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:''This article is about Link's appearance in [[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]. For other uses, see [[Link]]. For information about Link's [[clone]], see [[Young Link (SSBM)]].''
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:''This article is about Link's appearance in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''. For the character in other contexts, see [[Link]]. For information about Link's [[clone]], see {{SSBM|Young Link}}.''
  +
{{cquote|''A sword-wielding hero who also boasts long-range attacks.''|cite=Description from ''Melee's'' manual.
  +
}}
 
{{Infobox Character
 
{{Infobox Character
 
|name = Link
 
|name = Link
|image = [[Image:Linkmeleeclear.png|Link]]
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|image = [[File:Linkmeleeclear.png]]
|caption = [[Image:ZeldaSymbol.svg|50px]]
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|caption = [[File:ZeldaSymbol.svg|50px]]
|universe = ''[[The Legend of Zelda (universe)|The Legend of Zelda]]''
+
|universe = {{uv|The Legend of Zelda}}
|games = ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]''<br>''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''<br>''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''<br>''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS / Wii U]]''
 
 
|firstgame = ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]'' (1986)
 
|firstgame = ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]'' (1986)
  +
|games = ''[[Link (SSB)|SSB]]''<br/>''[[Link (SSBB)|Brawl]]''<br/>''[[Link (SSBWU/3DS)|SSBWU/3DS]]''<br/>''[[Link (SSBU)|Ultimate]]''
|availability = [[Starter character|Starter]]
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|availability = [[Starter]]
|tier = B
 
|ranking = 16
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|tier = E
  +
|ranking = 18
 
|jnumber = 2
  +
|walljump = No
 
|voiceactor = Nobuyuki Hiyama
 
|voiceactor = Nobuyuki Hiyama
 
}}
 
}}
Announced at [[E3]] 2001, '''Link''' (リンク, ''Rinku'') is a [[Starter|starter character]] in all four [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' games]]. Link has changed from the [[Super Smash Bros.|first game]], and his [[Bow]] is now his [[Standard Special Move]].
+
Announced at [[E3]] 2001, '''Link''' ({{ja|リンク|Rinku}}, ''Link'') is a [[starter]] character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''. Link returns as a veteran character from the previous game, acting mostly the same as before, as a swordsman with powerful short-range attacks and a wide variety of long-range attacks. Link, however, has received some large buffs, making him a considerably better fighter in ''Melee''.
   
  +
Link is ranked 18th in the [[tier list]], in the E tier, which is much higher than his second to last current rank in the ''Smash 64'' [[tier list]] (11th out of 12), and two below his clone, {{SSBM|Young Link}}. Link's placement is due to a very good approach, due to some low lag aerials (with his neutral and forward air), a good variety of projectiles and a very high air speed. A disjointed hitbox also gives Link a slight advantage against others, as well as a fully functional shield that can block a wide variety of projectiles. Link is also a potent edge-guarder in the NTSC versions of the game; his Spin Attack is possibly the best semi-spike in the game, though he still has many other options. Link, however, suffers from a rather high falling speed and a high weight, making him an easy target for chain grabbing and combos. His recovery is also predictable, though he can extend it slightly.
Link is ranked 16th on the tier list, having so far his best performance in the series, due to the [[buff]] he received from the ''Super Smash Bros.'' to ''Melee''. Despite his attacks being slightly weaker, they are faster. He is one the most reliable edgeguarders in the game because of his extremely powerful semi-spike and significantly better recovery (from worst to one of the best). However, he is large and is a somewhat of a [[Falling speed#Fast-faller|fast-faller]] and as such, he is vulnerable to chaingrabs, which is a major problem in competitive play, resulting in Link being a low tier.
 
   
 
==Attributes==
 
==Attributes==
  +
[[Image:Link SSBM.png|right|150px]]
 
Link has poor dash speed, but he makes up for this with great [[range]] for most attacks, a variety of [[projectile]]s and quite fast air speed. He also has powerful Smash Attacks and Aerial Attacks, but their high lag and moderate startup times counterbalance this unless the player L-cancels which can remedy this. Link's grab range is large due to being a tether grab, and can be used as a wall-grapple. However, it leaves Link vulnerable if it misses, and it's difficult to grab airborne opponents, which minimizes chaingrabing opportunities. Link's [[Up Special Move]], [[Spin Attack]], is a quick finisher and a good edgeguarding tool. Link is vulnerable to chain grabs and combos due to his fairly heavy weight, fast falling speed, and comparatively large size.
 
Link has poor dash speed, but he makes up for this with great [[range]] for most attacks, a variety of [[projectile]]s and quite fast air speed. He also has powerful Smash Attacks and Aerial Attacks, but their high lag and moderate startup times counterbalance this unless the player L-cancels which can remedy this. Link's grab range is large due to being a tether grab, and can be used as a wall-grapple. However, it leaves Link vulnerable if it misses, and it's difficult to grab airborne opponents, which minimizes chaingrabing opportunities. Link's [[Up Special Move]], [[Spin Attack]], is a quick finisher and a good edgeguarding tool. Link is vulnerable to chain grabs and combos due to his fairly heavy weight, fast falling speed, and comparatively large size.
   
 
Link is a very reliable edgeguarder due to his powerful semi-spike. Those who are trying to recover must be careful when Link is on the ledge. It's better to attack and KO from the ground than from the air. If sent to the air by Link, the semi-spike can be deadly. [[Falco (SSBM)|Falco]] is a candidate for being killed in one semi-spike such as other fast fallers like [[Captain Falcon (SSBM)|Captain Falcon]], [[Fox (SSBM)|Fox]], [[Sheik (SSBM)|Sheik]], [[Roy (SSBM)|Roy]] and [[Marth (SSBM)|Marth]].
 
Link is a very reliable edgeguarder due to his powerful semi-spike. Those who are trying to recover must be careful when Link is on the ledge. It's better to attack and KO from the ground than from the air. If sent to the air by Link, the semi-spike can be deadly. [[Falco (SSBM)|Falco]] is a candidate for being killed in one semi-spike such as other fast fallers like [[Captain Falcon (SSBM)|Captain Falcon]], [[Fox (SSBM)|Fox]], [[Sheik (SSBM)|Sheik]], [[Roy (SSBM)|Roy]] and [[Marth (SSBM)|Marth]].
   
