\nHey guys! Let's dive into the world of Super Smash Bros. and explore the most memorable intro characters from the series. The opening moments of a Super Smash Bros. game are legendary. That initial character reveal, the music, the sheer hype—it’s all designed to get you pumped up for the brawls to come. But who has the most iconic intro? Which character reveal truly stands the test of time? Let's break it down and rank some of the best intro characters in Super Smash Bros. history.

Why Intro Characters Matter

Intro characters set the stage. Think about it: the first character you see in a Super Smash Bros. game isn't random. It's a deliberate choice, meant to embody the spirit of the game and draw players in immediately. These characters often represent the core gameplay mechanics, the overall tone, or the nostalgic elements that make the series so beloved. Imagine booting up the game for the first time. Who do you want to see? Who will get you instantly hyped to grab your controller and start smashing? These are the questions that make intro characters so important.

The selection of an intro character is a carefully considered decision by the game developers. They take into account factors such as character popularity, representativeness of the game's universe, and ability to showcase the game's mechanics. For example, a character known for speed and agility might be chosen to highlight the fast-paced action of the game. Alternatively, a character with a strong connection to the franchise's history could be selected to evoke a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. Beyond character selection, the intro sequence itself is meticulously crafted to maximize impact. The music, camera angles, and special effects all contribute to creating a memorable and exciting experience for the player. The goal is to leave a lasting impression that sets the tone for the rest of the game. Furthermore, the intro character often serves as a tutorial character, guiding new players through the basics of the game. Their moveset and playstyle are typically straightforward and easy to learn, allowing beginners to quickly grasp the fundamentals of combat. As players progress, they can then explore the diverse roster of characters and discover more complex strategies. This dual role of being both an introduction to the game and a tutorial character underscores the importance of the intro character in shaping the player's initial experience.

Top Intro Characters Ranked

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and rank some of the most iconic intro characters! Keep in mind, this is subjective, but based on impact, memorability, and overall coolness factor, here we go:

1. Mario (Super Smash Bros. 64)

Come on, who else could it be? Mario is synonymous with Nintendo, and his appearance in the original Super Smash Bros. is legendary. Seeing him leap into action, ready to brawl with the other Nintendo icons, was mind-blowing back in the day. The simplicity of the N64 graphics only added to the charm. Mario’s inclusion as the intro character for the original Super Smash Bros. game was a no-brainer. As the face of Nintendo, Mario embodies the company's values of innovation, quality, and family-friendly entertainment. His presence in the intro immediately signaled to players that this was a game featuring the best of Nintendo's characters in a unique and exciting way. The impact of seeing Mario in a fighting game context cannot be overstated. For many players, it was the first time they had ever seen Nintendo's beloved characters interacting in such a dynamic and competitive environment. This novelty factor, combined with Mario's iconic status, made the intro an instant classic. The intro sequence itself was relatively simple, but it effectively conveyed the game's core concept: a crossover battle between Nintendo's biggest stars. Mario's energetic movements and determined expression perfectly captured the spirit of the game, inviting players to join in the fun. Moreover, Mario's role as the intro character helped to establish the Super Smash Bros. series as a major franchise for Nintendo. By featuring their flagship character prominently, Nintendo signaled their commitment to the game and its potential for long-term success. This decision paid off handsomely, as the Super Smash Bros. series has gone on to become one of Nintendo's most popular and enduring franchises.

2. Kirby (Super Smash Bros. Melee)

Kirby in Super Smash Bros. Melee? Absolutely! The pink puffball dropping from the sky, inhaling the Super Smash Bros. logo, and then transforming? Pure genius! It perfectly captures Kirby’s whimsical nature and sets the tone for the faster, more intense gameplay of Melee. Kirby's intro in Super Smash Bros. Melee is a masterclass in character introduction. It perfectly encapsulates his unique abilities and personality while also setting the stage for the game's fast-paced action. The sequence begins with Kirby soaring through the air, his round body effortlessly gliding towards the screen. As he approaches, he opens his mouth wide, revealing his signature ability to inhale objects and enemies. In this case, he inhales the Super Smash Bros. logo, a bold and symbolic gesture that signifies his central role in the game. What happens next is truly magical. As Kirby swallows the logo, he undergoes a transformation, morphing into various shapes and forms that represent the different characters in the game. This showcases his versatility and adaptability, hinting at the diverse roster of fighters that players can choose from. The transformation is accompanied by a burst of energy and excitement, reflecting the game's enhanced speed and intensity compared to its predecessor. Beyond its visual appeal, Kirby's intro also serves a practical purpose. It subtly introduces players to Kirby's abilities, allowing them to understand his unique playstyle. His ability to inhale and copy opponents is a defining characteristic, and the intro sequence effectively demonstrates this in a memorable way. This helps new players to quickly grasp Kirby's potential and encourages them to experiment with his moveset. Furthermore, Kirby's intro is a testament to the developers' creativity and attention to detail. They could have easily chosen a more conventional approach, but instead, they opted for a whimsical and imaginative sequence that perfectly captures Kirby's essence. This dedication to character portrayal is a hallmark of the Super Smash Bros. series, and Kirby's intro is a prime example of this. Overall, Kirby's intro in Super Smash Bros. Melee is a memorable and iconic moment in gaming history. It perfectly captures his personality, showcases his abilities, and sets the stage for the game's fast-paced action. It's a testament to the developers' creativity and attention to detail, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.

