Editing Charizard (SSB4)

{{ArticleIcons|ssb4=y}}

{{Disambig2|Charizard's appearance in ''Super Smash Bros. 4''|the character in other contexts|Charizard}}

|name = Charizard

|image = [[File:Charizard SSB4.png|250px]]

|game = SSB4

|ssbgame1 = SSBB

|tier = E

|ranking = 42

'''Charizard''' ({{ja|リザードン|Rizādon}}, ''Lizardon'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''. Its return to the series was announced during a [[Nintendo Direct|''Super Smash Bros.'' Direct]] on April 8th, 2014, during which its fellow [[Pokémon (universe)|''Pokémon'']] fighter {{SSB4|Greninja}} was also revealed.<ref name="Direct">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xUWnQu2Grs Super Smash Bros. Direct 4.8.2014]</ref> It is no longer a part of {{SSBB|Pokémon Trainer}}, who, along with {{SSBB|Squirtle}} and {{SSBB|Ivysaur}}, did not return. Shin'ichirō Miki reprises his role as Charizard's voice actor, albeit via re-recorded voice clips that match how it sounds in the ''Pokémon'' anime.

Charizard is ranked 42nd out of 54 on the [[tier list]], placing it in the E tier. This is a marginal improvement to Pokémon Trainer's placement in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', where he was ranked 29th out of 38. Due to now being a standalone character, Charizard's playstyle is much more consistent, and its moveset is no longer burdened by [[Pokémon Change#Stamina|stamina]]. Fittingly for a super heavyweight, Charizard boasts an array of strong KOing options and impressive endurance, which are supplemented by [[rage]] and its varied recovery, respectively.

Charizard also boasts a potent grab game that allows for combos, KO set-ups, and even KOing outright; its up throw, in particular, is the second strongest throw of any kind in the game. Lastly, Charizard's overall mobility is quite fast for a super heavyweight. Its [[walk]]ing and [[dash]]ing speeds are among the fastest in the game, while a number of its moves boast minimal start-up lag alongside respectable utility.

However, Charizard has some very noticeable weaknesses. Despite having a number of regular moves with minimal start-up lag, its overall frame data is nevertheless below-average compared to most of the cast. Unsurprisingly for a super heavyweight, Charizard is susceptible to combos and juggling; although it has options to escape from a disadvantaged state, they are easily exploitable.

In the early stages of ''SSB4''{{'}}s metagame, Charizard endured very poor tournament representation and results, to the point of being widely considered the single worst character in the game. Thanks to consistently receiving very useful buffs via game updates, however, Charizard's tournament presence has considerably improved at a gradual pace, particularly in regional tournaments outside of North America. This success has been reflected by Charizard's current status as a mid-tier character.

Unlike the other playable Pokémon, who are either lightweights ({{SSB4|Pikachu}}, {{SSB4|Jigglypuff}} and {{SSB4|Mewtwo}}) or middleweights ({{SSB4|Lucario}} and {{SSB4|Greninja}}), Charizard is a super [[Weight|heavyweight]]. Although its overall damage output and endurance are fittingly very high, it deviates from its weight class' archetype in a few ways. The most noticeable of these differences are its hurtboxes and mobility. Charizard does not have hurtboxes on its wings, and they only cover slightly more than the base of its tail.<ref>[https://smashboards.com/guides/ignition-in-depth-breakdown-and-guide-to-charizard.973/ Ignition - In-Depth Breakdown and Guide to Charizard by SilentDoom]</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/KuroganeHammer/status/891937046570295297 Kurogane Hammer detailing Charizard's back aerial]</ref> As a result, Charizard's wings and the majority of its tail are effectively immune to opposing hitboxes.

In regard to mobility, Charizard's [[dash]]ing speed is the ninth fastest in the game, whereas its [[walk]]ing speed is tied with Mewtwo's for the fifteenth fastest in the game. Like {{SSB4|Pit}} and {{SSB4|Dark Pit}}, it has below-average [[falling speed]] and [[Jump#Multiple double jumps|multiple double jumps]]: the former makes it [[floaty]] in spite of its weight and thus enables it to avoid certain set-ups, whereas the latter assists its recovery. However, Charizard's mobility also has very apparent flaws. Its [[traction]] is tied with Mewtwo's for the second lowest in the game, while its [[roll]]s are among the slowest in the game. By extension, Charizard's below-average [[air speed]] hinders its otherwise varied recovery, and its falling speed makes it more susceptible to combos and being KO'd vertically because of its high [[gravity]].

Charizard's greatest strength is its KO potential: thanks to its plethora of KOing options, it can easily and/or reliably KO opponents either on the ground or in the air. Sweetspotted forward smash, sweetspotted back aerial, and Flare Blitz are Charizard's strongest attacks: while near the [[edge]] of {{SSB4|Final Destination}}, each of them KO middleweights below 85% and 75% in {{for3ds}} and {{forwiiu}}, respectively. Alternatively, Charizard possesses a few safer, albeit somewhat weaker KOing options in sweetspotted forward tilt; up tilt; down smash; sweetspotted forward aerial; up aerial; up smash and up throw.

Out of these weaker KOing options, up smash and up throw are the most effective. Up smash hits grounded and aerial opponents on frame 6 and 7, respectively; deals respectable damage; and reliably KOs either grounded or aerial opponents. Conversely, up throw is the second strongest throw of any kind in the game (surpassed only by {{SSB4|Ness}}' back throw), which enables it to KO reliably, even without the aid of a [[platform]].

Another of Charizard's strengths is the utility of its moveset. Neutral attack is a prime example of this utility: it is among the most damaging of its kind in the game; possesses deceptive speed and range; and is decent at [[jab cancel]]ing. Down tilt, neutral aerial and forward aerial have significant ranges and fairly minimal lag, which make them useful for spacing like neutral attack. These three particular attacks also have specific perks: down tilt and sweetspotted forward aerial are useful edge-guarding options thanks to being [[semi-spike]]s, whereas neutral aerial is a useful combo starter from low to medium percentages, yet decently safe on shield or when missed thanks to its auto-cancel window and hitbox placements.

Forward smash and up aerial grant [[intangibility]] throughout their durations, which essentially enables Charizard to use them to retaliate against incoming attacks. Up tilt and up smash are reliable anti-air attacks, thanks to their ranges and Charizard's wings not having hurtboxes. Down smash simultaneously hits in front of and behind Charizard. When coupled with its quake hitboxes and its sweetspot being a semi-spike, it is very useful for punishing rolls and edge-guarding. In addition to up throw's aforementioned KO potential, the remainder of Charizard's grab game possesses respectable utility: its forward and back throws have decent damage outputs and are reliable for setting up edge-guards, whereas its down throw is a reliable combo starter from low to medium percentages.

The respectable level of utility within Charizard's moveset also extends to its [[special move]]s. [[Flamethrower]] is a short-ranged [[projectile]] that can be angled to safely rack up damage; intercept approaches and some other projectiles; or gimp recoveries. Rock Smash grants 18 frames of super [[armor]] beginning on frame 5, which makes it useful against incoming attacks, and a somewhat safe landing option. Lastly, Flare Blitz and Fly are both highly protective recovery options. Flare Blitz covers a great amount of horizontal distance, and grants 30 frames of armor that begin on frame 23 and can withstand a maximum of 15%. Conversely, Fly has fairly minimal start-up lag, and grants 11 frames of super armor beginning on frame 4.

However, Charizard has significant flaws. Like its fellow super heavyweights, it suffers from a lack of reliable landing options; when coupled with its slow air speed and air acceleration weakening its landing mix-ups, Charizard has only neutral aerial and Rock Smash as fairly safe landing options. Charizard's [[neutral game]] is also limited because of its lack of safety on shield. Although its neutral game has decent defensive potential, it suffers against opponents that can pressure it safely and force it to approach unsafely, such as {{SSB4|Zero Suit Samus}}.

Although a number of Charizard's normal moves have minimal start-up lag, its overall frame data is below-average compared to most of the cast. This is especially apparent with several of its most useful and/or potent attacks: up aerial and Flamethrower have considerable amounts of start-up lag, whereas forward/down smashes; back/down aerials; Flare Blitz and Rock Smash each have considerable amounts of start-up and ending lag. In addition, some of Charizard's most useful and/or potent attacks have specific flaws aside from lag. Flamethrower's decay can prevent it from spacing effectively when used frequently. Flare Blitz's [[recoil damage]] makes it best used strictly as a punishment option. Forward smash, forward aerial, back aerial, down aerial and Rock Smash require their sweetspots to KO reliably, whereas up throw's KO potential can be hindered via [[directional influence]].

