Super Smash Bros Bosses Ranked

Summary

The Super Smash Bros roster faces bosses from their world and crossover series, each with unique challenges and motives.
Giant Donkey Kong, Fighter Husks, Possessed Fighters, and more are encountered throughout the game, each with distinct abilities.
Key bosses like Giga Bowser, Rathalos, Dracula, and Winged Marx bring a range of attacks and strategies to test players’ skills.

Ever since I stepped into the arena of Super Smash Bros., it’s been a struggle for survival. As the roster has expanded, so have the battles we face. We traverse diverse realms, fighting tooth and nail to maintain our existence. Losing a battle strips us of control, reducing us to mere trophies.

In this alternative scenario, the primary hurdles hindering their progress are the management. These figures may emerge from the world of Super Smash Bros., or other collaborative series such as Castlevania and Pokemon. Many of these bosses have personal motivations for confronting the collective team, with the main antagonists, in particular, driving each major narrative. The most effective bosses exude a foreboding aura and offer distinct, unforgettable encounters, particularly when their actions influence the larger storyline.

20. Giant Donkey Kong

The D.K.

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. (1999)
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Konga Jungle

In simpler terms, Donkey Kong – the large character – is a straightforward adversary that tests the player approximately halfway through their single-player game session. This formidable foe leads the player to his personal domain, which features slopes, moving platforms, and a barrel that can provide a lifesaving escape when offstage.

In simpler terms, Donkey Kong gains a power-up that makes him bigger and stronger (like when Mario gets a Super Mushroom). This increase in size also amplifies the damage he can inflict. However, since he takes less force back and has a wider attack range, you’ll often play alongside two other teammates to match his offensive power. Unfortunately, his large size also means that his recovery moves become riskier, leaving him vulnerable to attacks and items located offstage.

19. The Fighting Team

Fighter Husks

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. (1999)
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Stage Preference: Battlefield

The Incomplete Fighters on the Combat Squad lack specific details. Their appearances might be modeled after wires, polygons, or metallic forms akin to characters such as Captain Falcon and Kirby, but their repertoire of moves remains rudimentary at best.

In individual duels, they struggle because they can be thrown off balance at minimal vulnerability levels. With few attacks and weak defenses, they primarily use numerical superiority to exhaust their opponents, aiming to tire them out before delivering the final blow. However, they pose a greater threat when encountered in large groups, particularly during Multi and Cruel game modes.

18. Possessed Fighters

Without Free Will

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Final Destination

In the course of the Subspace Emissary, counterfeit combatants emerged, mimicking the original fighters. Despite being replicas, their move sets remain unaltered. However, they possess a unique ability to transform, enlarging or shrinking their physical form at will. Interestingly, these false adversaries can merge together to create an even more powerful enemy.

In the realm of World of Light, the puppet warriors were predominantly manipulated using mind control. They fought identically as before, but with a wicked purpose. Defeating these controlled fighters would disrupt their master’s influence, enabling them to rise against the antagonist. This method was also a significant means of uncovering new characters within the game.

17. Porky

Boy Genius

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Wii U (Trophy)
Stage Preference: Ruined Zoo

Porky, a wicked character originating from Earth, harbors a strong desire to eliminate the fresh face in the Earthbound universe, who replaced him in “Super Smash Bros. Brawl,” Lucas. Initially, he pursues Lucas using his Pig King Statue, being invulnerable during this chase phase. Upon trapping and preparing to annihilate his quarry, Ness steps in to save his PK magical companion from the statue.

This situation compels the young inventor to handle things himself, as he crafts a mecha. It moves and attacks with swift precision, resembling a spider that stabs or crushes its opponents, the PK users. Additionally, it demonstrates his intelligence through energy lasers and explosive Porky Robos. However, after his defeat, he’s nowhere to be seen for quite some time.

16. Giga Bowser

Empowered Koopa King

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Melee
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Final Destination

In the new version of Bowser, known as Giga Bowser, the character’s strength is significantly increased at the expense of speed. Although his move set remains largely unchanged from his original form, his attacks now have more elemental effects such as freezing, shocking, or causing explosions. This makes it easier for him to corner and attack opponents, dealing heavy damage through slashing, breathing fire, or even grabbing them.

Apart from becoming stronger in his attacks, Bowser’s defensive capabilities are also improved. Specifically, his Tough Guy mechanic is upgraded, allowing him to withstand larger amounts of knockback during attacks, making it harder for opponents to knock him out. However, the ability to knock him out using Blastzone isn’t entirely removed if Bowser falls offstage, especially when he has no other recovery options available.

15. Rayquaza

Disturbed Beast

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Spirit)
Stage Preference: The Lake

Rayquaza had been peacefully dozing in his sanctuary until a wicked invasion disrupted his sleep. Roused abruptly, he became aggressive towards the invaders, who happened to be the main characters. This compelled him to defend his dwelling, even though he didn’t become deeply involved in the events that followed.

