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Ness in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A Detailed Review

Ness, the young protagonist from the EarthBound series, makes his return in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate as a versatile and potent fighter. Known for his psychic abilities, Ness has a unique moveset that combines powerful projectiles with a strong aerial game. This review will delve into Ness's strengths, weaknesses, effective play strategies, and his matchups against other characters in the roster.

Strengths

1. PK Fire: One of Ness's most iconic moves, PK Fire is a projectile that traps opponents in a pillar of fire. It can be used to rack up damage quickly and is effective for edge-guarding or setting up for further attacks.

2. Aerial Dominance: Ness boasts a strong aerial game with moves like his Forward Air (FAir) and Back Air (BAir), which are fast and have good knockback. His Neutral Air (NAir) is a great combo breaker due to its quick startup.

3. Powerful KO Options: Ness has several strong KO moves, including his Up Air, Back Throw, and the devastating PK Thunder 2. His Back Throw is one of the strongest in the game, making him a threat near the ledge.

4. Recovery: While somewhat predictable, Ness's recovery with PK Thunder can be difficult to intercept due to its long range and potential to KO opponents if used offensively (PK Thunder 2).

5. Healing Options: Ness can heal himself using his Down Special, PSI Magnet, which absorbs energy-based projectiles. This makes him particularly effective against characters who rely heavily on projectile attacks.

Weaknesses

1. Predictable Recovery: Although PK Thunder offers great distance, it is vulnerable to being intercepted or gimped by skilled opponents, making Ness easy to edge-guard if not careful.

2. Lag on Some Moves: Moves like PK Fire and PK Thunder can leave Ness open to punishment if whiffed or shielded. Managing these moves effectively is crucial to avoid being countered.

3. Lightweight: Ness is relatively light, making him susceptible to early KOs from stronger characters.

4. Close-Range Struggles: At very close range, Ness can struggle against characters with disjointed hitboxes or superior frame data. His close combat options are limited compared to some other fighters.

Effective Play Strategies

1. Zoning and Trapping: Use PK Fire to control space and trap opponents. This move can be a great setup tool for combos or forcing opponents into a defensive position.

2. Aerial Combos: Master Ness's aerial attacks to juggle opponents and rack up damage. His aerials are excellent for both offensive pressure and defensive maneuvers.

3. Mix up Recovery: To combat Ness's predictable recovery, mix up your recovery routes using air dodges or PK Thunder's flexibility to avoid edge-guarding attempts.

4. Shield Pressure: Ness can apply significant shield pressure with his aerials and PK Fire. Use cross-ups and mix-ups to keep opponents guessing.

5. Utilize PSI Magnet: Against projectile-heavy characters, PSI Magnet not only heals Ness but can also be used as a movement tool due to its slight pushback when activated.

Matchups

1. Favorable Matchups:

   • Samus/Dark Samus: Ness can absorb their projectiles with PSI Magnet and use PK Fire to control the stage.
   • Duck Hunt: Similar to Samus, Ness can mitigate Duck Hunt's projectile game and capitalize with his own zoning tools.
   • Pikachu: Despite Pikachu's agility, Ness's aerials and PK Fire can control space effectively against Pikachu's approaches.

2. Unfavorable Matchups:

   • Marth/Lucina: Their disjointed hitboxes and superior range can make it difficult for Ness to approach.
   • Wolf: Wolf's speed, power, and reflector can pose significant challenges for Ness's zoning and recovery.
   • Palutena: With her range, mobility, and ability to reflect projectiles, Palutena can counter many of Ness's strengths.

3. Even Matchups:

   • Mario: Both characters have strong combo games and similar kill power, making for a balanced matchup.
   • Yoshi: The matchup can go either way depending on who controls the neutral game more effectively.

In conclusion, Ness is a formidable character in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate when played to his strengths. By leveraging his powerful projectiles, aerial superiority, and KO potential, players can effectively challenge a wide range of opponents. However, mastering his recovery and managing his vulnerabilities are key to success with Ness.