A few of Charizard's [[Character customization|custom moves]] alleviate some of its weaknesses. Dragon Rush is effectively its best custom move: although it deals slightly less damage and has very minimal KO potential, it hits multiple times, cannot be blocked by opponents when recovering, has less lag and lacks recoil damage. Rising Cyclone is drastically stronger, to the point that it is capable of KOing most characters under 80%. However, it covers much less distance, to the point that it travels roughly as high as [[Rising Uppercut]]. Fly High covers slightly more distance, but at the cost of not dealing any damage. Lastly, Sinking Skull is slightly faster, [[buries]] grounded opponents and, when sweetspotted, meteor smashes aerial opponents. However, it does not have any super armor, so it worsens Charizards already poor landing options.

 

Overall, Charizard is essentially an "all-rounder" version of a super heavyweight, yet it is also comparable to {{SSB4|Bowser}} in certain ways: its air physics and a number of its moves are similar to his, while its grab game is very useful for combos and KOing. Unlike Bowser, however, Charizard possesses faster grounded mobility, greater moveset utility, and a better recovery at the cost of raw power and balanced aerial mobility.

 

These traits make Charizard's playstyle require patience like Bowser's, yet deviate from his by requiring an appropriate balance of offense and defense, instead of being largely defensive. [[Read]]s and [[bait]]s can also be very beneficial for Charizard's most potent punishment options, particularly its smash attacks and sweetspotted back aerial. However, its other useful assets enable it to not be as dependent on mindgames like Bowser is.

 

From a competitive standpoint, Charizard is currently placed in the lower portion of the mid-tier. While it had been previously regarded as a bottom-tier character, and even the single worst character in the game prior to update [[1.0.6]], the substantial buffs it consistently received from game updates lead it to be widely regarded as a potential low-tier or mid-tier character even before its improved results and official tier reassessment.

 

Despite being well-rounded for a super heavyweight, many players cite Charizard as one of the more complex heavyweights to utilize, which was reflected by its generally below-average tournament representation in North America prior to 2017. Nevertheless, Charizard has managed to achieve sparse, but notable results in tournaments outside of North America, such as winning some regional tournaments. In addition, its tournament success in North America began to show improvement in 2017, as shown by {{Sm|Bloodcross}} and {{Sm|Sharpy}} placing 17th and 33rd, respectively, at [[CEO Dreamland]].

 

==Changes from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''==

Charizard has received a mix of buffs and nerfs in the transition from ''Brawl'' to ''SSB4''. Direct comparisons to its appearance in ''Brawl'' are somewhat abstract because of the fact that it could not be played as an individual character; however, it is generally agreed that Charizard itself has been buffed. Charizard's playstyle is drastically different from that of {{SSBB|Pokémon Trainer}} as a whole: in general, the loss of its teammates makes its playstyle much more consistent than Pokémon Trainer's, but less capable of adapting to matchups.

 

Charizard has received some notable buffs. The removal of [[Pokémon Change#Stamina|stamina]] grants its moveset consistent power, which is further supplemented by the [[rage]] mechanic enabling its wide array of KOing options to become even more potent. In regard to individual buffs, Charizard's grounded mobility has greatly improved: its already fast dashing speed has become the ninth fastest in ''SSB4'', while its [[walk]]ing speed has gone from being the slowest in ''Brawl'' to being tied with {{SSB4|Mewtwo}}'s as the fifteenth fastest in ''SSB4''.

 

Charizard's grab game has also improved: up throw is now a reliable KOing option and the second strongest throw of any kind in the game, whereas down throw has been re-purposed from a KOing option into a reliable combo starter at low to medium percentages. Lastly, Rock Smash now grants super [[armor]] and Flare Blitz, its new side special, boasts KO and recovery potential.

 

However, Charizard has also received nerfs. The removal of [[gliding]] has greatly weakened its recovery, while Flare Blitz is not as flexible for horizontal recovery like gliding was. Flare Blitz is also burdened with [[recoil damage]], regardless of whether or not it hits a target and its extremely slow nature makes it very difficult to connect and it is highly punishable if it misses. In regard to individual nerfs, Charizard's heavier weight; faster [[falling speed]]; and slower [[air speed]] collectively make it more vulnerable to combos and juggling especially when combined with the removal of [[hitstun canceling]] which overall does not benefit Charizard much as its combo grab is limited outside of its throws. While some of its moves deal more knockback and are thus able to KO earlier, this in turn makes them less suitable for combos past medium percentages and despite having stronger KO options, some of Charizard's move such as down tilt, down throw and [[Rock Smash]] have reduced KO potential. Charizard's aerial game has also seen some nerfs. Not only is its air speed slower but it's neutral aerial has smaller hitboxes, forward aerial is less effective as an edgeguarding tool, back and up aerials are much slower, down aerial has considerably decreased range and Charizard has lost its glide attack. Lastly, Charizard's overall grab range has been shortened and all of its grabs are slower meaning that despite its stronger grab game, Charizard has more difficulty actually getting the grabs it needs.

*{{change|Charizard's design has changed. It has smaller teeth and a slightly less pronounced snout; the corners of its mouth are curved upward; and its wings' metacarpal joints are slightly longer and slightly thinner. Additionally, Charizard's teeth are now white instead of beige; its patagium's interior is now midnight green instead of Persian green; and its tail's flame is now orange instead of vermilion. Lastly, the aesthetic used in ''SSB4'' has resulted in Charizard having a sleeker design, and the orange portion of its skin being more vibrant. Altogether, these changes make Charizard appear virtually identical to its appearance in ''{{s|bulbapedia|Pokédex 3D Pro}}''.}}

*{{change|Charizard has received three new [[alternate costume]]s.}}

*{{change|Charizard is slightly more expressive. Its irises now shrink during its [[sidestep]] and when it is hit or launched. The majority of Charizard's animations are also more fluid.}}

*{{change|Charizard has new voice clips. Its grunts and roars now match how they sound in the ''Pokémon'' anime.}}

*{{change|Dash's animation has slightly changed. Charizard now flaps its wings while dashing.}}

*{{change|Due to the limitations of the [[Nintendo 3DS]]' processing power,<ref>[http://sourcegaming.info/2015/07/09/i-answer-some-questions-sakurai-famitsu-column-vol-461-464/ "I Answer Some Questions" Sakurai Famitsu column vol. 461-464, on Ice Climbers, clones, and Smash Run]</ref> Charizard is no longer connected to Pokémon Trainer via [[Pokémon Change]] or [[character selection screen]] input.<ref name="Direct"/>}}

**{{buff|As a result, Charizard is no longer affected by [[Pokémon Change#Stamina|stamina]] or [[type effectiveness]] (although the former is far more beneficial than the latter), allowing Charizard to be consistently powerful throughout an entire match.}}

**{{nerf|However, Charizard can no longer switch to [[Squirtle]] (and subsequently [[Ivysaur]]) to adapt to different matchups and cover up its own weaknesses.}}

*{{buff|Charizard [[walk]]s much faster (0.7 → 1.2), going from the slowest out of 39 characters to the 15th fastest out of 58.}}

*{{nerf|Charizard's [[air speed]] is slower (0.987 → 0.92), going from the 14th fastest to the 12th slowest.}}

*{{change|Charizard [[Falling speed|falls]] faster (1.35 → 1.4). This slightly improves its vertical endurance, but makes it slightly more susceptible to combos.}}

*{{buff|Charizard is heavier (110 → 116).}}

*{{nerf|Charizard's [[traction]] is lower (0.055 → 0.04). When combined with Charizard's slower grab and up smash, this significantly hinders Charizard's ability to punish [[out of shield]].}}

*{{buff|[[Roll]]s have decreased ending lag (FAF 35 (forward)/FAF 36 (backward) → 33 (both)).}}

*{{nerf|[[Spot dodge]] has more startup lag with a short duration (frames 2-20 → 3-18) and it has increased ending lag (FAF 26 → 28).}}

*{{buff|[[Item throw]] is stronger (1.198 → 1.208).}}

*{{buff|Charizard no longer has [[hurtbox]]es on its wings. This makes it harder to hit from above, especially during animations such as its midair jumps, and causes its wing attacks to effectively be fully disjointed.}}

*{{nerf|The removal of [[gliding]] significantly hinders Charizard's recovery.<ref name="Direct"/> This also means that Charizard no longer has a glide attack, removing Charizard's safest aerial/KO option.}}

