Editing Dr. Mario (SSB4)

{{Disambig2|Dr. Mario's appearance in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''|the character in other contexts, see [[Dr. Mario]]; for information on the character of whom Dr. Mario is a [[clone]]|Mario (SSB4)}}

|name         = Dr. Mario

|image       = [[Image:Dr. Mario SSB4.png|250px|Dr. Mario]]

|game         = SSB4

|ssbgame1     = SSBM

|tier = E

|ranking = 51

'''Dr. Mario''' ({{ja|Dr. マリオ|Dokutā Mario}}, ''Dr. Mario'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''. His return to the series was announced on [[Super Smash Bros. 4 Official Site|''SSB4''{{'}}s official website]] on October 9th, 2014, during which {{SSB4|Dark Pit}} was also revealed.<ref>[http://www.escapistmagazine.com/news/view/138070-Secret-Super-Smash-Bros-Characters-Revealed-by-Nintendo#&gid=gallery_3377&pid=1 More "Secret" ''Super Smash Bros.'' Characters Officially Revealed]</ref> Charles Martinet reprises his role as Dr. Mario's voice actor, albeit via Mario's voice clips from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''.

Dr. Mario is currently ranked 51st out of 58 on the [[tier list]], placing him in the E tier. This is a significant drop from his mid-tier placement in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'', where his ranking of 11th out of 26 placed him above [[Mario (SSBM)|his normal self]]. The implementation of multipliers to the majority of Dr. Mario's moveset and some of his attributes result in him functioning like a slower, yet stronger version of {{SSB4|Mario}}. As a result, Dr. Mario's overall damage output is above-average for a character of his size and weight, which makes his KOing options much stronger than his normal self's. Like Mario, his overall frame is also very fast, which makes him difficult to [[Punishment|punish]] and very potent at punishing.

However, the multipliers applied to Dr. Mario's [[walk]]ing speed, [[dash]]ing speed, [[air speed]], and [[air acceleration]] collectively result in him being noticeably slower and less nimble than Mario. Although it is largely unrelated to his moveset's multiplier, Dr. Mario's combo game is also inferior to Mario's, owing to his down throw being much less effective at starting combos compared to his normal self's.

Due to his weaknesses outweighing his strengths, Dr. Mario's representation and results have both been very sparse throughout ''SSB4''{{'}}s lifespan. Although he is considered non-viable in competitive play, especially in comparison to Mario, Dr. Mario has nevertheless achieved minor success, thanks to {{Sm|2ManyCooks}}, {{Sm|Nairo}}, {{Sm|Koolaid}}, and {{Sm|B7Games}}.

As a [[clone]] of a {{SSB4|Mario}}, Dr. Mario is a [[Weight|middleweight]] that can [[wall jump]]. Although they share an overwhelming number of animations and the exact same in-game values, Dr. Mario's height is below average because of him being very slightly shorter than his normal self, while his [[Crouching|crouch]] is not as low as Mario's. Unlike in ''Melee'', Dr. Mario now fights like a stronger, yet slower version of Mario: multipliers are applied to his [[walk]]ing and [[dash]]ing speeds (0.83×), [[air speed]] (0.81×), and [[air acceleration]] (0.82×), while both his [[jump]] and [[double jump]] are lower than Mario's. As a result, these modified attributes collectively render Dr. Mario's overall mobility as sub-par. Outside of these attributes, he and Mario share the same [[falling speed|falling]] and [[fast fall]]ing speeds, [[traction]], and [[gravity]].

However, a multiplier is also applied to almost the entirety of Dr. Mario's moveset: aside from his up tilt, forward aerial, clean back aerial, down aerial, up special, and down special, a multiplier (1.12×) is applied to the remainder of Dr. Mario's attacks.<ref name="DamageMultiplier"/> As a result, he is noticeably more efficient at KOing in comparison to Mario, as his smash attacks, clean forward aerial, clean back aerial, and clean [[Super Jump Punch]] are all excellent KOing options. When coupled with his frame data being very slightly slower than Mario's in regard to start-up lag, Dr. Mario is also difficult to [[Punishment|punish]] and very potent at punishing.

