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(There's no denying it. It's 200% male)
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|availability = [[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]
|availability = [[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]
}}
}}
{{cquote|''A ninja-like fighter that battles with moves like the Water Shuriken. Greninja can use a log for clever counterattacks, and this Pokémon can even stick to walls. During its Final Smash, it turns into Ash-Greninja...!?''|cite=[https://www.smashbros.com/en_US/blog/ Super Smash Blog]|source=[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Official Site]]}}
{{cquote|''A ninja-like fighter that battles with moves like the Water Shuriken. Greninja can use a log for clever counterattacks, and this Pokémon can even stick to walls. During his Final Smash, he turns into Ash-Greninja...!?''|cite=[https://www.smashbros.com/en_US/blog/ Super Smash Blog]|source=[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Official Site]]}}
'''Greninja''' ({{ja|ゲッコウガ|Gekkōga}}, ''Gekkouga'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''. It was confirmed on June 12th, 2018. Greninja is classified as fighter #50.
'''Greninja''' ({{ja|ゲッコウガ|Gekkōga}}, ''Gekkouga'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''. Due to the appearance of '''Ash-Greninja''' ({{ja|サトシゲッコウガ|Satoshi Gekkōga}}, the current Greninja in this game is confirmed a male. He was confirmed on June 12th, 2018. Greninja is classified as fighter #50.


Billy Bob Thompson, Yūji Ueda, Frédéric Clou and Benedikt Gutjan's portrayals of Greninja from ''Smash 4'' were repurposed for the English, Japanese, French and German versions of ''Ultimate'', respectively.
Billy Bob Thompson, Yūji Ueda, Frédéric Clou and Benedikt Gutjan's portrayals of Greninja from ''Smash 4'' were repurposed for the English, Japanese, French and German versions of ''Ultimate'', respectively.
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==Attributes==
==Attributes==
Greninja, true to being a ninja-themed character, has very strong mobility. However, unlike most characters who boast similar mobility (such as Zero Suit Samus or Sheik), Greninja boasts a surprising amount of KO options, good range on plenty of its attacks, and KO throws.
Greninja, true to being a ninja-themed character, has very strong mobility. However, unlike most characters who boast similar mobility (such as Zero Suit Samus or Sheik), Greninja boasts a surprising amount of KO options, good range on plenty of his attacks, and KO throws.


One of Greninja's most notable traits is its high mobility which compliments its grounded moveset. Greninja's dash attack comes out frame 7 and has very low endlag, as well as the ability to cross up on shields. Its angle also allows for many true follow ups and strings. Its neutral attack comes out on frame 3 making it a good grounded combo breaker. It can also lock, which gives Greninja access to potent punishes from opponents missing techs. Its down tilt is an excellent combo starter due to its low startup, ending lag and vertical launch angle. Greninja's up tilt is also a frame 9 disjointed hitbox that acts well as an anti-air. Its smash attacks are also reliable in their own right; its forward smash is quick for its range and power, down smash is an excellent punishment option for ledge regrabs, as well as sending at a low angle, and up smash is a potent combo finisher.
One of Greninja's most notable traits is his high mobility which compliments his grounded moveset. Greninja's dash attack comes out frame 7 and has very low endlag, as well as the ability to cross up on shields. His angle also allows for many true follow ups and strings. His neutral attack comes out on frame 3 making it a good grounded combo breaker. He can also lock, which gives Greninja access to potent punishes from opponents missing techs. His down tilt is an excellent combo starter due to his low startup, ending lag and vertical launch angle. Greninja's up tilt is also a frame 9 disjointed hitbox that acts well as an anti-air. His smash attacks are also reliable in their own right; his forward smash is quick for his range and power, down smash is an excellent punishment option for ledge regrabs, as well as sending at a low angle, and up smash is a potent combo finisher.


Greninja also has a very strong air game due to its aforementioned air speed, jump height. Greninja's aerials are reliable for multiple situations and all have low landing lag (except for down aerial, at 30 frames). Its neutral aerial is a decent low percent-combo starter due to it having incredibly low landing lag and good launch angle. It can also KO at high percentages. Its forward aerial acts as a combo finisher from his combo starters and can KO moderately early. Forward aerial's low landing lag and disjointed nature also makes it safe on shield when spaced correctly. Its up aerial is a great juggling option with low all-around lag and boasting good KO potential near the upper blast line, and its back aerial is a very fast offstage edgeguarding option. Down aerial can be used to return to the stage or perform surprise combos on hit.
Greninja also has a very strong air game due to his aforementioned air speed, jump height. Greninja's aerials are reliable for multiple situations and all have low landing lag (except for down aerial, at 30 frames). His neutral aerial is a decent low percent-combo starter due to him having incredibly low landing lag and good launch angle. He can also KO at high percentages. His forward aerial acts as a combo finisher from his combo starters and can KO moderately early. Forward aerial's low landing lag and disjointed nature also makes him safe on shield when spaced correctly. His up aerial is a great juggling option with low all-around lag and boasting good KO potential near the upper blast line, and his back aerial is a very fast offstage edgeguarding option. Down aerial can be used to return to the stage or perform surprise combos on hit.


Greninja's grab game is overall very effective, due to its grabs being among the longest ranges of any non-tether grab in the game. Its forward, up, and back throws can KO at high percentages. Down throw acts as a middle percent combo starter, as well as a strong DI mix up, especially at higher percentages at ledge as a 50/50 between DI in and out. Up throw acts as a versatile combo starter that can lead into juggle situations. Because of this, Greninja has plenty of options off of a grab, as not one of its throws could be considered useless.
Greninja's grab game is overall very effective, due to his grabs being among the longest ranges of any non-tether grab in the game. His forward, up, and back throws can KO at high percentages. Down throw acts as a middle percent combo starter, as well as a strong DI mix up, especially at higher percentages at ledge as a 50/50 between DI in and out. Up throw acts as a versatile combo starter that can lead into juggle situations. Because of this, Greninja has plenty of options off of a grab, as not one of his throws could be considered useless.


Finally, Greninja's special moves are effective for various situations. Water Shuriken acts as a versatile zoning tool, as well as a high-percentage KO option when fully charged. At low-to-mid percents, due to hitting multiple times, Greninja can rush down its opponent and follow up with any aerial attack or an up smash. [[Shadow Sneak]] works as an effective recovery mix up, as well as a potent KO move from a good read. [[Hydro Pump]] is a good recovery move and can be used for gimping recoveries  due to having windbox properties. [[Substitute]] is a counterattack with the unique attribute of being able to be aimed in one of 8 different directions upon a successful counter. These angled follow ups allow for Greninja to gain pseudo-follow ups as well as KO earlier by picking the optimal angle in regards to stage positioning.
Finally, Greninja's special moves are effective for various situations. Water Shuriken acts as a versatile zoning tool, as well as a high-percentage KO option when fully charged. At low-to-mid percents, due to hitting multiple times, Greninja can rush down his opponent and follow up with any aerial attack or an up smash. [[Shadow Sneak]] works as an effective recovery mix up, as well as a potent KO move from a good read. [[Hydro Pump]] is a good recovery move and can be used for gimping recoveries  due to having windbox properties. [[Substitute]] is a counterattack with the unique attribute of being able to be aimed in one of 8 different directions upon a successful counter. These angled follow ups allow for Greninja to gain pseudo-follow ups as well as KO earlier by picking the optimal angle in regards to stage positioning.


Like all characters, Greninja is flawed in many ways. Greninja's primary flaws are its inability to break out of disadvantage state and its lack of out of shield options. While not as bad as the previous game, Greninja still has difficulties escaping combos due to its aerials still having relatively high startup. This can sometimes be alleviated with its back or down aerials, but both are not very effective due to back aerial's almost entirely horizontal hitboxes and down aerial's landing lag. Another option is aerial water shuriken, which stalls Greninja in the air and can be used as a landing mix up, as well as hydro pump. Greninja's out of shield options are relatively weak as well. Though his standing grab was buffed by one frame of start up, he still lacks an out of shield option quicker than frame 10, other than jumping. This means that when Greninja is pinned down into shield, it lacks many options to punish its opponent effectively.
Like all characters, Greninja is flawed in many ways. Greninja's primary flaws are his inability to break out of disadvantage state and his lack of out of shield options. While not as bad as the previous game, Greninja still has difficulties escaping combos due to his aerials still having relatively high startup. This can sometimes be alleviated with his back or down aerials, but both are not very effective due to back aerial's almost entirely horizontal hitboxes and down aerial's landing lag. Another option is aerial water shuriken, which stalls Greninja in the air and can be used as a landing mix up, as well as hydro pump. Greninja's out of shield options are relatively weak as well. Though his standing grab was buffed by one frame of start up, he still lacks an out of shield option quicker than frame 10, other than jumping. This means that when Greninja is pinned down into shield, he lacks many options to punish his opponent effectively.