*{{buff|The removal of meteor canceling significantly improves Charizard's endurance against meteor smashes as it previously had one of the least effective meteor cancel windows in ''Brawl'', while its down aerial is also a more effective meteor smash.}}

**{{buff|The first two hits transition into the next hit slightly faster (frame 10 → 9).}}

**{{buff|The final hit deals more knockback (40 (base), 110 (scaling) → 60/130).}}

**{{nerf|All hits have a shorter duration (frames 4-7 → 4-5 (hit 1), frames 5-7 → 5-6 (hit 2), frames 7-10 → 7-9 (hit 3)).}}

**{{nerf|The final hit deals less damage (6% → 5%).}}

**{{buff|Forward tilt has less startup lag (frame 12 → 11).}}

**{{nerf|The sourspot deals less damage (10% → 7%).}}

**{{nerf|The original sweetspot has a smaller hitbox (5.5u → 4u).}}

**{{nerf|Forward tilt has more ending lag (FAF 42 → 43).}}

**{{change|Up tilt's animation has changed. Charizard now slightly fans out its wings while thrusting them upward.}}

**{{change|Up tilt's hitboxes have been moved backwards (z offset: 2.5 → 0). This increases its range behind Charizard but reduces its range in front of Charizard.}}

**{{change|Up tilt no longer grants intangibility to Charizard's wings although since Charizard's wings now lack hurtboxes, this change has no impact.}}

**{{nerf|Up tilt has a shorter duration (frames 9-15 → 9-13).}}

**{{change|Down tilt now has one extended hitbox rather than three normal hitboxes (3.5u/5u/5u → 3.5u).}}

***{{nerf|However, this slightly decreases the move's vertical range.}}

**{{buff|Down tilt now has a windbox from frames 5-7.}}

**{{buff|Charizard's neck deals more damage (8% → 10%) although its knockback was compensated (20 (base), 100 (scaling) → 60/60).}}

**{{change|Down tilt has a reduced [[trip]] chance (40%/50% → 30%) although it is still incapable of tripping due to its knockback and angle.}}

**{{nerf|Down tilt has more startup (frame 8 → 9) and ending lag (FAF 28 → 31).}}

**{{nerf|Charizard's head deals less damage (12% → 10%) and knockback (40 (base), 100 (scaling) → 60/60), significantly hindering its KO potential.}}

**{{buff|Dash attack has less ending lag (FAF 45 → 40).}}

**{{change|Dash attack launches opponents at a lower angle (80°/90°/100° → 50°/60° (clean), (80°/90°/110° → 60°/75° (late)).}}

**{{nerf|Dash attack has smaller hitboxes (4.5u/4.5u/4.5u → 4.5u/4u (clean), 4u/4u/4u → 4u/3.5u (late)) and it has lost its hitbox which was the furthest inside Charizard.}}

**{{buff|Forward smash's animation has slightly changed. Charizard now swings its head in a more pronounced motion. This new animation increases its horizontal range.}}

***{{nerf|However, the move now has two extended hitboxes rather than four normal hitboxes (6u/6u/6u/6u → 6u/5.5u), decreasing its vertical range and making it cover less of Charizard's body.}}

**{{buff|Forward smash deals more knockback (40 (base), 98 (scaling) → 60/94), improving the neck hitbox's KO potential.}}

**{{nerf|Forward smash has lost its initial hit, shortening its duration (frames 22-27 (hit 1)/28-30 (hit 2) → 22-24) and making it deal less damage overall (22% → 17%).}}

***{{nerf|This also increases its ending lag as its total duration was unchanged.}}

**{{nerf|Forward smash has decreased intangibility (frames 22-26 → 22-25).}}

**{{buff|Due to Charizard's wings no longer possessing hurtboxes, up smash is a much safer anti-air option, allowing it to always beat out attacks from opponents above Charizard.}}

**{{buff|The second hit has less startup lag with a longer duration (frames 17-21 → 16-21).}}

**{{buff|The second hit has larger hitboxes (5.5u/4.5u/3.5u/2.5u → 5.5u/5u/4.5u).}}

**{{buff|The second hit no longer has sourspots on the top of Charizard's wing with lower knockback scaling (100/90 → 107).}}

**{{change|Charizard no longer slides nearly as far when performing a dashing up smash (although Charizard still travels further than its [[DACUS]] variant in ''Brawl''). This makes its hits connect together better. However, this hinders its approach potential.}}

**{{nerf|Up smash no longer has [[transcendent priority]].}}

**{{buff|Down smash has increased knockback scaling (75 (all) → 79 (sweetspot)/85 (sourspot)), improving its KO potential.}}

**{{buff|Down smash can now hit aerial opponents.}}

**{{buff|The sweetspot is now a semi-spike (80° → 33°), improving its KO and edgeguarding potential.}}

**{{nerf|The sweetspot's have smaller hitboxes (10u/10u → 6u/6u). As the sweetspot's are postioned at the end of Charizard's wings, this significantly decreases down smash's range despite the sweetspots being repositioned further horizontally (z offset: 19/-13 → 21/-15).}}

**{{nerf|Charizard starts charging down smash smash slightly earlier (frame 3 → 2).}}

*{{buff|All aerials except back aerial have decreased landing lag (22 frames → 20 (neutral/up), 32 frames → 22 (forward), 35 frames → 33 (down)).}}

**{{nerf|Neutral aerial has smaller hitboxes (4u/4u/4u/4u/4u → 3.5u/3u/1.5u/3.5u), as well as losing the hitbox on Charizard's body.}}

**{{nerf|Neutral aerial has more startup lag with a shorter duration (frames 8-27 → 9-25).}}

**{{nerf|Neutral aerial has decreased knockback scaling (90 → 78).}}

**{{buff|Charizard has a new forward aerial, a downward slash with its claws. Compared to the previous forward aerial, it deals more damage (4% (near)/3% (mid)/2% (far/farthest)/11% (total) → 12% (early)/13% (clean tip)), significantly improving its KO potential despite dealing less knockback than the first hit of the previous forward aerial (70 (base), 100 (scaling) → 35/92 (early), 37/92 (clean tip)).}}

**{{buff|Forward aerial has less startup (frame 9 → 8) and ending lag (FAF 48 → 47).}}

**{{nerf|Forward aerial [[auto-cancel]]s later (frame 26 → 35), now requiring perfect timing to be auto-cancelled in a short hop.}}

**{{nerf|Forward aerial launches opponents at a less favorable angle (25° → 361° (early)/34° (clean)), which along with its lower base knockback hinders its edgeguarding potential.}}

**{{buff|Back aerial has a new animation where Charizard thrusts its tail much further, with its hitboxes being re-positioned accordingly. This significantly increasing its range.}}

***{{nerf|However, this new animation is longer (41 frames → 52), increasing the amount of time Charizard cannot grab the ledge after using the move.}}

**{{buff|Back aerial deals more damage (9% (flame)/7% (tail)/5% (wing) → 16%/14%/11%), significantly improving its KO potential despite its decreased knockback (30 (base), 130/100 (scaling) → 50/90).}}

**{{nerf|Back aerial no longer has an initial wing hitbox which in turn:}}

***{{nerf|Significantly increases its startup lag and shortens its duration (frame 7-9 (hit 1)/10-12 (hit 2) → 14-16).}}

***{{nerf|Removes its ability to link into the clean hit, making the sweetspot harder to land.}}

**{{nerf|Back aerial has smaller hitboxes (6u/6u/6u/6u (hit 2) → 5u/4u/4u/2.8u).}}

**{{nerf|Back aerial has more ending lag (FAF 42 → 46).}}

**{{nerf|Back aerial has more landing lag (22 frames → 24).}}

**{{nerf|Back aerial auto-cancels much later (frame 24 → 44), removing its ability to auto-cancel with a short hop.}}

**{{buff|The changes to shields as well as back aerial's increased range and damage significantly improve its shield pressuring potential, especially the sweetspot.}}

*[[Up aerial]]:

**{{buff|Charizard has a new up aerial. Charizards swings its head in an upwards arc (similar to {{SSB4|Bowser}}'s). It deals more damage (10% (clean)/7% (late) → 13%) and has increased base knockback (20 → 30), significantly improving its KO potential compared to the previous up aerial.}}

**{{nerf|Up aerial has much more startup lag with a much shorter duration due to no longer possessing a late hit (frames 6-8 (clean)/9-27 (late) → 12-15).}}