 
==Changes from ''Smash 64'' to ''Melee''==
==Moveset==
 
  +
In his transition from ''Super Smash Bros.'' to ''Super Smash Bros. Melee'', Link received numerous [[buff]]s, most of which made him a more potent fighter, going from bottom tier to mid-low tier.
===[[Ground attack]]s===
 
*[[Neutral Attack]] - Three quick sword attacks followed by a sudden flurry of even faster sword stabs. First hit does 4-5%, second 2-3%, then 2%, followed by 1% per strike.
 
*[[Side Tilt]] - Raises sword and brings it down in front of him. Has an upwards hitbox, which can substitute for other anti-air moves in a few cases, and has above-average knockback. 13% damage.
 
*[[Up Tilt]] - A quick arced slash above him. Very useful for many reasons: it sets up for aerial combos, pretty fast, high knockback, overall good startup and ending lag. 7% damage.
 
*[[Down Tilt]] - Swipes down in front of him. As with his Dash Attack, this often directly leads into an aerial combo, though the move itself is pretty predictable. This move can also strongly spike a ledge-grabbing foe when Link's sword makes contact with the hanging foe, which is the sweetspot. 10% damage.
 
*[[Dash Attack]] - Brings sword down in front of him. Somewhat fast. At higher damages it'll knock a grounded foe into the air, often leading into an aerial follow up, though doesn't have much KO power. 10% damage.
 
   
===[[Smash attack]]s===
+
===Aesthetics===
  +
*{{change|Link now has an added belt going over his shoulder and around his waist.}}
*[[Side Smash]] - Swings sword once in front for good knockback by itself, and if "A" is pressed again, does an even stronger one after. Extremely unlikely that the second hit will land at damages above 30% or so, due to the higher knockback of the first hit. The first hit is still strong, though, but not as much as the second one. Link players should practice timing the move so they purposely miss the first strike and end up hitting the foe with the stronger second strike. 14% then 16% uncharged, 19% then 18% fully.
 
  +
*{{change|Link has a new taunt.}}
*[[Up Smash]] - Slashes in an arc very similar to his Up Tilt three consecutive times. All hits now have a noticeable arc above him with good range, instead of just the first hit being an arc and two smaller stabs upwards. Good for racking up damage and setting up for air combos due to below average knockback for an Up Smash. Up to three separate hits, uncharged, 4%, 1%, 7%. Fully, 5%, 2%, 12%.
 
  +
*{{change|Link's [[helpless]] animation has changed.}}
*[[Down Smash]] - Swings sword on both sides of him on the ground. First hit comes out fast, though second has some lag. This move has decent range, and since the hitbox is on the floor, it makes this move good for spacing, and has some KO power. It can be unreliable however. 13% front, 14% back uncharged, 21% front, 15% back fully charged.
 
  +
*{{change|Link has a different dash animation.}}
  +
*-nerf- Link is lighter 108-104
   
===[[Aerial attack]]s===
+
===Attributes===
  +
*{{buff|Link is generally a faster character, with a higher [[air speed]] and faster aerials, improving his [[combo]] and aerial games.}}
*[[Neutral Aerial]] - A generic [[sex kick]]. 11% max, 5% minimum.
 
  +
*{{buff|Link's [[recovery]] was strongly buffed; it is considerably longer and more flexible, with [[Spin Attack]] granting a much higher vertical distance, and his higher air speed improving his horizontal recovery. He also has new options, with the [[wall grapple]] and [[bomb recovery]].}}
*[[Forward Aerial]] - Swings twice in front of him. The first hit is usually hard to follow into the second hit. This is somewhat like his Forward Smash, where the second hit has more power than the first, so the first hit is usually purposely missed in favor for the second. Has some ending lag, should be very carefully used due to Link's bad recovery. 12% when it comes out, 6% after.
 
*[[Back Aerial]] - Two short-ranged kicks to his back. Second hit can sometimes be hard to land. This move, unlike most Back Aerials, isn't always considered Link's best viable choice for edgeguarding due to awkward hitboxes and duration. First hit 7%, next 6%.
 
*[[Up Aerial]] - Stabs sword above him. Good for juggling or Star KO-ing at higher damages ~120%. Has some [[sex kick]] properties. 16% damage, ~14% in later hitboxes.
 
*[[Down Aerial]] - His famous aerial from ''Zelda II'' where he takes his sword and keeps it aimed downward, falling fast while doing so. This move is a move of extremes: huge knockback, huge ending lag, huge priority, and huge hitbox. If the move's still in action when Link lands, he'll have to pull it out from the ground, with ending lag, and it is recommend to [[L-canceling|L-cancel]] it in such cases. It is one of his primary KO moves, dealing 22%.
 
   
===[[Throw]]s===
+
===Ground attacks===
  +
*{{buff|[[Dash attack]] has a new animation that is a running slash rather than a stab. It has slightly better combo ability and can be considered an improvement.}}
*[[Pummel]] - Bashes foe in the head with the hilt of his sword. 2-3% damage.
 
  +
*{{buff|[[Forward smash]] is considerably stronger than his old forward smash.}}
*[[Forward Throw]] - Kicks foe a short distance in front of him. Pretty weak knockback. One apparent kick, but two mysterious hitboxes. 4% first hitbox, 3% second.
 
  +
**{{buff|Pressing the A button after the first slash will make Link perform a second slash that is stronger than the first slash in terms of damage and knockback.}}
*[[Back Throw]] - Brings foe behind and kicks in a similar fashion to his Forward Throw. 2% then 3% damage.
 
*[[Up Throw]] - Brings foe up and slashes above. Two mysterious hitboxes, 3% first, 2% second.
+
*{{nerf|[[Up smash]] is slower, has less vertical [[range]], and has smaller hitboxes.}}
*[[Down Throw]] - Brings foe down and tackles. Leaves foes wide open for a combo, such as a Forward Tilt, Up Tilt, or even a quick Smash Attack. Two hits, first does 2%, then 4%.
 