Altogether, Greninja's playstyle requires players to think like an actual ninja: utilizing running speed and fast attacks to rush down opponents, while saving the slower attacks for potential mixups, mindgames and surprise KO options. However, they must not play predictably due to its laggier, stronger blows.
Altogether, Greninja's playstyle requires players to think like an actual ninja: utilizing running speed and fast attacks to rush down opponents, while saving the slower attacks for potential mixups, mindgames and surprise KO options. However, they must not play predictably due to his laggier, stronger blows.


==Changes from ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''==
==Changes from ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''==


Greninja has been greatly buffed from ''Smash 4'' to ''Ultimate''. As with all other characters in the game, its already quick mobility is faster like most characters, while its previously situational moves (such as dash attack, down smash and Water Shuriken) are much more versatile. Due to the game's universal changes to dash mechanics, Greninja can also further exploit its amazing ground mobility, allowing for easier setups into its combo starters, such as down tilt and dash attack. Furthermore, the reduced landing lag on Greninja's aerial attacks gives it an easier time landing, while the universal 3-frame jumpsquat improves Greninja's ground-to-air potential.
Greninja has been greatly buffed from ''Smash 4'' to ''Ultimate''. As with all other characters in the game, his already quick mobility is faster like most characters, while his previously situational moves (such as dash attack, down smash and Water Shuriken) are much more versatile. Due to the game's universal changes to dash mechanics, Greninja can also further exploit his amazing ground mobility, allowing for easier setups into his combo starters, such as down tilt and dash attack. Furthermore, the reduced landing lag on Greninja's aerial attacks gives him an easier time landing, while the universal 3-frame jumpsquat improves Greninja's ground-to-air potential.


However, its biggest buffs were to its grab game, which saw an even faster standing grab, while its forward and back throws can now KO in addition to its up throw. As a result of receiving multiple buffs with relatively few nerfs, Greninja retains its status as a viable character in ''Ultimate'''s early meta with above average representation as of late thanks to {{Sm|Stroder}}, {{Sm|Lea}}, {{Sm|Jw}}, {{Sm|Somé}}, and {{Sm|iStudying}} and is considered as a high or even top tier character by many professional players.
However, his biggest buffs were to his grab game, which saw an even faster standing grab, while his forward and back throws can now KO in addition to his up throw. As a result of receiving multiple buffs with relatively few nerfs, Greninja retains his status as a viable character in ''Ultimate'''s early meta with above average representation as of late thanks to {{Sm|Stroder}}, {{Sm|Lea}}, {{Sm|Jw}}, {{Sm|Somé}}, and {{Sm|iStudying}} and is considered as a high or even top tier character by many professional players.


===Aesthetics===
===Aesthetics===
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*{{change|Every move that once used water katanas now uses water {{s|wikipedia|kunai}}, similar to when {{s|bulbapedia|Ash's Greninja}} uses {{s|bulbapedia|Cut}} in the ''Pokémon'' anime.}}
*{{change|Every move that once used water katanas now uses water {{s|wikipedia|kunai}}, similar to when {{s|bulbapedia|Ash's Greninja}} uses {{s|bulbapedia|Cut}} in the ''Pokémon'' anime.}}
*{{change|Greninja's tongue has less physics-based movement than the previous game.}}
*{{change|Greninja's tongue has less physics-based movement than the previous game.}}
*{{change|Greninja has altered animations for its [[sidestep]], [[roll]], and [[airdodge]] animations; it now disappears in a small whirlwind with leaves scattering, similarly to when Substitute is successful.}}
*{{change|Greninja has altered animations for his [[sidestep]], [[roll]], and [[airdodge]] animations; he now disappears in a small whirlwind with leaves scattering, similarly to when Substitute is successful.}}


===Attributes===
===Attributes===
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*{{buff|Greninja [[walk]]s faster (1.43 → 1.502).}}
*{{buff|Greninja [[walk]]s faster (1.43 → 1.502).}}
*{{buff|Greninja has increased [[air speed]] (1.18 → 1.239).}}
*{{buff|Greninja has increased [[air speed]] (1.18 → 1.239).}}
*{{change|Greninja [[weight|weighs]] less (94 → 88). This worsens its survivability but makes it less susceptible to combos.}}
*{{change|Greninja [[weight|weighs]] less (94 → 88). This worsens his survivability but makes him less susceptible to combos.}}
*{{nerf|The ability to tech footstools hinders Greninja's combo options.}}
*{{nerf|The ability to tech footstools hinders Greninja's combo options.}}
*{{nerf|Greninja's down taunt has lower knockback and much higher ending lag; unlike other taunts, it is not interruptible (unless it's used during Shadow Sneak). This prevents it from KOing and makes Greninja more vulnerable while using it. However, due to how incredibly situational down taunt is, this is negligible in normal play.}}
*{{nerf|Greninja's down taunt has lower knockback and much higher ending lag; unlike other taunts, it is not interruptible (unless it's used during Shadow Sneak). This prevents him from KOing and makes Greninja more vulnerable while using it. However, due to how incredibly situational down taunt is, this is negligible in normal play.}}


===Ground attacks===
===Ground attacks===
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*[[Down tilt]]:
*[[Down tilt]]:
**{{change|Down tilt is now a downward hand sweep.}}
**{{change|Down tilt is now a downward hand sweep.}}
**{{buff|Down tilt launches opponents at a more upward angle (70 → 79/77/75), improving its combo potential.}}
**{{buff|Down tilt launches opponents at a more upward angle (70 → 79/77/75), improving his combo potential.}}
**{{buff|Down tilt has less ending lag (FAF 27 → 23).}}
**{{buff|Down tilt has less ending lag (FAF 27 → 23).}}
**{{nerf|Down tilt deals less damage (7% → 4%), and also has altered knockback (60 (base)/40 (scaling) → 30/110), narrowing its combo range into some moves.}}
**{{nerf|Down tilt deals less damage (7% → 4%), and also has altered knockback (60 (base)/40 (scaling) → 30/110), narrowing his combo range into some moves.}}
***{{buff|However, it can now combo into up aerial at realistic percentages for a KO.}}
***{{buff|However, he can now combo into up aerial at realistic percentages for a KO.}}
*[[Dash attack]]:
*[[Dash attack]]:
**{{change|Dash attack has an altered animation with Greninja stopping halfway through the spin.}}
**{{change|Dash attack has an altered animation with Greninja stopping halfway through the spin.}}
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**{{buff|Back aerial has less ending lag (FAF 46 → 41).}}
**{{buff|Back aerial has less ending lag (FAF 46 → 41).}}
*[[Down aerial]]:
*[[Down aerial]]:
**{{nerf|Down aerial has more ending lag when it hits an opponent, hindering its combo potential and making it slightly less safe on shield.}}
**{{nerf|Down aerial has more ending lag when he hits an opponent, hindering his combo potential and making him slightly less safe on shield.}}
**{{buff|Greninja no longer loses its [[double jump]] when it lands down aerial.}}
**{{buff|Greninja no longer loses his [[double jump]] when he lands down aerial.}}
**{{buff|Down aerial has less ending lag when missed (FAF 57 → 52).}}
**{{buff|Down aerial has less ending lag when missed (FAF 57 → 52).}}


