nearest opponent in its line of fire. Despite dealing below-average damage compared to other Final Smashes, it is still powerful enough to KO reliably at low percents. | |fsdesc=Wields an {{iw|zeldawiki|Ancient Bow}} and fires an {{iw|zeldawiki|Ancient Arrow}} straight forward, which explodes upon impact with the nearest opponent in its line of fire. Despite dealing below-average damage compared to other Final Smashes, it is still powerful enough to KO reliably at low percents. | ||
}} | |||
===Stats=== | |||
{{Attributes | |||
|weight = 104 | |||
|rweight = 22-26 | |||
|cast = 89 | |||
|dash = 1.98 | |||
|rdash = 30-35 | |||
|run = 1.534 | |||
|rrun = 71 | |||
|walk = 1.237 | |||
|rwalk = 23 | |||
|trac = 0.113 | |||
|rtrac = 34 | |||
|airfric = 0.0038 | |||
|rairfric = 85-86 | |||
|air = 0.924 | |||
|rair = 75-76 | |||
|baseaccel = 0.01 | |||
|rbaseaccel = 72-80 | |||
|addaccel = 0.04 | |||
|raddaccel = 72-80 | |||
|gravity = 0.096 | |||
|rgravity = 38-39 | |||
|fall = 1.6 | |||
|rfall = 43-47 | |||
|ff = 3.04 | |||
|rff = 6 | |||
|jumpsquat = 3 | |||
|rjumpsquat = 1-88 | |||
|jumpheight = 27.8 | |||
|rjumpheight= 76 | |||
|shorthop = 13.38 | |||
|rshorthop = 76 | |||
|djump = 29 | |||
|rdjump = 72-77 | |||
}} | }} | ||
| Line 220: | Line 262: | ||
*Looks behind him. | *Looks behind him. | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
SSBULinkIdle1.gif|Link's first idle pose | SSBULinkIdle1.gif|Link's first idle pose. | ||
SSBULinkIdle2.gif|Link's second idle pose | SSBULinkIdle2.gif|Link's second idle pose. | ||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
| Line 273: | Line 315: | ||
==In [[competitive play]]== | ==In [[competitive play]]== | ||
===Most historically significant players=== | ===Most historically significant players=== | ||
<!--This character has a ten player limit for this section. Before adding and/or removing a player, read these guidelines: https://www.ssbwiki.com/SmashWiki:Notability#%22Most_historically_significant_players%22_guidelines --> | <!--This character has a ten player limit for this section. Before adding and/or removing a player, read these guidelines: https://www.ssbwiki.com/SmashWiki:Notability#%22Most_historically_significant_players%22_guidelines --> | ||
| Line 284: | Line 321: | ||
*{{Sm|Bernie|Mexico}} - The best Link player in Mexico. Placed 3rd at {{Trn|BIT MASTER MTY 7}}, 5th at {{Trn|Delfino Maza 2}}, and 13th at {{Trn|ChillHouse}} and {{Trn|Smash Factor 8}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Chag}}, {{Sm|Rox}}, and {{Sm|Wonf}}. Ranked 17th on the [[Mexican Power Rankings]]. | *{{Sm|Bernie|Mexico}} - The best Link player in Mexico. Placed 3rd at {{Trn|BIT MASTER MTY 7}}, 5th at {{Trn|Delfino Maza 2}}, and 13th at {{Trn|ChillHouse}} and {{Trn|Smash Factor 8}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Chag}}, {{Sm|Rox}}, and {{Sm|Wonf}}. Ranked 17th on the [[Mexican Power Rankings]]. | ||
*{{Sm|Prand Grix|Japan}} - Although he has yet to make an appearance offline, he is considered one of the best players in Japan's online metagame | *{{Sm|Prand Grix|Japan}} - Although he has yet to make an appearance offline, he is considered one of the all-time best players in Japan's online metagame, winning several events such as [https://smashmate.net/tournament/2251/ 157th Maesuma] and [https://smashmate.net/tournament/2251/ 154th Tamisuma SP] and ranking 1st on the [https://smashmate.net/record/32/ 9th] [[Smashmate]] SP ranking. | ||
