Super Smash Bros. remains one of Nintendo’s most active franchises even seven years after Ultimate’s launch. From official patches that quietly prepare the series for Switch 2 to community-driven mods that keep the N64 original alive, there’s a lot to catch up on—plus a major controversy shaking the competitive scene. Here’s what you need to know.
Ultimate Update 13.0.4: Small Patch, Big Implications
Nintendo’s latest firmware for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate arrived on June 24 and looks minor on the surface—mostly housekeeping for custom Mii Fighter thumbnails and a crash affecting cross-play with the upcoming Switch 2. Behind the scenes, however, this patch confirms that Ultimate will remain Nintendo’s flagship party-fighter on the next console.
Internal testers report that the game now boots natively on dev kits using the Switch 2’s new DLSS-assisted upscaling, delivering a sharper 1080p handheld image without touching frame-data or balance. Competitive players can rest easy: no character buffs or nerfs, but a smoother path for tournaments once the new hardware launches.
Smash Remix 2.0: A New Chapter for the N64 Classic
While Nintendo polishes Ultimate, modders have overhauled the original 1999 Super Smash Bros. in spectacular fashion. Smash Remix 2.0 adds seven fresh fighters—headlined by Crash Bandicoot and a fully animated Lanky Kong—alongside widescreen support, 60 fps play, and an optional rollback-netcode build for online bouts. The update also introduces modes like King of the Hill and Tag Team, bringing modern party-game chaos to Nintendo 64 hardware via flash cartridge or emulator. Given Nintendo’s strict stance on ROM distribution, Remix’s developers provide only patch files, but the thriving Discord community offers setup guides, bespoke tier lists, and weekly online brackets.
Where’s the Next Official Smash?
Industry insiders say series creator Masahiro Sakurai negotiated time off from Smash to direct Kirby Air Riders, a spiritual successor to Kirby Air Ride aimed at showcasing the Switch 2’s 120 Hz display mode. The deal reportedly grants Sakurai creative control over the next Smash only after Kirby ships—likely 2027 at the earliest. In his YouTube design diaries, Sakurai has emphasized pacing himself to avoid the burnout that shadowed Ultimate’s two-year Fighters Pass cycle. For now, Nintendo’s strategy appears to be a robust Ultimate port plus timed in-game events tied to new Switch 2 releases rather than rushing a full sequel.
Competitive Scene Spotlight: The Mango Suspension
On June 21, legendary Melee player Joseph “Mang0” Marquez was suspended from Twitch and dropped by long-time sponsor Cloud9 following on-stream harassment of fellow creators during a drinking segment. Tournament organizers quickly updated their codes of conduct, and several upcoming majors removed Mang0 from invitational lineups. The incident rekindles debate over player behavior and alcoholic “party streams,” especially as Smash esports pushes for broader sponsorship and broadcasting deals. In response, community leaders are drafting stricter event-side rules—mirroring policies already standard in Riot- and Valve-run circuits—to ensure safer spaces without losing Smash’s grassroots vibe.
Quick Reference
| Topic | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Ultimate Patch 13.0.4 | Bug fixes + Switch 2 readiness; no balance changes |
| Smash Remix 2.0 | Adds seven fighters, new modes, widescreen, and rollback netplay |
| Next Official Smash | Likely 2027+, after Sakurai’s Kirby Air Riders wraps |
| Esports Controversy | Mang0 suspended; stricter conduct rules under development |
Super Smash Bros. thrives on both Nintendo’s steady stewardship and the community’s relentless creativity. Whether you’re a casual brawler, a combo-lab scientist, or a tournament regular eyeing the Switch 2, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the franchise.
Super Smash Bros Alternatives
Super Smash Bros has been the king of platform fighters for years. But not everyone owns a Nintendo system or wants to play with just Nintendo characters. Many great alternatives to Super Smash Bros are available across PC and other consoles that offer similar fun fighting action with unique twists.
These platform fighters range from free-to-play games to paid options with different art styles and roster sizes. Some focus on well-known characters from TV shows and movies, while others create their own fighters. Each game keeps the core idea of knocking opponents off stages but adds its own special moves and game modes.
1) Brawlhalla
Brawlhalla stands out as a free-to-play platform fighter that has gained massive popularity since its release. The game features a rotating roster of over 50 unique characters called “Legends,” each with their own fighting styles and weapons.
