Super Smash Bros. Ultimate features a huge roster of fighters from Nintendo and other gaming franchises. However, starting a new save does not give you access to every character immediately. You must unlock most of the base-game roster by defeating challengers, completing Classic Mode, or progressing through the World of Light adventure.
If you want to unlock characters quickly, understanding how these methods work can save you time and help you build your preferred roster.
How Character Unlocks Work in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
When you begin a new game, you have access to eight fighters:
- Mario
- Donkey Kong
- Link
- Samus
- Yoshi
- Kirby
- Fox
- Pikachu
Most other base-game fighters become available after you defeat them in a special battle called a Challenger Approaching encounter. Winning the fight adds that character to your roster.
You can trigger these encounters through regular gameplay or use specific game modes to make progress more consistently. The order is not always the same, particularly when you use different characters in Classic Mode.
Method 1: Unlock Characters Through Regular Matches
One straightforward method is to play ordinary versus matches. As you play and meet the game’s unlock conditions, new challengers will appear.
Follow these steps:
- Open Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and enter a regular Smash match.
- Play the match until it ends.
- Watch for the Challenger Approaching screen.
- Defeat the new fighter in the following battle.
- Repeat the process to unlock more characters.
You do not always need to win the original Smash match to trigger a challenger. However, you must win the challenger battle to add the fighter to your roster.
This method works well if you enjoy multiplayer battles and want to unlock characters naturally. It can be less predictable if your main goal is to unlock the entire roster as quickly as possible.
Method 2: Use Classic Mode to Unlock Characters Faster
Classic Mode is a reliable option if you prefer single-player challenges. Completing a Classic Mode run triggers a challenger battle, allowing you to unlock another fighter without relying on the usual timed encounters.
To use this method:
- Select Classic Mode from the main menu.
- Choose a character you can play comfortably.
- Complete the series of battles.
- Defeat the challenger who appears after your run.
- Start another run to continue unlocking fighters.
The character you choose affects which challenger appears next. Each of the eight original fighters has an unlock path. For example, completing Classic Mode with Donkey Kong can lead to a battle against Bowser, while Mario’s path begins with Sonic.
Once you have exhausted a character’s unlock path, the game moves to other available paths. This makes Classic Mode especially useful when you want a more structured unlocking process.
Method 3: Unlock Characters in World of Light
World of Light is the game’s adventure mode. It follows Kirby as he travels through different areas, battles enemies, and attempts to rescue captured fighters.
You begin the adventure with Kirby and gradually encounter other characters as you explore the map. When you defeat a fighter in the appropriate encounter, you awaken that character and unlock them for use across the game’s regular modes.
This method takes longer than some alternatives, but it offers additional content beyond character unlocks. You can collect Spirits, discover new areas, and experience different battles along the way.
If you enjoy single-player adventures, World of Light is an excellent way to expand your roster while learning the game’s mechanics.
What Happens If You Lose a Challenger Battle?
Losing a Challenger Approaching fight does not permanently lock you out of that character. You can challenge defeated opponents again through Challenger’s Approach.
To access it, open the Games & More menu and look for the Challenger’s Approach option when it becomes available. Select the mode and attempt the rematch.
Use these tips to improve your chances:
- Choose a fighter whose attacks and recovery moves you understand.
- Watch your opponent’s movement instead of attacking constantly.
- Avoid standing near the edge when your damage is high.
- Use shields and dodges to avoid powerful attacks.
- Learn the stage layout before committing to risky moves.
Patience matters more than aggressive play. A few well-timed attacks can be more effective than repeatedly rushing your opponent.
How to Unlock Mii Fighters and DLC Characters
Mii Fighters work differently from most of the roster. You can create a Mii Brawler, Mii Swordfighter, or Mii Gunner through the game’s Mii Fighter creation menu. They do not require the usual Challenger Approaching battle.
Downloadable content fighters are separate from the standard unlock system. Characters such as Joker, Banjo & Kazooie, and Pyra/Mythra require the relevant downloadable content purchase and installation. They cannot all be unlocked simply by completing Classic Mode or regular Smash matches.