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Ken in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A Detailed Review

Ken Masters, a staple figure from the Street Fighter series, makes a fiery appearance in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate as an Echo Fighter of Ryu. While sharing many similarities with Ryu, Ken possesses distinct differences that make him a unique choice for players who enjoy a fast-paced, aggressive fighting style.

Strengths

1. Speed and Agility: Ken is noticeably faster than Ryu, which allows for quicker movement across the stage and the ability to execute combos more effectively. His faster dash and overall movement speed make him a formidable rushdown character.

2. Strong Combo Potential: Ken excels at delivering powerful and lengthy combos. His moves link smoothly into each other, allowing players to string attacks together and rack up significant damage quickly. His special moves like the Shoryuken and Tatsumaki Senpukyaku can be integrated into combos for devastating effects.

3. Surprisingly Strong Kill Options: Ken’s Shoryuken is a potent kill move, especially when inputted as a true special (using the command input). This attack has great vertical reach and can KO opponents at relatively low percentages if executed correctly.

4. Versatile Special Moves: Ken’s special moves, including Hadoken, Tatsumaki Senpukyaku, and Shoryuken, provide him with a mix of zoning, approach options, and kill potential. The ability to input true specials gives them additional power, rewarding players with solid execution skills.

5. Focus Attack: Ken’s Focus Attack allows him to absorb one hit and counter with a powerful strike, making it useful for breaking through predictable attack patterns and setting up for combos.

Weaknesses

1. Limited Range: Like many traditional fighting game characters, Ken suffers from relatively short range on his attacks. This makes approaching characters with strong zoning tools or disjointed hitboxes challenging.

2. Predictable Recovery: While his Shoryuken provides a decent vertical recovery, Ken’s horizontal recovery options are somewhat lacking. His Tatsumaki Senpukyaku offers some horizontal movement, but it can be predictable and easy to intercept.

3. Execution-Heavy: Ken’s true potential is unlocked through precise command inputs and combo execution, which can be daunting for less experienced players. Mastery of his command inputs is essential to maximize his damage output and effectiveness.

4. Struggles Against Zoners: Characters with strong projectiles or zoning capabilities can give Ken a hard time, as he may struggle to close the distance without taking damage.

Effective Playstyle

To play Ken effectively, players should focus on the following strategies:

• Aggressive Rushdown: Utilize Ken’s speed to apply constant pressure on opponents. Close the gap quickly and use his fast normals and specials to overwhelm enemies.

• Combo Mastery: Practice and master Ken’s combo routes to maximize damage output. Incorporate his command input specials to end combos with powerful finishers.

• Mix Up Approaches: Vary your approach options to keep opponents guessing. Utilize his Focus Attack strategically to absorb hits and counterattack.

• Edgeguarding and Recovery: Be mindful of your recovery options and mix them up to avoid being predictable. Use Ken’s Shoryuken judiciously for vertical recovery while being cautious with Tatsumaki Senpukyaku for horizontal distance.

Matchups

• Advantageous Matchups: Ken performs well against characters who struggle with pressure and have limited defensive options, such as Little Mac and Ganondorf. His speed and combo game allow him to exploit their weaknesses effectively.

• Even Matchups: Against balanced characters like Mario and Lucina, Ken can hold his own by leveraging his speed and combo potential while being cautious of their versatile toolsets.

• Disadvantageous Matchups: Characters with strong zoning capabilities, such as Samus and Simon Belmont, can pose challenges for Ken due to his limited range and approach tools. Patience and smart use of Focus Attack are key in these matchups.

In conclusion, Ken is a character that rewards aggressive play and technical skill. By mastering his speed, combo potential, and command inputs, players can unleash Ken's true power on the battlefield. Understanding his strengths and weaknesses, along with effectively navigating matchups, will allow players to maximize Ken's capabilities in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.