*{{Sm|Otakuni|France}} - One of the two best Link players in Europe. Placed 9th at {{Trn|SEL 4: Crêpes Strikes Back}}, 17th at both {{Trn|Syndicate 2019}} and {{Trn|Temple: Hermès Edition}}, 25th at {{Trn|VCA 2022}}, and 33rd at {{Trn|Albion 4}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Mr.R}}, {{Sm|Homika}}, and {{Sm|Peli}}. Ranked 39th on the [[European Smash Rankings]]. | *{{Sm|Otakuni|France}} - One of the two best Link players in Europe. Placed 9th at {{Trn|SEL 4: Crêpes Strikes Back}}, 17th at both {{Trn|Syndicate 2019}} and {{Trn|Temple: Hermès Edition}}, 25th at {{Trn|VCA 2022}}, and 33rd at {{Trn|Albion 4}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|Mr.R}}, {{Sm|Homika}}, and {{Sm|Peli}}. Ranked 39th on the [[European Smash Rankings]]. | ||
*{{Sm|Rido|Japan}} - | *{{Sm|Rido|Japan}} - The best Link player in the world in the post-online metagame. He regularly places highly at events, including 5th at the superregional {{Trn|Seibugeki 11}} and 17th at the major {{Trn|Maesuma TOP 7}}. | ||
*{{Sm|T|Japan}} - The best Link player | *{{Sm|T|Japan}} - The best Link player of all-time, with performances that have yet to be matched by any other Link player. He remains the only Link player who has placed top 8 at a major, having placed 4th at the major {{Trn|Umebura SP 7}} and 5th at the supermajor {{Trn|2GG: Kongo Saga}}. | ||
*{{Sm|VinS|France}} - One of the two best Link players in Europe. Placed 9th at {{Trn|Tech Republic VI}}, 25th at both {{Trn|VCA 2021}} and {{Trn|COLOSSEL 2022}}, and 33rd at both {{Trn|Ultimate Fighting Arena 2019}} and {{Trn|Syndicate 2019}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|alice}}, {{Sm|varun}}, and {{Sm|Mezcaul}}. Ranked 43rd on the [[European Smash Rankings]]. | *{{Sm|VinS|France}} - One of the two best Link players in Europe. Placed 9th at {{Trn|Tech Republic VI}}, 25th at both {{Trn|VCA 2021}} and {{Trn|COLOSSEL 2022}}, and 33rd at both {{Trn|Ultimate Fighting Arena 2019}} and {{Trn|Syndicate 2019}} with wins over players such as {{Sm|alice}}, {{Sm|varun}}, and {{Sm|Mezcaul}}. Ranked 43rd on the [[European Smash Rankings]]. | ||
===Tier placement and history=== | |||
In the beginning of ''Ultimate''{{'}}s metagame, many players noticed that Link had significantly improved from ''SSB4'', recognizing the increased reach of his sword, the return of his previous Boomerang from ''Smash 64'' and ''Melee'', his improved mobility, most of his aerials being safe on shield (most notably his neutral aerial), and the versatility of his new Remote Bomb special. Compounded with {{Sm|Salem}}'s strong success with the character at majors and supermajors in the game's early months, Link received an extremely positive reception from the community, being regarded as a high-tier or even a top-tier character. Although opinions on the character eventually mellowed out, especially after Salem dropped the character, the community continued to remain positive thanks to strong results from Link players on a regional level and {{Sm|T}}'s strong performances at majors, leading Link to have a relatively average playerbase. | |||
However, the post-pandemic period saw Link's position in the metagame decline, most notably due to T's lower activity and worse results. On the other hand, there were not a lot of Link players active at a national level, with only a few players such as {{Sm|Rido}} and {{Sm|VinS}} seeing some success outside of regionals. This led to a noticeable decline in Link's metagame representation, with the character dropping from 32nd at the end of 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1AJs-mj5TTdkmkl7nhj4twJymVPTLTUdT0MBToL1cxDs/edit#gid=342014565|title=OrionRank 2019 character data from July-December 2019}}</ref> to 55th by the end of 2022.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gRlzy4z_dpqb2ZRhGoqtbDcuvUKz_ROsMZHGegon53M/edit#gid=329450080|title=OrionRank 2019 character data from July-December 2022}}</ref> Due to this, most players reassessed the character as a mid-tier, which is reflected in his current position on the tier list, where he is ranked 56th out of 82 characters and on the C+ tier. | |||
=={{SSBU|Classic Mode}}: A Quest to Seal the Darkness== | =={{SSBU|Classic Mode}}: A Quest to Seal the Darkness== | ||
