Super Smash Bros.
Super Smash Bros.

Event Match Solutions

Master the Bonus Stages and Multi-Man Smash in Super Smash Bros. (N64). Find strategies and character tips to overcome these classic challenges.

Bonus Stages & Multi-Man Smash Solutions (Nintendo 64)

Welcome, Smasher! While the original Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 64 doesn't feature "Event Matches" (a mode introduced in later titles), it offers unique challenges in its "Bonus Stages" and "Multi-Man Smash" modes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through optimal strategies, character recommendations, and common pitfalls to help you conquer every challenge and unlock all the hidden secrets the game has to offer!

Bonus Stages

Bonus Stages are mini-games designed to test your character mastery, speed, and precision. Excelling in these stages contributes to your overall score in 1P Game (Classic Mode) and is crucial for unlocking certain characters and features. There are two types of Bonus Stages:

Break the Targets!

Objective: Destroy all 10 targets on a character-specific stage as quickly as possible. Each character has a unique stage layout designed around their abilities.

General Strategy Tips:

  • Character Mastery: Success hinges on knowing your chosen character's moveset inside and out. Understand the range, speed, and trajectory of every attack.
  • Optimal Pathing: Before starting, take a moment to visualize the fastest route to hit all targets. Often, a specific sequence of moves will be far more efficient than haphazard attacks.
  • Movement Efficiency: Utilize short hops, full hops, double jumps, air dodges, and dash attacks to cover ground quickly and precisely.
  • Recovery Moves: Many targets are placed in precarious positions. Master your character's Up-B (recovery move) for both vertical and horizontal movement.
  • Projectile Usage: Characters with projectiles (e.g., Link's Boomerang, Samus's Missiles, Fox's Blaster) can often hit targets from a distance, saving valuable time.
  • Practice, Practice, Practice: These stages are all about muscle memory and execution. Don't get discouraged by initial failures; repeated attempts will improve your times.
Character-Specific Break the Targets! Strategies:
Mario
  • Stage Layout: Features platforms, a moving block, and targets hidden behind walls.
  • Key Moves:
    • Super Jump Punch (Up-B): Excellent for vertical movement and hitting high targets.
    • Cape (Side-B): Can be used for horizontal recovery or to push targets.
    • Fireball (Neutral-B): Useful for hitting distant targets.
    • Forward-Air: Good for hitting targets while moving horizontally.
  • Strategy: Start by hitting the lower targets, then use your Up-B to reach higher platforms. The moving block often holds a target; time your jump accordingly. Use Fireballs to clear targets that are hard to reach directly.
Donkey Kong
  • Stage Layout: A more open stage with targets spread out, some requiring precise jumps or throws.
  • Key Moves:
    • Giant Punch (Neutral-B): Can destroy multiple targets if lined up correctly.
    • Headbutt (Side-B): Useful for quickly descending to hit targets below.
    • Cargo Throw: Pick up and throw a crate (if available) or even an opponent (if in Multi-Man) to hit targets.
    • Down-Air: Powerful downward attack for targets directly below.
  • Strategy: Utilize DK's powerful attacks. The Giant Punch can be charged while moving between targets. Some targets are best hit by a well-timed aerial attack or a powerful throw.
Link
  • Stage Layout: Features a central tower, moving platforms, and targets requiring precise projectile use.
  • Key Moves:
    • Boomerang (Side-B): Essential for hitting targets at a distance or around corners.
    • Bomb (Down-B): Can be thrown to hit targets or used for a bomb-jump to reach high areas.
    • Spin Attack (Up-B): Good for hitting multiple targets vertically or horizontally.
    • Down-Air: Powerful spike for targets below.
  • Strategy: Start by throwing a Boomerang to hit distant targets. Use Bombs strategically to clear groups or access hidden areas. The Spin Attack is excellent for clearing targets on the central tower.
Samus
  • Stage Layout: Often involves tight spaces, vertical shafts, and targets requiring precise projectile control.
  • Key Moves:
    • Charge Shot (Neutral-B): Powerful for destroying multiple targets or targets behind obstacles.
    • Missile (Side-B): Homing missiles are great for hard-to-reach targets.
    • Bomb (Down-B): Essential for bomb-jumping to reach high targets or navigating narrow passages.
    • Screw Attack (Up-B): Good for vertical movement and hitting targets directly above.
  • Strategy: Charge your shot while moving. Use Bombs to propel yourself upwards through shafts to hit targets. Missiles can track targets that are difficult to aim at directly.
Yoshi