**{{nerf|Up aerial grants less intangibility to Charizard's head/neck (frames 6-11 → 11-15).}}

**{{nerf|Up aerial has a longer animation (46 frames → 59). This increases the amount of time Charizard cannot grab the ledge after using the move although it now has [[interruptibility]] frames to compensate for its total duration.}}

**{{buff|Down aerial's upper hitbox can now hit aerial opponents, increasing the move's upwards reach against aerial opponents.}}

**{{buff|Down aerial has received a late hitbox that deals 8% and launches at a horizontal angle. This lengthens its duration (frames 18-20 → 18-20 (clean)/21-26 (late)).}}

***{{nerf|However, the late hit has had its knockback uncompensated, so the move is more susceptible to punishment at lower percents.}}

**{{change|Down aerial's animation has slightly changed. Charizard now performs a stomp with one foot, instead of a [[wikipedia:Professional wrestling attacks#Double foot stomp|double foot stomp]]. This animation is still the same length so this has no practical effect.}}

**{{nerf|Down aerial's main hitbox now [[meteor smash]]es grounded opponents rather than sending them vertically (70° → 270°). While this means that down aerial can potentially [[trip]] opponents at lower percents, this also hinders its KO potential on stage, especially since grounded opponents can now [[tech]] the down aerial, combined with the upper hitbox now also being a meteor smash.}}

*{{buff|All grabs have larger grabboxes (4u/3.5/3.5u (all) → 5.4u (standing/pivot)/4.3u (dash)). This increases pivot grab's range despite it not being extended as far out (z offset: -18 → z stretch: -17.6).}}

*{{nerf|All grabs have increased start-up (frame 6 → 8 (standing), frame 8 → 10 (dash), frame 10 → 11 (pivot)) and ending lag (FAF 30 → 34 (standing), FAF 37 → 42 (dash), FAF 36 → 40 (pivot)).}}

*{{nerf|Standing and dash grabs do not extend as far out (z offset: 17 (standing)/14 (dash)) → z stretch: 13.6/12.3), reducing their range despite their larger grabboxes.}}

**{{change|Charizard releases opponents earlier from forward throw (frame 40 → 27).}}

***{{buff|This makes the throw harder to DI.}}

**{{buff|Charizard releases opponents later from back throw (frame 16 → 29). While this makes back throw easier to DI, it also significantly decreases its ending lag as its total duration was unchanged, with the throw now being almost lagless.}}

*[[Up throw]]:

**{{buff|Charizard has a new up throw, a dive-bombing slam, similar to {{SSB4|Kirby}} and {{SSB4|Meta Knight}}'s up throws. Compared to the previous up throw, it deals much more knockback (70 (base), 140 (scaling) → 50/220), greatly improving its KO potential (now being the strongest up throw).}}

***{{buff|Additionally due to its new properties, Charizard can now land on a platform above it, further improving up throw's KO potential.}}

**{{buff|The collateral hit has a longer duration (frames 29-30 → 52-58) and has increased base knockback (40 → 60).}}

**{{nerf|Charizard releases opponents much later from up throw (frame 30 → 58), and it has more ending lag (FAF 50 → 80).}}

**{{nerf|Up throw launches opponents at a less favorable angle (90° → 70°), hindering its KO potential and making DI more effective against it (especially when combined with the previous point).}}

**{{buff|Down throw has less ending lag (FAF 82 → 71).}}

**{{change|Down throw has more base knockback but much less knockback scaling (40 (base), 300 (scaling) → 70/130).}}

***{{buff|This significantly improves its combo potential, especially with its lower ending lag.}}

***{{nerf|However, this greatly hinders its KO potential.}}

**{{change|Down throw's visual effects have changed. Its flames are now orange, instead of vermilion.}}

**{{buff|[[Flamethrower]] has more base knockback (12/10 → 30/15) and larger hitboxes (4.0u → 5.0u).}}

**{{buff|The flames have a lower [[SDI]] multiplier (1.2x → 0.5x). When combined with the weakening of said mechanic, this makes Flamethrower significantly more difficult to escape from.}}

**{{buff|Charizard no longer steps back when performing Flamethrower, increasing its range.}}

***{{nerf|However, this also makes Charizard easier to hit when it is initiating Flamethrower.}}

**{{change|Flamethrower's visual effects have changed. It now appears as a consistent stream of orange flames, instead of individual vermilion flames separated by small gaps.}}

**{{nerf|Charizard now gets pushed backwards when it lands Flamethrower. This significantly hinders Flamethrower's damage racking ability.}}

***{{nerf|Charizard can also easily slide off platforms when this occurs.}}

*[[Flare Blitz]]:

**{{change|Due to the removal of [[Pokémon Change]], Charizard has a new side special, Flare Blitz. It is a [[Flame|flaming]], corkscrew tackle that deals respectable damage; propels Charizard far horizontally; and grants 30 frames of [[armor]] that can withstand a maximum of 15%. This move grants Charizard a new and powerful KO option and recovery tool however, it is rather laggy, causes [[recoil damage]] and Charizard can easily self destruct while using the move.}}

**{{buff|Fly covers more vertical distance, improving its recovery potential.}}

*[[Rock Smash]]:

**{{change|Rock Smash is now Charizard's down special move, instead of its side special move.}}

**{{buff|Rock Smash now grants super armor on frames 5-23.}}

**{{buff|The weakening of [[SDI]] makes Rock Smash significantly more difficult to escape from.}}

**{{nerf|If Charizard is prematurely hit out of Rock Smash (before the move gains super armor), the rock will no longer immediately break and trigger the fragments, hindering its use as a fast attack to use in pressure situations.}}

**{{nerf|Rock Smash deals less damage (18% (boulder)/5% (fragments) → 14%/3%). This hinders the rock's KO potential while also reducing the fragment's damage racking potential.}}

**{{nerf|The rock hitbox is smaller (8.5u (ground)/8u (air) → 7.8u (both)).}}

**{{nerf|The fragments deal more knockback (55 (base), 30 (scaling) → 70/50), which makes them connect less reliably while still being far too weak to KO.}}

**{{change|Charizard has a new [[Final Smash]], [[Mega Charizard X]]. Charizard undergoes {{s|bulbapedia|Mega Evolution}} to become Mega Charizard X. Like [[Triple Finish]], Mega Charizard X can use [[bulbapedia:Fire Blast (move)|Fire Blast]]. Unlike Triple Finish, Mega Charizard X is a transformation-based Final Smash that can fly freely across the stage; use Fire Blast as a projectile, similarly to [[Super Dragon]]; use [[bulbapedia:Dragon Rush (move)|Dragon Rush]], regardless of whether or not [[Character customization|custom moves]] are enabled; and grants both super armor and [[flinch]] resistance throughout its duration. However, Mega Charizard X's duration will shorten upon receiving damage.}}

Initially considered one of the worst characters in the game, Charizard has been buffed significantly via game updates. Update [[1.0.8]] granted Charizard arguably its most beneficial buffs: it improved neutral attack's reliability; increased back aerial's range; and re-purposed up and down throws into a viable KOing option and Charizard's best combo starter, respectively. Although the buffs granted by update [[1.1.0]] were not as prominent in comparison, they nevertheless improved the utility of Charizard's moveset.

The changes to shield mechanics brought about by updates 1.1.0 and [[1.1.1]] are a mixed bag for Charizard: they make its high [[hitlag]] attacks safer and more threatening against shields, yet worsen its [[out of shield]] options. Lastly, update [[1.1.5]] followed a similar route to 1.0.8 by granting very beneficial buffs for Charizard: it increased its [[air speed]]; increased the damage outputs and decreased the landing lag of its aerials; and gave Flare Blitz an additional hitbox that can allow it to punish a wider variety of maneuvers.