Other noticeable differences between Dr. Mario and Mario are seen in their special moves. [[Megavitamins]] travel farther in the air without landing compared to Mario's [[Fireball]], and they bounce twice instead of three times. [[Cape#Super Sheet|Super Sheet]] has higher positioned hitboxes and its [[reflection]] hitbox has a longer duration compared to [[Cape]], but has much less horizontal range and, most notably, no longer stalls him in midair like it did in ''Melee''. To alleviate the removal of Super Sheet's recovery potential, [[Dr. Tornado]] is now a more integral part of Dr. Mario's recovery, since it grants him a decent amount of horizontal distance when it is button mashed sufficiently. Dr. Tornado deals damage unlike [[F.L.U.D.D.]] and can be used for edge-guarding, although it is noticeably riskier at doing so in comparison to F.L.U.D.D. [[Super Jump Punch]] functions similarly to {{SSB4|Luigi}}'s version instead of Mario's version, as it consists of a clean hitbox and a late hitbox instead of multiple hitboxes, and thus possesses KO potential unlike Mario's. Although it can no longer be canceled, Dr. Mario's Super Jump Punch can now be [[B-reversing|B-reversed]] upon start-up, which can enable him to hit an opponent behind himself upon hitting his primary target.

In regard to playstyle, Dr. Mario's combo game is very different from Mario's, as it is more difficult to land more attacks without correct reads. Although he has a higher overall damage output, Dr. Mario's overall slower movement speed and largely higher knockback make him less capable of chaining hits together in quick succession, especially against lightweight characters. Despite this, his down tilt is a useful combo starter: although it is short-ranged, it is very effective against middleweights, heavyweights, and certain [[Falling speed#Fast-faller|fast-fallers]], with follow-ups including itself, neutral attack, up smash, forward tilt, up tilt, Super Jump Punch, or Dr. Tornado. Outside of this, his neutral attack is among the fastest in the game, while his up tilt can combo into itself reliably like Mario's, although it cannot be performed as consecutively because of its higher knockback. Lastly, the horizontal launching angle of Dr. Mario's up smash enables it to initiate grounded combos at low percentages when uncharged.

Like his normal self, Dr. Mario boasts an effective grab game, thanks to his throws' respective uses. His forward throw is useful for initiating [[Edge-guarding|edge-guards]], whereas his back throw is a viable KOing option at high percentages. His up throw is able to initiate aerial pressure, whereas his down throw is able to combo into his up aerial and a [[reverse aerial rush]]ed back aerial from low to medium percentages, and even his forward aerial and Super Jump Punch at high percentages, although the latter two require very precise timing.

Dr. Mario's air game is also above-average. His neutral aerial is a "reverse sex kick": its clean hitbox deals minimal damage, whereas its late hitbox deals more damage. Thanks to it hitting on frame 3 and having low landing lag, its clean hitbox is ideal for follow-ups, whereas its late hitbox can be used for edge-guarding. Dr. Mario's back aerial is also fast and boasts a powerful clean hitbox, which make it viable for KOing and edge-guarding. His back aerials can also be [[Auto-canceling|auto-canceled]] with a short hop, making it useful for pressuring. Dr. Mario's forward aerial has considerable start-up lag, but it is the third strongest of its kind when landing its clean hitbox, making it lethal when it is [[Short hop fast fall L-cancel#Short hop fast fall|SHFF]]'d while near the edge. Dr. Mario's up and down aerials, however, are different from Mario's in regard to utility. Both of them possess horizontal launching angles, which makes them capable of edge-guarding unlike his normal self's respective aerials. However, they also lack KO potential unlike Mario's respective aerials, while up aerial is also virtually useless for combos past low percentages.

Dr. Mario's flaws are significantly more noticeable when compared to Mario's. Although he boasts excellent KO power, his KO potential is inconsistent because of him having less guaranteed KO set-ups than Mario. Many characters also outperform Dr. Mario in several areas: {{SSB4|Donkey Kong}} has more power, Luigi has much greater combo versatility, {{SSB4|Villager}} and {{SSB4|R.O.B.}} have stronger zoning abilities, and {{SSB4|Captain Falcon}} has much better mobility. Out of these attributes, his most problematic ones are the latter two: his slow mobility compared to Mario gives him problems with [[approach]]ing, which, when compounded by the poor range on his attacks, further prevents him from fighting at a safe distance compared to Mario.