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*[[Back throw]]:
*[[Back throw]]:
**{{change|Back throw has a new animation. Greninja turns around and throws the opponent with both hands.}}
**{{change|Back throw has a new animation. Greninja turns around and throws the opponent with both hands.}}
**{{buff|Back throw's animation is faster, making it harder to [[DI]] properly.}}
**{{buff|Back throw's animation is faster, making him harder to [[DI]] properly.}}
**{{buff|Back throw deals more damage (8% → 9%), and thus knockback.}}
**{{buff|Back throw deals more damage (8% → 9%), and thus knockback.}}
*{{buff|[[Edge attack]] has increased damage (7% → 9%).}}
*{{buff|[[Edge attack]] has increased damage (7% → 9%).}}
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**{{nerf|Uncharged Water Shuriken has less knockback growth.}}
**{{nerf|Uncharged Water Shuriken has less knockback growth.}}
*[[Shadow Sneak]]:
*[[Shadow Sneak]]:
**{{change|Greninja now cloaks itself in a whirlwind before disappearing. It may also perform a forward kick to attack.}}
**{{change|Greninja now cloaks itself in a whirlwind before disappearing. He may also perform a forward kick to attack.}}
**{{buff|Shadow Sneak's attack has less startup.}}
**{{buff|Shadow Sneak's attack has less startup.}}
**{{buff|Forward Shadow Sneak launches at a lower angle, improving its combo potential.}}
**{{buff|Forward Shadow Sneak launches at a lower angle, improving his combo potential.}}
**{{buff|Shadow Sneak can be used multiple times in midair.}}
**{{buff|Shadow Sneak can be used multiple times in midair.}}
**{{nerf|The shadow's eyes flash red just before release, making it easier to predict the attack.}}  
**{{nerf|The shadow's eyes flash red just before release, making him easier to predict the attack.}}  
*[[Substitute]]:
*[[Substitute]]:
**{{buff|Substitute's counter window is longer.}}
**{{buff|Substitute's counter window is longer.}}
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**{{change|Hydro Pump now has an arrow pointing in the direction of travel, similar to {{SSBU|Pikachu}}'s [[Quick Attack]].}}
**{{change|Hydro Pump now has an arrow pointing in the direction of travel, similar to {{SSBU|Pikachu}}'s [[Quick Attack]].}}
**{{buff|Hydro Pump can now be [[ledge-cancel]]led.}}
**{{buff|Hydro Pump can now be [[ledge-cancel]]led.}}
**{{buff|Greninja no longer loses its double jump if it is hit out of Hydro Pump.}}
**{{buff|Greninja no longer loses his double jump if he is hit out of Hydro Pump.}}
*[[Secret Ninja Attack]]:
*[[Secret Ninja Attack]]:
**{{change|Greninja now turns into {{s|bulbapedia|Ash-Greninja}} during its [[Final Smash]].}}
**{{change|Greninja now turns into {{s|bulbapedia|Ash-Greninja}} during his [[Final Smash]].}}
**{{change|Greninja and its opponents are no longer silhouetted during the attack.}}
**{{change|Greninja and his opponents are no longer silhouetted during the attack.}}