  • Stage Layout: Features floating platforms and targets that benefit from Yoshi's unique jump mechanics.
  • Key Moves:
    • Double Jump: Yoshi's unique second jump provides excellent height and control.
    • Egg Lay (Neutral-B): Can trap targets, but less useful here.
    • Egg Roll (Side-B): Can cover ground quickly, but be careful not to roll off.
    • Flutter Kick (Down-Air): Good for hitting targets below.
  • Strategy: Master Yoshi's double jump for precise platforming. Use aerials to hit targets while maintaining momentum. The Egg Roll can be risky but fast if used carefully.
Kirby
  • Stage Layout: Often involves multiple floating platforms and targets that benefit from Kirby's multi-jump.
  • Key Moves:
    • Multiple Jumps: Kirby's five jumps are his greatest asset for reaching any target.
    • Stone (Down-B): Can be used for a fast descent to hit targets below.
    • Hammer Flip (Side-B): Powerful horizontal attack.
    • Up-Air: Good for hitting targets above.
  • Strategy: Utilize Kirby's numerous jumps to navigate the stage quickly. The Stone ability can be used to drop onto targets or quickly descend.
Fox
  • Stage Layout: Features open spaces and targets that benefit from Fox's speed and quick attacks.
  • Key Moves:
    • Fox Illusion (Side-B): Excellent for horizontal movement and hitting targets in a line.
    • Fire Fox (Up-B): Great for vertical and horizontal recovery, can hit targets.
    • Blaster (Neutral-B): Rapid-fire projectile for distant targets.
    • Dash Attack: Quick way to destroy targets on the ground.
  • Strategy: Fox's speed is key. Use Fox Illusion to zip across gaps and hit targets. The Blaster can clear targets from a distance, and Fire Fox is versatile for both movement and offense.
Pikachu
  • Stage Layout: Features platforms and targets that benefit from Pikachu's agility and quick attacks.
  • Key Moves:
    • Quick Attack (Side-B): Incredible for horizontal movement and hitting targets. Can be angled.
    • Skull Bash (Neutral-B): Can be charged for a powerful horizontal hit.
    • Thunder Jolt (Down-B): Grounded projectile that can hit targets.
    • Up-Smash: Good for hitting targets directly above.
  • Strategy: Master Quick Attack's directional input for precise movement. Use Thunder Jolt to hit targets on lower platforms or across gaps.
Luigi (Unlockable)
  • Stage Layout: Similar to Mario's but with different target placements, often requiring Luigi's unique jump.
  • Key Moves:
    • Super Jump Punch (Up-B): Luigi's version has a powerful sweet spot at the start.
    • Green Missile (Side-B): Can misfire for extra distance/power, risky but fast.
    • Fireball (Neutral-B): Horizontal projectile.
    • Dash Attack: Good for ground targets.
  • Strategy: Utilize Luigi's floatiness for precise aerial control. The Green Missile can be used for quick horizontal movement, but be wary of misfires.
Captain Falcon (Unlockable)
  • Stage Layout: Open areas that benefit from Falcon's raw speed and powerful attacks.
  • Key Moves:
    • Falcon Punch (Neutral-B): Powerful, but slow. Can clear multiple targets if lined up.
    • Raptor Boost (Side-B): Excellent for horizontal movement and hitting targets.
    • Falcon Dive (Up-B): Good for vertical recovery and hitting targets above.
    • Dash Attack: Very fast and powerful.
  • Strategy: Falcon's speed is his greatest asset. Use Raptor Boost and Dash Attack to clear targets quickly. Falcon Dive can be used to reach high targets.
Ness (Unlockable)
  • Stage Layout: Often involves tricky angles and targets that benefit from Ness's unique projectiles.
  • Key Moves:
    • PK Flash (Neutral-B): Can be aimed and charged to hit targets from a distance.
    • PK Fire (Side-B): Creates a pillar of fire, good for hitting targets in a line.
    • PK Thunder (Up-B): Essential for recovery and can be used to hit targets by hitting Ness himself.
    • Back Throw: Powerful throw for specific target placements.
  • Strategy: Master PK Thunder for both recovery and offense. Use PK Flash for precise long-range hits. PK Fire can clear targets in a vertical line.
Jigglypuff (Unlockable)
  • Stage Layout: Features many platforms and targets that benefit from Jigglypuff's multiple jumps and aerial mobility.
  • Key Moves:
    • Multiple Jumps: Jigglypuff's six jumps provide unparalleled aerial maneuverability.
    • Pound (Side-B): Good for horizontal movement and breaking targets.
    • Rest (Down-B): While risky, a well-placed Rest can instantly destroy a target if you're directly on it.
    • Aerial Attacks: All of Jigglypuff's aerials are quick and effective for hitting targets.
  • Strategy: Focus on using Jigglypuff's numerous jumps to navigate the stage with precision. Pound can help cover horizontal distances. For targets that are difficult to reach or in tight spots, a precise Rest can be a surprisingly fast solution, but be prepared for the sleep animation.