Unlike Smash Bros, Brawlhalla uses a weapon-based combat system. Players start each match without weapons and must pick them up from the stage. This adds a layer of strategy not found in many other platform fighters.
The controls are simple to learn but hard to master. New players can jump in quickly, while veteran fighters can still find depth in the combat mechanics.
Brawlhalla has cross-platform play across PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. This wide availability helps it maintain a large and active player base.
Weekly tournaments and seasonal championships offer both casual and competitive play options. The game’s esports scene has grown steadily with events featuring substantial prize pools.
The art style uses clean, colorful graphics that run well even on lower-end computers. This accessibility has helped Brawlhalla reach millions of players worldwide.
Guest characters from other franchises like WWE, Adventure Time, and The Walking Dead have been added over time. These crossovers bring fresh gameplay styles while attracting fans from different communities.
According to Game Rant, Brawlhalla ranks among the top Smash Bros alternatives available today. Its free-to-play model lets players try the full game before deciding to purchase additional content.
Regular updates keep the game fresh with balance changes and new content. The developers actively listen to community feedback, making improvements based on player suggestions.
2) MultiVersus
MultiVersus stands out as a strong contender in the platform fighter genre. The game features a diverse roster of characters from various Warner Bros. properties including DC Comics, Cartoon Network, and classic Hannah-Barbera cartoons.
Players can battle as Superman, Tom & Jerry, Shaggy from Scooby-Doo, and characters from Steven Universe among many others. This mix of characters creates fun matchups that you won’t find in other fighting games.
What makes MultiVersus shine is its focus on online competitive play. The game is on its way to blowing Smash away in terms of online features. Its netcode is much more reliable than what Nintendo offers with Super Smash Bros.
The game emphasizes 2v2 team battles, adding a cooperative element that sets it apart from other platform fighters. Players must learn to work together and combine their characters’ abilities to win.
MultiVersus is free-to-play, making it easy for anyone to jump in and try it out. This accessibility has helped it build a solid player base.
Character balance receives regular updates from the developers. They actively listen to community feedback and make adjustments as needed.
For those seeking alternatives for online competitive play, MultiVersus delivers a polished experience. The game combines familiar platform fighter mechanics with its own unique systems.
Unlike Smash Bros, MultiVersus was built from the ground up with online play in mind. This design choice results in smoother matches with less lag.
The game ranks among the best Super Smash Bros. clones available today. It captures the fun of the platform fighter genre while adding its own distinct flavor.
3) Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl
Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl brings favorite cartoon characters to the fighting arena. Players can choose from a roster of Nick stars like SpongeBob, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and many others.
The game follows the platform fighter style that Smash Bros made popular. Characters battle on floating stages and try to knock each other off the screen instead of depleting health bars.
What makes this game stand out is its fast-paced, highly competitive gameplay. The fighting mechanics are built to please serious competition fans.
Fans should know that a sequel, Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2, has improved on the original. It ranks as the 4th best platform fighter that isn’t Smash Bros according to some gaming sites.
The original game launched without voice acting, which disappointed some players. However, it gained respect for its tight controls and commitment to competitive play.
For PC gamers looking for Smash-like games, Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl offers a solid option. Though some Reddit users have noted it’s not the best alternative, it still provides fun battles with recognizable characters.
The game supports both casual play with friends and more serious competition. Its mechanics are easy to learn but have enough depth for skilled players.
Players who love Nick characters will enjoy seeing their favorites duke it out in colorful, cartoon-inspired arenas.
4) Rivals of Aether
Rivals of Aether stands out as one of the best platform fighters available for PC gamers. Created by Dan Fornace, this indie gem captures the competitive spirit of Smash Bros while adding its own unique mechanics.
The game features a cast of elemental-themed characters, each with distinct fighting styles and special abilities. Unlike Smash Bros, Rivals of Aether doesn’t use grab ledges or shields, creating a faster-paced combat system that many competitive players enjoy.
One major advantage is its excellent rollback netcode through online play. This makes online matches feel smooth and responsive, even with players from different regions.
The pixel art style gives Rivals a charming look that pays homage to 16-bit classics while keeping action clear and readable. Sound design complements the visuals with punchy effects that make each hit feel satisfying.
Many players consider Rivals of Aether one of the best Smash-like games ever made. Its tight controls and balanced gameplay have earned it respect in fighting game communities worldwide.
Workshop support on Steam allows players to create and download custom characters, stages, and modes. This feature has led to an explosion of creative content that keeps the game fresh years after its release.