   
===Other attacks===
+
===Aerial attacks===
  +
*{{buff|[[Back aerial]] deals less damage.}}
*Ledge Attack - Climbs up and stabs in front of him. 8% damage.
 
  +
*{{buff|[[Down aerial]] deals more damage.}}
*100% Ledge Attack - slowly gets up and quickly thrusts his sword. Only the sword has a hitbox; foes close to the end of ledge Link was on can avoid the attack completely. 8% damage.
 
*Floor Attack (front) - Quickly gets up and slashes on both sides. 6% damage.
 
*Floor Attack (back) - Quickly gets up and slashes on both sides. 6% damage.
 
   
===[[Special move]]s===
+
===Grabs and throws===
  +
*{{buff|Link has been given an up throw and a down throw, providing him with more options.}}
{{Link Special Moves}}
 
  +
*{{buff|The [[Hookshot]] now has considerably less [[startup]] and [[ending lag]].}}
  +
*{{nerf|The range of the Hookshot is shorter and can no longer grab aerial opponents.}}
  +
*{{nerf|Both [[Forward throw|forward]] and [[back throw]]s deals less damage.}}
   
===[[Taunt]]===
+
===Special moves===
  +
*{{buff|Link has a new [[neutral special move]], [[Hero's Bow]], which makes Link fire an arrow from his bow. The arrow's power and distance can be increased by holding the B button.}}
Link puts his right hand on his hip and raises his left hand through his bangs.
 
  +
*{{buff|[[Boomerang]]s travel faster and have less startup lag, as well as having a higher chance of returning to Link.}}
  +
**{{nerf|The Boomerang cannot travel as far as it did in ''Smash 64''.}}
  +
**{{change|Due to the addition of the Hero's Bow, Boomerang is now a [[side special move]].}}
  +
*{{buff|Grounded Spin Attack is now a very powerful [[edge-guarding]] option.}}
  +
**{{nerf|Aerial Spin Attack, due to now being a multi-hit attack, can no longer KO reliably unless the last hit is landed—and even then, it has less power than in ''Smash 64''.}}
   
 
===[[PAL]] differences===
==Changes from N64 to Melee==
 
  +
Like other characters, Link received some changes in the PAL version of ''Melee''.
Link has been significantly [[buffed]] from SSB to Melee. Below are the list of changes.
 
*New Neutral B ([[Bow]]). [[Boomerang]] is now Link's Side B.
 
*Different [[Spin Attack]] animation (both on air, and on ground).
 
*Can use [[Hookshot]] for a wall-grapple.
 
*Also, the Hookshot's chain will launch forward and just drop when it reaches its maximum length, instead of keeping horizontal.
 
*Hookshot is shorter, and has lower priority, but less ending lag.
 
*Spin Attack is a better recovery.
 
*Recovery is overall significantly better, to the point of being "great", thanks to hookshot, air speed, wall grapple and bombs.
 
*Forward Smash has two hits, instead of just one.
 
*Faster air speed.
 
*New [[Taunt]].
 
*New [[helpless]] state.
 
*Back and Forward Grabs are weaker.
 
*New [[Dash Attack]].
 
*Attacks are a bit weaker, but also a bit faster.
 
*A weak throw of the bomb now causes explosion.
 
*New Dashing animation.
 
*Boomerang is weaker and doesn't travel as far.
 
*Spin Attack can no longer deflect projectiles.
 
*[[Down Aerial]] is completely changed. It no longer does 16% damage on the first and second hits, dealing a total of 32%, but instead, it does up to 19% on the first hit and 6% on the second hit, dealing a total of 25%. Also, it has more [[knockback]].
 
   
  +
*{{nerf|Spin Attack has lost its [[semi-spike]] properties, making it slightly less useful for edge-guarding, though it still acts as a potent attack.}}
==PAL differences==
 
  +
*{{nerf|The [[boomerang superjump]] and [[chain dance]] glitches were removed; these were also removed in NTSC version 1.2.}}
*[[Spin Attack]] can no longer semi-spike.
 
*Link can no longer perform the [[Boomerang Superjump]] or the Chain Dance.
 