Dr. Mario's sluggish mobility compounds another notable weakness: his recovery. Despite now being able to wall jump, the combination of Dr. Mario's slower air speed, slower air acceleration, and the mediocre distance Super Jump Punch grants results in his recovery being predictable like Mario. Unlike the former, he can extend it by making use of Dr. Tornado, which allows him to gain slightly better horizontal distance compared to him, as well as helping on fending off edge-guarders. However, his recovery gains noticeably less vertical distance compared to Mario, which leaves him vulnerable to most [[meteor smash]]es as they may launch him low enough to be KO'd. As a result, it is best for him to read the opponent when trying to return to the stage knowing when and how to make use of Dr. Tornado. Additionally, even though he may not need to use his double jump to recover, any sufficiently strong attacks, particularly [[semi-spike]]s, may launch him too far away to recover back to the stage.

Dr. Mario benefits significantly from his [[Character customization|custom moves]]. Like Mario, his custom moves define the fundamentals of customization, but in Dr. Mario's case, some of them alleviate his most significant flaws compared to how Mario's benefit him. Fast Capsule deals less damage and barely causes [[flinch]]ing, but covers more range at a much faster pace. Conversely, Mega Capsule has less range and is much slower, but deals repeated damage and lingers after being thrown. This allows it to shut down many approaches from characters that lack projectiles, as well as provide follow-ups. Breezy Sheet provides more safety when fighting near the edge but deals slightly less damage, whereas Shocking Sheet gives Dr. Mario another KOing option that has decent speed, but merely destroys projectiles instead of reflecting them.

Ol' One-Two gives Dr. Mario an extremely powerful KOing option that can KO at very low percentages, but at the cost of further hindering his already sub-par recovery. Conversely, Super Jump functions in the exact opposite way: it grants noticeably better recovery, but deals no damage. However, Soaring Tornado is arguably Dr. Mario's best custom move because of its utility. It grants noticeably better vertical recovery, has incredible edge-guarding potential thanks to its [[wind]]box and hitbox, and its hitbox is powerful enough to KO early either on-stage or off-stage. However, these benefits come at the cost of it granting no horizontal recovery. Conversely, Clothesline Tornado is effectively his worst custom move: it boasts impressive power, yet further hinders his recovery, has a shorter duration, and has slower start-up lag.

Overall, Dr. Mario functions like he was initially intended to in ''Melee'': a slower, yet stronger version of Mario. These traits make Dr. Mario function like a slow, yet fairly powerful glass cannon, similarly to {{SSB4|Zelda}}. As such, he performs optimally with a bait and punish playstyle, yet must remain on-stage more often than not because of his sub-par recovery. Although Dr. Mario's faults outweigh his strengths to the point that his tournament representation and results are both extremely sparse, he has nevertheless achieved some instances of success, thanks to {{Sm|2ManyCooks}}, {{Sm|Nairo}}, {{Sm|Koolaid}}, and {{Sm|B7Games}}.

Dr. Mario received some of the most recognizable changes out of any veteran in the transition from ''Melee'' to ''SSB4'', with all of his changes gearing him towards what he was intended to be in ''Melee'': a slower, but stronger Mario. However, these changes result in Dr. Mario being [[nerf]]ed significantly, as the nerfs to his speed and mobility have weakened his neutral game and approach despite having [[Megavitamins]] as a projectile. Many of his moves were also nerfed, with notable examples including his forward aerial and forward smash, which now require landing their sweetspots in order to be effective, and his Megavitamins, which now deal less damage and have noticeably higher lag.

Although Dr. Mario's punishment game is still potent, the post-''Melee'' changes to game physics have also removed many of his set-ups into those potential sweetspots, making it much less effective as well. Furthermore, his recovery was nerfed because of [[Dr. Tornado]]'s vertical coverage having decreased when used in the air (without the aid of his jump), while [[Cape#Super Sheet|Super Sheet]] no longer stalls him in the air. As a result, Dr. Mario is forced to either mix up the usage of Dr. Tornado by using it early when recovering, or by using it with his double jump to cover more vertical distance. His new [[wall jump]] can also be used for recovery mix-ups, but this makes him predictable to edge-guard.