The sequel, Rivals of Aether II, is in development and promises to build on what made the original great. Early previews suggest it will offer even more refined gameplay with improved visuals.
For PC players seeking a Smash Bros alternative, few options match Rivals of Aether’s polish and depth. Its focus on competitive play makes it perfect for those who enjoy mastering complex fighting systems.
5) PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale
PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale was Sony’s answer to Nintendo’s Super Smash Bros. Released in 2012, it brought together characters from various PlayStation franchises to battle it out.
The game featured fighters like Kratos from God of War, Nathan Drake from Uncharted, and Sackboy from LittleBigPlanet. Each character had unique moves and special attacks based on their original games.
Unlike Smash Bros, PlayStation All-Stars used a different scoring system. Players had to use special moves to knock out opponents rather than pushing them off the stage. This key difference changed how matches played out.
The arenas in the game combined elements from different PlayStation games. You might fight in a level that started in God of War but then shifted to elements from Patapon or LittleBigPlanet.
Some fans consider it far superior to Smash Bros, though this is a hotly debated topic. The game didn’t reach the same level of success as its Nintendo rival.
PlayStation All-Stars is often compared to other fighting games like Mortal Kombat and Tekken. While not as famous, it still offers fun gameplay for PlayStation fans.
The game is now old but remains a unique part of PlayStation history. For PS4 and PS5 owners looking for a Smash-like experience, it’s worth checking out if you can find a copy.
Players who enjoyed this game might also like newer options such as Brawlhalla or MultiVersus, which offer similar party fighting game experiences on PlayStation consoles.
6) Brawlout
Brawlout is a platform fighting game that offers a solid alternative to Super Smash Bros. Released in 2017, it features a roster of original characters with unique fighting styles and abilities.
The game includes guest characters from other indie titles like Juan from Guacamelee and The Drifter from Hyper Light Drifter. These crossovers add familiar faces to the mix for players who enjoy indie games.
Combat in Brawlout feels fast and fluid. The game puts a stronger focus on combat rather than items, making it appeal to competitive players who prefer skill-based matches.
One unique feature of Brawlout is the Rage Meter. This meter fills as players take damage, allowing them to unleash powerful moves when fully charged. It adds an extra layer of strategy to matches.
The game supports both local and online multiplayer modes. Up to four players can battle it out locally, making it great for parties and get-togethers with friends.
Brawlout runs on multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. This wide availability means most gamers can try it regardless of their preferred gaming system.
While Brawlout may not match the polish of Smash Bros, it offers a decent experience for those looking for a similar fighting game. Its lower price point also makes it a budget-friendly option.
The character customization system lets players unlock new skins and outfits. This adds replay value as you work to collect everything for your favorite fighters.
7) Gang Beasts
Gang Beasts offers a hilarious twist on fighting games that Smash Bros fans will enjoy. This physics-based multiplayer brawler features gelatinous characters that wobble and flop around various hazardous environments.
Unlike traditional fighters, Gang Beasts doesn’t focus on complex combos. Instead, players grab, punch, and throw opponents off platforms to win. The unpredictable physics engine creates funny and unexpected moments in every match.
The game shines brightest in local multiplayer with friends. You can mimic some of Gang Beasts’ original gameplay elements through simple controls that are easy to learn but hard to master.
Released in 2014, Gang Beasts has earned its place as one of the best games inspired by Smash Bros. It captures the chaotic party game feel while adding its unique spin.
The environments add another layer of fun. From grinder factories to moving trucks, each stage features dangers that players must avoid while fighting opponents.
Customization options let players dress their wobbly fighters in silly outfits. This adds personality to matches as you might find yourself battling a penguin, a chicken, or a character wearing a top hat.
While it’s not as technical as Smash Bros, Gang Beasts delivers plenty of laughs. The game focuses on fun rather than competitive play, making it perfect for casual gaming sessions.
Gang Beasts works great for players of all skill levels. Its simple controls mean anyone can jump in and have fun immediately.
8) Slap City
Slap City stands out as a fun platform fighter that many Smash Bros fans enjoy on PC. Made by Ludosity, this game features characters from their other games like Ittle Dew and Princess Remedy.
The game offers smooth gameplay with mechanics similar to Super Smash Bros. Players knock opponents off the stage using various moves and attacks. The controls feel responsive and easy to learn.
Slap City has now left Early Access and reached its full 1.0 version. This update added new characters and features to an already solid game.
