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Luigi in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A Detailed Review

Luigi, the iconic green-capped plumber from the Super Mario series, returns to the brawl in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with a unique playstyle that sets him apart from his brother Mario. Known for his quirky movements and powerful grab combos, Luigi is a fan-favorite for players who enjoy a mix of chaos and precise execution. In this review, we'll delve into Luigi's strengths, weaknesses, effective play strategies, and matchups against other characters.

Strengths

1. Powerful Grab Game: Luigi's grab combos are among the most devastating in the game. His down throw can lead into a variety of follow-ups, including his infamous zero-to-death combos that capitalize on his up special, Super Jump Punch.

2. High Damage Output: Luigi's attacks generally deal significant damage. Moves like his forward aerial (fair), back aerial (bair), and up smash can rack up damage quickly.

3. Versatile Recovery: Luigi possesses multiple recovery options. His Green Missile (side special) and Super Jump Punch (up special) provide both horizontal and vertical recovery, while his Cyclone (down special) can also assist in recovery when mashed effectively.

4. Disjointed Hitboxes: Luigi's down tilt and up smash have disjointed hitboxes, allowing him to safely challenge opponents without risking trades.

5. Unique Projectile: Luigi's Fireball (neutral special) is a slow-moving projectile that can control space and interrupt opponents' approaches, setting up for Luigi's close combat game.

Weaknesses

1. Slippery Movement: Luigi's traction is noticeably low, causing him to slide significantly when turning around or stopping. This can make precise positioning and spacing more challenging.

2. Recovery Vulnerability: While versatile, Luigi's recovery options are quite punishable. His Green Missile can misfire, and his Super Jump Punch leaves him vulnerable if used carelessly.

3. Struggles with Range: Luigi's attacks generally have short range, making it difficult for him to deal with characters that can outrange him or keep him at bay with projectiles.

4. Floatiness: Luigi is relatively floaty, making him susceptible to being juggled by characters with strong aerial games.

Effective Play Strategies

1. Master Grab Combos: To maximize Luigi's potential, players should practice his grab combos extensively. Learning the timing and variations of these combos is crucial for taking stocks early.

2. Mix-up Recovery: Vary your recovery approach to avoid becoming predictable. Use Green Missile, Super Jump Punch, and Cyclone strategically to keep opponents guessing.

3. Control Space with Fireballs: Use Luigi's Fireball to force opponents into unfavorable positions where you can capitalize with your powerful close-range attacks.

4. Utilize Up Smash: Luigi's up smash is a fantastic anti-air tool due to its quick start-up and invincibility frames on his head. Use it to challenge aerial approaches and secure KOs.

5. Stay Mobile: Keep moving to mitigate Luigi's traction issues. Utilize wavedashing and short hops to navigate the stage efficiently and maintain pressure on your opponent.

Matchups

Favorable Matchups

• Ganondorf: Luigi can exploit Ganondorf's lack of speed and struggle against grab combos, maintaining pressure and controlling the pace of the match.

• Little Mac: Luigi's aerial game and edge-guarding capabilities can keep Little Mac off-stage, where he is weakest.

• Captain Falcon: Luigi can interrupt Falcon's approaches with Fireballs and capitalize on his predictable recovery.

Unfavorable Matchups

• Swordfighters (e.g., Marth, Lucina, Cloud): Characters with longer reach can keep Luigi at bay, making it difficult for him to get in and start his grab game.

• Zoners (e.g., Samus, Link): Zoners can effectively disrupt Luigi's approach with projectiles, forcing him to navigate through a barrage of attacks to close the gap.

• Pikachu: Pikachu's speed and combo potential can overwhelm Luigi, and his edge-guarding abilities can exploit Luigi's recovery vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Luigi is a character that rewards players who enjoy high-risk, high-reward gameplay. With a focus on grab combos and close-range combat, he can take stocks quickly and disrupt opponents' strategies. However, mastering Luigi requires patience and practice, particularly in managing his weaknesses and learning his intricate recovery options. For players willing to invest the time, Luigi offers a unique and rewarding experience in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.