---

Lucario in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A Detailed Review

Lucario is a unique and intriguing character in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, known for its Aura mechanic, which makes it a dynamic and unpredictable fighter. Originating from the Pokémon series, Lucario brings its distinct blend of martial arts and special attacks to the Smash roster.

Strengths

1. Aura Mechanic

Lucario's most defining feature is its Aura mechanic. As Lucario takes more damage, its attacks grow stronger. This mechanic gives Lucario a potential comeback factor that can turn the tide of a match. At high percentages, Lucario can KO opponents with relative ease, making it a formidable opponent when on the brink of defeat.

2. Versatile Moveset

Lucario possesses a versatile moveset with a mix of quick attacks and powerful finishers. Its neutral special, Aura Sphere, is a chargeable projectile that becomes more dangerous with increased Aura. Lucario's side special, Force Palm, can be used as a powerful grab attack at close range or a projectile at a distance.

3. Excellent Recovery

Lucario’s up special, Extreme Speed, provides excellent recovery options. It covers a significant distance and can be angled in multiple directions, allowing Lucario to return from almost any offstage situation. The move becomes faster and travels further with increased Aura, adding to its recovery potential.

4. Good Mobility

Lucario boasts solid mobility, with a good dash speed and aerial maneuverability. This allows it to weave in and out of combat, applying pressure and retreating as necessary.

Weaknesses

1. Low Damage Output at Low Percentages

When Lucario is at low damage, its attacks lack power. This makes it challenging to secure KOs early in the match without first taking significant damage itself, which can put Lucario at a disadvantage against characters with consistent kill power.

2. Predictable Recovery

While Extreme Speed is versatile, it is also predictable once Lucario is committed to a direction. Opponents can anticipate Lucario’s trajectory and punish it with edgeguards or ledge traps.

3. Reliance on Aura

Lucario’s reliance on Aura can be a double-edged sword. Skilled opponents may exploit this by closing out stocks quickly before Lucario can maximize its Aura potential.

Effective Playstyle

To play Lucario effectively, players need to embrace the character’s unique Aura mechanic and adjust strategies based on current damage percentage:

• Early Game: Focus on building damage safely. Utilize Lucario’s mobility to play a hit-and-run style, using quick aerials and tilts to rack up damage without overcommitting.

• Mid to Late Game: As Lucario’s damage increases, shift to a more aggressive playstyle. Make use of the enhanced power of your attacks to pressure opponents and seek out KO opportunities. Mastery of Aura Sphere and Force Palm is crucial, as these moves become significantly more threatening at high Aura levels.

• Edgeguarding and Recovery: Use Lucario’s versatile recovery to mix up return options. When edgeguarding, take advantage of Aura-enhanced aerials to challenge opponents offstage.

Matchups

Lucario’s matchups vary significantly due to its Aura mechanic. Here are general tips for common matchups:

• Against Rushdown Characters (e.g., Fox, Pikachu): Use Lucario’s mobility to space out opponents and avoid getting overwhelmed early. Look for opportunities to punish aggressive approaches with Aura Sphere or Force Palm.

• Against Zoners (e.g., Samus, Link): Close the distance quickly using Lucario’s speed. Utilize Extreme Speed creatively to bypass projectiles and apply pressure up close.

• Against Heavyweights (e.g., Bowser, Donkey Kong): While Lucario can struggle to KO at low percentages, it excels in these matchups at high damage due to the increased kill power. Play carefully to avoid early KOs and capitalize on Lucario’s Aura when it matters most.

Conclusion

Lucario is a character that rewards patience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of its Aura mechanic. By effectively managing damage and leveraging Aura-enhanced moves, Lucario players can turn the tide of battle and secure clutch victories. While it has weaknesses that can be exploited, a skilled Lucario player can make the most of its strengths to outplay and outlast opponents.