Super Smash Bros.
Super Smash Bros.

Mario

Master Mario in Super Smash Bros., an all-rounder with versatile moves like Fireball, Cape, and Super Jump Punch, excelling in mid-range combat.

Mario

Mario, the iconic plumber from the Mushroom Kingdom, stands as the quintessential all-rounder in Super Smash Bros. for the Nintendo 64. His balanced stats, versatile moveset, and straightforward execution make him an ideal choice for newcomers learning the ropes, while his depth allows experienced players to master intricate combos and advanced strategies. Mario excels at controlling the mid-range, applying consistent pressure, and boasts reliable recovery options, making him a formidable opponent in any matchup.

Mario - Super Smash Bros. screenshot
Mario is a well-rounded fighter, perfect for both beginners and veterans.

Mario's N64 Moveset Breakdown

Understanding each of Mario's special moves and their applications is crucial for maximizing his potential on the battlefield. Unlike later iterations, the N64 version of Mario features a unique Down Special that is central to his offensive and defensive game.

  • Neutral Special (Fireball):
    • Function: Mario shoots a small, arcing fireball that travels horizontally across the stage.
    • Strategy: This projectile is excellent for spacing, forcing opponents to approach, or interrupting their actions. It deals minimal damage but can be spammed to rack up percentage or disrupt recoveries. Use it to bait shields or to cover your approach.
    • Tip: The Fireball's arc makes it effective for hitting opponents slightly above or below Mario's direct line of sight.
  • Side Special (Cape):
    • Function: Mario whips out his cape, reflecting projectiles and turning opponents around.
    • Strategy: The Cape is a highly versatile move. Its primary use is to reflect incoming projectiles, turning the tables on characters like Link or Samus. When used on an opponent, it flips them horizontally, disorienting them and reversing their controls temporarily. This is incredibly potent for disrupting recoveries off-stage, sending them flying in the wrong direction.
    • Tip: The Cape can also be used defensively to create space or to push opponents off the edge for an easier edge-guard.
  • Up Special (Super Jump Punch):
    • Function: Mario performs a powerful upward-rising punch, dealing multiple hits of damage.
    • Strategy: This is Mario's primary recovery move, granting significant vertical height. It also serves as a potent offensive option, especially at higher percentages, where the final hit can deliver strong knockback. It can be used out of shield for a quick punish or as an anti-air attack.
    • Tip: The Super Jump Punch has a hitbox throughout its ascent, making it difficult to challenge directly. Be mindful of its landing lag if used offensively on stage.
  • Down Special (Mario Tornado):
    • Function: Mario spins rapidly, creating a multi-hit tornado that draws opponents in and launches them upwards.
    • Strategy: This is Mario's signature Down Special in Super Smash Bros. N64. The Mario Tornado is a fantastic move for racking up damage quickly, breaking shields, and setting up aerial combos. When used on the ground, it pulls opponents into its vortex, dealing multiple hits before launching them. In the air, it provides a slight vertical boost, which can be used for minor recovery adjustments or to extend aerial presence. It's also a surprisingly effective edge-guarding tool, as opponents caught off-stage by the tornado can be sent downwards or further away.
    • Tip: Tapping the special button repeatedly while performing the Mario Tornado will extend its duration and increase the number of hits. This is crucial for maximizing its damage and shield-breaking potential.

Strategic Playstyle for N64 Mario

Mario thrives on aggressive pressure, intelligent spacing, and capitalizing on openings. His balanced toolkit allows for a flexible playstyle, adaptable to various opponents and situations.

Key Strategies & Combos:

  • Aggressive Pressure: Use Fireballs to force approaches, then follow up with dash attacks, grabs, or aerials. Mario's quick ground speed allows him to close distances effectively.
  • Aerial Dominance: Mario's aerial attacks are exceptionally strong.
    • Up-Air (Upward Kick): This is one of Mario's best combo tools. After launching an opponent upwards with a Mario Tornado or an Up-Smash, follow up with multiple Up-Airs to juggle them. At higher percentages, a well-placed Up-Air can be a kill move.
    • Forward-Air (Forward Kick/Spike): While not a true spike in the traditional sense, Mario's Forward-Air has a powerful downward hitbox that can send opponents plummeting off-stage if hit correctly. It's a potent edge-guarding tool.
    • Back-Air (Backward Kick): A quick and powerful aerial that's great for spacing and finishing off opponents at higher percentages.
  • Grab Combos: Mario's grab game is solid.
    • Down Throw: His Down Throw launches opponents upwards, setting up perfectly for a string of Up-Airs or an Up-Smash. This is a fundamental combo starter.
    • Forward/Back Throw: Useful for positioning opponents off-stage for edge-guards or simply for horizontal knockback.
  • Up-Smash Utility: Mario's Up-Smash is a powerful anti-air attack. It has a wide hitbox above him and can launch opponents high into the air, leading to potential Up-Air juggles or even a direct KO at high percentages. Charge it to increase its power and range.
  • Edge-Guarding: Mario excels at preventing opponents from recovering.
    • Use Fireballs to disrupt their trajectory.
    • The Cape can reverse their recovery direction, often leading to an immediate KO.
    • A well-timed Forward-Air can send them downwards.
    • The aerial Mario Tornado can push them further off-stage or even hit them downwards if timed correctly.
  • Shield Breaking: The Mario Tornado, especially when mashed, can deal significant shield damage. If an opponent consistently shields, punish them with a full Mario Tornado to break their shield, then follow up with a powerful smash attack.

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

  • Predictable Recovery: While the Super Jump Punch offers good vertical distance, it can be predictable. Mix up your recovery angles and consider using the aerial Mario Tornado for a slight horizontal boost or to throw off opponents' timing.
  • Over-reliance on Fireball: While useful, spamming Fireball too much can make you predictable and leave you vulnerable to fast approaches or projectile reflections. Integrate it into your overall strategy rather than making it your sole offensive tool.
  • Missing Grab Follow-ups: A successful grab is a golden opportunity. Practice your Down Throw to Up-Air combos to maximize damage and KO potential.
  • Poor Spacing: Mario is a mid-range fighter. Getting too close to heavy hitters can be dangerous, while staying too far away limits his combo potential. Learn the optimal range for his aerials and ground attacks.

By mastering Mario's unique N64 moveset, particularly the versatile Mario Tornado, and integrating his strong aerial game and reliable combos, You can transform this balanced character into a true force to be reckoned with on the Super Smash Bros. N64 battlefield.