A complete summary of Shulk’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
Shulk’s best equipment setup balances Attack and Defense (+60 Attack / +60 Defense / 0 Speed). In terms of bonus effects, Auto-heal capability, Lifesteal, and Improved escapability are essential.
Shulk benefits from the Decisive Monado Arts and Power Vision custom moves. Compared to the default version of the move, Decisive Monado Arts last longer and cannot be cancelled; because the AI will not cancel its default Monado Arts under any circumstances, this is a direct upgrade. Power Vision boasts greatly increased damage and knockback.
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 up tilt. Jab is one of Shulk’s fastest attacks and serves as a solid “get-off-me” move. Shulk’s tilts have impressive strength and reach, making them great neutral options.
- Main KO moves: forward smash and up smash. In addition to having incredible damage and knockback, Shulk’s forward smash is strong against shields and serves as a great edge-guarding tool. Up smash has limited horizontal range, but extends very high, making it an optimal aerial punish.
- Moves to avoid: neutral special (Decisive Monado Arts – Jump), neutral special (Decisive Monado Arts – Speed), and side special (Back Slash). The Jump and Speed Monado Arts do not bring Shulk much benefit. Shulk’s AI often prioritizes activating either the Jump or Speed Arts, which can put him at a disadvantage in certain situations. Back Slash is rather weak and Shulk has a tendency to self-destruct with it, so avoid the move entirely during training.
- Situational moves: neutral special (Decisive Monado Arts – Buster), neutral special (Decisive Monado Arts – Smash), and neutral special (Decisive Monado Arts – Shield). The Buster Art is pink and increases the damage of Shulk’s attacks. Activate this Art when the opponent is at low percentages. The Smash Art is red and increases the knockback of Shulk’s attacks. Activate it against a weakened opponent. The Shield Art is yellow and increases Shulk’s defensive capabilities. Activate the Art when you have taken over 100% damage.
If you would like to read more guides, follow this link to return to the master list.