   
==Matchups==
+
==Moveset==
 
{{Moveset Table
  +
|game=SSBM
  +
|neutralimage=Link Neutral attack SSBM.png
  +
|neutralcount=3
  +
|neutralinf=y
  +
|neutralname=&nbsp;
  +
|neutral1dmg=5%
  +
|neutral2dmg=3%
  +
|neutral3dmg=6%
  +
|neutralinfdmg=1% (loop)
  +
|neutraldesc=Link performs a three-hit combo consisting on a vertical slash, a horizontal slash, and then a forward stab. If the A button is pressed rapidly after the second hit, Link will instead initiate a rapid stab attack that deals weak knockback.
  +
|ftiltimage=Link Forward tilt SSBM.png
  +
|ftiltangles=1
  +
|ftiltname=&nbsp;
  +
|ftiltdmg=13% (body), 14% (tip & hilt), 15% (base)
  +
|ftiltdesc=Link performs a downward swing with his sword. This attack has relatively high knockback for a forward tilt.
  +
|utiltimage=Link Up tilt SSBM.png
  +
|utiltname=&nbsp;
  +
|utiltdmg=9%
  +
|utiltdesc=Link swing his sword in an arc over his body.
  +
|dtiltimage=Link Down tilt SSBM.png
  +
|dtiltname=&nbsp;
  +
|dtiltdmg=11%
  +
|dtiltdesc=Link swings his sword across the ground. This attack can meteor smash a ledge-grabbing foe only if they come in contact with the hilt of Link's sword.
  +
|dashimage=Link Dash attack SSBM.png
  +
|dashname=&nbsp;
  +
|dashdmg=9% (tip), 12% (base), 11% (body)
  +
|dashdesc=Link dashes forward and performs a downward strike with his sword.
  +
|fsmashimage=Link Forward smash SSBM.png
  +
|fsmashangles=1
  +
|fsmashcount=2
  +
|fsmashname=&nbsp;
  +
|fsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|13}} (tip), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|14}} (body)
  +
|fsmash2dmg=18% (tip), 20% (body)
  +
|fsmashdesc=Link swings his sword downward and if the A button is pressed after the first strike, he performs a horizontal strike that deals more damage and knockback. Interestingly, the second slash does not increase in damage or knockback whenever it's "charging".
  +
|usmashimage=Link Up smash SSBM.png
  +
|usmashname=&nbsp;
  +
|usmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|4}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|2}} (hit 2), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|9}}-{{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|10}} (hit 3)
  +
|usmashdesc=Link slashes in an upward arc three times, with the last hit dealing the most damage and launching the opponent vertically. Deals below-average knockback for an up smash attack.
  +
|dsmashimage=Link Down smash SSBM.png
  +
|dsmashname=&nbsp;
  +
|dsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|13}} (front hit tip), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|11}} (back hit tip), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|16}} (blade & body), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSBM|17}} (hilt)
  +
|dsmashdesc=Link sweeps with his sword in front of and then behind him. The first hit comes out fast, though the second hit has some startup lag.
  +
|nairimage=Link Neutral aerial SSBM.png
  +
|nairname=&nbsp;
  +
|nairdmg=11%/9%/8% (clean foot/back leg/hip) 7% (late)
  +
|nairdesc=Link does a jump kick attack that contains [[sex kick]] properties. This attack comes out very fast and has low ending and landing lag.
  +
|fairimage=Link Forward aerial SSBM.png
  +
|fairname=&nbsp;
  +
|fairdmg=13% (hit 1), 8% (hit 2)
  +
|fairdesc=Link performs a double spinning sword attack. It's usually difficult for both hits to connect and the first hit doesn't deal much knockback, making it a situational attack to use while edge-guarding.
  +
|bairimage=Link Back aerial SSBM.png
  +
|bairname=&nbsp;
  +
|bairdmg=7% (hits 1-2)
  +
|bairdesc=Link performs a spinning double back-kick attack. The properties of the first hit makes it difficult for the second hit to reliably connect, especially at higher percents.
  +
|uairimage=Link Up aerial SSBM.png
  +
|uairname=&nbsp;
  +
|uairdmg=16% (clean), 12% (late)
  +
|uairdesc=Link thrusts his sword upward. Acts as a reliable vertical finisher at higher percentages.
  +
|dairimage=Link Down aerial SSBM.png
  +
|dairname=&nbsp;
  +
|dairdmg=22%/20% (clean), 19% (late), 6%/8% (after bounce)
  +
|dairdesc=Link uses his sword as a pogo stick, stabbing opponents below him. Hitting an enemy with this attack will make Link bounce in the air, making it possible to hit the same enemy again, but this only works if the opponent's damage is low. Has huge landing lag if Link lands in the middle of the animation (though L-cancelling helps).
  +
|zairimage=Link Grab aerial SSBM.png
  +
|zairname=[[Hookshot]]
  +
|zairdmg=6%
  +
|zairdesc=Link uses his Hookshot to attack enemies while airborne. Can be used to wall grapple. This attack has the unusual property of not suffering from stale-move negation.
  +
|grabimage=Link Grab SSBM.png
  +
|grabname=Hookshot
  +
|grabdesc=Link fires his Hookshot forward to grab enemies from afar.
  +
|pummelimage=Link Pummel SSBM.png
  +
|pummelname=&nbsp;
  +
|pummeldmg=3%
 
|pummeldesc=Link bashes the opponent's head with the hilt of his sword.
  +
|fthrowimage=Link Forward throw SSBM.png
  +
|fthrowname=&nbsp;
  +
|fthrowdmg=3% (hit 1), 3% (throw)
  +
|fthrowdesc=Link attacks with a front kick, knocking the opponent away.
  +
|bthrowimage=Link Back throw SSBM.png
  +
|bthrowname=&nbsp;
  +
|bthrowdmg=3% (hit 1), 3% (throw)
  +
|bthrowdesc=Link throws the opponent behind him and kicks them away.
  +
|uthrowimage=Link Up throw SSBM.png
  +
|uthrowname=&nbsp;
  +
|uthrowdmg=2% (hit 1), 4% (throw)
  +
|uthrowdesc=Link throws the opponent above him attack them with an upward slash.
  +
|dthrowimage=Link Down throw SSBM.png
  +
|dthrowname=&nbsp;
  +
|dthrowdmg=4% (hit 1), 2% (throw)
  +
|dthrowdesc=Link places the opponent on the ground and elbow drops them.
  +
|floorfimage=Link Floor attack (front) SSBM.png
  +
|floorfname=&nbsp;
  +
|floorfdmg=6%
 
|floorfdesc=Link quickly gets up and slashes on both sides.
  +
|floorbimage=Link Floor attack (back) SSBM.png
  +
|floorbname=&nbsp;
  +
|floorbdmg=6%
 
|floorbdesc=Link quickly gets up and slashes on both sides.
  +
|edgefimage=Link Edge attack (fast) SSBM.png
  +
|edgefname=&nbsp;
  +
|edgefdmg=8%
  +
|edgefdesc=Link returns to the stage and performs a downward slash with his sword.
  +
|edgesimage=Link Edge attack (slow) SSBM.png
  +
|edgesname=&nbsp;
  +
|edgesdmg=8%
 
