Super Smash Bros. (N64)

Game Overview

Originally conceived as a modest passion project with a modest budget, Super Smash Bros. became an unprecedented global phenomenon upon its release. Unlike standard 2D fighters that require complex motion inputs for special moves, Smash Bros. utilized an intuitive directional stick and button combination scheme that made it instantly accessible to casual players while offering incredible depth for competitive enthusiasts.

The game features 12 playable characters (eight available from the start and four unlockable), each representing a major Nintendo franchise. Players battle across imaginative stages inspired by classic games, such as Peach's Castle, Hyrule Castle, and the Saffron City Pokemon arena, utilizing randomized items like Home-Run Bats, Ray Guns, and Poké Balls to turn the tide of battle. Complete with a single-player classic arcade mode, bonus target tests, and legendary four-player local multiplayer brawls, it established a blueprint that future gaming generations would follow.

Quick Specifications

• Platform: Nintendo 64

• Developer: HAL Laboratory

• Publisher: Nintendo

• Release Date: January 21, 1999 (Japan), April 26, 1999 (North America), November 19, 1999 (Europe)

• Genre: Platform Fighter / Crossover Action

• Modes: Single-player, Multiplayer (up to 4 players)

• Peripheral Support: Nintendo 64 Controller Pak, Rumble Pak

Key Features

• Revolutionary Damage & Knockback System: Knock opponents off floating stages entirely by building up their percentage damage rather than draining a health bar.

• Iconic All-Star Roster: Play as legendary Nintendo characters including Mario, Donkey Kong, Link, Samus, Yoshi, Kirby, Fox, and Pikachu.

• Accessible & Deep Mechanics: Enjoy simple, pick-up-and-play controls that reward precise movement, spacing, edge-guarding, and combo execution.

• Chaotic Item Arsenal: Utilize classic Nintendo-themed weapons and power-ups like Hammer, Bob-omb, Star Rod, and summoning Poké Balls.

• Four-Player Local Multiplayer: Experience unforgettable couch multiplayer battles supporting up to four simultaneous players in free-for-all or team modes.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

How do you win a match in Super Smash Bros.?

Instead of depleting a health bar, players win by knocking opponents completely outside the boundaries of the stage (the top, sides, or bottom) using attacks that scale in knockback force as the opponent's damage percentage increases.

Which hidden characters can be unlocked in the game?

There are four secret unlockable characters in the original N64 game: Luigi, Ness, Captain Falcon, and Jigglypuff, each unlocked by completing specific single-player challenges.

Does Super Smash Bros. support four-player multiplayer?

Yes, the game is famously designed around frantic local four-player multiplayer battles utilizing the four controller ports on the Nintendo 64 console.

Does the game require a Controller Pak to save progress?

Yes, a Nintendo 64 Controller Pak is required to save high scores, single-player clear records, and unlocked character status.