3. Link (Super Smash Bros. Brawl)

Okay, some might disagree, but Link's intro in Super Smash Bros. Brawl is epic. The way he draws the Master Sword, the dramatic music, the overall sense of heroism—it’s fantastic. It perfectly embodies the spirit of the Zelda series and sets the stage for the more cinematic feel of Brawl. Link's intro in Super Smash Bros. Brawl is a cinematic masterpiece that perfectly captures the essence of the Legend of Zelda series. From the moment the screen fades in, players are transported to a world of adventure and heroism, setting the stage for the epic battles to come. The sequence begins with Link standing in a serene and mystical forest, bathed in soft light. The camera slowly pans around him, highlighting his iconic green tunic, Hylian Shield, and Master Sword. The music swells, building anticipation as Link prepares to draw his blade. With a determined expression, Link reaches for the Master Sword, his movements deliberate and precise. As he grasps the hilt, the sword glows with a radiant light, symbolizing its power and the weight of responsibility that Link carries. The moment he draws the sword, the music reaches its crescendo, unleashing a wave of emotion that resonates with players who have grown up with the Legend of Zelda series. The visuals are equally stunning. The developers went to great lengths to create a realistic and immersive environment, with detailed textures, dynamic lighting, and fluid animations. Link's movements are particularly impressive, showcasing his strength, agility, and unwavering resolve. The overall effect is a cinematic experience that rivals even some of the best scenes from the Legend of Zelda games themselves. Beyond its visual and auditory appeal, Link's intro also serves a narrative purpose. It establishes Link as a central figure in the Super Smash Bros. universe, a hero who is always ready to fight for justice and protect the innocent. This portrayal aligns with Link's characterization in the Legend of Zelda games, reinforcing his status as a beloved and iconic hero. Furthermore, Link's intro sets the tone for Super Smash Bros. Brawl, which is known for its more cinematic and story-driven approach compared to its predecessors. The inclusion of a story mode and more elaborate cutscenes reflects the developers' desire to create a more immersive and engaging experience for players. Link's intro is a perfect example of this, showcasing the game's cinematic ambitions and its commitment to character development. Overall, Link's intro in Super Smash Bros. Brawl is a triumph of game design. It's a visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and narratively compelling sequence that perfectly captures the essence of the Legend of Zelda series. It's a testament to the developers' skill and their dedication to creating a memorable and impactful experience for players.

4. Pikachu (Super Smash Bros. Melee)

Don't underestimate Pikachu's intro in Super Smash Bros. Melee! The little electric mouse zipping around, using Thunderbolt and showing off its agility is incredibly charming. It’s a great way to showcase the speed and energy of Melee while also appealing to the massive Pokémon fanbase. Pikachu's intro in Super Smash Bros. Melee is a burst of electrifying energy that perfectly captures the essence of the Pokémon franchise. From the moment the sequence begins, players are treated to a dazzling display of Pikachu's speed, agility, and electric powers. The intro starts with Pikachu darting across the screen, leaving a trail of sparks in its wake. Its movements are quick and nimble, showcasing its impressive reflexes and its ability to navigate the battlefield with ease. As it zips around, it unleashes a series of Thunderbolt attacks, illuminating the screen with vibrant flashes of yellow energy. These attacks are not only visually stunning but also serve to demonstrate Pikachu's offensive capabilities. The intro also highlights Pikachu's playful and mischievous personality. It bounces around with infectious enthusiasm, its tail wagging and its cheeks glowing with electricity. This charming portrayal endears Pikachu to players of all ages, making it an instant favorite. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Pikachu's intro also serves a practical purpose. It subtly introduces players to Pikachu's abilities, allowing them to understand its unique playstyle. Its speed and electric attacks are defining characteristics, and the intro sequence effectively demonstrates these in a memorable way. This helps new players to quickly grasp Pikachu's potential and encourages them to experiment with its moveset. Furthermore, Pikachu's intro is a testament to the enduring popularity of the Pokémon franchise. Pikachu is arguably the most recognizable Pokémon, and its inclusion as an intro character in Super Smash Bros. Melee was a smart move by the developers. It instantly appealed to the millions of Pokémon fans around the world, drawing them into the game and solidifying its status as a crossover masterpiece. The intro also demonstrates the seamless integration of Pokémon characters into the Super Smash Bros. universe. Pikachu's moveset is faithful to its abilities in the Pokémon games, and it interacts with the other characters in a believable and engaging way. This attention to detail is a hallmark of the Super Smash Bros. series, and it contributes to the game's overall sense of authenticity. Overall, Pikachu's intro in Super Smash Bros. Melee is a delightful and electrifying experience. It perfectly captures the essence of the Pokémon franchise, showcases Pikachu's abilities, and endears it to players of all ages. It's a testament to the enduring popularity of Pokémon and its seamless integration into the Super Smash Bros. universe.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the best intro character is subjective and depends on personal preference. But these characters have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the Super Smash Bros. series and continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide. They perfectly embody the spirit of their respective games and set the stage for countless hours of smashing fun! What do you guys think? Who are your favorite intro characters? Let me know in the comments below!