|edgesdesc=Link slowly returns to the stage and thrusts his sword forward. Only the sword has a hitbox—meaning foes close to the end of the ledge Link was on can avoid this attack completely.
  +
|nsimage=Bow (SSBM).png
  +
|nsname=Bow
  +
|nsdmg=5-18%
  +
|nsdesc=Link fires an arrow at the opponent. The damage and speed the arrow flies will increase the longer you hold down the B button.
  +
|ssimage=Boomerang Link (SSBM).png
  +
|ssname=Boomerang
  +
|ssdmg=14% (throw), 16% (smash throw), 6% (far), 3% (return)
  +
|ssdesc=Link throws his boomerang at the opponent. The trajectory the boomerang flies can be altered by tilting up or down on the control stick. When inputted as a smash attack, the boomerang will fly farther and deal slightly more damage. Only one Boomerang can be on the field at a time.
  +
|usimage=Spin Attack Link (SSBM).png
  +
|usname=Spin Attack
  +
|usdmg=Ground: 15% (clean), 5% (late)<br/>Air: 4%/6% (hit 1), 2% (hits 2-4), 4%/6% (hit 5)
  +
|usdesc=When used on the ground, Link performs a spinning attack on the ground that only hits once. When used in the air, Link performs a jumping spinning attack that can hit multiple times and be used as a recovery move. Link can grab an edge of a stage even if he isn't facing one, but it can only be done before he performs the last slash.
  +
|dsimage=Bomb Link (SSBM).png
  +
|dsname=Bomb
  +
|dspage=Bomb (Link)
  +
|dsdmg=1~7.2% (contact), 4% (explosion)
  +
|dsdesc=Link pulls out a bomb that explodes on impact or when the fuse expires. When used in the air, the explosion can grant Link another Spin Attack if one has already been used, making it useful when returing to the stage.
  +
}}
  +
 
===[[Taunt]]===
  +
*Sheathes sword and shield and brushes the hair out of his eyes, grunting slightly.
  +
  +
==[[Character matchup (SSBM)|Matchups]]==
 
{{SSBMMatchupTable|link=yes}}
 
{{SSBMMatchupTable|link=yes}}
   
Line 99: Line 212:
 
*For more tricks and combos, go to this [http://www.wikihow.com/Enhance-Your-Playing-Style-With-Link-(SSBM) tutorial.]
 
*For more tricks and combos, go to this [http://www.wikihow.com/Enhance-Your-Playing-Style-With-Link-(SSBM) tutorial.]
   
==In Single-player==
+
==Trophy description==
 
In addition to the normal trophy about Link as a character, there are two trophies about him as a fighter, unlocked by completing the [[Adventure]] and [[All-Star]] modes respectively with Link on any difficulty.
Link can be fought in the [[Underground Maze]] where if the player comes across the [[Master Sword]], they will be taken to a battle with a different colored Link until they come across the Triforce. It is possible to complete the stage without fighting Link at all.
 
 
Link is featured in the following Event Matches:
 
*'''[[Event 3: Bomb-fest]]''': This match pits the player against the team of Link and Samus with one stock each on the [[Princess Peach's Castle]] stage. Link and Samus only use their Bomb special moves, but all the bomb (or likewise) items will appear on the stage.
 
*'''[[Event 18: Link's Adventure]]''':Link must face [[Dark Link]] on the [[Temple|Hyrule Temple]] stage. Both have 2 stock each. (Dark Link is just a completely blacked out form of Link, not the black character costume.)
 
*'''[[Event 20: All-Star Match 2]]''': Link is the second opponent fought in this series of staged battles. Players battle him on the [[Great Bay]] stage, with 2 stock while Link has 1. With a timer of four minutes, the players must defeat him and the other four characters with the overall time and life they have: [[Samus]], [[Zelda]], [[Captain Falcon]], and [[Fox]].
 
*'''[[Event 29: Triforce Gathering]]''': Link teams up with [[Zelda]] to face [[Ganondorf (SSBM)|Ganondorf]] on the [[Temple|Hyrule Temple]] stage.
 
*'''[[Event 34: Seven Years]]''': As Young Link, Link is an opponent with 3 stock each on the [[Great Bay]] stage.
 
*'''[[Event 41: En Garde!]]''': As Marth, Link is faced in a 2 stock match on the [[Temple|Hyrule Temple]] stage.
 
 
==Trophy Description==
 
In addition to the normal trophy about Link as a character, there are two trophies about him as a fighter, unlocked by completing the Adventure and All-Star modes respectively with Link on any difficulty:
 
   
 
:'''Link'''
 
:'''Link'''
 
:''Even in his youth, Link was already becoming the warrior who would carry the destiny of Hyrule (and many other lands) on his shoulders. His epic struggles against the forces of darkness are written in legend, and he is bound to the Princess Zelda and the archfiend Ganondorf by the awesome power of the Triforce.''
 
:''Even in his youth, Link was already becoming the warrior who would carry the destiny of Hyrule (and many other lands) on his shoulders. His epic struggles against the forces of darkness are written in legend, and he is bound to the Princess Zelda and the archfiend Ganondorf by the awesome power of the Triforce.''
:*The Legend of Zelda, 07/87
+
:*[[The Legend of Zelda]] [07/87]
   
 
:'''Link''' (''Smash Red'')
 
:'''Link''' (''Smash Red'')
Line 125: Line 227:
 
:''Link's Bow, Boomerang, and Bombs all take time to wield, so you may want to try drawing them in midair to prevent your foes from attacking you while you're vulnerable. The Spin Attack can score consecutive midair hits, and the final slash is very powerful. Link's Bombs are his trump card, but he can't pull one out if he's carrying another item.''
 
:''Link's Bow, Boomerang, and Bombs all take time to wield, so you may want to try drawing them in midair to prevent your foes from attacking you while you're vulnerable. The Spin Attack can score consecutive midair hits, and the final slash is very powerful. Link's Bombs are his trump card, but he can't pull one out if he's carrying another item.''
 
:*Up & B: [[Spin Attack]]
 
:*Up & B: [[Spin Attack]]
:*Down & B: [[Bomb (move)#Link's bombs|Bomb]]
+
:*Down & B: [[Bomb (Link)|Bomb]]
   
 
<center>
 
<center>
  +
<gallery captionalign="center" bordercolor="accent" orientation="none">
<gallery>
 
 
Link trophy (SSBM).jpg|Character Trophy
 
Link trophy (SSBM).jpg|Character Trophy
LinkTrophy2 copy.jpg|Smash Red
+
Link smash trophy (SSBM).jpg|Smash Red
LinkTrophy3 copy.jpg|Smash Blue
+
Link smash 2 trophy (SSBM).jpg|Smash Blue
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
 
</center>
 
</center>
   
==[[Palette Swap (SSBM)|Alternate Costumes]]==
+
==[[Palette Swap (SSBM)#Link|Alternate Costumes]]==
[[Image:LinkColorsMelee.png|frame|center|Link's alternate costumes in SSBM]]
+
[[Image:LinkColorsMelee.png|frame|center|Link's alternate costumes in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''.]]
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery>
 
Linkscreenko.JPG
 
</gallery>
 
   
 
==Trivia==
 
==Trivia==
 
*Link and his clone, Young Link, both use the same model for the [[Hookshot]]. This makes Young Link's look rather large compared to Link's.
 