However, Dr. Mario has been buffed in other aspects. Like Mario, some of his moves had their ranges increased, which makes his matchups against characters with long/disjointed ranges somewhat less challenging. Dr. Mario's already high power has increased even further, thanks to the strengthening of some of his attacks' sweetspots. These changes, however, do not properly compensate for the overall decrease to his mobility. As a result, he is the only ''Melee'' veteran to have been truly nerfed in his transition, as {{SSB4|Mewtwo}} has been significantly buffed via game updates, whereas {{SSB4|Roy}} had already been buffed in various ways upon his return and was slightly buffed via game updates.

*{{change|Dr. Mario's design is now a combination of his appearance as of ''{{s|mariowiki|Dr. Mario Online Rx}}'', and his appearance in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee''. His fair skin, dark brown hair, fully buttoned {{s|wikipedia|white coat}}, red tie, and tawny shoes are from ''Online Rx'' and subsequent [[mariowiki:Dr. Mario (series)|''Dr. Mario'' games]], whereas his white coat's loose sleeves and dark gray pants are from ''Melee''.}}

*{{change|Dr. Mario's pants are now slightly rolled up at his ankles. His stethoscope's tubing and head mirror's headband are also dark gray and dark taupe, respectively, instead of steel blue and cordovan, respectively. These changes are original to ''SSB4''.}}

*{{change|Dr. Mario now has an [[on-screen appearance]], an up [[taunt]], and a down taunt.}}

*{{change|Dr. Mario has a new [[idle pose]]. He punches his open palm with his fist. However, his stance while holding a light [[item]] is now identical to {{SSB4|Mario}}'s.}}

*{{nerf|Due to the majority of Mario's damage output having slightly decreased since ''Brawl'', the majority of Dr. Mario's damage output has also slightly decreased.}}

*{{nerf|Dr. Mario [[dash]]es slower (1.5 → 1.328).}}

*{{nerf|Dr. Mario's [[traction]] is lower (0.6 → 0.45), as it is now identical to Mario's. This hinders his [[punishment]] game, especially from [[out of shield]].}}

*{{buff|[[Roll]]s and [[air dodge]] have decreased ending lag (frame 31 → 30 (rolls), frame 48 → 33 (air dodge)).}}

*{{nerf|[[Sidestep]] has increased ending lag (frame 22 → 27).}}

*{{buff|Sidestep has increased intangibility frames (frames 2-15 → 3-17).}}  

*{{buff|[[Short hop]] is lower and [[jump]] is higher, improving his air game and aerial maneuverability. Dr. Mario can also now [[wall jump]].}}

*{{change|Backward jump's animation has changed. Dr. Mario now performs a [[mariowiki:Somersault|Backward Somersault]] three times, instead of once.}}

*{{nerf|Neutral attack deals less damage (4% (hit 1)/3% (hit 2)/6% (hit 3) → 2.8%/1.68%/4.48%) and has increased ending lag (frame 16/19/23 → 23/25/36), hindering its [[jab cancel]]ing potential.}}

*{{buff|Neutral attack's first hit is now a consecutive jab. Its second hit also has decreased start-up lag (frame 3 → 2), which makes it connect together better with its first hit.}}

*{{nerf|Neutral attack's last hit has increased start-up lag (frame 5 → 7) and a shorter duration (frames 5-9 → 7-8).}}

*{{nerf|All tilt attacks have shorter durations (frames 4-8 → 5-7 (forward), frames 4-12 → 5-11 (up), frames 5-8 → 5-7 (down)).}}

*{{nerf|Forward tilt deals less damage (9% (upward)/8% (non-angled)/7% (downward) → 7.84% (all)), hindering its spacing potential.}}

*{{nerf|Forward and up tilts have increased start-up lag (frame 4 → 5).}}

*{{change|Up tilt deals less damage (10% (clean)/8% (late) → 7.056%). Due to having a consistent hitbox instead of a clean hitbox and a late hitbox, up tilt's angle has also been altered ([[Sakurai angle|361°]] (clean)/100° (late) → 96°). These changes improve its combo potential, but hinder its versatility.}}