==Update history==
==Update history==
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|neutral3dmg=3%
|neutral3dmg=3%
|neutralinfdmg=0.5% (infinite), 2% (finisher)
|neutralinfdmg=0.5% (infinite), 2% (finisher)
|neutraldesc=Two alternating palm thrusts followed by a double palm thrust that emits a small blast of water. If button mashed, it is instead followed by a series of knifehand strikes that emit blade-shaped blasts of water that concludes with an outward knifehand strike that emits a small blast of water. It can also be jab canceled, such as into forward tilt, down tilt and forward smash.
|neutraldesc=Two alternating palm thrusts followed by a double palm thrust that emits a small blast of water. If button mashed, it is instead followed by a series of knifehand strikes that emit blade-shaped blasts of water that concludes with an outward knifehand strike that emits a small blast of water. He can also be jab canceled, such as into forward tilt, down tilt and forward smash.
|ftiltname= 
|ftiltname= 
|ftiltdmg=7.3%
|ftiltdmg=7.3%
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|dtiltname= 
|dtiltname= 
|dtiltdmg=4%
|dtiltdmg=4%
|dtiltdesc=Greninja does a downward hand sweep. It sends opponents at an upward angle, making it a versatile combo starter. Notably, it can confirm a KO into an up smash rather easily.
|dtiltdesc=Greninja does a downward hand sweep. He sends opponents at an upward angle, making it a versatile combo starter. Notably, it can confirm a KO into an up smash rather easily.
|dashname= 
|dashname= 
|dashdmg=8%
|dashdmg=8%
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|dsmashname= 
|dsmashname= 
|dsmashdmg=13% (kunai), 11% (arms)
|dsmashdmg=13% (kunai), 11% (arms)
|dsmashdesc=Hits both sides with water kunai. Due to it sending opponents at an [[semi-spike]] angle and coming out on frame 10, it is a quick and effective way to set up an edge-guard situation.
|dsmashdesc=Hits both sides with water kunai. Due to him sending opponents at an [[semi-spike]] angle and coming out on frame 10, it is a quick and effective way to set up an edge-guard situation.
|nairname= 
|nairname= 
|nairdmg=11% (clean), 6% (late)
|nairdmg=11% (clean), 6% (late)
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|bairname= 
|bairname= 
|bairdmg= 3% (hit 1), 2.5% (hit 2), 6% (hit 3)
|bairdmg= 3% (hit 1), 2.5% (hit 2), 6% (hit 3)
|bairdesc=Kicks backwards three times. It is Greninja's fastest aerial attack, although it is also one of the weakest aerials of its kind. However, this makes it a useful combo tool in return.
|bairdesc=Kicks backwards three times. It is Greninja's fastest aerial attack, although it is also one of the weakest aerials of his kind. However, this makes it a useful combo tool in return.
|uairname= 
|uairname= 
|uairdmg=1.3% (hits 1-5), 3% (hit 6)
|uairdmg=1.3% (hits 1-5), 3% (hit 6)
|uairdesc=A corkscrew flying kick. One of Greninja's best combo and KO tools, as it can juggle and KO effectively due to its great jumping prowess.
|uairdesc=A corkscrew flying kick. One of Greninja's best combo and KO tools, as he can juggle and KO effectively due to his great jumping prowess.
|dairname= 
|dairname= 
|dairdmg=8%
|dairdmg=8%
|dairdesc=A diving double foot stomp. It acts as a [[stall-then-fall]] and bounces off opponents. The clean hit [[Meteor smash|meteor smashes]] opponents. The descent can be stalled by using Water Shuriken.
|dairdesc=A diving double foot stomp. He acts as a [[stall-then-fall]] and bounces off opponents. The clean hit [[Meteor smash|meteor smashes]] opponents. The descent can be stalled by using Water Shuriken.
|grabname=   
|grabname=   
|grabdesc=Grabs with a whirlpool. While its standing grab is slow, it is among the longest-reaching grabs in the game, and its dash grab comes out quickly for its range.
|grabdesc=Grabs with a whirlpool. While his standing grab is slow, it is among the longest-reaching grabs in the game, and his dash grab comes out quickly for his range.
|pummelname= 
|pummelname= 
|pummeldmg=1%
|pummeldmg=1%
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|bthrowname= 
|bthrowname= 
|bthrowdmg=9%
|bthrowdmg=9%
|bthrowdesc=Greninja leans forward and flings the opponent backwards. Like forward throw, its decent knockback gives it good edgeguarding and KO potential at high percentages.
|bthrowdesc=Greninja leans forward and flings the opponent backwards. Like forward throw, his decent knockback gives him good edgeguarding and KO potential at high percentages.
|uthrowname= 
|uthrowname= 
|uthrowdmg=11%
|uthrowdmg=11%
|uthrowdesc=Tosses the opponent upwards. One of Greninja's most useful throws, as it can combo into a up tilt, up aerial, up smash at low and medium percents and can even KO at later percents.
|uthrowdesc=Tosses the opponent upwards. One of Greninja's most useful throws, as he can combo into a up tilt, up aerial, up smash at low and medium percents and can even KO at later percents.
|dthrowname= 
|dthrowname= 
|dthrowdmg=12%
|dthrowdmg=12%
|dthrowdesc=Slams the opponent onto the ground. It can combo into a down tilt, forward tilt, and forward smash and a Shadow Sneak at low percentages.
|dthrowdesc=Slams the opponent onto the ground. He can combo into a down tilt, forward tilt, and forward smash and a Shadow Sneak at low percentages.
|floorfname= 
|floorfname= 
|floorfdmg=8%
|floorfdmg=8%
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|nsname=Water Shuriken
|nsname=Water Shuriken
|nsdmg=3%-10.8% (uncharged), 1.0% (fully charged looping hits), 9% (fully charged final hit)
|nsdmg=3%-10.8% (uncharged), 1.0% (fully charged looping hits), 9% (fully charged final hit)
|nsdesc=Uses Water Shuriken, which can be charged. Depending on how long the move is charged, the shuriken will be larger and do more damage, however the speed and distance will decrease as a result. At full charge, it hits multiple times and is a decent KOing option.
|nsdesc=Uses Water Shuriken, which can be charged. Depending on how long the move is charged, the shuriken will be larger and do more damage, however the speed and distance will decrease as a result. At full charge, he hits multiple times and is a decent KOing option.
|ssname=Shadow Sneak
|ssname=Shadow Sneak
|ssdmg=10% (normal), 12% (reverse)
|ssdmg=10% (normal), 12% (reverse)
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|dsname=Substitute
|dsname=Substitute
|dsdmg=14% (up or down), 11% (left or right)
|dsdmg=14% (up or down), 11% (left or right)
|dsdesc=Does a pose, if anyone hits it while posing, Greninja will temporarily disappear and get replaced by a wooden log or a Substitute doll then appear behind the opponent and strike them. It deviates noticeably from other counters, as the attack itself can be angled in an inputted direction and launching the opponent in that direction (with the down input meteor smashing opponents, which makes it a good punish against reckless edgeguarders).
|dsdesc=Does a pose, if anyone hits him while posing, Greninja will temporarily disappear and get replaced by a wooden log or a Substitute doll then appear behind the opponent and strike them. He deviates noticeably from other counters, as the attack itself can be angled in an inputted direction and launching the opponent in that direction (with the down input meteor smashing opponents, which makes it a good punish against reckless edgeguarders).
|fsname=Secret Ninja Attack
|fsname=Secret Ninja Attack
|fsdmg=6% (the mat), 50% (Total in the attack after mat)
|fsdmg=6% (the mat), 50% (Total in the attack after mat)
|fsdesc=Turns into Ash-Greninja and attacks the opponent with a mat. If an opponent is caught in the mat, Greninja will send them up into the air and strike the opponent repeatedly in midair with its kunai, before slamming them down with a final hit.
|fsdesc=Turns into Ash-Greninja and attacks the opponent with a mat. If an opponent is caught in the mat, Greninja will send them up into the air and strike the opponent repeatedly in midair with his kunai, before slamming them down with a final hit.
|game=SSBU
|game=SSBU
}}
}}
===[[On-screen appearance]]===
===[[On-screen appearance]]===
*Emerges from a [[Poké Ball]], then performs a ninjutsu hand sign that emits a small burst of water from its hands.
*Emerges from a [[Poké Ball]], then performs a ninjutsu hand sign that emits a small burst of water from his hands.
===[[Taunt]]s===
===[[Taunt]]s===
*'''Up Taunt''': Stands upright, clasping its hands together before assuming a ninjutsu stance. The stance resembles one of its attack animations from the ''Pokémon'' series.
*'''Up Taunt''': Stands upright, clasping his hands together before assuming a ninjutsu stance. The stance resembles one of his attack animations from the ''Pokémon'' series.
*'''Side Taunt''': Shakes head from side to side, causing its tongue to whip out in the same directions.  Particles of saliva fly off with each whip.
*'''Side Taunt''': Shakes head from side to side, causing his tongue to whip out in the same directions.  Particles of saliva fly off with each whip.
*'''Down Taunt''': While standing on one foot, Greninja holds out its hands, faces the screen, and summons small sprays of water. The sprays can do 1% or 2% damage and produce some knockback, though they're able to KO only at above 420%. A video showing the exact KO percentages at which each character can be KO'd can be found [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cH7IDQ_8vic here]. Unlike the rest of Greninja's taunts, this one cannot be cancelled (unless Shadow Sneak is being charged before using it).
*'''Down Taunt''': While standing on one foot, Greninja holds out his hands, faces the screen, and summons small sprays of water. The sprays can do 1% or 2% damage and produce some knockback, though they're able to KO only at above 420%. A video showing the exact KO percentages at which each character can be KO'd can be found [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cH7IDQ_8vic here]. Unlike the rest of Greninja's taunts, this one cannot be cancelled (unless Shadow Sneak is being charged before using it).
<gallery>
<gallery>
SSBUGreninjaTaunt1.gif|Greninja's up taunt.
SSBUGreninjaTaunt1.gif|Greninja's up taunt.
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===[[Idle Pose]]s===
===[[Idle Pose]]s===
*Crosses arms over its body, then separates them with a flourish.
*Crosses arms over his body, then separates them with a flourish.
*Hunches over and assumes a ninjutsu stance.
*Hunches over and assumes a ninjutsu stance.
<gallery>
<gallery>
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*Does a few hand seals with splashing water, and then a ninja pose.
*Does a few hand seals with splashing water, and then a ninja pose.
*Performs Double Team to briefly create three afterimages of itself.
*Performs Double Team to briefly create three afterimages of itself.
*Does a flip, and crosses its arms.
*Does a flip, and crosses his arms.
[[File:PokemonSeriesVictoryThemeUltimate.ogg|thumb|A small excerpt of the title theme of ''Pokémon Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green Versions'', a track which would go on to become the ''Pokémon'' main theme and the title theme for the entire series.]]
[[File:PokemonSeriesVictoryThemeUltimate.ogg|thumb|A small excerpt of the title theme of ''Pokémon Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green Versions'', a track which would go on to become the ''Pokémon'' main theme and the title theme for the entire series.]]
<gallery>
<gallery>
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During the opening cutscene, Greninja was present on the cliffside when [[Galeem]] unleashed his beams of light. Greninja leaped into the air to avoid one of the beams, which hit {{SSBU|Lucario}} instead. Greninja was hit shortly after and vaporized, getting imprisoned by Galeem afterward along with the other fighters, sans {{SSBU|Kirby}}. A puppet fighter cloned from Greninja is later seen alongside ones cloned from {{SSBU|Fox}}, {{SSBU|Samus}}, {{SSBU|Link}} and other fighters.
During the opening cutscene, Greninja was present on the cliffside when [[Galeem]] unleashed his beams of light. Greninja leaped into the air to avoid one of the beams, which hit {{SSBU|Lucario}} instead. Greninja was hit shortly after and vaporized, getting imprisoned by Galeem afterward along with the other fighters, sans {{SSBU|Kirby}}. A puppet fighter cloned from Greninja is later seen alongside ones cloned from {{SSBU|Fox}}, {{SSBU|Samus}}, {{SSBU|Link}} and other fighters.


Greninja was one of the many fighters that fell under [[Dharkon]]'s control upon Galeem's first defeat, and it can be found in the [[Mysterious Dimension]] at the Dark Realm. It can be seen impeding the path, making it an obligatory unlock.
Greninja was one of the many fighters that fell under [[Dharkon]]'s control upon Galeem's first defeat, and he can be found in the [[Mysterious Dimension]] at the Dark Realm. He can be seen impeding the path, making him an obligatory unlock.


Greninja is later seen among several other fighters, making their last stand against Galeem and Dharkon. It also shows up in the bad ending where Galeem emerges victorious against Dharkon, witnessing Galeem engulf the world in light.
Greninja is later seen among several other fighters, making their last stand against Galeem and Dharkon. He also shows up in the bad ending where Galeem emerges victorious against Dharkon, witnessing Galeem engulf the world in light.
{{clrl}}
{{clrl}}


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==[[Spirit]]s==
==[[Spirit]]s==
Greninja's Fighter Spirit can be obtained by completing [[Classic Mode]]. It is also available periodically for purchase in the shop for 500 coins. Unlocking Greninja in World of Light allows the player to preview the spirit below in the Spirit List under the name "???". As a Fighter Spirit, it cannot be used in Spirit Battles and is purely aesthetic. Each Fighter Spirit has an alternate version that replaces them with their artwork in ''Ultimate''.
Greninja's Fighter Spirit can be obtained by completing [[Classic Mode]]. He is also available periodically for purchase in the shop for 500 coins. Unlocking Greninja in World of Light allows the player to preview the spirit below in the Spirit List under the name "???". As a Fighter Spirit, he cannot be used in Spirit Battles and is purely aesthetic. Each Fighter Spirit has an alternate version that replaces them with their artwork in ''Ultimate''.