*Link and his clone, Young Link, both use the same model for the [[Hookshot]]. This makes Young Link's look rather large compared to Link's.
 
*Link has an interesting hitbox with the [[Home-Run Bat]]. When the opponent is in the air and slightly behind him, and he performs a Smash Attack with the bat in the opposite direction, the bat will actually deal a greater knockback than a front hit.
 
*Link has an interesting hitbox with the [[Home-Run Bat]]. When the opponent is in the air and slightly behind him, and he performs a Smash Attack with the bat in the opposite direction, the bat will actually deal a greater knockback than a front hit.
  +
*Link is the only character in Melee who is hard-countered by somebody else on the matchup chart who also hard-counters a character.
   
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
Line 153: Line 251:
 
{{SSBMCharacters}}
 
{{SSBMCharacters}}
 
{{Zelda universe}}
 
{{Zelda universe}}
[[Category:Characters (SSBM)]]
+
[[Category:Starters (SSBM)]]
[[Category:Playable Characters]]
 
[[Category:The Legend of Zelda universe]]
 
[[Category:Trophies (SSBM)]]
 
[[Category:Legend of Zelda Trophies]]
 
[[Category:Starters]]
 
 
[[Category:Veterans]]
 
[[Category:Veterans]]
[[Category:Characters]]
 

Revision as of 23:38, 28 November 2018

This article is about Link's appearance in Super Smash Bros. Melee. For the character in other contexts, see Link. For information about Link's clone, see Young Link.
A sword-wielding hero who also boasts long-range attacks.
—Description from Melee's manual.

Announced at E3 2001, Link (リンク, Link) is a starter character in Super Smash Bros. Melee. Link returns as a veteran character from the previous game, acting mostly the same as before, as a swordsman with powerful short-range attacks and a wide variety of long-range attacks. Link, however, has received some large buffs, making him a considerably better fighter in Melee.

Link is ranked 18th in the tier list, in the E tier, which is much higher than his second to last current rank in the Smash 64 tier list (11th out of 12), and two below his clone, Young Link. Link's placement is due to a very good approach, due to some low lag aerials (with his neutral and forward air), a good variety of projectiles and a very high air speed. A disjointed hitbox also gives Link a slight advantage against others, as well as a fully functional shield that can block a wide variety of projectiles. Link is also a potent edge-guarder in the NTSC versions of the game; his Spin Attack is possibly the best semi-spike in the game, though he still has many other options. Link, however, suffers from a rather high falling speed and a high weight, making him an easy target for chain grabbing and combos. His recovery is also predictable, though he can extend it slightly.

Attributes

Link SSBM

Link has poor dash speed, but he makes up for this with great range for most attacks, a variety of projectiles and quite fast air speed. He also has powerful Smash Attacks and Aerial Attacks, but their high lag and moderate startup times counterbalance this unless the player L-cancels which can remedy this. Link's grab range is large due to being a tether grab, and can be used as a wall-grapple. However, it leaves Link vulnerable if it misses, and it's difficult to grab airborne opponents, which minimizes chaingrabing opportunities. Link's Up Special Move, Spin Attack, is a quick finisher and a good edgeguarding tool. Link is vulnerable to chain grabs and combos due to his fairly heavy weight, fast falling speed, and comparatively large size.

Link is a very reliable edgeguarder due to his powerful semi-spike. Those who are trying to recover must be careful when Link is on the ledge. It's better to attack and KO from the ground than from the air. If sent to the air by Link, the semi-spike can be deadly. Falco is a candidate for being killed in one semi-spike such as other fast fallers like Captain Falcon, Fox, Sheik, Roy and Marth.

Changes from Smash 64 to Melee

In his transition from Super Smash Bros. to Super Smash Bros. Melee, Link received numerous buffs, most of which made him a more potent fighter, going from bottom tier to mid-low tier.

Aesthetics

  • Notice Link now has an added belt going over his shoulder and around his waist.
  • Notice Link has a new taunt.
  • Notice Link's helpless animation has changed.
  • Notice Link has a different dash animation.
  • -nerf- Link is lighter 108-104

Attributes

  • Buff Link is generally a faster character, with a higher air speed and faster aerials, improving his combo and aerial games.
  • Buff Link's recovery was strongly buffed; it is considerably longer and more flexible, with Spin Attack granting a much higher vertical distance, and his higher air speed improving his horizontal recovery. He also has new options, with the wall grapple and bomb recovery.

Ground attacks

  • Buff Dash attack has a new animation that is a running slash rather than a stab. It has slightly better combo ability and can be considered an improvement.
  • Buff Forward smash is considerably stronger than his old forward smash.
    • Buff Pressing the A button after the first slash will make Link perform a second slash that is stronger than the first slash in terms of damage and knockback.
  • Nerf Up smash is slower, has less vertical range, and has smaller hitboxes.

Aerial attacks

Grabs and throws

  • Buff Link has been given an up throw and a down throw, providing him with more options.
  • Buff The Hookshot now has considerably less startup and ending lag.
  • Nerf The range of the Hookshot is shorter and can no longer grab aerial opponents.
  • Nerf Both forward and back throws deals less damage.

Special moves

  • Buff Link has a new neutral special move, Hero's Bow, which makes Link fire an arrow from his bow. The arrow's power and distance can be increased by holding the B button.
  • Buff Boomerangs travel faster and have less startup lag, as well as having a higher chance of returning to Link.
    • Nerf The Boomerang cannot travel as far as it did in Smash 64.
    • Notice Due to the addition of the Hero's Bow, Boomerang is now a side special move.
  • Buff Grounded Spin Attack is now a very powerful edge-guarding option.
    • Nerf Aerial Spin Attack, due to now being a multi-hit attack, can no longer KO reliably unless the last hit is landed—and even then, it has less power than in Smash 64.