*{{buff|Down tilt deals less damage (9% → 7.84% (body)/5.6% (foot)), has decreased ending lag (frame 33 → 28), and its angle has been altered (150° → 80° (body/foot)). Altogether, these changes grant it combo potential at low to high percentages.}}

*{{change|Dash attack deals less damage (9% (clean)/8% (late) → 8.96%/6.72%). This slightly improves its set-up potential, but slightly hinders its spacing potential.}}

*{{buff|Non-angled and downward angled forward smash deal more damage (19% (non-angled)/18% (downward) → 19.04%/19.6112%), although their and upward angled forward smash's knockback have been compensated (30 (base)/97 (scaling) → 25/96).}}

*{{buff|Forward smash has received a sourspot located at the blast of [[electric]]ity that deals 16.464% (upward)/15.68% (non-angled)/16.1504% (downward). This increases its range.}}

*{{nerf|Forward smash has increased start-up (frame 12 → 15), ending lag (frame 42 → 48), and a shorter duration (frames 12-16 → 15-17).}}

*{{buff|Due to the damage multiplier for fully charged smash attacks being increased from ''Melee'' to ''SSB4'' (1.3671× → 1.4×), fully charged forward and up smashes deal more damage (27.342% (upward)/25.9749% (non-angled)/24.6078% (downward) (forward) → 27.9888%/26.656%/27.45568%, 21.8736% (clean)/17.7723% (late) (up) → 21.952%). This improves their KO potentials.}}

*{{change|Due to having a consistent hitbox instead of a clean hitbox and a late hitbox, up smash now deals consistent damage (16% (clean)/13% (late) → 15.68%).}}

*{{change|Due to its angle being altered (259° (clean/late) → 130°), up smash is no longer a [[spike]]. This improves its KO potential, but significantly hinders its combo potential.}}

*{{buff|Up smash has a longer duration (frames 9-11 → 9-13) and increased intangibility frames (frames 9-11 → 9-13).}}

*{{nerf|Down smash's front hit deals less damage (18% (clean)/17% (late) → 11.2%). Additionally, down smash has increased ending lag (frame 38 → 44). Lastly, down smash's back hit has a shorter duration (frames 14-15 → 14).}}

*{{change|Due to consisting of a consistent hitbox instead of a clean hitbox and a late hitbox, down smash's back hit now deals consistent damage (15% (clean)/13% (late) → 13.44%). However, its knockback was somewhat compensated (45 (base)/75 (scaling) → 30/100).}}

*{{buff|Due to its angle being altered (361° (front/back) → 32° (front)/30° (back)), down smash is now a [[semi-spike]]. This improves its edge-guarding potential.}}

*{{nerf|Neutral aerial deals less damage (10% (clean)/14% (late) → 5.6%/8.96%), hindering its spacing potential and removing its late hitbox's KO potential. It also has a shorter duration (frames 3-31 → 3-27).}}

*{{buff|Neutral and forward aerials auto-cancel earlier (frame 36> → 34> (neutral), frame 44> → 43> (forward)).}}

*{{change|Due to its arm hitbox being removed, forward aerial now deals consistent damage (17% (arm)/16% (fist) → 16.8%). However, its knockback was somewhat compensated (50 (base)/100 (scaling) (arm)/40/100 (fist) → 30/102).}}

*{{change|Forward aerial has received an early hitbox and a late hitbox that deal 11.2% and 10.08%, respectively, and launch at 50°. This decreases its start-up lag (frame 18 → 16) and lengthens its duration (frames 18-22 → 16-22), but makes it more susceptible to punishment at low to medium percentages.}}

*{{buff|Back aerial deals more damage (8% (clean)/7% (late) → 13.44%/7.84%), although its knockback was compensated (43 (base)/65 (scaling) → 10/95 (clean), 20 (base)/100 (scaling) → 7/90 (late)). These changes improve its clean hitbox's KO potential.}}

*{{nerf|Back aerial has increased ending lag (frame 29 → 34) and a shorter duration (frames 6-16 → 6-13). Due to its angle being altered (28° → 361°), clean back aerial is also no longer a semi-spike, hindering its edge-guarding potential.}}