The character roster might be smaller than Smash Bros, but each fighter feels unique. They all have special moves and fighting styles that set them apart from each other.
One strong point of Slap City is its online play. The netcode works well, making online matches run smoothly most of the time. This makes it easy to find and enjoy matches with other players.
The game also has a great soundtrack that complements the fast-paced action. Many players have noted the catchy music as a positive aspect of the game.
Some players consider it one of the best Smash Bros alternatives available on PC. It captures the spirit of Smash while adding its own unique flavor to the platform fighter genre.
The game’s charming art style and humor give it a distinctive personality. These elements help it stand out in the growing crowd of platform fighters.
9) Rumble Arena
Rumble Arena offers a fun alternative to Super Smash Bros with its colorful cast of anime characters. This platform fighter brings together Digimon characters in a battle royale format that will feel familiar to Smash Bros fans.
The game features simple controls that anyone can pick up quickly. Players can jump, attack, and use special moves to knock opponents off the stage, just like in Smash Bros.
What makes Rumble Arena stand out is its Digivolution mechanic. Characters can transform into stronger forms during battles, adding an extra layer of strategy to matches.
The stages in Rumble Arena are interactive and full of hazards. These dynamic battlegrounds keep players on their toes and add excitement to every match.
There’s also a sequel called Rumble Arena 2 that many PlayStation 2 owners enjoyed as a Smash Bros alternative. It expanded the roster and added more gameplay options.
Mobile gamers can try Rumble Arena — Super Smash on Android devices. This mobile version brings a similar fighting experience to smartphones with touch controls.
The game includes several play modes including story campaigns and multiplayer battles. This variety gives players different ways to enjoy the game whether alone or with friends.
While not as polished as Nintendo’s flagship fighter, Rumble Arena delivers fast-paced combat that captures the spirit of Smash Bros. Its accessibility makes it perfect for casual players while still offering enough depth for more serious fighting game fans.
10) Rushdown Revolt
Rushdown Revolt is a fast-paced platform fighter that stands out from other Smash Bros alternatives. The game is still in beta, but it’s already making waves in the fighting game community for its unique mechanics.
What makes Rushdown Revolt special is its combo system. Players can chain attacks together with a mechanic called “spark” that allows for exciting air combos and movement options not seen in other platform fighters.
The game features a small but diverse roster of original characters. Each fighter has distinct abilities and playstyles that cater to different types of players – whether you prefer aggressive rush-down tactics or more strategic approaches.
The visual style is clean and colorful, making it easy to follow the action even during intense matches. The game runs smoothly on PC, which is important for a genre that demands split-second timing.
Online play in Rushdown Revolt uses rollback netcode, which helps create a more responsive online experience with less lag. This is a big plus for competitive players who want to test their skills against others.
Multiplayer Experience
The heart of any Smash-style game is its multiplayer mode. These games shine brightest with 2-4 players battling simultaneously on a single screen. This creates chaotic, fun moments that build lasting memories.
Most platform fighters offer:
- Local multiplayer for same-room play
- Online matchmaking for finding opponents worldwide
- Tournament modes for competitive play
- Team battles where players work together
Unlike traditional fighters, Smash-style games often include items and stage hazards that add unpredictability. This helps level the playing field between skilled and casual players.
Games like Brawlhalla and Rivals of Aether have built strong communities around their multiplayer modes. These communities create tournaments, share strategies, and welcome newcomers.
Character Variety
A diverse roster makes Smash-style games special. Players can choose fighters that match their play style or pick favorites from various franchises.
Top platform fighters feature:
- Balanced character stats (speed, weight, power)
- Unique move sets for each fighter
- Special abilities that change gameplay
- Unlockable or DLC characters to expand options
Many Smash alternatives include characters from different games or create original fighters with distinct personalities. This variety encourages players to try different characters and find their favorites.
Characters often represent different weight classes. Heavier fighters hit harder but move slower, while lighter characters zip around the stage but need more hits to win.
Combat Mechanics
Platform fighters use simpler controls than traditional fighting games. This makes them easy to pick up but still rewards skill and practice.
Key combat elements include:
- Percentage-based damage instead of health bars
- Ring-out victories by knocking opponents off stage
- Recovery moves to get back to the platform
- Directional attacks that change based on stick movement
The platform fighter genre focuses on movement and positioning. Players must master jumping, dodging, and recovery to win matches.