He employs a hit-and-run strategy, leveraging his quick speed to dash across the stage, striking his targets, then disappearing off-screen. Occasionally, he burrows into the ground and reappears unexpectedly to catch his foes off guard. Additionally, he can create distance by pushing opponents back with a powerful roar or launching electric balls or eye blasts as projectiles.

14. Duon

Yin & Yang

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Spirit)
Stage Preference: Battleship Halberd Bridge

Duon is among the rare entities formed by merging smaller pseudo-warriors. He’s an innovative character introduced in Super Smash Bros., known for his primary strategy of transitioning between two fighter forms, much like Eyedol does in Killer Instinct.

The boss employs a dual strategy when facing off against his adversary. The red combatant deploys cannons to deliver explosives and energy bursts for long-range attacks, while the blue combatant relies on blades for close quarters fighting. Despite his considerable size, he maintains agility due to his ability to dash, leap, or spin, making it possible for him to both move swiftly and attack any threats that come his way.

13. Master-Core

Master Beyond Limits

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. For Wii U, 3DS
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Spirit)
Stage Preference: Final Destination

In simpler terms, Master-Core is an alternate version of Master Hand that becomes uncontrollable. Its combat style becomes ferocious and untamed compared to Crazy Hand. While it still employs energy attacks, it primarily uses transformations to attack players as either Master Beast or Master Edges. Interestingly, it can also metamorphose into the Shadow form of its adversary, turning the battle into a mirror fight.

In critical situations, Master Core undergoes its ultimate change to become Master Fortress. The combatant must navigate through a labyrinth to locate and destroy its concealed vulnerabilities, while evading both enemies and hazardous zones such as the Danger Zones which can either injure or instantly knock out the fighter. Once all its weaknesses are eliminated, its core will be exposed, a defenseless form that inflicts no damage.

12. Ridley

Embodiment Of Hate

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Spirit/playable)
Stage Preference: The Research Facility II

In an attempt to thwart Samus’ mission, Ridley ventured into the Subspace Emissary. Their initial encounter prompted Ridley to rely more on physical attacks, utilizing flight to charge head-on towards his target. Notably, he also uses his tail to scratch the stage, potentially pulling the player closer and causing increasing harm.

Following his loss, he temporarily retreats, allowing the narrative to progress. However, he reappears later as Meta-Ridley, seeking another showdown. With the main characters piloting the Falcon Flyer, the adversary cleverly maneuvers the fight into the skies. He exploits his advantage by somersaulting and moving the stage towards the bottom of the screen while firing barrages of fireballs to compel players to dodge while airborne. It’s quite impressive how he adapts his gameplay style to push the player into an aerial battlefield.

11. 10. Galleom

Tech Brawler

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: The Wilds (Part I), The Ruined Hall

In the realm exclusive to the Super Smash Bros. universe, Galleom functions as an original contender. His combative approach leans on his brawler super-strength for close quarters, executing uppercuts, grips, and lariats. He’s outfitted with technological innovations that enable him to fly using jet boots, detonate explosions with missiles, or plow through stages in the form of a tank.

As a devoted admirer, I must say that Galleom truly unleashes his expressiveness when he suffers a significant loss of life. It’s almost as if he transforms into a whirlwind of fury, a spectacle that can be quite terrifying. If anyone dares to approach during this rage-fueled outburst, they might find themselves on the receiving end of unintended collateral damage. In his enraged state, Galleom’s attack speed skyrockets, while his recovery frames take a noticeable hit. This means that his attack windows become smaller, making it more challenging for opponents to dodge or counterattack effectively.

9. Rathalos

The Monster

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Forest Hill

Rathalos is a formidable adversary in Monster Hunter games, exuding an animalistic fear on the battlefield. His arsenal includes charge attacks, poisonous talons, and flaming breath that torches the stage, reducing available landing areas for players. He’s often seen whipping his tail and leaping above the stage, sometimes vanishing into the background to unleash powerful explosive shots.

Instead of just attacking the creature blindly, try to focus on its vulnerable spots such as its face and tail. Alternatively, you could utilize the objects that appear during the battle and time their usage strategically to instantly stun the beast. This will not only make it more susceptible to damage but also limit its ability to escape.

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8. Metal Mario

Heroic Steel

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. (1999)
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Meta Crystal, Battlefield

In a more casual and understandable manner, Metal Mario is a formidable boss that shows up towards the end of a single-player game run. His characteristics give off an eerie resemblance to villainous versions of main characters such as Evil Ryu or Devil Jin, as he fights similarly to Mario using fireballs, but with a significantly increased weight.

Because he’s made of metal, he can withstand a considerable amount of damage due to his resistance to being pushed back. However, this durability also makes it tough for him to get back into the fight as he’s susceptible to the pull of gravity. As a result, players must either wear him down through a battle of enduring damage or trick him into losing his position off-stage.

7. Ganon

True Form Of Hatred

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Sacred Land

In a transformed state, Ganon uses more powerful abilities compared to his human form as Ganondorf. This form showcases his fierce, magical techniques like energy blasts, charging assaults, and sword-projection attacks that span the entire screen. The beast’s moves, including charges and jumps, are particularly effective but can sometimes propel him out of sight. Compared to his human form, this beast form presents a more menacing depiction of dark magic.

