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Steve & Alex in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A Detailed Review

Steve and Alex, hailing from the world of Minecraft, joined the roster of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in 2020 as part of the Fighters Pass Vol. 2. These characters bring a unique style of play, heavily influenced by resource management and creative use of terrain. In this review, we'll delve into their strengths and weaknesses, effective strategies for playing them, and their matchups against other characters.

Strengths

1. Resource Management and Crafting

One of Steve & Alex's defining features is their ability to mine resources from the stage. This mechanic allows them to craft stronger weapons and tools, providing a dynamic and adaptable playstyle. Using the Crafting Table, they can upgrade their weapons from wood to diamond, increasing their damage output significantly.

2. Stage Control and Traps

Steve & Alex can place blocks anywhere on the stage, offering unparalleled stage control. This ability can create platforms for recovery, block opponents' approaches, or set up traps. The blocks can also disrupt opponents' rhythm and force them to adapt to Steve & Alex's unique battlefield.

3. Powerful Specials

• Neutral Special (Mine/Place Block): Essential for gathering resources and controlling the stage.
• Side Special (Minecart): A versatile move that can be used for mobility, pressure, and trapping opponents.
• Up Special (Elytra): Offers excellent recovery options with its glide mechanic.
• Down Special (TNT): A powerful trap that can be detonated strategically to catch opponents off guard.

4. Versatile Playstyle

Steve & Alex can adapt to various playstyles. Whether you prefer an aggressive approach with constant pressure or a more defensive style relying on traps and zoning, these characters can accommodate your preferences.

Weaknesses

1. Resource Dependency

The need to gather resources can be a double-edged sword. While it grants powerful upgrades, it requires time and leaves Steve & Alex vulnerable to aggressive opponents who can interrupt their mining.

2. Limited Mobility

Steve & Alex's movement speed is relatively slow compared to other characters. This can make it challenging to escape pressure or chase down opponents quickly.

3. High Learning Curve

Mastering Steve & Alex requires a good understanding of resource management and stage awareness. New players might find it difficult to balance mining, crafting, and fighting simultaneously.

How to Play Steve & Alex Effectively

1. Prioritize Resource Gathering: Begin the match by mining resources when safe. Prioritize iron and diamond, as they significantly enhance your combat capabilities.

2. Control the Stage: Use blocks to create advantageous positions. Block off opponents' approaches or create platforms to extend combos.

3. Mix Up Your Approach: Use Minecart and TNT to keep opponents guessing. Alternate between aggressive rushdowns and zoning strategies to remain unpredictable.

4. Manage Your Crafting Table: Keep an eye on its location, as it can be destroyed by opponents. Reposition it strategically to ensure you can craft efficiently.

5. Adapt to Opponents: Pay attention to your opponent's playstyle and adjust your strategy accordingly. Use blocks to counter rushdown characters or set traps against more defensive players.

Matchups

Favorable Matchups

• Little Mac: His limited aerial options make it difficult for him to navigate Steve & Alex's block setups and traps.
• Ganondorf: His slow speed and predictable recovery can be easily exploited with blocks and projectiles.

Unfavorable Matchups

• Fox: His speed and aggressive playstyle can prevent Steve & Alex from mining resources effectively.
• Pikachu: Fast and capable of bypassing block setups with quick aerial approaches.

Even Matchups

• Mario: A balanced fighter who can adapt to various playstyles, making the matchup heavily dependent on player skill and adaptability.
• Link: Both characters have projectiles and zoning tools, creating a strategic battle of stage control.

Conclusion

Steve & Alex bring a fresh and innovative playstyle to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, with their resource management and stage control abilities. While they require a significant investment to master, they offer a rewarding experience for players who enjoy a strategic and adaptable approach. Understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and how they fare against other characters is essential to maximizing their potential in any match.