Part 9

Link's Aerials: His down aerial is powerful but slow with significant landing lag; use it only when sure of a hit. The Clawshot (Z in midair) has no landing lag but a long recovery, best used for tethering ledges.

Link's Grabs and Throws: His grab is slow but has good range. Down throw can lead to follow-ups at low percentages. Up smash out of shield is useful.

Link's Projectiles: Use the Bow for straight-line pressure. Gale Boomerang controls space but its gale effect can be disadvantageous. Bombs are powerful for keeping enemies at bay; delay their explosion if opponents catch them. Link should always have a projectile active or be capitalizing on projectile advantage.

Link's Spin Attack: This move is exclusively for recovery. On the ground, it's slow, predictable, and weak, with no combo potential from down throw.

Link's Movement and Defense: He cannot crawl, wall jump, or wall cling, and has one midair jump. His roll is slow. His shield blocks projectiles and recoil from Great Fox cannons, but crouching prevents openings when idle.

Link's Matchups: He struggles against Toon Link and faster swordsmen like Marth. He can perform well against other projectile users like Pit. Against fast, small characters like Olimar and Ness, he may have trouble once they get close.