Board the Platforms!

Objective: Touch all 10 unique platforms on a character-specific stage as quickly as possible. This bonus stage emphasizes precise platforming and movement.

General Strategy Tips:

  • Route Planning: Just like Break the Targets, planning your route is crucial. Look for the most efficient sequence to touch all platforms without backtracking excessively.
  • Momentum Management: Learn how to maintain momentum through jumps and dashes to minimize downtime between platforms.
  • Edge Grabbing: Utilize edge-grabbing to quickly ascend or descend platforms.
  • Character Specific Movement: Each character has unique movement properties (jump height, fall speed, air control). Master these for your chosen character.
  • Minimizing Air Time: While some platforms require aerial movement, try to spend as little time as possible in the air if a ground-based approach is faster.
Character-Specific Board the Platforms! Strategies:
Mario
  • Stage Layout: Features a mix of static and moving platforms, some requiring precise jumps over gaps.
  • Key Moves:
    • Super Jump Punch (Up-B): For reaching high platforms quickly.
    • Cape (Side-B): Can be used for slight horizontal adjustments in the air.
    • Wall Jump: If a wall is present, use it to gain height or change direction.
  • Strategy: Focus on fluid movement. Use short hops for lower platforms and full jumps or Up-B for higher ones. Time your movements with moving platforms.
Donkey Kong
  • Stage Layout: Larger platforms, some requiring powerful jumps or throws to reach.
  • Key Moves:
    • Giant Punch (Neutral-B): Not directly for movement, but can be charged while moving between platforms.
    • Headbutt (Side-B): Can be used for a quick descent.
    • Cargo Throw: Can be used to launch yourself or an item onto a platform.
  • Strategy: DK's heavy weight means he falls faster. Use full jumps and be precise with your landings. His large hitbox can sometimes make it easier to register a touch on a platform.
Link
  • Stage Layout: Features platforms at varying heights, some requiring careful navigation around obstacles.
  • Key Moves:
    • Bomb (Down-B): Can be used for a bomb-jump to reach higher platforms or cross large gaps.
    • Spin Attack (Up-B): Provides good vertical recovery and horizontal momentum.
    • Boomerang (Side-B): Can be thrown while moving, but not directly for platforming.
  • Strategy: Bomb-jumps are key for Link's fastest times. Practice the timing to launch yourself precisely onto platforms.
Samus
  • Stage Layout: Often involves vertical shafts and platforms requiring bomb-jumps or precise Screw Attacks.
  • Key Moves:
    • Bomb (Down-B): Essential for bomb-jumping to reach high platforms and navigate narrow passages.
    • Screw Attack (Up-B): Provides excellent vertical and horizontal recovery.
    • Wall Jump: Crucial for ascending vertical shafts quickly.
  • Strategy: Samus excels at this stage due to her bomb-jumping and wall-jumping capabilities. Master the rhythm of bomb-jumps to chain them together for rapid vertical ascent.
Yoshi
  • Stage Layout: Features many floating platforms, ideal for Yoshi's unique jump.
  • Key Moves:
    • Double Jump: Yoshi's signature move is paramount for reaching all platforms with ease and precision.
    • Egg Roll (Side-B): Can cover horizontal distance quickly, but be careful not to overshoot.
  • Strategy: Utilize Yoshi's double jump to its fullest. It provides excellent height and control, allowing you to easily adjust your trajectory mid-air to land on platforms.
Kirby
  • Stage Layout: Numerous small, scattered platforms, perfect for Kirby's multi-jump.
  • Key Moves:
    • Multiple Jumps: Kirby's five jumps make reaching any platform trivial.