<center>
<center>
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SSBUWebsiteGreninja2.jpg|Charging [[Water Shuriken]] next to {{SSBU|Ryu}} on [[Suzaku Castle]].
SSBUWebsiteGreninja2.jpg|Charging [[Water Shuriken]] next to {{SSBU|Ryu}} on [[Suzaku Castle]].
SSBUWebsiteGreninja3.jpg|Jumping on {{SSBU|Battlefield}}.
SSBUWebsiteGreninja3.jpg|Jumping on {{SSBU|Battlefield}}.
SSBUWebsiteGreninja4.jpg|Performing its neutral aerial with [[Leviathan]] on [[Midgar]].
SSBUWebsiteGreninja4.jpg|Performing his neutral aerial with [[Leviathan]] on [[Midgar]].
SSBUWebsiteGreninja5.jpg|With its [[Substitute|Substitute Doll]] on [[Wuhu Island]] after [[tripping]].
SSBUWebsiteGreninja5.jpg|With his [[Substitute|Substitute Doll]] on [[Wuhu Island]] after [[tripping]].
SSBUWebsiteGreninja6.jpg|Performing [[Shadow Sneak]] on [[Luigi's Mansion]].
SSBUWebsiteGreninja6.jpg|Performing [[Shadow Sneak]] on [[Luigi's Mansion]].
SSBUWebsiteLucario3.jpg|Struck by {{SSBU|Lucario}} on [[Pokémon Stadium 2]].
SSBUWebsiteLucario3.jpg|Struck by {{SSBU|Lucario}} on [[Pokémon Stadium 2]].
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==Trivia==
==Trivia==
*In the ''Pokémon'' series, Ash-Greninja is only obtainable as a male. The fact that Greninja transforms into Ash-Greninja for its [[Final Smash]], [[Secret Ninja Attack]], implies that Greninja is a male in ''Ultimate''.
*In the ''Pokémon'' series, Ash-Greninja is only obtainable as a male. The fact that Greninja transforms into Ash-Greninja for his [[Final Smash]], [[Secret Ninja Attack]], thus confirming the current in ''Ultimate'' as a male.
*Greninja's new character portrait resembles its [[air dodge]] animation.
*Greninja's new character portrait resembles his [[air dodge]] animation.
**It also resembles {{SSB4|Fox}}'s character portrait from ''Super Smash Bros. 4'' but with the arm and leg positions mirrored.
**It also resembles {{SSB4|Fox}}'s character portrait from ''Super Smash Bros. 4'' but with the arm and leg positions mirrored.
***Interestingly, [[:File:SSBU challenge image 071.png|one of the challenge images]] with {{SSBU|Fox}} shows him in a pose that resembles Greninja's air dodge animation and artwork.  
***Interestingly, [[:File:SSBU challenge image 071.png|one of the challenge images]] with {{SSBU|Fox}} shows him in a pose that resembles Greninja's air dodge animation and artwork.  
*Coincidentally, Greninja's fighter number, 50, is the same as the number of its [[mariowiki:Costume Mario|costume]] in ''Super Mario Maker''. It shares this distinction with {{SSBU|Inkling}}.
*Coincidentally, Greninja's fighter number, 50, is the same as the number of his [[mariowiki:Costume Mario|costume]] in ''Super Mario Maker''. He shares this distinction with {{SSBU|Inkling}}.
*Greninja, {{SSBU|Dr. Mario}}, {{SSBU|Ivysaur}}, {{SSBU|Olimar}}, {{SSBU|Little Mac}}, {{SSBU|Ryu}}, {{SSBU|Cloud}}, {{SSBU|Dark Samus}}, and {{SSBU|Ken}} are the only characters to never appear as minions in any Spirit battles.
*Greninja, {{SSBU|Dr. Mario}}, {{SSBU|Ivysaur}}, {{SSBU|Olimar}}, {{SSBU|Little Mac}}, {{SSBU|Ryu}}, {{SSBU|Cloud}}, {{SSBU|Dark Samus}}, and {{SSBU|Ken}} are the only characters to never appear as minions in any Spirit battles.
*Alongside {{SSBU|Luigi}}, Greninja is one of two characters in ''Ultimate'' with a taunt that cannot be cancelled, due to the fact that their non-cancelable taunts have hitboxes.
*Alongside {{SSBU|Luigi}}, Greninja is one of two characters in ''Ultimate'' with a taunt that cannot be cancelled, due to the fact that their non-cancelable taunts have hitboxes.
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***Also, both of these characters have taunts that can damage opponents.
***Also, both of these characters have taunts that can damage opponents.
*Greninja being featured in Donkey Kong's unlock column may be a reference to Winky the Frog, one of the Animal Buddies in the ''Donkey Kong Country'' series. Greninja even appears in Winky's Spirit Battle.
*Greninja being featured in Donkey Kong's unlock column may be a reference to Winky the Frog, one of the Animal Buddies in the ''Donkey Kong Country'' series. Greninja even appears in Winky's Spirit Battle.
*Greninja appears slightly tilted in its [[damage meter]] compared to its character artwork. This distinction is shared with fellow ''Pokémon'' series character {{SSBU|Incineroar}}.
*Greninja appears slightly tilted in his [[damage meter]] compared to his character artwork. This distinction is shared with fellow ''Pokémon'' series character {{SSBU|Incineroar}}.
**Coincidentally, both are final evolutions of starter Pokémon, and both have Dark as their secondary type.
**Coincidentally, both are final evolutions of starter Pokémon, and both have Dark as their secondary type.



Revision as of 09:56, July 27, 2019

This article is about Greninja's appearance in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. For the character in other contexts, see Greninja.
Greninja
in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Greninja SSBU.png
PokemonSymbol.svg
Universe Pokémon
Other playable appearance in SSB4


Availability Unlockable
Final Smash Secret Ninja Attack
GreninjaHeadSSBU.png
A ninja-like fighter that battles with moves like the Water Shuriken. Greninja can use a log for clever counterattacks, and this Pokémon can even stick to walls. During his Final Smash, he turns into Ash-Greninja...!?
Super Smash Blog, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Official Site

Greninja (ゲッコウガ, Gekkouga) is a playable character in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Due to the appearance of Ash-Greninja (サトシゲッコウガ, the current Greninja in this game is confirmed a male. He was confirmed on June 12th, 2018. Greninja is classified as fighter #50.

Billy Bob Thompson, Yūji Ueda, Frédéric Clou and Benedikt Gutjan's portrayals of Greninja from Smash 4 were repurposed for the English, Japanese, French and German versions of Ultimate, respectively.

How to unlock

Complete one of the following:

With the exception of the third method, Greninja must then be defeated on Kalos Pokémon League.

Attributes

Greninja, true to being a ninja-themed character, has very strong mobility. However, unlike most characters who boast similar mobility (such as Zero Suit Samus or Sheik), Greninja boasts a surprising amount of KO options, good range on plenty of his attacks, and KO throws.

One of Greninja's most notable traits is his high mobility which compliments his grounded moveset. Greninja's dash attack comes out frame 7 and has very low endlag, as well as the ability to cross up on shields. His angle also allows for many true follow ups and strings. His neutral attack comes out on frame 3 making it a good grounded combo breaker. He can also lock, which gives Greninja access to potent punishes from opponents missing techs. His down tilt is an excellent combo starter due to his low startup, ending lag and vertical launch angle. Greninja's up tilt is also a frame 9 disjointed hitbox that acts well as an anti-air. His smash attacks are also reliable in their own right; his forward smash is quick for his range and power, down smash is an excellent punishment option for ledge regrabs, as well as sending at a low angle, and up smash is a potent combo finisher.

Greninja also has a very strong air game due to his aforementioned air speed, jump height. Greninja's aerials are reliable for multiple situations and all have low landing lag (except for down aerial, at 30 frames). His neutral aerial is a decent low percent-combo starter due to him having incredibly low landing lag and good launch angle. He can also KO at high percentages. His forward aerial acts as a combo finisher from his combo starters and can KO moderately early. Forward aerial's low landing lag and disjointed nature also makes him safe on shield when spaced correctly. His up aerial is a great juggling option with low all-around lag and boasting good KO potential near the upper blast line, and his back aerial is a very fast offstage edgeguarding option. Down aerial can be used to return to the stage or perform surprise combos on hit.