*{{buff|Down tilt's startup (frame 11 → 9) and total duration decreased (FAF 33 → 31).}}

*{{nerf|Neutral aerial has more startup lag with a shorter duration (frames 8-28 → 9-25).}}

*{{nerf|Neutral aerial has smaller hitboxes (4u/4u/4u/4u/4u → 3.5u/3u/1.5u/3.5u), with the move losing one of its hitboxes.}}

*{{nerf|With the exception of the late claw hitbox, forward aerial deals less knockback (45 (base)/100 (scaling) → 35/92) hindering its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Forward aerial's late claw hitbox deals more knockback (25 (base)/80 (scaling) → 32/97), significantly improving its KO potential to the point of now being the move's sweetspot.}}

*{{buff|Back aerial's sweetspot is larger (4u → 4.5u) and it has been positioned further along Charizard's tail (z offset: 0 → -1), improving its range.}}

*{{buff|Up throw deals 3% more damage (8% → 11%), restoring its damage output from ''Brawl'' and improving its KO potential.}}

*{{nerf|[[Flare Blitz]] deals 1% more [[recoil damage]] (4% (no contact)/9% (contact) → 5%/10%).}}

*{{buff|Neutral attack's first hit has higher set knockback (15/10 → 26/22). This notably means it is no longer possible for the opponent to shield the second hit if they are hit by the near first hit.}}

*{{buff|The first two hits of neutral attack transition slightly faster (frame 11 → 10).}}

*{{buff|The third hit of neutral attack has higher knockback scaling (110 → 130), improving its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Forward aerial's claw hitbox is larger (4.3u (early)/4.5u (late) → 4.6u/4.8u).}}

*{{buff|Forward aerial has a longer duration (frames 8-11 → 8-12).}}

*{{buff|Up throw launches opponents at a higher angle (60° → 70°) and it has much higher knockback scaling (160 → 220). This not only greatly improves its KO potential (to the point of becoming the strongest up throw in the game without DI) but this also improves its combo potential at lower percents.}}

*{{buff|Down throw has less ending lag (FAF 82 → 73).}}

*{{change|Down throw deals drastically less knockback (40 (base)/300 (scaling) → 70/130) and it launches opponents at a higher angle (361° → 70°). This completely removes its KO potential but when combined with its lower ending lag, this grants it combo potential.}}

*{{buff|Forward tilt deals more damage on its sweetspot (10% → 11%), improving its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|The second furthest hitbox on forward tilt is now a sweetspot, dealing much more damage (7% → 11%) and having higher base knockback (30 → 40), greatly improving its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Down tilt has received a [[windbox]] from frames 5-7 that pushes opponents forwards. This notably prevents down tilt from whiffing at close range.}}

*{{buff|Back aerial has less landing lag (36 frames → 33).}}

*{{buff|Down throw has less ending lag (FAF 73 → 71).}}

*{{buff|Sinking Skull has less startup lag (frame 23 → 21).}}

*{{buff|Sinking Skull deals more damage (10% (grounded)/9% (aerial) → 12%/10%).}}

*{{nerf|Rock Hurl has more ending lag (FAF 56 → 64).}}

|neutralname=Scratch ({{ja|ひっかき|Hikkaki}}) / Continuous Scratch ({{ja|れんぞくひっかき|Renzoku Hikkaki}}) / Wing Cutter ({{ja|ウイングカッター|Uingu Kattā}})

|neutraldesc=Two alternating slashes with its claws, followed by swinging one of its wings upward. Thanks to its impressive damage output; minimal start-up lag; very high knockback growth; and deceptively long range, it is reliable for damage racking and spacing. Its second hit can be [[jab cancel]]ed into down tilt, a grab, or [[Fly]], although the opponent can potentially evade these follow-ups with proper [[DI]]. In comparison, its last hit launches opponents at differing angles: the wing's inner portion launches them vertically, whereas its tip launches them horizontally. Due to its strengths, it is considered one of the most effective neutral attacks in the game.

|ftiltname=Flame Tail ({{ja|ほのおのしっぽ|Honoo No Shippo}})

|ftiltdesc=Swings its tail forward. It can be angled; has long range; and its sweetspot is at the [[Flame|flaming]] tip of Charizard's tail. When sweetspotted, it is one of the strongest forward tilts in the game. Its sweetspot KOs middleweights at 122%/111% (''3DS''/''Wii U''). Due to it hitting on frame 11 and having 29 frames of ending lag, however, it is punishable.

|utiltname=Wing Thrust ({{ja|はねあげ|Hane Age}})

|utiltdesc=Hunches in order to thrust its wings upward. It hits on frame 9 and has very high knockback growth for a tilt attack. These traits make it a fairly fast, yet capable KOing option, as it KOs middleweights at 135%/126% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') from anywhere on Final Destination. Thanks to its long vertical range and Charizard not having hurtboxes in its wings, it is also a safe anti-air attack. However, it is Charizard's least damaging tilt attack. It also has fairly minimal horizontal range.

|dtiltname=Low Headbutt ({{ja|ていくうずつき|Teikū Zutsuki}})

|dtiltdesc=A battering ram. It has a [[windbox]] that hits on frame 7, which makes it deceptively fast. It is also a [[semi-spike]], which makes very useful for edge-guarding. Despite its decent damage output, its base knockback and knockback growth are both below-average, which make it unsuited for KOing.

|dashname=Front Kick ({{ja|まえげり|Mae Geri}})

|dashdesc=A front kick. It has very high base knockback, and its range and long duration make it decent at punishing and zone breaking.

|fsmashname=Headlong Rush ({{ja|ぶちかまし|Buchikamashi}})

|fsmashdesc=Rears back its head and then performs a lunging headbutt. It is very strong, as its sweetspots KO middleweights at 70%/61% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') while near the edge of Final Destination. It also renders Charizard [[intangible]] throughout its duration. Due to it hitting on frame 22 and having 45 frames of ending lag, however, it is very punishable.

|usmashname=Wing Bash ({{ja|ウイングバッシュ|Uingu Basshu}})

|usmashdesc=Rears back in order to swing its wings upward twice in an overhead fanning motion. Due to it hitting aerial and grounded opponents on frame 6 and 7, respectively, it is Charizard's fastest smash attack. Thanks to its long vertical range and Charizard not having hurtboxes in its wings, it is also a very useful anti-air attack. Despite being Charizard's weakest smash attack, it is still strong enough to KO reliably. Its second hit KOs middleweights at 118%/114% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') from anywhere on Final Destination. Despite its animation, its first hit can [[jab reset]] opponents behind Charizard. However, its hits do not connect together well behind Charizard, while its first hit has minimal horizontal range against aerial opponents. Its 27 frames of ending lag also make it punishable.

|dsmashname=Wing Attack ({{ja|つばさでうつ|Tsubasa De Utsu}})

|dsmashdesc=Stomps the ground to cause a small earthquake. It simultaneously hits in front of and behind Charizard, which makes it very useful for punishing rolls. Due to having quake hitboxes, it is also capable of hitting opponents slightly above ground or hanging on the edge. When coupled with its respectable damage output and its sweetspot being a semi-spike, it is also very useful for edge-guarding. Its sourspot launches at a slightly higher angle, but is also reliable for edge-guarding, thanks to its slightly higher knockback growth. While near the edge of Final Destination, its sweetspot KOs middleweights at 101%/91% (''3DS''/''Wii U''), whereas its sourspot KOs them at 106%/97% (''3DS''/''Wii U''). Due to it hitting on frame 14 and having 44 frames of ending lag, however, it is very punishable.

|nairname=Charizard Turn ({{ja|リザードンターン|Rizādon Tān}})

|nairdesc=Somersaults forward to strike with its tail. Like forward tilt, its sweetspot is at the flaming tip of Charizard's tail. It can auto-cancel with a short hop, and its hitboxes end in front of and under Charizard just before it auto-cancels. All of these traits make it a fairly safe landing option and useful combo starter when auto-canceled, with follow-ups including neutral attack, dash attack and forward aerial. However, its very low base knockback and average knockback growth make it unsuited for KOing, even when sweetspotted.

|fairname=Aerial Claw ({{ja|くうちゅうひっかき|Kūchū Hikkaki}})

|fairdesc=A downward slash with its claws. It hits on frame 8, which is the lowest amount of start-up lag out Charizard's aerials. It also auto-cancels with a short hop, while its sweetspot's tip is a semi-spike. When coupled with its respectable damage output and high knockback growth, these traits make it very reliable either as a follow-up from down throw, or as a KOing option. While near the edge of Final Destination, its sweetspot KOs middleweights at 108%/97% (''3DS''/''Wii U''). However, it has moderate ending and landing lag, and is punishable from out of shield by most characters.

|bairname=Aerial Tail ({{ja|くうちゅうしっぽ|Kūchū Shippo}})

|bairdesc=Swings its tail backward. Like forward tilt, its sweetspot is at the flaming tip of Charizard's tail. When sweetspotted, it is Charizard's most damaging aerial, and the second strongest back aerial in the game. While near the edge of Final Destination, its sweetspot KOs middleweights at 84%/74% (''3DS''/''Wii U''). Although its tail hitbox is noticeably weaker, it is still strong enough to KO middleweights at 98%/87% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') while near the edge of Final Destination. Its high damage output and long range also make it safe on shield when spaced properly. Due to it hitting on frame 14, however, it has the second highest amount of start-up lag out of Charizard's aerials.

