The WhatsNext verdict
If you have a same-room group and enjoy mastering fast, precise movement, Melee delivers a deep, highly competitive fighter. It is a poor fit if difficult execution or uneven serious-play matchups will frustrate you.
What it does best
A fighting system with an almost bottomless technical ceiling
The definitive same-room multiplayer party fighter
Fast, responsive fighting where every decision becomes movement
A relentless pace that turns matches into execution flow
What might put you off
A steep technical barrier to serious play
Uneven competitive roster and matchup balance
The setup
What you are walking into
A crossover platform fighting game featuring characters from Nintendo franchises including Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Star Fox, Pokémon, and Fire Emblem. Unlike traditional fighters, the goal is to knock opponents off the stage rather than deplete a health bar. Damage accumulates as a percentage, increasing the distance a character is launched when hit. Players use simple one-button inputs combined with joystick directions to execute moves. The game supports up to four players simultaneously and includes various single-player modes alongside its multiplayer focus. Its fast-paced, aggressive gameplay fostered a long-running competitive esports scene that persisted well beyond the game's original lifespan.
Where it lives
Genre
Vibe
Up next