Greninja's grab game is overall very effective, due to his grabs being among the longest ranges of any non-tether grab in the game. His forward, up, and back throws can KO at high percentages. Down throw acts as a middle percent combo starter, as well as a strong DI mix up, especially at higher percentages at ledge as a 50/50 between DI in and out. Up throw acts as a versatile combo starter that can lead into juggle situations. Because of this, Greninja has plenty of options off of a grab, as not one of his throws could be considered useless.

Finally, Greninja's special moves are effective for various situations. Water Shuriken acts as a versatile zoning tool, as well as a high-percentage KO option when fully charged. At low-to-mid percents, due to hitting multiple times, Greninja can rush down his opponent and follow up with any aerial attack or an up smash. Shadow Sneak works as an effective recovery mix up, as well as a potent KO move from a good read. Hydro Pump is a good recovery move and can be used for gimping recoveries due to having windbox properties. Substitute is a counterattack with the unique attribute of being able to be aimed in one of 8 different directions upon a successful counter. These angled follow ups allow for Greninja to gain pseudo-follow ups as well as KO earlier by picking the optimal angle in regards to stage positioning.

Like all characters, Greninja is flawed in many ways. Greninja's primary flaws are his inability to break out of disadvantage state and his lack of out of shield options. While not as bad as the previous game, Greninja still has difficulties escaping combos due to his aerials still having relatively high startup. This can sometimes be alleviated with his back or down aerials, but both are not very effective due to back aerial's almost entirely horizontal hitboxes and down aerial's landing lag. Another option is aerial water shuriken, which stalls Greninja in the air and can be used as a landing mix up, as well as hydro pump. Greninja's out of shield options are relatively weak as well. Though his standing grab was buffed by one frame of start up, he still lacks an out of shield option quicker than frame 10, other than jumping. This means that when Greninja is pinned down into shield, he lacks many options to punish his opponent effectively.

Altogether, Greninja's playstyle requires players to think like an actual ninja: utilizing running speed and fast attacks to rush down opponents, while saving the slower attacks for potential mixups, mindgames and surprise KO options. However, they must not play predictably due to his laggier, stronger blows.

Changes from Super Smash Bros. 4

Greninja has been greatly buffed from Smash 4 to Ultimate. As with all other characters in the game, his already quick mobility is faster like most characters, while his previously situational moves (such as dash attack, down smash and Water Shuriken) are much more versatile. Due to the game's universal changes to dash mechanics, Greninja can also further exploit his amazing ground mobility, allowing for easier setups into his combo starters, such as down tilt and dash attack. Furthermore, the reduced landing lag on Greninja's aerial attacks gives him an easier time landing, while the universal 3-frame jumpsquat improves Greninja's ground-to-air potential.

However, his biggest buffs were to his grab game, which saw an even faster standing grab, while his forward and back throws can now KO in addition to his up throw. As a result of receiving multiple buffs with relatively few nerfs, Greninja retains his status as a viable character in Ultimate's early meta with above average representation as of late thanks to Stroder, Lea, Jw, Somé, and iStudying and is considered as a high or even top tier character by many professional players.

Aesthetics

  • Change Much like all veterans from Smash 4, Greninja's model features a slightly more subdued color scheme.
  • Change Every move that once used water katanas now uses water kunai, similar to when Ash's Greninja uses Cut in the Pokémon anime.
  • Change Greninja's tongue has less physics-based movement than the previous game.
  • Change Greninja has altered animations for his sidestep, roll, and airdodge animations; he now disappears in a small whirlwind with leaves scattering, similarly to when Substitute is successful.

Attributes

  • Buff Like all characters, Greninja's jumpsquat animation now takes three frames to complete (down from 4).
  • Buff Greninja dashes faster (2.08 → 2.288).
  • Buff Greninja walks faster (1.43 → 1.502).
  • Buff Greninja has increased air speed (1.18 → 1.239).
  • Change Greninja weighs less (94 → 88). This worsens his survivability but makes him less susceptible to combos.
  • Nerf The ability to tech footstools hinders Greninja's combo options.
  • Nerf Greninja's down taunt has lower knockback and much higher ending lag; unlike other taunts, it is not interruptible (unless it's used during Shadow Sneak). This prevents him from KOing and makes Greninja more vulnerable while using it. However, due to how incredibly situational down taunt is, this is negligible in normal play.

Ground attacks

  • Neutral attack:
    • Buff Neutral attack's rapid jab is considerably faster.
    • Nerf Jab 3 deals less damage (3.5% → 3%), and thus less knockback.
  • Down tilt:
    • Change Down tilt is now a downward hand sweep.
    • Buff Down tilt launches opponents at a more upward angle (70 → 79/77/75), improving his combo potential.
    • Buff Down tilt has less ending lag (FAF 27 → 23).
    • Nerf Down tilt deals less damage (7% → 4%), and also has altered knockback (60 (base)/40 (scaling) → 30/110), narrowing his combo range into some moves.
      • Buff However, he can now combo into up aerial at realistic percentages for a KO.
  • Dash attack:
    • Change Dash attack has an altered animation with Greninja stopping halfway through the spin.
    • Buff Dash attack deals more damage (7% → 8%) with base knockback reduced to somewhat compensate (100 → 90).
    • Buff Dash attack has less ending lag (FAF 31 → 29).
  • Forward smash
    • Buff Forward smash deals more knockback (30 (base)/101 (scaling) → 35/104).
  • Down smash:
    • Buff Down smash has much less startup lag (15 → 10), and thus a shorter duration (FAF 55 → 50).
    • Buff Down smash's inner hitbox is now extended (z-offset: 0 → 0-7).

Aerial attacks

  • Buff All aerials have less landing lag (12 frames → 7 (neutral), 15 → 11 (forward), 13 → 10 (back), 15 → 14 (up), 32 → 30 (down)).
  • Neutral aerial:
    • Buff Neutral aerial has considerably less ending lag (FAF 65 → 53).
  • Forward aerial:
    • Buff Forward aerial has more knockback scaling (84 → 95).
  • Back aerial
    • Buff Back aerial has less ending lag (FAF 46 → 41).
  • Down aerial:
    • Nerf Down aerial has more ending lag when he hits an opponent, hindering his combo potential and making him slightly less safe on shield.
    • Buff Greninja no longer loses his double jump when he lands down aerial.
    • Buff Down aerial has less ending lag when missed (FAF 57 → 52).

Throws/other attacks

  • Grab:
    • Buff Standing grab's startup is reduced by 1 frame (11 → 10).
  • Buff Pummel is significantly faster than in Smash 4. It deals 1% less damage (2% → 1%), but is buffed overall due to Greninja's previously sluggish pummel.
  • Forward throw:
    • Buff Forward throw now has 2 hits, dealing more damage overall (5 (throw) → 3.5 (collateral) + 4.5 (throw), 8 (total)).
    • Buff Forward throw has altered knockback, dealing more knockback overall (70 (base)/45 (scaling) → 65/100).
  • Back throw:
    • Change Back throw has a new animation. Greninja turns around and throws the opponent with both hands.
    • Buff Back throw's animation is faster, making him harder to DI properly.
    • Buff Back throw deals more damage (8% → 9%), and thus knockback.
  • Buff Edge attack has increased damage (7% → 9%).

Special moves

  • Water Shuriken:
    • Buff Water Shuriken has slightly increased range.
    • Buff Opponents don't fall out of the fully charged shuriken as much as before.
    • Change Water Shuriken looks sharper.
    • Nerf Uncharged Water Shuriken has less knockback growth.
  • Shadow Sneak:
    • Change Greninja now cloaks itself in a whirlwind before disappearing. He may also perform a forward kick to attack.
    • Buff Shadow Sneak's attack has less startup.
    • Buff Forward Shadow Sneak launches at a lower angle, improving his combo potential.
    • Buff Shadow Sneak can be used multiple times in midair.
    • Nerf The shadow's eyes flash red just before release, making him easier to predict the attack.
  • Substitute:
    • Buff Substitute's counter window is longer.
    • Buff Substitute's attack has less startup.
    • Buff Substitute slows down the opponent when the attack activates, allowing the attack to land more consistently.
    • Buff Substitute now grants Greninja invincibility during the attack.
    • Change Substitute has more vibrant particles effects.
  • Hydro Pump:
    • Change Hydro Pump now has an arrow pointing in the direction of travel, similar to Pikachu's Quick Attack.
    • Buff Hydro Pump can now be ledge-cancelled.
    • Buff Greninja no longer loses his double jump if he is hit out of Hydro Pump.
  • Secret Ninja Attack:
    • Change Greninja now turns into Ash-Greninja during his Final Smash.
    • Change Greninja and his opponents are no longer silhouetted during the attack.