|uairname=Heading ({{ja|ヘディング|Hedingu}})

|uairdesc=An upward headbutt. Its respectable damage output and very high knockback growth allow it to KO middleweights at 86%/80% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') while near the upper [[blast line]] of Final Destination. It also renders Charizard's head intangible throughout its duration, and is tied with its neutral aerial for having the lowest amount of landing lag out of its aerials. However, it has minimal horizontal range.

|dairname=Meteor Stomp ({{ja|メテオスタンプ|Meteo Sutanpu}})

|dairdesc=A stomp. Its sweetspot is a very powerful [[meteor smash]]. In comparison, its sourspot launches opponents either diagonally or at the [[Sakurai angle]]. Due to it hitting on frame 18 and having 33 frames of landing lag, however, it is very punishable. Its sourspot is also much less effective than its sweetspot in regard to edge-guarding.

|grabname=Grab ({{ja|つかみ|Tsukami}})

|grabdesc=[[wikipedia:Clinch fighting|Clinches]] the opponent. Despite having decreased since ''Brawl'', Charizard's overall grab range is still above-average.

|pummelname=Biting and Tearing ({{ja|かみちぎり|Kamichigiri}})

|pummeldesc=A bite. A fairly fast pummel.

|fthrowname=Biting Throw ({{ja|かみとばし|Kamitobashi}})

|fthrowdesc=Sways its head with the opponent in tow and then flings them forward. It deals respectable damage and can be used to set up an edge-guard. However, its base knockback and knockback growth are both below-average, which make it much less reliable for KOing compared to up throw. While near the edge of Final Destination, it KOs middleweights at 175%/169% (''3DS''/''Wii U'').

|bthrowname=Rear Biting Throw ({{ja|うしろかみとばし|Ushiro Kamitobashi}})

|bthrowdesc=Flings the opponent backward. It deals respectable damage and can be used to set up an edge-guard. Unlike forward throw, it has very low ending lag. As a result, it can combo into dash attack or Flare Blitz at 0%, or forward aerial at 0%-15%. Like forward throw, it has below-average base knockback and knockback growth, which make it much less reliable for KOing than up throw. While near the edge of Final Destination, it KOs middleweights at 175%/169% (''3DS''/''Wii U'').

|uthrowname={{s|bulbapedia|Seismic Toss}} ({{ja|ちきゅうなげ|Chikyu Nage}}, ''Earth Throw'')

|uthrowdesc=Soars to the upper blast line with the opponent in tow, then dive-bombs them onto the stage at a blinding speed, similarly to {{SSB4|Kirby}} and {{SSB4|Meta Knight}}'s up throws. As of update 1.0.8, its knockback is significantly higher, making it the strongest up throw in the game. It is also the second strongest throw of any kind in the game, being surpassed only by {{SSB4|Ness}}' back throw. It KOs middleweights at 134%/124% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') from anywhere on Final Destination. It is even more effective on stages with platforms; it KOs middleweights at 107%/104% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') upon landing on {{SSB4|Battlefield}}'s top platform. It can also combo into Flare Blitz, which deals 30% altogether. However, this combo is very situational, as it is only effective at 0%-10% and is easily avoidable via proper DI. Despite being the strongest up throw in the game, proper directional influence hinders its KO potential to the point that {{SSB4|Mewtwo}}'s up throw, which is the second strongest up throw in the game, KOs more reliably in comparison.

|dthrowname=Roasting Heat ({{ja|あぶりやき|Aburi Yaki}})

|dthrowdmg=1% (hits 1-5), 1% (throw)

|dthrowdesc=Pins the opponent to the ground and then expels embers from its mouth onto them. Prior to update 1.0.8, its knockback growth was the highest in the game, to the point that it could KO middleweights at 125%. As of update 1.0.8, its base knockback and knockback growth were both altered, which re-purposed it into a reliable combo starter at the cost of significantly hindering its KO potential. Notable follow-ups include a dashing up smash from 0%-15%, and neutral, forward, and up aerials from low to medium percentages.

|floorfdesc=Swings its tail backward, then headbutts forward while getting up.

|floorbdesc=Swings its tail forward and backward while getting up.

|floortdesc=Performs a slash with its claws while getting up.

|edgedesc=Performs a battering ram while climbing up.

|nsdefdesc=[[bulbapedia:Flamethrower (move)|Expels a stream of flames from its mouth]], almost identically to [[Fire Breath]]. Like Fire Breath, it can be angled, which makes it useful for gimping low recoveries. Compared to Fire Breath, Flamethrower is better at damage racking and spacing, thanks to its overall higher damage output and its farthest hitboxes being able to cause [[flinch]]ing. Like Fire Breath, however, it has considerable start-up and ending lag, while its power and range also gradually decrease when it is used for more than a few seconds.

|nsc1desc=Expels a much shorter-ranged stream of embers from its mouth, which hit multiple times. Releasing the special attack button makes Charizard perform [[bulbapedia:Fire Fang (move)|a small, explosive bite]] that is strong enough to KO middleweights at 124% while near the edge of Final Destination in {{for3ds}}.

|nsc2desc=Expels fireballs from its mouth that deal slightly more damage and travel much farther, similarly to [[Fireball]]. However, it has more start-up lag and Charizard must expel at least three fireballs before it concludes.

|ssdefdesc=[[bulbapedia:Flare Blitz (move)|A flaming, corkscrew tackle]]. It is very powerful, as it KOs middleweights at 81%/69% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') while near the edge of Final Destination. In addition to its offensive potential, it covers an impressive amount of horizontal distance and grants [[armor]] on frames 23-53 that can withstand a maximum of 15%. However, it is very risky to use: it deals 5% [[recoil damage]] both at its beginning and on contact, and is very unsafe on shield because of its extreme amount of overall lag and how it forces Charizard into a [[tumble]] that cannot be [[tech]]ed. When used unwisely, its impressive horizontal distance can also result in an inadvertent self-destruct when used near an edge.

|ssc1dmg=4% (collision), 5% (explosion hits 1-3), 9% (explosion hit 4)

|ssc1desc=A flaming, corkscrew tackle that concludes with [[bulbapedia:Blast Burn (move)|a powerful explosion]]. It deals significantly more damage; has higher knockback; and launches opponents vertically. Altogether, these traits enable it to KO middleweights at 75% from anywhere on Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version. Like Flare Blitz, it grants armor that can withstand a maximum of 15%. However, it travels slower; covers much less distance; and deals more recoil damage (6% at its beginning and 10% on contact).

|ssc2dmg=1.2% (hits 1-6), 4% (hit 7)

|ssc2desc=[[bulbapedia:Dragon Rush (move)|A corkscrew tackle]]. It has less start-up lag; does not deal recoil damage; and its loop hits drag opponents along during the tackle. Altogether, these traits make it safer than Flare Blitz and Blast Burn. However, its damage output and knockback are lower than Flare Blitz and Blast Burn's, which result in it having minimal KO potential in comparison. It also covers very slightly less distance than Flare Blitz. Due to its strengths outweighing its weaknesses, however, it is Charizard's most effective custom move.

|usdefdmg=5% (hit 1), 2% (hits 2-5), 4% (hit 6)

|usdefdesc=[[bulbapedia:Fly (move)|Flies upward]] while corkscrewing. It can be angled and covers a relatively average amount of vertical distance. Due to it hitting on frame 9, it has the lowest amount of start-up lag out of Charizard's special moves. When coupled with it granting super armor on frames 4-15, this enables it to function as an effective out of shield option. It also deals respectable damage when all of its hits connect, while its last hit's very high knockback allows it to KO middleweights at 125%/110% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') while near the upper blast line of Final Destination. However, it covers only minimal horizontal distance, even when angled forward, and his horizontal air movement is greatly reduced afterwards. Its loop hits can also be DI'd out of when Charizard is affected by [[rage]].

|usc1dmg=4% (hit 1), 2% (hits 2-7), 6% (hit 8)

|usc1desc=[[Windbox#Pulling attacks|Vacuums]] opponents and launches them. Its last hit is also much stronger, as it KOs middleweights at 86% from anywhere on Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version. Like Fly, it grants super armor at its beginning. However, it has more start-up lag and covers less distance, and even less on the ground.

|usc2desc=Covers more vertical distance and, like Fly, it grants super armor at its beginning. However, it deals no damage.

