It’s been far too long since the series’ last entry, but Super Smash Bros. is finally back at it again. And this time, Smash Ultimate is exclusive to Nintendo’s newest console, the Switch. So you no longer need to choose between a handheld version on the 3DS and a home console version on the big screen. This is truly the most complete package that Smash has ever had, no matter where or how you choose to play it. And we’re serious when we say “complete.”
Smash Ultimate brings together 74 different playable fighters at launch. That includes every single previous Smash fighter and a whole bunch of fresh faces.. We even have the long-awaited Ripley and the oddball pre-order bonus Piranha Plant. That doesn’t even include the slew of upcoming DLC characters, assist trophies, random Pokemon you can summon, and much more. There’s so much to keep track of that only the pros could possibly remember everything. So we’ve compiled a guide to every single character in Smash Ultimate!
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This particular guide, if you couldn’t guess, is all about Fox McCloud. The laser blasting, spaceship piloting, Dragon Ball Z scouter wearing hero is back. And he genuinely seems better than ever! That being said, Fox is a mainstay for competitive Smash, so Nintendo doesn’t seem to have messed too much with a good thing.
According to Fox’s official Nintendo description…
He can overwhelm his opponents with his quick movements, and his specials don’t leave him open for counterattacks. His costume and voice have been redone to match his appearance in Star Fox Zero. This Fox is brand new! “Come on!”
Moves
Blaster (B) – Fires lasers that deal damage but don’t knock opponents back. Pressing repeatedly fires rapidly.
Fox Illusion (Side + B) – Dashes at high speed through opponents. Vulnerable to opponents shielding against the attack.
Fire Fox (Up + B) – Rockets skyward while engulfed in flames. Can change direction while charging.
Reflector (Down + B) – Shields and reflects projectiles, upping their speed and power.
Team Star Fox (Final Smash) – Fox uses a targeting reticle to lock on to any opponents right in front of him. If he acquires a target, the Star Fox team shows up and unleashes a formation attack.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Fox is still the speedy combatant with a devastating up-smash attack that Smash players know and love, with a few alterations. His recovery move, Fire Fox, does more damage but doesn’t travel as far. He’s still fast and has devastating combo potential, so if you like playing a speedy, rushdown-style character, Fox has a lot to offer.
Weaknesses
Fox is lacking when it comes to catch-up, however. He’s a light fighter who can get smacked off the stage easily by heavy hitters. His recovery move is also well-telegraphed, so opponents can prevent you from getting back to the edge of the stage. Fox is still a very capable fighter, though. Just try to keep momentum in your favor.
Changes
HIYAH! Fox has a smashing new look from Star Fox Zero.
Outside of a few power changes to his basic abilities, the only really notable difference about Fox is his new Final Smash: Team Star Fox. He’s upped his game from the basic Tank Summon and instead calls in an all-out Arwing Strike! Besides looking very cool, it definitely feels more “iconic” for the Star Fox protagonist.
Outfits
Fox has the usual palette swaps and the special purple Fox.
And that’s all we know about the squadron leader of Team Star Fox! Of course, how well you manage to play Fox is up to you. Just don’t be that person who demands everyone play Fox on Final Destination with no items… Let people have fun!
Meanwhile, there are still quite a few characters to learn besides just this one. Not to mention there’s a whole massive single-player campaign to explore So check out the rest of Fanbyte’s Smash Ultimate guides and walkthroughs— from single-player hints to vital multiplayer tactics. More than anything else, though, make sure you play the characters you enjoy the most.
All of our Smash Ultimate guides created with the help of Eric Van Allen.