Attacks typically use just two buttons combined with directional inputs. This simple system creates dozens of possible moves without requiring complex button combinations. The best players understand not just how to attack, but when to use each move in different situations.
Factors to Consider in an Alternative
When looking for games like Super Smash Bros, several key elements can make or break your experience. The right alternative should match your preferred fighting style and be available on platforms you own.
Gameplay Style
The gameplay style is perhaps the most important factor when choosing a Super Smash Bros alternative. Some games stick closely to the original formula, while others add unique twists.
Look for these key gameplay elements:
- Movement mechanics: How characters jump, dash, and recover affects the overall feel
- Combat system: Check if the game uses percentages and ring-outs like Smash or health bars
- Character roster: Consider the variety and balance of fighters available
- Skill ceiling: Some games like Rivals of Aether are designed for competitive play with complex mechanics
The pace of gameplay also matters. Fast-paced games might appeal to competitive players, while slower games can be more beginner-friendly.
Platform Availability
The platforms a game is available on directly impacts who can play it and the size of the online community.
PC options have grown significantly in recent years. Games like Rivals of Aether offer Smash-like experiences with active communities. PC fighters often feature:
- More frequent updates and patches
- Potential mod support
- Keyboard or controller options
- More affordable price points
Console availability remains important for living room play. Check if the game supports:
- Cross-platform play to find matches easily
- Local multiplayer for friends and family
- Controller compatibility for your existing equipment
Many platform fighters now release on multiple systems, which helps ensure a healthy player base for online matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fighting game fans often look for games like Super Smash Bros across different platforms. These alternatives offer unique characters, mechanics, and gameplay styles while maintaining the party fighter spirit.
What are highly-rated platform fighters similar to Super Smash Bros for PC?
PC players have several excellent Smash-like games to choose from. Rivals of Aether stands out with its pixel art style and well-balanced roster focused on competitive play.
Brawlhalla is a free-to-play option that’s gained massive popularity. It features simple controls, weekly rotating free characters, and cross-platform play.
MultiVersus, though currently on hiatus, offers Warner Bros characters in a free-to-play format. The game is expected to return with improved features and more fighters.
Which games offer a comparable experience to Super Smash Bros on mobile platforms?
Mobile gamers can enjoy simplified platform fighters that work well with touch controls. Brawlhalla has a mobile version that maintains most features from its PC counterpart while optimizing for touchscreens.
Smash Legends offers quick 3-minute matches perfect for on-the-go gaming. It features simple controls and colorful characters based on fairy tales.
Rush Royale provides a more casual experience with easy-to-learn mechanics. The game focuses on short matches ideal for mobile play sessions.
Can you recommend competitive fighting games like Super Smash Bros for PS5?
PS5 players seeking Smash-like experiences have some solid options. Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl brings together characters from popular Nickelodeon shows in a platform fighter format.
PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, while older, remains a Sony-exclusive alternative featuring iconic PlayStation characters. It uses a different knockout system focusing on special moves rather than ring-outs.
MultiVersus is also planned to release on PS5 when it returns, bringing its Warner Bros roster to the platform.
Are there any notable Super Smash Bros-like games available for Xbox?
Xbox users have access to several quality platform fighters. Brawlhalla is available on Xbox consoles with full cross-play support across all platforms.
Rivals of Aether offers its refined competitive gameplay on Xbox. The game focuses on technical play with unique characters and no grabbing ledges.
MultiVersus will be available on Xbox when it relaunches. Its 2v2-focused gameplay provides a team-based twist on the platform fighter formula.
What are the top fan-made games inspired by Super Smash Bros?
Fan-made Smash alternatives have gained significant followings. Super Smash Flash 2 is a browser-based game featuring both original and familiar characters with surprisingly deep mechanics.
Fraymakers is a newer platform fighter made by fans that includes characters from indie games. It features strong customization options and mod support.
Crusade is another impressive fan project with over 80 characters. It maintains core Smash mechanics while adding unique fighters from various media.
Which cross-platform fighting games are most similar to the Super Smash Bros series?
Cross-platform fighters allow friends to play together regardless of system. Brawlhalla leads the pack with true cross-play across PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and mobile.
Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl supports cross-play between most console platforms. It features characters from shows like SpongeBob SquarePants and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
MultiVersus will return with cross-platform support. The game focuses on 2v2 matches with characters like Batman, Bugs Bunny, and Arya Stark.
