Controls & getting started
Attacks, shielding, recovery and match rules on Nintendo 64.
Original Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 64 (1999). Controls use the N64 controller; regional balance differences and later sequels are outside this introductory guide.
Build damage, then launch
Attacks increase an opponent’s damage percentage. Higher damage generally means greater knockback. Send rivals beyond the arena boundaries to score a KO.
Move and attack
Use the Control Stick to move and A for normal attacks. A quick directional flick with A performs a smash attack. B, up + B and down + B activate special moves.
Jump, shield and grab
Jump with a C button or by pushing the stick up. Z shields; R grabs. You can also grab with Z + A. Avoid holding your shield until it breaks.
Practise returning to the stage
Try a jump followed by your recovery move when knocked away. Recovery differs by fighter, so practise near the edge in Training Mode before taking risks in a match.
Choose your rules
Time matches reward KOs and penalise falls. Stock matches give each fighter a limited number of lives. VS Mode supports up to four players, including computer opponents.
Know your last recovery option
Practise moving away from the edge and returning with each available jump and the up-special move. Notice when you have spent an option and where you can still land. During a real match, avoid immediately using every action at once; keeping a jump available can change the route back. A reliable recovery turns many ordinary knockbacks into another chance to play instead of an automatic lost stock.
Practise one skill at a time in Training Mode before trying it in a match.