Update history

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate 1.2.0

  • Bug fix A visual glitch with Greninja's screen KO has been fixed.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate 2.0.0

  • Buff Down smash has a larger internal hitbox.
  • Nerf Hydro Pump's endlag can no longer be cancelled instantly by landing on a moving or slanted platform.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate 3.0.0

  • Nerf Water Shuriken deals less shield damage.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate 3.1.0

  • Bug fix Fixed an unknown glitch that resulted Greninja sliding while shielding.

Moveset

Note: All numbers are listed as base damage, without the 1v1 multiplier.

  Name Damage Description
Neutral attack   2% Two alternating palm thrusts followed by a double palm thrust that emits a small blast of water. If button mashed, it is instead followed by a series of knifehand strikes that emit blade-shaped blasts of water that concludes with an outward knifehand strike that emits a small blast of water. He can also be jab canceled, such as into forward tilt, down tilt and forward smash.
2%
3%
0.5% (infinite), 2% (finisher)
Forward tilt   7.3% A hook kick which stops half way. It can be angled and can lock opponents.
Up tilt   4.5% Greninja attacks with his tongue. A good aerial combo starter.
Down tilt   4% Greninja does a downward hand sweep. He sends opponents at an upward angle, making it a versatile combo starter. Notably, it can confirm a KO into an up smash rather easily.
Dash attack   8% A sweep kick. Sends opponents at a favorable angle for combos.
Forward smash   14% An inward slash with a water kunai. Deals good knockback and has good range. However, it has notable startup lag.
Up smash   5% (hit 1), 14% (hit 2 clean center), 11% (hit 2 clean sides), 10% (hit 2 late) Two reverse gripped inward slashes with water kunai. Greninja's strongest finisher, especially when hit clean.
Down smash   13% (kunai), 11% (arms) Hits both sides with water kunai. Due to him sending opponents at an semi-spike angle and coming out on frame 10, it is a quick and effective way to set up an edge-guard situation.
Neutral aerial   11% (clean), 6% (late) Strikes a ninjutsu pose while emitting an exploding water bubble.
Forward aerial   14% A forward slash with a water kunai. It has some start-up and suffers from high end lag, but it is a viable edge-guarding and KOing option.
Back aerial   3% (hit 1), 2.5% (hit 2), 6% (hit 3) Kicks backwards three times. It is Greninja's fastest aerial attack, although it is also one of the weakest aerials of his kind. However, this makes it a useful combo tool in return.
Up aerial   1.3% (hits 1-5), 3% (hit 6) A corkscrew flying kick. One of Greninja's best combo and KO tools, as he can juggle and KO effectively due to his great jumping prowess.
Down aerial   8% A diving double foot stomp. He acts as a stall-then-fall and bounces off opponents. The clean hit meteor smashes opponents. The descent can be stalled by using Water Shuriken.
Grab   Grabs with a whirlpool. While his standing grab is slow, it is among the longest-reaching grabs in the game, and his dash grab comes out quickly for his range.
Pummel   1% Compresses target with water. Decent speed.
Forward throw   3.5% (hit 1), 4.5% (throw) Shoves the opponent forward. Can KO at high percentages.
Back throw   9% Greninja leans forward and flings the opponent backwards. Like forward throw, his decent knockback gives him good edgeguarding and KO potential at high percentages.
Up throw   11% Tosses the opponent upwards. One of Greninja's most useful throws, as he can combo into a up tilt, up aerial, up smash at low and medium percents and can even KO at later percents.
Down throw   12% Slams the opponent onto the ground. He can combo into a down tilt, forward tilt, and forward smash and a Shadow Sneak at low percentages.
Floor attack (front)   8% Sweep kicks around itself while getting up.
Floor attack (back)   8% Sweep kicks around itself while getting up.
Floor attack (trip)   8% Sweep kicks around itself while getting up.
Edge attack   9% Performs a roundhouse kick while climbing up.
Neutral special Water Shuriken 3%-10.8% (uncharged), 1.0% (fully charged looping hits), 9% (fully charged final hit) Uses Water Shuriken, which can be charged. Depending on how long the move is charged, the shuriken will be larger and do more damage, however the speed and distance will decrease as a result. At full charge, he hits multiple times and is a decent KOing option.
Side special Shadow Sneak 10% (normal), 12% (reverse) Disappears briefly, then preforms a forward kick or a drop kick (relative to the user's reappearance in relation to the enemy) to attack. The move activates when the special button is released. The way the shadow moves is relative to Greninja's position, and it can be moved further or closer to change how far Greninja teleports. While performing Shadow Sneak, Greninja cannot run, attack, grab, dodge or shield. However, it can walk slowly, jump and taunt.
Up special Hydro Pump 2% (per shot) Uses Hydro Pump to propel itself in the inputted direction, it can be used twice. Each shot has a windbox effect that pushes opponents, making it a decent option for gimping predictable recoveries.
Down special Substitute 14% (up or down), 11% (left or right) Does a pose, if anyone hits him while posing, Greninja will temporarily disappear and get replaced by a wooden log or a Substitute doll then appear behind the opponent and strike them. He deviates noticeably from other counters, as the attack itself can be angled in an inputted direction and launching the opponent in that direction (with the down input meteor smashing opponents, which makes it a good punish against reckless edgeguarders).
Final Smash Secret Ninja Attack 6% (the mat), 50% (Total in the attack after mat) Turns into Ash-Greninja and attacks the opponent with a mat. If an opponent is caught in the mat, Greninja will send them up into the air and strike the opponent repeatedly in midair with his kunai, before slamming them down with a final hit.

On-screen appearance

  • Emerges from a Poké Ball, then performs a ninjutsu hand sign that emits a small burst of water from his hands.

Taunts

  • Up Taunt: Stands upright, clasping his hands together before assuming a ninjutsu stance. The stance resembles one of his attack animations from the Pokémon series.
  • Side Taunt: Shakes head from side to side, causing his tongue to whip out in the same directions. Particles of saliva fly off with each whip.
  • Down Taunt: While standing on one foot, Greninja holds out his hands, faces the screen, and summons small sprays of water. The sprays can do 1% or 2% damage and produce some knockback, though they're able to KO only at above 420%. A video showing the exact KO percentages at which each character can be KO'd can be found here. Unlike the rest of Greninja's taunts, this one cannot be cancelled (unless Shadow Sneak is being charged before using it).

Idle Poses

  • Crosses arms over his body, then separates them with a flourish.
  • Hunches over and assumes a ninjutsu stance.

Victory poses

  • Does a few hand seals with splashing water, and then a ninja pose.
  • Performs Double Team to briefly create three afterimages of itself.
  • Does a flip, and crosses his arms.
A small excerpt of the title theme of Pokémon Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green Versions, a track which would go on to become the Pokémon main theme and the title theme for the entire series.

In competitive play

Notable players

Any number following the Smasher name indicates placement on the Spring 2019 PGRU, which recognizes the official top 50 players in the world in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate from February 1st, 2019 to July 7th, 2019.

Classic Mode: Your Turn, Greninja!

Greninja's congratulations screen.

Greninja fights against characters that represent different types from the Pokémon games: for example, Charizard and Bowser represent Fire type, and Mewtwo, Ness, and Lucas represent Psychic type.

