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Lucas in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A Detailed Review

Lucas, the psychic-powered boy from the EarthBound series, makes his return in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate as a versatile and unique fighter. First introduced in Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Lucas brings a blend of powerful psychic attacks, solid zoning tools, and outstanding recovery options that make him a formidable choice in the right hands. Here's a detailed review of Lucas's strengths, weaknesses, effective playstyle, and matchups against other characters.

Strengths

1. Versatile Projectile Game:

   • Lucas boasts some impressive projectiles, primarily his PK Fire and PK Freeze. PK Fire can be used to zone opponents and rack up damage over time. PK Freeze, while slower, is a powerful tool for edge-guarding and can KO opponents at high percentages.

2. Excellent Recovery:

   • Lucas's recovery is one of the best in the game, thanks to his PK Thunder. The move allows for great vertical and horizontal distance, and the ability to control the trajectory makes it difficult for opponents to intercept. Additionally, Lucas can use his Rope Snake tether for additional recovery options.

3. Strong Aerials:

   • His aerial attacks, particularly his neutral air and back air, are quick and have good range. Lucas's forward air and up air are strong KO options, especially when used offstage or in juggle situations.

4. Powerful Throws:

   • Lucas has one of the most potent back throws in the game, capable of securing early KOs near the ledge. His down throw can also lead to reliable follow-ups at various percentages.

5. Zoning and Edge-Guarding:

   • Lucas excels at controlling space with his projectiles and aerials, making him effective at keeping opponents off-stage and maintaining stage control.

Weaknesses

1. Laggy Specials:

   • While powerful, Lucas's special moves, particularly PK Freeze and PK Thunder, can leave him vulnerable if whiffed or improperly spaced. These moves require careful timing and spacing to avoid punishment.

2. Mediocre Ground Speed:

   • Lucas's ground speed is relatively average, which can make it challenging to close in on faster characters or escape pressure without relying on his psychic attacks.

3. Lightweight:

   • Lucas is a lightweight character, meaning he can be KO'd earlier than heavier fighters. This requires players to be more cautious about avoiding strong attacks and maintaining stage control.

4. Dependent on Spacing:

   • Success with Lucas often requires precise spacing and the ability to read opponents, especially when setting up for his powerful aerials and throws.

Effective Playstyle

To play Lucas effectively, players should focus on balancing aggressive zoning with opportunistic rushdowns:

• Utilize Projectiles: Use PK Fire for spacing and to condition opponents into shield or jump states. PK Freeze can be used to edge-guard or force opponents into unfavorable positions.

• Master Recovery: Practice controlling PK Thunder to maximize recovery and mix up return options. Use the Rope Snake tether to complement recovery strategies.

• Aerial Dominance: Make effective use of Lucas's aerials to pressure opponents, juggle, and find KO opportunities. Mix neutral air for quick pressure with forward and back airs for spacing and edge-guarding.

• Grabs and Throws: Incorporate grabs into your play to take advantage of Lucas's strong throw game. Pivot grabs can be particularly effective when opponents are trying to pressure.

• Adaptability: Adapt your playstyle based on the opponent's character and habits. Use Lucas's versatile toolkit to control the pace of the match.

Matchups

Favorable Matchups

• Heavyweights (e.g., Bowser, Donkey Kong): Lucas can exploit their large hitboxes and slow speed with his projectiles and aerial pressure. His strong throws can also secure early KOs.

• Characters with Poor Recovery (e.g., Little Mac, Ganondorf): Lucas's edge-guarding capabilities shine against characters with linear or predictable recoveries.

Unfavorable Matchups

• Fast Characters (e.g., Fox, Sonic): These characters can pressure Lucas quickly and leave him with limited time to set up his zoning game.

• Characters with Reflectors (e.g., Wolf, Palutena): Reflectors can neutralize Lucas's projectile game, forcing him to rely more on close combat and aerials.

In conclusion, Lucas is a dynamic fighter with the potential to control matches through his powerful psychic attacks and versatile recovery options. While he has some notable weaknesses, particularly against faster opponents, players who master his spacing and zoning tools can dominate the battlefield.