| Line 332: | Line 374: | ||
Link was among the fighters summoned to the cliffside to fight the army of [[Master Hand]]s. | Link was among the fighters summoned to the cliffside to fight the army of [[Master Hand]]s. | ||
During the opening cutscene, Link was present on the cliffside when [[Galeem]] unleashed his beams of light. Link successfully deflected three beams of light with his [[Passive shield|shield]], but he lost his footing on the third blow, and was vaporized and placed under Galeem's imprisonment along with the rest of the fighters (excluding {{SSBU|Kirby}}). | During the opening cutscene, Link was present on the cliffside when [[Galeem]] unleashed his beams of light. Link successfully deflected three beams of light with his [[Passive shield|shield]], but he lost his footing on the third blow, and, failing to block the fourth beam coming for him, was vaporized and placed under Galeem's imprisonment along with the rest of the fighters (excluding {{SSBU|Kirby}}). | ||
Link is unlocked near a Sheikah Tower when taking {{SSBU|Villager}}’s route. The player must defeat [[List of spirits (Animal Crossing series)|Don's spirit]] to access his unlock battle. | Link is unlocked near a Sheikah Tower when taking {{SSBU|Villager}}’s route. The player must defeat [[List of spirits (Animal Crossing series)|Don's spirit]] to access his unlock battle. | ||
| Line 592: | Line 634: | ||
SSBUZeldaJPTwitter1.jpg|With all playable {{uv|The Legend of Zelda}} veterans on the Great Plateau Tower. | SSBUZeldaJPTwitter1.jpg|With all playable {{uv|The Legend of Zelda}} veterans on the Great Plateau Tower. | ||
SSBU LegendofZeldaReps.jpg|With Zelda and Ganondorf on the Great Plateau Tower. | SSBU LegendofZeldaReps.jpg|With Zelda and Ganondorf on the Great Plateau Tower. | ||
SSBUWebsiteTerry4.jpg|{{SSBU|Terry}} using [[Power Geyser]] on {{SSBU|Falco}}, {{SSBU|Villager}} on [[King of Fighters Stadium]]. | |||
SSBUSoraVsLink.jpg|Fighting {{SSBU|Sora}} on [[Final Destination]]. | SSBUSoraVsLink.jpg|Fighting {{SSBU|Sora}} on [[Final Destination]]. | ||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
| Line 616: | Line 659: | ||
*While Link's ''Smash'' series [[amiibo]] is based on his ''SSB4'' appearance and does not match his ''Ultimate'' design, he possesses an amiibo in the ''Breath of the Wild'' line that matches his incarnation in ''Ultimate'' (despite possessing different weapons) and is identical to his Fighter Spirit. | *While Link's ''Smash'' series [[amiibo]] is based on his ''SSB4'' appearance and does not match his ''Ultimate'' design, he possesses an amiibo in the ''Breath of the Wild'' line that matches his incarnation in ''Ultimate'' (despite possessing different weapons) and is identical to his Fighter Spirit. | ||
*In Link's Hero of the Wild outfit, there's a gap on his right arm.<ref>[https://i.imgur.com/IdRRIFT.jpg]</ref> | *In Link's Hero of the Wild outfit, there's a gap on his right arm.<ref>[https://i.imgur.com/IdRRIFT.jpg]</ref> | ||
*One of Link's Tips talks about how | *One of Link's Tips talks about how his name is only in five titles in the series, and that one is trickier to remember than the others. These games are ''Zelda II: The Adventure of Link'', ''The Legend of Zelda: A Link To the Past'', ''The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening'', ''The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds'', and the one that is "trickier to remember" being ''Link's Crossbow Training''. | ||
*Link is the most common opponent for Classic Mode routes, as he appears in 23 different routes. | *Link is the most common opponent for Classic Mode routes, as he appears in 23 different routes. | ||
