A complete summary of Ness’s performance in Super Smash Bros. 4 can be found on the character’s information page. It includes strengths and weaknesses, AI quirks, and an archive of tournament representation and results.
Stats & Bonus Effects
Ness’ best equipment setup involves a strong concentration in Attack and Defense (+100 Attack / +100 Defense / -80 Speed) at the cost of Speed. In terms of bonus effects, Improved launch ability, Lifesteal, and Improved escapability are essential.
Ness benefits from the Forward PSI Magnet custom move. It has enhanced range, heals more health when absorbing projectiles, and has a hitbox when the magnet is released.
Recommended Training
An amiibo becomes strongest if it is mirror matched all the way to Level 50. This is done to teach the AI which moves to rely on; after reaching Level 50, it will use this training as a base and expand upon it with matchup experience. While training your amiibo, do not play aggressively or go off-stage; instead, remain grounded and keep the following moves in mind:
- Neutral options: jab, forward tilt, up smash (Around the World), down smash (Walk the Dog), and side special (PK Fire). When it comes to early-game play, Ness has many options. His jab is fast, and should be used against opponents at point blank. Forward tilt is slower, but is stronger and can be angled. Up smash can be used as a situational catch-all, as its range covers a wide arc above the character. Down smash covers an enemy’s getup options quite well, and should be used at the stage’s edge. PK Fire is Ness’ main damage-racking move, and should be used to the point of spamming. Hit your amiibo with as many consecutive PK Fires as possible before finishing with a forward smash or PK Thunder.
- Main KO moves: forward smash (Batter Up!), up special (PK Thunder 2), and back throw (Reverse PK Throw). Ness’ forward smash is incredibly powerful, but it’s also incredibly slow. As a result, it should only be used when your amiibo is trapped in a pillar of PK Fire and is within KO range. Try to attack with the very tip of the bat. PK Thunder 2 is one of Ness’ best moves, as opposing amiibo often run right into it. Since all amiibo run Improved escapability, Ness’ back throw isn’t very useful. Regardless, you should grab your amiibo and immediately back throw (without pummeling) whenever possible.
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