|dsdefdmg=14% (boulder), 3% (fragments, up to 5)

|dsdefdesc=Pulls out a boulder and [[bulbapedia:Rock Smash (move)|headbutts it, breaking it into fragments]]. It can deal an impressive amount of damage when the boulder and fragments collectively hit the opponent. The boulder itself is also strong enough to KO middleweights at 139%/129% (''3DS''/''Wii U'') while near the edge of Final Destination. It also grants super armor on frames 5-23, which makes it a somewhat safe landing option and useful against incoming attacks. However, it has considerable start-up and ending lag.

|dsc1dmg=12% (sweetspot), 10% (sourspot)

|dsc1desc=A downward headbutt. It has less start-up lag; [[buries]] grounded opponents; and meteor smashes aerial ones. However, its lack of a boulder results in it having a much lower overall damage output and less range. It also lacks super armor and only its sweetspot is a meteor smash, whereas its sourspot very weakly launches aerial opponents diagonally.

|dsc2dmg=8% (boulder), 2% (fragments)

|dsc2desc=Grants super armor beginning on frame 1 and has more vertical range, thanks to the boulder's fragments flying much farther. However, it deals less damage; the fragments have slightly less horizontal range; and the boulder lacks KO potential.

|fsname=Mega Evolution

|fspage=Mega Evolution (Charizard)

|fsdmg=2% (Dragon Rush hits 1-7), 10% (Dragon Rush hit 8), 5% (Fire Blast hit 1), 1% (Fire Blast hits 2-7), 5% (Fire Blast hit 8)

|fsdesc=[[bulbapedia:Mega Evolution|Mega Evolves]] into Mega Charizard X. As Mega Charizard X, it can fly freely around the stage, similarly to [[Super Dragon]]. Unlike Super Dragon, Mega Charizard X has super armor and flinch resistance instead of [[invincibility]], and receiving damage will shorten its duration. Pressing the attack and special attack buttons causes Mega Charizard X to use Dragon Rush and [[bulbapedia:Fire Blast (move)|Fire Blast]], respectively. Compared to the Dragon Rush custom move, Mega Charizard X's Dragon Rush possesses longer range; the ability to propel Mega Charizard X in any given direction; and actual KO potential, thanks to its higher damage output and knockback. In comparison, Fire Blast is a fiery projectile that covers slightly more than the entirety of Final Destination and hits multiple times, with its last hit possessing KO potential. Dragon Rush and Fire Blast's last hits KO middleweights at 108% and 123%, respectively, while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version.

 

|desc=Emerges from a [[Poké Ball]], then stomps once.

|desc-up=Stomps once and then rears back to roar upward while flapping its wings.

|desc-side=Faces the camera while stomping once and growling while spreading its wings out.

|desc-down=Violently stomps twice while facing the camera.}}

|desc-1=Leans back and then stomps once.

|victory-desc=An orchestral excerpt of the title theme from [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Red and Blue Versions|''Pokémon Red'', ''Blue'']] and [[bulbapedia:Pokémon Red and Green Versions|''Green Versions'']], which has since become the main theme of the ''Pokémon'' series.

|desc-2=Stomps forward before rearing its head back to roar upward while expelling flames from its mouth, and then strikes a pose.

|desc-3=Uses [[Flare Blitz]] to descend from the sky and crash into the ground before striking a pose.

===Most historically significant players===

*{{Sm|Chuck Nasty|USA}} - The best Charizard player in the United States. Known better for his regional performances, especially placing 4th at {{Trn|No Man's Land}}, 9th at {{Trn|King of the Springs 2}}, and 13th at {{Trn|Low Tier City 5}} defeating {{Sm|Konga}} and defeating {{Sm|Lima}} at {{Trn|Aftershock 2016}}.

*{{Sm|Fire|France}} - The best Charizard player in Europe and one of the few Charizard players officially ranked in a superregion, ranking 40th on the [[European Smash 4 Power Rankings]]. He is best known for placing 2nd at {{Trn|ICARUS III}} and 5th at {{Trn|Geneva Gaming Convention 2016}}.

*{{Sm|Sharpyzard|Dominican Republic}} - One of the best Charizard players of all-time best known for winning {{Trn|BeSmash 2016}}, the largest tournament won by a Charizard player. In addition, he is recognized outside his region for his consistency at North American majors, having placed 33rd at {{Trn|CEO Dreamland}}, {{Trn|GENESIS 5}}, and {{Trn|CEO 2018}}, defeating {{Sm|AC}} at GENESIS 5, as well as 49th at {{Trn|CEO 2017}}.

*{{Sm|Tosshi|Japan}} - One of the best Charizard players of all-time, best known for his run to 4th at {{Trn|Umebura 31}} defeating {{Sm|Nietono}} and {{Sm|Kome}}, which remains the best Charizard performance, while his 25th-place finish at {{Trn|Umebura Japan Major}} is tied for the highest placement for a Charizard player at a major. Outside of those events, he has also placed 13th at {{Trn|Single Game Championships: Umebura X Single-Chu}} defeating {{Sm|Ranai}} and 17th at {{Trn|Umebura 28}}.

*{{Sm|Virum|UK}} - Although known better as a commentator, he is also considered the second-best Charizard players in Europe, having placed 25th at {{Trn|BEAST 7}} and {{Trn|Syndicate 2017}}, two of Europe's largest ''Smash 4'' events. Internationally, he notably placed 25th at {{Trn|SwitchFest}}, tied for the highest placement for a Charizard player at a major, and 49th at both {{Trn|2GGC: Nairo Saga}} and {{Trn|Shine 2017}}.

Due to its sluggish moveset; predictable and exploitable recovery; very slow air speed; susceptibility to combos; and newfound lack of teammates, Charizard initially garnered a very poor reputation by the majority of players during ''SSB4''{{'}}s early metagame. Update [[1.0.8]], however, began a trend in which game updates consistently granted Charizard buffs that were substantial at best and decent at worst. The buffs from this particular update noticeably improved Charizard's KO potential, combo game and frame data to the point that it lost its candidacy for the worst character in the game. Although some players even argued in favor of Charizard now becoming somewhat viable, it was still widely attested that these buffs were not sufficient enough to significantly improve its representation and results. As a result, Charizard was ranked 49th on the first [[tier list]], confirming its status as a bottom-tier character.

Despite this placement, Charizard's viability became heavily contested ever since update [[1.1.5]], thanks to its sporadic instances of success and strengths as a character. Numerous professionals, including {{Sm|ZeRo}} and {{Sm|ESAM}}, believed Charizard to be somewhat viable and labeled it as a potential low-tier or even mid-tier character. This perception persisted into the second tier list, but was not reinforced by the second tier list itself, as Charizard was ranked 51st and thus placed at the top of the bottom-tier.

Despite this placement, many players kept arguing in favor of Charizard's viability. Notably, {{Sm|MkLeo}} has claimed that Charizard can fare well against top-tier characters, thanks to it having some niche matchups against some of them, such as {{SSB4|Cloud}}. Arguments in favor of Charizard's viability were further supplemented by its tournament results slowly, but noticeably, improving; dedicated players like {{sm|Chuck Nasty}}, {{sm|Sharpy}} and {{sm|Serge}} would go on to actually win regional tournaments while exclusively using Charizard.

Thanks to its newfound success, Charizard was ranked 45th on the third tier list, which reassessed it as a low-tier character. International players like {{Sm|Tosshi}}, {{Sm|Fire}} and {{Sm|SilentDoom}} would also achieve significant wins and results while using Charizard, such as the latter placing 25th at [[B.E.A.S.T 7]] while using both Charizard and Cloud. Although Charizard's results in North America have been more sparse than other regions, they eventually improved in a similar manner. Notable examples include {{sm|Bloodcross}} and Sharpy placing 17th and 33rd, respectively, at [[CEO Dreamland]], and Chuck Nasty placing 13th at [[Low Tier City 5]]. Thanks to this steady amount of tournament success, Charizard has been ranked 42nd on the fourth and final tier list, which has reassessed it as a mid-tier character.

In All-Star Mode, Charizard is fought in Stage 5 in the 3DS version or Stage 3 in the Wii U version alongside {{SSB4|Pikachu}}, {{SSB4|Ness}}, {{SSB4|Jigglypuff}}, {{SSB4|Sheik}}, {{SSB4|Ganondorf}}, {{SSB4|Mewtwo}}, {{SSB4|Diddy Kong}}, and {{SSB4|Cloud}}.

*'''[[All-Star Battle: Brawl]]''': Charizard is one of the opponents fought in this event. All of the opponents debuted in ''Brawl''.