    • Stone (Down-B): Can be used for a fast descent to a lower platform.
  • Strategy: Kirby's multiple jumps make this stage relatively easy. Focus on efficient pathing and using the minimum number of jumps necessary to conserve time.
Fox
  • Stage Layout: Open areas with platforms spread out, benefiting from Fox's speed.
  • Key Moves:
    • Fox Illusion (Side-B): Excellent for covering horizontal distance rapidly between platforms.
    • Fire Fox (Up-B): Great for vertical and horizontal recovery to reach distant platforms.
    • Dash: Fox's fast dash speed is crucial for ground-based platform movement.
  • Strategy: Combine Fox's fast dash with precise Fox Illusions to zip between platforms. Use Fire Fox for platforms that are high or far away.
Pikachu
  • Stage Layout: Features platforms that benefit from Pikachu's agility and unique Quick Attack.
  • Key Moves:
    • Quick Attack (Side-B): Pikachu's most important move for this stage. Its two-part, directional movement allows for incredible precision and speed in navigating platforms.
    • Thunder Jolt (Down-B): Can be used to gain a tiny bit of height if bouncing off an opponent (not applicable here).
  • Strategy: Master the angles of Quick Attack. You can use the first part to move horizontally, then angle the second part to land precisely on a platform, or even use both parts to chain movement across multiple platforms.
Luigi (Unlockable)
  • Stage Layout: Similar to Mario's, but Luigi's floatiness and unique jump physics change the approach.
  • Key Moves:
    • Super Jump Punch (Up-B): Provides significant vertical height.
    • Green Missile (Side-B): Can cover horizontal distance, but the misfire risk makes it less reliable for speedrunning.
    • Floatiness: Luigi's slower fall speed allows for more precise aerial adjustments.
  • Strategy: Leverage Luigi's floatiness for precise landings. While the Green Missile can be fast, relying on normal jumps and Up-B for controlled movement is generally safer and more consistent for optimal times.
Captain Falcon (Unlockable)
  • Stage Layout: Open areas with platforms, benefiting from Falcon's raw speed and powerful movement options.
  • Key Moves:
    • Raptor Boost (Side-B): Excellent for covering horizontal distance to reach platforms.
    • Falcon Dive (Up-B): Good for vertical recovery and grabbing ledges.
    • Dash: Falcon's incredibly fast dash speed is crucial for ground movement.
  • Strategy: Falcon's speed is his greatest asset. Combine his fast dash with well-timed Raptor Boosts to quickly traverse the stage. Use Falcon Dive to recover to higher platforms or ledges.
Ness (Unlockable)
  • Stage Layout: Often involves platforms that benefit from Ness's unique recovery.
  • Key Moves:
    • PK Thunder (Up-B): Absolutely essential. Directing PK Thunder into Ness himself allows for precise, powerful, and angled recovery to distant or high platforms.
    • Double Jump: Ness has a good double jump for initial height.
  • Strategy: This stage is a test of your PK Thunder control. You must master hitting yourself with PK Thunder to launch Ness onto platforms. Practice the angles and timing required to reach all platforms efficiently.
Jigglypuff (Unlockable)
  • Stage Layout: Features many scattered platforms, ideal for Jigglypuff's multi-jump.
  • Key Moves:
    • Multiple Jumps: Jigglypuff's six jumps make navigating any platform layout incredibly easy.
    • Pound (Side-B): Can be used for slight horizontal adjustments or to gain a tiny bit of momentum.
  • Strategy: Jigglypuff's numerous jumps make this stage one of the easiest. Focus on the most direct path, using minimal jumps and precise aerial control to land on each platform. Her light weight and slow fall speed also aid in precise landings.

