A complete summary of Greninja’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
Greninja’s best equipment setup concentrates on Attack and Defense (+80 Attack / +80 Defense / -40 Speed) at the cost of Speed. In terms of bonus effects, Auto-heal capability, Lifesteal, and Improved escapability are essential. Greninja does not benefit from any custom moves.
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, down tilt, and neutral special (Water Shuriken). Greninja’s infinite jab is one of the most efficient available: it inflicts high damage and is difficult to escape, and serves as the character’s best damage-racking tool. Forward tilt is stronger but slower, and down tilt can link into a forward smash. When using Water Shuriken, use uncharged projectiles from a distance, and charged ones to edgeguard.
- Main KO moves: forward smash, up smash, and neutral special (Water Shuriken). Forward smash is Greninja’s most reliable KO option. It’s moderately fast, but has punishable ending lag. However, Greninja’s up smash is its strongest move when sweetspotted. Unfortunately, the sweetspot is difficult to land, relegating its use to an aerial punish. A fully-charged Water Shuriken also has decent KO potential near the edge.
- Situational moves: down special (Substitute). Greninja’s Substitute isn’t always effective due to its delayed reaction time, but it can be aimed in several directions to disorient opponents. The amiibo is extraordinarily accurate in its aim, so encouraging the use of Substitute is generally a good idea.
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