Link remains one of the most versatile and iconic fighters in Super Smash Bros Ultimate, offering a heavy balance of swordplay and stage control. Understanding his overhauled remote bomb mechanics and expanded aerial tools allows players to dictate the pace of any match. Masterful execution of his primary abilities can transform Link into a formidable force against both aggressive rushdown fighters and distant zoners.
Core Moveset and Key Tools
Link's neutral air stands out as his most essential close-range move, acting as a safe fast-falling aerial, combo starter, and reliable shield pressure option. His Master Sword grants significant reach, making tilt attacks like up tilt and forward tilt excellent options for keeping opponents at distance. Combining these physical strikes with long-range tools creates a multi-layered barrier that forces enemies to make risky decisions.
His special moves provide unparalleled stage control, led by the Remote Bomb which can be manually detonated at critical moments. The Boomerang offers dual-hit utility by controlling horizontal angles on both its outbound and returning trajectories. Meanwhile, the Hero's Bow provides quick long-distance pressure to disrupt enemy movements and force defensive actions.
Essential Combo Chains and Setup Options
At lower percentages, landing a soft neutral air directly leads into a grab, an up tilt, or a quick jab string. Boomerang strikes reliably setup into forward air or up air at low to mid percentages, dealing substantial damage effortlessly. Additionally, down throw serves as a simple setup into up tilt or back air depending on the opponent's directional influence.
Advanced players frequently utilize item mechanics, incorporating Z-drop bomb drops into fast-fall neutral airs to keep opponents locked in extended hitstun. Dropping and re-catching the bomb allows Link to extend combos vertically across the stage. Practicing these setups provides consistent damage output and opens up opportunities for lethal finishing moves.
Offensive Strategy and Trap Techniques
Effective Link gameplay relies heavily on ledge trapping and restricting the opponent's recovery paths. Placing a active Remote Bomb directly near the ledge forces enemies to jump or roll over the hazard, allowing Link to punish predictable options with a strong forward smash or up special. Combining projectile placement with well-timed sword slashes makes recovering back to the stage extremely difficult for opponents.
Defensive Positioning and Bomb Recovery
Maintaining solid defensive spacing is vital since Link possesses relatively slow movement speed on the ground. Utilizing out-of-shield options like his Up Special (Spin Attack) or neutral air allows him to break out of tight pressure situations safely. Proper spacing ensures that sword strikes remain safe against enemy parries and counter-attacks.
Link also boasts one of the most unique recovery options in the game through remote bomb self-detonation. By dropping a bomb mid-air, facing the correct direction, and detonating it upon hit, Link can blast himself back toward the stage from extreme distances. Mastering this bomb recovery technique drastically improves survivability against aggressive off-stage edgeguards.