Rewards for Bonus Stages

Completing these stages quickly and efficiently contributes significantly to your overall score in 1P Game. High scores are essential for unlocking characters and other secrets. While there are no direct item rewards for individual Bonus Stage completions, achieving specific time thresholds in Break the Targets! for all characters can contribute to unlocking certain features.

Multi-Man Smash

Multi-Man Smash is a challenge mode where you face off against an endless horde of identical, weaker opponents (Wire Frames, Fighting Polygons, or Metal characters). The objective is to defeat as many as possible within a time limit or until you are defeated. This mode is excellent for practicing combos, crowd control, and general combat skills.

Types of Multi-Man Smash

  • 10-Man Smash: Defeat 10 opponents as quickly as possible.
  • 100-Man Smash: Defeat 100 opponents as quickly as possible.
  • 3-Minute Melee: Defeat as many opponents as possible within 3 minutes.
  • Endless Smash: Defeat as many opponents as possible until you are defeated.
  • Cruel Smash (Unlockable): Face off against much stronger, faster, and more aggressive opponents.

General Strategy Tips for Multi-Man Smash

  • Choose a Character with Good Crowd Control: Characters with wide-hitting attacks, multi-hit moves, or powerful projectiles are ideal.
  • Focus on Knockback: The goal is to get KOs, so moves with high knockback are generally preferred over purely damaging moves.
  • Edge Guarding: Position yourself near the edges of the stage and knock opponents off as they appear. This is often the fastest way to get KOs.
  • Utilize Stage Hazards (if any): While most Multi-Man stages are flat, if you're on a regular stage, use its features to your advantage.
  • Avoid Getting Surrounded: Getting swarmed can quickly lead to high damage and an early KO. Keep moving and space your attacks.
  • Recover Quickly: If you get knocked off, recover efficiently to get back into the fight.
  • Item Usage: Items like the Home-Run Bat, Beam Sword, or Starman can be incredibly effective for clearing groups of opponents.

