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Jigglypuff in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A Detailed Review

Jigglypuff, often affectionately referred to as "Puff," is a unique character in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate due to its lightweight nature and aerial prowess. Known for its floaty jumps and powerful Rest move, Jigglypuff brings a distinctive playstyle to the game. This review will delve into Jigglypuff’s strengths, weaknesses, strategies for effective play, and matchup considerations.

Strengths

1. Aerial Mobility

Jigglypuff boasts exceptional aerial mobility, allowing it to weave in and out of combat with ease. Its multiple jumps and quick aerials make it a formidable opponent in the air. The character can capitalize on opponents' mistakes by maintaining airborne pressure and punishing landings.

2. Edgeguarding Capabilities

One of Jigglypuff’s most notable strengths is its edgeguarding ability. With moves like Forward Aerial (Fair) and Back Aerial (Bair), Jigglypuff can effectively gimp opponents off-stage. Its ability to hover near the ledge and intercept recoveries makes it a threat to characters with predictable or linear recovery options.

3. Rest

Rest is a high-risk, high-reward move that can KO opponents at surprisingly low percentages. If landed correctly, it can turn the tide of a match. Experienced players can find numerous setups into Rest, making it a potent tool in Jigglypuff's arsenal.

4. Shield Pressure

Jigglypuff can apply significant shield pressure with its aerials, especially with well-spaced Bairs and Nairs. Its ability to cross-up shields and follow up with additional aerials makes it challenging for opponents to counteract Jigglypuff's pressure game.

Weaknesses

1. Lightweight

Jigglypuff is one of the lightest characters in the game, making it highly susceptible to early KOs. Players must be adept at avoiding powerful attacks and maintaining evasive maneuvers to mitigate this disadvantage.

2. Limited Ground Game

While formidable in the air, Jigglypuff's ground game is lacking. Its ground speed is slow, and its grounded attacks lack the range and speed of many other characters. This limitation requires players to focus on aerial combat and positioning.

3. Vulnerability to Zoning

Zoners can pose a significant challenge to Jigglypuff. Characters with strong projectile games or long-range disjoints can keep Puff at bay, forcing it to approach cautiously and find openings to breach their defenses.

Effective Play Strategies

1. Maximize Aerial Game

Focus on maintaining aerial dominance. Use Jigglypuff’s aerial mobility to bait out attacks, punish landings, and apply relentless pressure. Mixing up aerial approaches with empty hops and fast falls can confuse opponents and create openings.

2. Edgeguard Aggressively

Leverage Jigglypuff’s edgeguarding capabilities to secure early KOs. Be proactive in intercepting opponents off-stage and utilize multiple jumps to extend edgeguarding sequences safely.

3. Master Rest Setups

Develop a keen understanding of Rest setups and opportunities. Learn to recognize when opponents are vulnerable or overcommitting, and capitalize on these moments with a well-timed Rest.

4. Maintain Evasive Movement

Given Jigglypuff's frailty, staying elusive is crucial. Prioritize movement to avoid strong attacks and capitalize on Jigglypuff's ability to dodge and weave through the air.

Matchups

Favorable Matchups

• Ganondorf: Jigglypuff can exploit Ganondorf’s poor recovery and slow movement. Its aerial mobility allows it to avoid Ganondorf’s powerful attacks and edgeguard effectively.
• Little Mac: Due to Little Mac’s weak aerial game and recovery, Jigglypuff can dominate off-stage, where Little Mac struggles most.

Unfavorable Matchups

• Samus/Dark Samus: These characters can zone Jigglypuff with projectiles, making it difficult for Puff to approach.
• Marth/Lucina: Their long-range disjointed attacks can keep Jigglypuff at bay, and their quick aerials can contest Jigglypuff in the air.

Conclusion

Jigglypuff in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a character that rewards players who can leverage its aerial prowess and edgeguarding capabilities. While its lightweight nature and limited ground game present challenges, skilled players can turn these into advantages by focusing on movement and punishing mistakes. By mastering Rest setups and maintaining pressure, Jigglypuff can be a formidable presence in the right hands. Understanding and adapting to the matchups will further enhance your proficiency with Jigglypuff, allowing you to capitalize on its strengths and mitigate its weaknesses effectively.