*'''[[Fire-Type Frenzy]]''': Charizard must defeat {{SSB4|Greninja}}, {{SSB4|Lucario}}, and {{SSB4|Pikachu}}. [[Fire Bar]]s, [[Fire Flower]]s, and [[Superspicy Curry]] are the only [[item]]s that appear.

*'''{{SSB4|Pokémon Battle}}''': As Greninja, the player must defeat a team of Charizard, Pikachu, and Lucario.

*'''[[The Falchion{{'}}s Seal]]''': As {{SSB4|Robin}}, the player must defeat a giant Charizard using their [[Final Smash]], [[Pair Up]]. Defeating it in any other way causes it to respawn.

*'''[[Poisonous Planet]]''': {{SSB4|Olimar}} and {{SSB4|Samus}} must defeat two giant Charizard in a [[Stamina Mode|Stamina Battle]] before their own health is depleted via [[flower]]ing.

*'''[[Pokémon Multi Battle!]]''': Charizard and Pikachu must defeat a team of Lucario and Greninja, and then a team of Charizard and Pikachu each appearing after one opponent is defeated.

*'''[[Robots vs. Dragons]]''': {{SSB4|Mega Man}} and {{SSB4|R.O.B.}} must defeat a team of a giant Charizard, a giant {{SSB4|Yoshi}}, and [[Ridley]] in a Stamina Battle.

*'''[[The Ultimate Battle]]''': Two players select characters and must defeat the entire roster.

SSB4-Wii U Congratulations Classic Charizard.png|Classic Mode

SSB4-Wii U Congratulations All-Star Charizard.png|All-Star Mode

==[[Trophies]]==

Charizard's default trophy is obtained by clearing Classic Mode as Charizard. Its alternate trophy is obtained by clearing All-Star Mode as Charizard in the 3DS version or purchasing it in the Trophy Shop for 1000G in the Wii U version. The Mega Evolution (Charizard) trophy is obtained only in the Wii U version by clearing All-Star Mode as Charizard.

{{Trophy/Fighter

|name=Charizard

|image-3ds=CharizardTrophy3DS.png

|image-wiiu=CharizardTrophyWiiU.png

|mode=Classic

|desc-3ds-ntsc=The iconic Fire/Flying-type Pokémon. Charizard's scorching breath can melt anything in its path. It soars through the air, seeking only worthy foes to test itself against. In Smash Bros., Charizard unleashes the destructive Flare Blitz special move—a move so strong, it even injures the user!

|desc-wiiu-ntsc=The iconic Fire/Flying-type Pokémon. Charizard's scorching breath can melt anything in its path. It soars through the air seeking only worthy foes to test itself against. In Smash Bros., Charizard unleashes the destructive Flare Blitz special move—a move so strong, it even injures the user!

|desc-pal=Charizard, a Fire- and Flying-type Pokémon, can burn through anything with the flames it breathes. It is constantly on the lookout for powerful opponents, and where better to find them than in this game? Its huge build and special moves mean it can inflict massive damage, and its Flare Blitz is so powerful, it even hurts Charizard itself!

|gamelist-ntsc={{Trophy games|console1=GB|game1=Pokémon Red & Pokémon Blue|release1=09/1998|console2=3DS|game2=Pokémon X & Pokémon Y|release2=10/2013}}

|gamelist-pal={{Trophy games|console1=GB|game1=Pokémon Red/Blue|release1=10/1999|console2=3DS|game2=Pokémon X/Y|release2=10/2013}}

}}

{{clrl}}

|image-3ds=CharizardAltTrophy3DS.png

|image-wiiu=CharizardAltTrophyWiiU.png

|desc-ntsc=Charizard's Flamethrower attack can be sustained by holding the button. The flames will gradually die, but a short break will recharge them. Charizard's down special Rock Smash crushes a rock and hits foes with the pieces. Charizard won't flinch while crushing, but others can break the rock...

|gamelist-ntsc={{Trophy games|console1=GB|game1=Pokémon Red & Pokémon Blue|release1=09/1998|console2=3DS|game2=Pokémon X & Pokémon Y|release2=10/2013}}

|gamelist-pal={{Trophy games|console1=GB|game1=Pokémon Red/Blue|release1=10/1999|console2=3DS|game2=Pokémon X/Y|release2=10/2013}}

 

|colspan=8|[[File:Charizard Palette (SSB4).png|link=Palette swap (SSB4)#Charizard]]

NintendoDirect-Pokemon.png|Charizard alongside {{SSB4|Pikachu}} and various Pokémon during Charizard's trailer.

Charizard-FAir-SSB4.png|Using its new forward aerial on {{SSB4|Mario}}.

SSB4 - Flare Blitz.jpg|Using [[Flare Blitz]], its new side special, alongside {{SSB4|Diddy Kong}}.

SSB4 - Charizard Screen-2.jpg|Using its forward tilt against Mario's [[F.L.U.D.D.]]

SSB4WiiU-Charizard4.jpg|[[Roll]]ing away from {{SSB4|Little Mac}}'s [[Jolt Haymaker]].

SSB4WiiU-Charizard5.jpg|[[Sidestep]]ping {{SSB4|Greninja}}'s [[Water Shuriken]].

SSB4WiiU-Charizard7.jpg|Charizard and {{SSB4|Lucario}} [[sleep]]ing after coming into contact with [[Bellossom]]'s [[bulbapedia:Sweet Scent (move)|Sweet Scent]].

SSB4WiiU-Charizard8.jpg|[[Teeter]]ing while {{SSB4|Kirby}} is in the foreground after [[Inhale (Kirby)|copying]] it.

SSB43DS-Charizard1.jpg|[[Crouching]] on [[Prism Tower]] in {{for3ds}}.

SSB43DS-Charizard2.jpg|Alongside Pikachu.

SSB4 - First Four Playable Pokemon.png|Taunting alongside Lucario, Greninja and Pikachu.

SSB4 Flare Blitz.gif|Using Flare Blitz on Diddy Kong and {{SSB4|Wii Fit Trainer}} and displaying its recoil effect.

*Compared to its appearance in ''Brawl'', Charizard now draws inspiration not only from {{s|bulbapedia|Ash's Charizard}}, but also {{s|bulbapedia|Red's Charizard}} and {{s|bulbapedia|Alain's Charizard}}:

**Its forward aerial's animation is identical to Alain's when it uses {{iw|bulbapedia|Dragon Claw|move}}.

**Its up throw's animation is similar to Ash and Red's when they use {{s|bulbapedia|Seismic Toss}}.

**It knows {{iw|bulbapedia|Flare Blitz}} like Red's in [[bulbapedia:Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver Versions|''Pokémon HeartGold'' and ''SoulSilver Versions'']].

**It can use {{iw|bulbapedia|Blast Burn|move}} like Red (albeit only in ''Pokémon HeartGold'' and ''SoulSilver Versions'') and Alain's.

**It can undergo {{iw|bulbapedia|Mega Evolution}} like Red and Alain's.

*Due to having access to both X Attack and Fake Nails in the attack category, Charizard is the only character capable of using two types of specialized/non-badge [[equipment]] within the same category.

*Charizard knows eight official Pokémon {{s|bulbapedia|move}}s in ''SSB4'', all of which it can learn legally in the ''Pokémon'' {{s|bulbapedia|core series}}. In addition to {{iw|bulbapedia|Flamethrower|move}}, {{iw|bulbapedia|Flare Blitz|move}}, {{iw|bulbapedia|Fly|move}} and {{iw|bulbapedia|Rock Smash|move}}, it can use {{iw|bulbapedia|Fire Fang|move}} and Blast Burn as [[Character customization|custom moves]], Fire Blast as part of its [[Final Smash]], and {{iw|bulbapedia|Dragon Rush|move}} either as a custom move or as part of its Final Smash.

**As {{SSBB|Squirtle}} did not return from ''Brawl'', Charizard is also the only playable Pokémon in ''SSB4'' to know moves that were {{s|bulbapedia|HM}}s prior to {{s|bulbapedia|generation VII}} (Fly and Rock Smash).

*In the [[PAL]] version of {{for3ds}}, one of the [[tips]] about Rock Smash refers to Charizard using masculine pronouns: "''Right before smashing a rock, Charizard gets super armor, meaning '''he''' won't even flinch if '''he'''{{'}}s attacked!''"

*Charizard is the only Pokémon who lacks both a [[charge]]able special move and an aerial attack that hits more than once.

*Charizard is the first character to have one of its special move inputs changed between games since the transition from ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' to ''[[Melee]]'', with the second being {{SSBU|Palutena}} in ''[[Ultimate]]''.

 

[[Category:Charizard (SSB4)| ]]