Character Recommendations & Specific Strategies

Kirby
  • Why Kirby: Excellent aerial mobility, multiple jumps for recovery, and several good crowd-control moves.
  • Key Moves:
    • Down-Air (Drill Kick): Multi-hit move that can rack up damage on multiple opponents.
    • Up-Tilt: Quick, upward-hitting move that can launch opponents.
    • Up-Smash: Powerful attack that hits above Kirby, good for clearing enemies trying to land.
    • Hammer Flip (Side-B): Charged, powerful horizontal attack that can clear multiple opponents.
    • Stone (Down-B): Can be used to quickly descend and hit opponents below, or to become invulnerable for a short period.
  • Strategy: Stay mobile, using your multiple jumps to avoid being swarmed. Use Down-Air to juggle groups of enemies. Position yourself near the edge and use Hammer Flip or strong aerials to send enemies flying off.
Captain Falcon
  • Why Captain Falcon: Incredible speed, powerful smash attacks, and excellent aerials for quick KOs.
  • Key Moves:
    • Forward-Air (Knee of Justice): Extremely powerful aerial that can KO at low percentages if landed correctly.
    • Dash Attack: Fast and powerful, good for clearing enemies on the ground.
    • Up-Smash: Hits above and to the sides, good for clearing multiple enemies.
    • Falcon Punch (Neutral-B): While slow, a fully charged Falcon Punch can clear a group of enemies instantly.
  • Strategy: Utilize Falcon's speed to dash through groups, hitting with Dash Attack or powerful aerials. Position yourself at the edge and use Forward-Air to quickly dispatch incoming enemies. Learn to space your Falcon Punches for maximum impact.
Fox
  • Why Fox: Extremely fast, quick attacks, and a powerful Blaster for consistent damage.
  • Key Moves:
    • Blaster (Neutral-B): Rapid-fire projectile that can keep enemies at bay and rack up damage.
    • Dash Attack: Very fast and covers good distance.
    • Up-Smash: Quick, powerful upward attack.
    • Forward-Smash: Strong horizontal KO move.
    • Reflector (Down-B): Can reflect projectiles (not many in Multi-Man) but also acts as a quick shield.
  • Strategy: Keep enemies at a distance with your Blaster, then rush in with Dash Attack or smash attacks to finish them off. Fox's speed allows you to quickly move to the edges for easy KOs.
Pikachu
  • Why Pikachu: Small hitbox, fast attacks, and a highly versatile Quick Attack for evasion and offense.
  • Key Moves:
    • Quick Attack (Side-B): Excellent for moving through groups, hitting enemies, and escaping tight situations.
    • Thunder Jolt (Down-B): Grounded projectile that can hit multiple enemies and travel across the stage.
    • Up-Smash: Powerful and quick, hits above Pikachu.
    • Dash Attack: Fast and effective.
  • Strategy: Use Thunder Jolt to damage enemies from a distance. Weave through opponents with Quick Attack, hitting them as you go. Use Up-Smash to clear enemies trying to land on you.
Samus
  • Why Samus: Powerful projectiles, good smash attacks, and a reliable recovery.
  • Key Moves:
    • Charge Shot (Neutral-B): A fully charged shot can clear multiple enemies at once.
    • Missile (Side-B): Good for hitting enemies from a distance or picking off stragglers.
    • Up-Smash: Powerful multi-hit attack that covers a wide area above Samus.
    • Down-Smash: Hits on both sides, good for clearing enemies surrounding you.
  • Strategy: Keep your Charge Shot ready. Release it into groups of enemies for massive KOs. Use Missiles to control space and pick off enemies. Her smash attacks are great for when enemies get too close.
Donkey Kong
  • Why Donkey Kong: High damage and powerful KO moves, especially his Giant Punch.
  • Key Moves:
    • Giant Punch (Neutral-B): Can be charged while moving, and a fully charged punch is a one-hit KO on most Multi-Man opponents.
    • Forward-Smash: Powerful horizontal KO move.
    • Up-Smash: Hits above and to the sides.
    • Cargo Throw: Can grab an enemy and throw them off the stage for an instant KO.
  • Strategy: Focus on charging Giant Punch while positioning yourself. Release it into groups for quick KOs. Use Cargo Throw to quickly eliminate individual threats. DK's heavy weight makes him harder to KO.

Cruel Smash Specific Strategies (Unlockable)

Cruel Smash is significantly harder due to the opponents' increased strength, speed, and AI. The goal here is often survival and getting a respectable score, rather than simply clearing it.

  • Character Choice: Characters with invincibility frames, long-range projectiles, or highly effective edge-guarding are preferred. Samus (Charge Shot), Fox (Blaster/Speed), and Link (Bombs/Boomerang) are strong contenders.
  • Hit-and-Run Tactics: Do not engage directly for long periods. Get a hit, create space, and repeat.
  • Edge Guarding is Paramount: Getting KOs off the side of the stage is the safest and most efficient way to defeat Cruel Smash opponents. Do not let them recover.
  • Projectile Spam: For characters with good projectiles, keeping enemies at bay and racking up damage from a distance is a viable strategy.
  • Patience: Unlike other Multi-Man modes, rushing in will almost certainly lead to a quick defeat. Wait for openings and pick your spots.
  • Utilize the Stage: The flat stage offers little cover, so movement and spacing are your best defense.

Unlocking Multi-Man Smash Content

While Multi-Man Smash modes are available from the start, achieving certain milestones can unlock characters and other features. For example, completing 100-Man Smash with specific characters or achieving high scores can contribute to unlocking Luigi, Captain Falcon, Ness, and Jigglypuff.

By mastering these Bonus Stages and Multi-Man Smash challenges, you'll not only improve your overall Super Smash Bros. skills but also unlock all the hidden content the Nintendo 64 classic has to offer. Good luck, Smasher!