This overpowering force renders Ganon immune to harm, except for his tail. Players must navigate strategically around him to inflict damage, but beware as he can retaliate by attacking from behind to safeguard his vulnerable spot. Some attacks can circumvent the creature entirely, despite its direction of facing. Inflicting sufficient damage on his tail can momentarily stun him, allowing for further assault on his head.

6. Dracula

Source Of Evil

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Dracula’s Castle

Dracula is one of the latest bosses to spread fear throughout the universe. He battles in a manner similar to his Castlevania versions, using whirling fireballs and transforming into bats. Interestingly, his vulnerability lies in his origin series, as only his head can be physically harmed; any other part would simply pass through any attack.

When I found myself on my knees, I transformed into my demonic form as a last resort, knowing full well that my fighting style was about to get intense. Instead of relying on distance, I moved in closer, using my claws and increased weight to trample over my enemies. Even in this form, I had zoning tools at my disposal – Shockwave for keeping them at bay, and Fireshot for raining down flames. If they dared to attack from behind, I could protect myself with swift back slashes. The smart move would be to hide behind me, but I was always ready to defend myself.

5. Marx

Crazed Innocence

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Mysterious Dimension

Marx deliberately entered the Realm of Illumination to align with the sinister antagonist, promoting chaos. Though he seems innocent on the surface, his battle techniques are remarkably unhinged. Moreover, he is among the most frustrating adversaries to strike due to his frequent aerial movements and teleportation.

His unusual fighting technique often makes it challenging to anticipate his actions. He excels in the strategy of unexpectedness, frequently disappearing from view to launch attacks such as the Makai Plant or emerging from beneath the ground. Some of his maneuvers are also impossible to block, like his Black Hole and Extra-Thick Laser.

4. Tabuu

Dimensional Collector

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Spirit)
Stage Preference: The Great Maze (Omega stage)

In a twisted plot, Tabuu orchestrated the Subspace Emissary to move the world of Super Smash Bros. into his personal dimension for dominance, encompassing both fighters and allies. Despite the villains rebelling against their chief, they were no contest for his immense powers, causing them to crumble alongside their comrades. Tabuu seemed invincible until his downfall was challenged by a grave mistake and careless oversight.

Six heroes are needed to confront this multidimensional menace, each with unique abilities. He primarily attacks by soaring through the air and teleporting, arming himself with hostile beams, blades, and whips. His deadliest attack is “Off The Waves”, an unavoidable full-screen instant-kill move that demands precise timing to dodge effectively.

3. Petey Piranha

Caged Naturally

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Pokemon Stadium

Petey Piranha initiates the Subspace Emissary as the initial opponent, trapping both Princess Peach and Zelda inside cages for the player to encounter first. The primary strategies it employs are getting up close to the player and using its aggressive moves such as whipping the cages around or crashing down from above onto the ground.

Although this boss isn’t particularly difficult, what makes him stand out is that he determines the outcome of the fight decisively. The main objective isn’t solely about defeating the boss, but rather liberating a princess from one of the cages. This battle holds significant importance as it can significantly shape the storyline, serving as the most influential encounter to impact the progression within Subspace Emissary.

2. Master Hand & Crazy Hand

A Held Pair

Origin Fight: Super Smash Bros. (1999), Super Smash Bros. Melee
Latest Entry: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Final Destination

Since its debut in Super Smash Bros. (1999), Master Hand has been a central figure. However, it wasn’t until the release of Super Smash Bros. Melee that Crazy Hand started to collaborate with his fellow limb during the final battle in the classic mode run. They employ diverse strategies, such as Master Hand using cunning energy projectiles in his assaults, while Crazy Hand relies on his brutal physical moves to impose debuffs. Typically, they seldom engage in direct combat against each other. This changes only when the primary antagonists split them apart, leading each to mobilize their respective armies for their war that transcends dimensions.

Regardless of their unique combat techniques, they work effectively as a team. They employ individual assaults or joint attacks that minimize the opponent’s chances for survival, such as laser fingers and electrical smashes. Occasionally, their solo attacks can be turned against them to disorient, like the golden spikes.

1. Galeem & Dharkon

Two Sides Of The Same Coin

Origin: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Stage Preference: Battlefield

In the world of Super Smash Bros., it’s Galeem and Dharkon who have emerged as the primary antagonists, disrupting tranquility. They employ similar strategies, such as producing duplicate combatants or detonating energy blasts. Galeem, with its divine might, imprisons opponents in zones, while Dharkon ravages reality with his dark influence that inflicts debilitating effects.

It’s crucial to face off against both of them at the same time because defeating one leaves the other with an opportunity to dominate the world entirely. When engaging in a battle against both leaders simultaneously, their animosity turns it into a contest involving three parties. They seldom collaborate using their powers, which makes them vulnerable when attacking each other’s strengths. Each has its unique fury, causing them to become increasingly aggressive as they approach lower health levels.

2025-01-13 00:28