Round Opponent Stage Music Notes
1 Charizard CharizardHeadSSBU.png and Bowser BowserHeadSSBU.png Pokémon Stadium Battle! (Elite Four) / Battle! (Solgaleo/Lunala) Represents Fire-type. Charizard's Pokémon Trainer is absent.
2 Pikachu PikachuHeadSSBU.png, Pichu PichuHeadSSBU.png, and Zero Suit Samus ZeroSuitSamusHeadSSBU.png Pokémon Stadium 2 Battle! (Steven) Represents Electric-type.
3 Lucario LucarioHeadSSBU.png, Ryu RyuHeadSSBU.png, and Ken KenHeadSSBU.png Pokémon Stadium Battle! (Reshiram / Zekrom) Represents Fighting-type.
4 Ivysaur IvysaurHeadSSBU.png Pokémon Stadium Battle! (Gladion) Represents Grass-type. Ivysaur's Pokémon Trainer is absent.
5 Mewtwo MewtwoHeadSSBU.png, Ness NessHeadSSBU.png, and Lucas LucasHeadSSBU.png Pokémon Stadium 2 Battle! (Dialga/Palkia) / Spear Pillar Represents Psychic-type.
6 Squirtle SquirtleHeadSSBU.png and Greninja GreninjaHeadBlackSSBU.png Kalos Pokémon League Battle! (Champion) - Pokémon X / Pokémon Y Represents Water-type. Squirtle's Pokémon Trainer is absent. Default Greninja GreninjaHeadSSBU.png is used if player chooses the black costume.
Bonus Stage
Final Master Hand Final Destination Master Hand (Less than 7.0 intensity)
Master Hand / Crazy Hand (Intensity 7.0 or higher)
On intensity 7.0 and higher, Crazy Hand fights alongside Master Hand.

Credits roll after completing Classic Mode. Completing it as Greninja has Battle! (Trainer Battle) - Pokémon X / Pokémon Y accompany the credits.

Role in World of Light

Greninja's location in World of Light.
Finding Greninja in World of Light

Greninja was among the fighters that were summoned to fight the army of Master Hands.

During the opening cutscene, Greninja was present on the cliffside when Galeem unleashed his beams of light. Greninja leaped into the air to avoid one of the beams, which hit Lucario instead. Greninja was hit shortly after and vaporized, getting imprisoned by Galeem afterward along with the other fighters, sans Kirby. A puppet fighter cloned from Greninja is later seen alongside ones cloned from Fox, Samus, Link and other fighters.

Greninja was one of the many fighters that fell under Dharkon's control upon Galeem's first defeat, and he can be found in the Mysterious Dimension at the Dark Realm. He can be seen impeding the path, making him an obligatory unlock.

Greninja is later seen among several other fighters, making their last stand against Galeem and Dharkon. He also shows up in the bad ending where Galeem emerges victorious against Dharkon, witnessing Galeem engulf the world in light.

Fighter Battle

No. Image Name Type Power Stage Music
50
Greninja SSBU.png
Greninja Shield 10,600 Kalos Pokémon League (Ω form) Battle! (Trainer Battle) - Pokémon X / Pokémon Y

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Spirits

Greninja's Fighter Spirit can be obtained by completing Classic Mode. He is also available periodically for purchase in the shop for 500 coins. Unlocking Greninja in World of Light allows the player to preview the spirit below in the Spirit List under the name "???". As a Fighter Spirit, he cannot be used in Spirit Battles and is purely aesthetic. Each Fighter Spirit has an alternate version that replaces them with their artwork in Ultimate.

In Spirit battles

As the main opponent

Spirit Battle parameters
No. Image Name Series Enemy Fighter(s) Type Power Stage Rules Conditions Music
154
Winky.png
Winky Donkey Kong series Greninja GreninjaHeadGreenSSBU.png
Attack
1,700 Mushroom Kingdom U N/A •The enemy deals damage when falling
•The enemy has increased jump power
Jungle Level (Brawl)
199
Zora Spirit.png
Zora The Legend of Zelda series Greninja GreninjaHeadVioletSSBU.png
Shield
1,800 Great Bay N/A •The enemy's neutral special has increased power Ocarina of Time Medley
385
Slippy toad.png
Slippy Toad Star Fox series Greninja GreninjaHeadGreenSSBU.png
Fox FoxHeadBlackSSBU.png
Shield
9,600 Frigate Orpheon (hazards off) N/A •Defeat the main fighter to win
•Timed battle
•The enemy tends to avoid conflict
Corneria - Star Fox
482
LegendaryDogsSpirits.png
Raikou, Entei, & Suicune Pokémon series Greninja GreninjaHeadVioletSSBU.png
Incineroar IncineroarHeadWhiteSSBU.png
Pikachu PikachuHeadLibreSSBU.png
Shield
9,900 Suzaku Castle •Hazard: Lava Floor •The floor is lava Pokémon Red / Pokémon Blue Medley
516 Darkrai Pokémon series Greninja GreninjaHeadBlackSSBU.png
Shield
9,900 Luigi's Mansion (Ω form) •Item: Black Hole
•Hazard: Slumber Floor
•The floor is sleep-inducing
•Only certain Pokémon will emerge from Poké Balls (Darkrai)
Battle! (Team Galactic)
770
Metal Gear Ray Spirit.png
Metal Gear RAY Metal Gear Solid series •Metal Greninja GreninjaHeadGreySSBU.png
Grab
4,200 Shadow Moses Island •Item: Exploding Types Stamina battle
•Explosion attacks aren't as effective against the enemy
•The enemy is metal
Yell "Dead Cell"
893
Shadowman.png
Shadow Man Mega Man series Greninja GreninjaHeadPurpleSSBU.png (×3)
Shield
3,500 Norfair (Battlefield form) N/A •The enemy's neutral special has increased power
Stamina battle
•The enemy favors neutral specials
Shadow Man Stage
1,014
Luka.png
Luka Bayonetta series Greninja GreninjaHeadBlackSSBU.png
Shield
3,800 New Donk City Hall •Temporary Invincibility •The enemy becomes temporarily invincible when badly damaged Riders Of The Light
1,048
Octoling Octopus Spirit.png
Octoling Octopus Splatoon series Greninja Team GreninjaHeadPinkSSBU.png (×4)
Shield
3,900 Moray Towers N/A •Timed battle Octoweaponry
1,143
Sable Prince.png
Frog & Snake Kaeru no Tame ni Kane wa Naru Greninja GreninjaHeadGreenSSBU.png
King K. Rool KingKRoolHeadBlueSSBU.png
Shield
3,600 Dream Land GB (Castle Lololo interior) Assist Trophy Enemies (Sablé Prince) •Hostile assist trophies will appear Castle Lololo

Alternate costumes

Greninja Palette (SSBU).png
GreninjaHeadSSBU.png GreninjaHeadRedSSBU.png GreninjaHeadPinkSSBU.png GreninjaHeadBlackSSBU.png GreninjaHeadVioletSSBU.png GreninjaHeadGreenSSBU.png GreninjaHeadGreySSBU.png GreninjaHeadPurpleSSBU.png

Gallery

Character Showcase Video

Trivia

  • In the Pokémon series, Ash-Greninja is only obtainable as a male. The fact that Greninja transforms into Ash-Greninja for his Final Smash, Secret Ninja Attack, thus confirming the current in Ultimate as a male.
  • Greninja's new character portrait resembles his air dodge animation.
    • It also resembles Fox's character portrait from Super Smash Bros. 4 but with the arm and leg positions mirrored.
  • Coincidentally, Greninja's fighter number, 50, is the same as the number of his costume in Super Mario Maker. He shares this distinction with Inkling.
  • Greninja, Dr. Mario, Ivysaur, Olimar, Little Mac, Ryu, Cloud, Dark Samus, and Ken are the only characters to never appear as minions in any Spirit battles.
  • Alongside Luigi, Greninja is one of two characters in Ultimate with a taunt that cannot be cancelled, due to the fact that their non-cancelable taunts have hitboxes.
    • Greninja and Luigi are also the only two characters whose Classic Mode titles feature their names.
      • Also, both of these characters have taunts that can damage opponents.
  • Greninja being featured in Donkey Kong's unlock column may be a reference to Winky the Frog, one of the Animal Buddies in the Donkey Kong Country series. Greninja even appears in Winky's Spirit Battle.
  • Greninja appears slightly tilted in his damage meter compared to his character artwork. This distinction is shared with fellow Pokémon series character Incineroar.
    • Coincidentally, both are final evolutions of starter Pokémon, and both have Dark as their secondary type.