PAL differences

Like other characters, Link received some changes in the PAL version of Melee.

  • Nerf Spin Attack has lost its semi-spike properties, making it slightly less useful for edge-guarding, though it still acts as a potent attack.
  • Nerf The boomerang superjump and chain dance glitches were removed; these were also removed in NTSC version 1.2.

Moveset

  Image Name Damage Description
Neutral attack Link Neutral attack SSBM   5% Link performs a three-hit combo consisting on a vertical slash, a horizontal slash, and then a forward stab. If the A button is pressed rapidly after the second hit, Link will instead initiate a rapid stab attack that deals weak knockback.
3%
6%
1% (loop)
Forward tilt Link Forward tilt SSBM   13% (body), 14% (tip & hilt), 15% (base) Link performs a downward swing with his sword. This attack has relatively high knockback for a forward tilt.
Up tilt Link Up tilt SSBM   9% Link swing his sword in an arc over his body.
Down tilt Link Down tilt SSBM   11% Link swings his sword across the ground. This attack can meteor smash a ledge-grabbing foe only if they come in contact with the hilt of Link's sword.
Dash attack Link Dash attack SSBM   9% (tip), 12% (base), 11% (body) Link dashes forward and performs a downward strike with his sword.
Forward smash Link Forward smash SSBM   13% (tip), 14% (body) Link swings his sword downward and if the A button is pressed after the first strike, he performs a horizontal strike that deals more damage and knockback. Interestingly, the second slash does not increase in damage or knockback whenever it's "charging".
18% (tip), 20% (body)
Up smash Link Up smash SSBM   4% (hit 1), 2% (hit 2), 9%-10% (hit 3) Link slashes in an upward arc three times, with the last hit dealing the most damage and launching the opponent vertically. Deals below-average knockback for an up smash attack.
Down smash Link Down smash SSBM   13% (front hit tip), 11% (back hit tip), 16% (blade & body), 17% (hilt) Link sweeps with his sword in front of and then behind him. The first hit comes out fast, though the second hit has some startup lag.
Neutral aerial Link Neutral aerial SSBM   11%/9%/8% (clean foot/back leg/hip) 7% (late) Link does a jump kick attack that contains sex kick properties. This attack comes out very fast and has low ending and landing lag.
Forward aerial Link Forward aerial SSBM   13% (hit 1), 8% (hit 2) Link performs a double spinning sword attack. It's usually difficult for both hits to connect and the first hit doesn't deal much knockback, making it a situational attack to use while edge-guarding.
Back aerial Link Back aerial SSBM   7% (hits 1-2) Link performs a spinning double back-kick attack. The properties of the first hit makes it difficult for the second hit to reliably connect, especially at higher percents.
Up aerial Link Up aerial SSBM   16% (clean), 12% (late) Link thrusts his sword upward. Acts as a reliable vertical finisher at higher percentages.
Down aerial Link Down aerial SSBM   22%/20% (clean), 19% (late), 6%/8% (after bounce) Link uses his sword as a pogo stick, stabbing opponents below him. Hitting an enemy with this attack will make Link bounce in the air, making it possible to hit the same enemy again, but this only works if the opponent's damage is low. Has huge landing lag if Link lands in the middle of the animation (though L-cancelling helps).
Grab aerial Link Grab aerial SSBM Hookshot 6% Link uses his Hookshot to attack enemies while airborne. Can be used to wall grapple. This attack has the unusual property of not suffering from stale-move negation.
Grab Link Grab SSBM Hookshot Link fires his Hookshot forward to grab enemies from afar.
Pummel Link Pummel SSBM   3% Link bashes the opponent's head with the hilt of his sword.
Forward throw Link Forward throw SSBM   3% (hit 1), 3% (throw) Link attacks with a front kick, knocking the opponent away.
Back throw Link Back throw SSBM   3% (hit 1), 3% (throw) Link throws the opponent behind him and kicks them away.
Up throw Link Up throw SSBM   2% (hit 1), 4% (throw) Link throws the opponent above him attack them with an upward slash.
Down throw Link Down throw SSBM   4% (hit 1), 2% (throw) Link places the opponent on the ground and elbow drops them.
Floor attack (front) Link Floor attack (front) SSBM   6% Link quickly gets up and slashes on both sides.
Floor attack (back) Link Floor attack (back) SSBM   6% Link quickly gets up and slashes on both sides.
Edge attack (fast) Link Edge attack (fast) SSBM   8% Link returns to the stage and performs a downward slash with his sword.
Edge attack (slow) Link Edge attack (slow) SSBM   8% Link slowly returns to the stage and thrusts his sword forward. Only the sword has a hitbox—meaning foes close to the end of the ledge Link was on can avoid this attack completely.
Neutral special Bow (SSBM) Bow 5-18% Link fires an arrow at the opponent. The damage and speed the arrow flies will increase the longer you hold down the B button.
Side special Boomerang Link (SSBM) Boomerang 14% (throw), 16% (smash throw), 6% (far), 3% (return) Link throws his boomerang at the opponent. The trajectory the boomerang flies can be altered by tilting up or down on the control stick. When inputted as a smash attack, the boomerang will fly farther and deal slightly more damage. Only one Boomerang can be on the field at a time.
Up special Spin Attack Link (SSBM) Spin Attack Ground: 15% (clean), 5% (late)
Air: 4%/6% (hit 1), 2% (hits 2-4), 4%/6% (hit 5)
When used on the ground, Link performs a spinning attack on the ground that only hits once. When used in the air, Link performs a jumping spinning attack that can hit multiple times and be used as a recovery move. Link can grab an edge of a stage even if he isn't facing one, but it can only be done before he performs the last slash.
Down special Bomb Link (SSBM) Bomb 1~7.2% (contact), 4% (explosion) Link pulls out a bomb that explodes on impact or when the fuse expires. When used in the air, the explosion can grant Link another Spin Attack if one has already been used, making it useful when returing to the stage.

Taunt

  • Sheathes sword and shield and brushes the hair out of his eyes, grunting slightly.

