Super Smash Bros. for Wii U starts with a substantial roster, but many fan-favorite characters are initially locked. Unlocking them is a core part of the game's progression. Here's a list of unlockable characters and their primary methods:
- Jigglypuff: Play 120 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode once.
- Ness: Play 10 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode twice.
- Falco: Play 100 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode three times.
- Wario: Play 20 Vs. Matches OR complete 100-Man Smash.
- Lucina: Play 40 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode with Marth.
- Dark Pit: Play 50 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode with Pit.
- Dr. Mario: Play 60 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode with Mario on Intensity 4.0 or higher.
- Ganondorf: Play 160 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode with Link or Zelda on Intensity 5.0 or higher.
- Bowser Jr.: Play 70 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode with 8 different characters.
- Duck Hunt: Play 100 Vs. Matches OR get one KO in Cruel Smash.
- Mr. Game & Watch: Play 80 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode with 5 different characters.
- R.O.B.: Play 130 Vs. Matches OR complete Classic Mode with 6 different characters.
- Mewtwo (DLC): Purchase as DLC.
- Lucas (DLC): Purchase as DLC.
- Roy (DLC): Purchase as DLC.
- Ryu (DLC): Purchase as DLC.
- Cloud (DLC): Purchase as DLC.
- Corrin (DLC): Purchase as DLC.
- Bayonetta (DLC): Purchase as DLC.
After meeting the unlock condition, the character will challenge you to a one-on-one battle. You must defeat them to add them to your roster. If you lose, they will reappear later after a few more matches or by repeating their unlock condition.