*Despite his ''Twilight Princess'' incarnation (which based his designs in ''Brawl'' and ''SSB4'') being retired after this game, the ''Twilight Princess'' version of Link still makes an appearance in ''Ultimate'' as a spirit, although in his Wolf form. | *Despite his ''Twilight Princess'' incarnation (which based his designs in ''Brawl'' and ''SSB4'') being retired after this game, the ''Twilight Princess'' version of Link still makes an appearance in ''Ultimate'' as a spirit, although in his Wolf form. | ||
*Marketing for ''Ultimate'' depicts Link as a mascot of the game alongside Mario with roughly equal status for the first time in the series; for instance, Mario and Link were the two most prominent veterans teased for the game in March 2018, they are the two most prominent characters on the "Everyone is Here" cast artwork, and were shown on interstitial screens to represent the game at {{Trn|EVO 2019}}. | *Marketing for ''Ultimate'' depicts Link as a mascot of the game alongside Mario with roughly equal status for the first time in the series; for instance, Mario and Link were the two most prominent veterans teased for the game in March 2018, they are the two most prominent characters on the "Everyone is Here" cast artwork, and they were shown on interstitial screens to represent the game at {{Trn|EVO 2019}}. | ||
**The only cases in which Link does not share prominence with Mario are the {{SSBU|How to Play}} video (depicting Mario and {{SSBU|Bowser}} as has been tradition), the [[Controls]] menu (due to the fact that only one character is used to test controls), and [[Adventure Mode: World of Light]] (as Mario is the first required unlock while Link can be skipped over, although Kirby is the mode's ''de facto'' starter character). While Mario is marginally more prominent on the boxart for ''Ultimate'', it still depicts him and Link as a mascot duo. | **The only cases in which Link does not share prominence with Mario are the {{SSBU|How to Play}} video (depicting Mario and {{SSBU|Bowser}} as has been tradition since ''Melee''), the [[Controls]] menu (due to the fact that only one character is used to test controls), and [[Adventure Mode: World of Light]] (as Mario is the first required unlock while Link can be skipped over, although Kirby is the mode's ''de facto'' starter character). While Mario is marginally more prominent on the boxart for ''Ultimate'', it still depicts him and Link as a mascot duo. | ||
* | *Link has some carryovers from ''Smash 4'': | ||
**Although Link has a new side taunt, an unused model of the fairy from his previous side taunt (which is given to Young Link instead in ''Ultimate'') remains in his character files.<ref> | |||
[https://tcrf.net/Super_Smash_Bros._Ultimate#Link Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - The Cutting Room Floor]</ref> | |||
**If Link performs a dash attack while holding a battering item, he will briefly transition to his previous idle stance from ''Smash 4'', albeit mirrored; however, he will transition to his new idle animation afterwards. This can be seen using Camera Controls and going frame-by-frame. | |||
*When fighting off the fifty puppet fighter army as Master Hand in World of Light, Link is one of the eight fighters fought there, being affiliated with Galeem. | *When fighting off the fifty puppet fighter army as Master Hand in World of Light, Link is one of the eight fighters fought there, being affiliated with Galeem. | ||
*The Sword Beam from Link's forward smash flashes as it travels and produces a brighter flash before it disappears. The bright flash always occurs after 30 frames whereas the Beam lasts between 32-40 frames, making it appear to last longer than it should. | *The Sword Beam from Link's forward smash flashes as it travels and produces a brighter flash before it disappears. The bright flash always occurs after 30 frames whereas the Beam lasts between 32-40 frames, making it appear to last longer than it should. | ||