Matchups

Super Smash Bros. Melee Character Matchups
  Fox Head 01 (SSBM) Falco Head 01 (SSBM) Marth Head 01 (SSBM) Sheik Head 01 (SSBM) Jigglypuff Head 01 (SSBM) Peach Head 01 (SSBM) Ice Climbers Head 01 (SSBM) Captain Falcon Head 01 (SSBM) Pikachu Head 01 (SSBM) Samus Head 01 (SSBM) Dr. Mario Head 01 (SSBM) Yoshi Head 01 (SSBM) Luigi Head 01 (SSBM) Ganondorf Head 01 (SSBM) Mario Head 01 (SSBM) Young Link Head 01 (SSBM) Donkey Kong Head 01 (SSBM) Link Head 01 (SSBM) Mr. Game & Watch Head 01 (SSBM) Roy Head 01 (SSBM) Mewtwo Head 01 (SSBM) Zelda Head 01 (SSBM) Ness Head 01 (SSBM) Pichu Head 01 (SSBM) Bowser Head 01 (SSBM) Kirby Head 01 (SSBM) Avg.
Link -3 -3 -2 -3 -1 -1 ±0 -3 ±0 +1 -1 +2 -1 -1 -1 -1 ±0 Mirror match +1 +1 +1 +2 +1 +2 +3 ±0 ±0

Combos

  • A good combo to use in one on one battles is to use the Boomerang, to momentarily disable the character of any attacks (they will pop into the air), use this momentarily, cease fire to use a Spin Attack and send them flying away. Must be done quickly or else chances are they will attack.
  • Another great combo is to grab the opponent, throw them up/down, depending on character and damage the opponent has, if its a fast faller then use Up Throw, if they have high damage use the Down Throw anyway, then instantly use the Spin Attack. On high damage this is lethal. Follow the Spin Attack with a Boomerang and charge in for the kill. A Forward Aerial or another Spin Attack usually does the trick.
  • Up Throw, Up Aerial, then Spin Attack. If the enemy still lives, Up Smash.
  • Pull a bomb, Spin Attack, throw the bomb into the air, grapple the opponent and throw them upwards. If done quickly enough the opponent will be hurled into the bomb and fly away, doing no harm. However if too much time is wasted, the bomb will bounce off the opponent and land on Link.
  • Down Tilt, jump, Forward Aerial or Neutral Aerial.
  • Down Throw, Jump, then Down Aerial. If done correctly, Down Aerial will strike the enemy as soon as they get up. Great for racking up the enemy's %.
  • Down Throw, turn around, Down Tilt, then Spin Attack. May not work if the enemy is at a high %.
  • For more tricks and combos, go to this tutorial.

Trophy description

In addition to the normal trophy about Link as a character, there are two trophies about him as a fighter, unlocked by completing the Adventure and All-Star modes respectively with Link on any difficulty.

Link
Even in his youth, Link was already becoming the warrior who would carry the destiny of Hyrule (and many other lands) on his shoulders. His epic struggles against the forces of darkness are written in legend, and he is bound to the Princess Zelda and the archfiend Ganondorf by the awesome power of the Triforce.
Link (Smash Red)
Burdened with a shield, a heavy sword, and plenty of equipment, Link is not a very mobile character. Nevertheless, he's skilled with the blade, and his varied supply of missile weapons makes him a powerful fighter. To master Link, you must control the pace by balancing your long-range attacks with head-to-head swordplay.
Link (Smash Blue)
Link's Bow, Boomerang, and Bombs all take time to wield, so you may want to try drawing them in midair to prevent your foes from attacking you while you're vulnerable. The Spin Attack can score consecutive midair hits, and the final slash is very powerful. Link's Bombs are his trump card, but he can't pull one out if he's carrying another item.

Alternate Costumes

LinkColorsMelee

Link's alternate costumes in Super Smash Bros. Melee.

Trivia

  • Link and his clone, Young Link, both use the same model for the Hookshot. This makes Young Link's look rather large compared to Link's.
  • Link has an interesting hitbox with the Home-Run Bat. When the opponent is in the air and slightly behind him, and he performs a Smash Attack with the bat in the opposite direction, the bat will actually deal a greater knockback than a front hit.
  • Link is the only character in Melee who is hard-countered by somebody else on the matchup chart who also hard-counters a character.

External links

ZeldaSymbol The Legend of Zelda universe
Characters Link (64  · Melee  · Brawl  · 3DS/Wii U  · Ultimate)
Sheik (Melee  · Brawl  · 3DS/Wii U  · Ultimate)
Princess Zelda (Melee  · Brawl  · 3DS/Wii U  · Ultimate)
Young Link (Melee  · Ultimate)
Ganondorf (Melee  · Brawl  · 3DS/Wii U  · Ultimate)
Toon Link (Brawl  · 3DS/Wii U  · Ultimate)
Side characters Bosses Dark Link  · Ganon
Assist Trophies Tingle  · Skull Kid  · Midna  · Ghirahim  · Moon
Mii Fighter Costumes Link  · Princess Zelda  · Sheik  · Majora's Mask  · Yiga Clan  · Skull Kid  · Ancient Soldier Gear
Background characters Four Giants  · Moon  · Tingle  · Toon Link  · Alfonso
Stage Hazards King Bulblin  · Koume and Kotake
Enemies Bubble  · Cucco  · Darknut  · Like Like  · Octorok  · Peahat  · ReDead  · Stalfos
Other Navi  · Beedle
Stages Hyrule Castle  · Great Bay  · Temple  · Bridge of Eldin  · Pirate Ship  · Gerudo Valley  · Spirit Train  · Skyloft  · Great Plateau Tower
Underground Maze  · Majora's Mask
Items Beetle  · Bombchu  · Bunny Hood  · Cucco  · Deku Nut  · Fairy Bottle  · Gust Bellows  · Heart Container  · Triforce
Music List of Music (The Legend of Zelda series)
Collectibles Trophies Melee Trophies  · Brawl Trophies  · 3DS Trophies  · Wii U Trophies
Stickers List of stickers (The Legend of Zelda series)
Spirits List of spirits (The Legend of Zelda series)
Masterpieces The Legend of Zelda  · Zelda II: The Adventure of Link  · The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time