*{{nerf|Up aerial deals 2.16% less damage (10% → 7.84%), although its base knockback was compensated (0 → 9).}}

*{{buff|Up aerial has decreased ending lag (frame 34 → 32) and a longer duration (frames 4-9 → 4-12).}}

*{{change|Up aerial's angle has been altered (55° → 45°). This improves its edge-guarding potential, but significantly hinders its juggling potential.}}

*{{nerf|Up and down aerials auto-cancel later (frame 16> → 18> (up), frame 33> → 45> (down)).}}

*{{nerf|Due to consisting of five hits instead of seven, down aerial deals 10.024% less damage (21% → 10.976%).}}

*{{change|Down aerial now consists of a consistent hitbox that re-hits every 4 frames and launches at 95°/[[Autolink angle|366°]], instead of multiple hitboxes every 3 frames that launch at 80°. This makes its hits connect together better, but shortens its duration (frames 10-29 → 11-27).}}

*{{nerf|Down aerial has increased start-up (frame 10 → 11) and ending lag (frame 38 → 52).}}

*{{buff|Down aerial has received a concluding hitbox and a landing hitbox that deal 3.36% and 2.24% respectively, and launch at 45° and 361° respectively. These changes improve its safety.}}

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

*{{buff|All grabs have increased ranges.}}

*{{buff|Standing and dash grabs have decreased start-up (frame 7 → 6 (standing), frame 11 → 8 (dash)) and ending lag (frame 31 → 29 (standing), frame 41 → 36 (dash)).}}

*{{buff|Pummel deals 0.64% more damage (3% → 3.64%), making it the most damaging pummel in the game. It is also faster (24 frames → 23).}}

*{{nerf|Forward throw deals 0.04% less damage (9% → 8.96%) and has decreased knockback scaling (72 → 60), hindering its spacing potential.}}

*{{buff|Up throw deals 0.16% less damage (8% → 7.84%) and has decreased knockback (70 (base)/80 (scaling) → 65/70). These changes slightly improve its combo potential at low percentages.}}

*{{nerf|Back throw deals more damage (12% (throw)/8% (collateral) → 12.32%/8.96%), although its knockback was compensated (80 (base)/72 (scaling) → 70/60). This hinders its KO potential in spite of its higher damage output.}}

*{{buff|Down throw deals 0.4% less damage (6% → 5.6%), although its knockback scaling was compensated (40 → 45). Its angle has also been altered (90° → 80°). Altogether, these changes slightly improve its combo potential at low to medium percentages.}}

*{{nerf|The removal of [[chain grab]]bing significantly hinders Dr. Mario's grab game and damage racking potential.}}

*{{change|Due to the introduction of [[tripping]], Dr. Mario has received a floor attack when he trips.}}

*{{buff|Front and back floor attacks deal 1.84% more damage (6% → 7.84%).}}

*{{change|Edge attack now deals consistent damage (6% (body)/8% (legs) → 7.84%).}}

*{{nerf|[[Megavitamins]] deal less damage (8% → 5.6% (early)/4.48% (late)). They also have increased start-up (frame 12 → 17), ending lag (frame 44 → 53), and a shorter duration (frames 12-87 → 17-69).}}

*{{buff|Megavitamins are slightly larger, cover more distance, and are no longer [[absorb]]able.}}

*{{buff|Aerial Megavitamins descend faster.}}

*{{change|Megavitamins' visual effects have changed. They are significantly more vibrant, more rounded, and {{GameIcon|ssb4-3ds}}lack a translucent half.}}

*{{nerf|[[Cape#Super Sheet|Super Sheet]] deals less damage (10%/12% → 7.84%) and has decreased knockback (30 (base)/80 (scaling) → 0/0). It also has a significantly smaller hitbox.}}

*{{buff|Super Sheet can now [[reflect]] projectiles behind Dr. Mario.}}

*{{nerf|Aerial Super Sheet no longer stalls Dr. Mario, removing its recovery potential.}}

*{{change|Due to having a clean hitbox and a late hitbox instead of five consecutive hitboxes, [[Super Jump Punch]] has an altered damage output (5% (hit 1)/2% (hits 2-4)/3% (hit 5) → 13.44% (clean)/6.72% (late)).}}

*{{buff|Clean Super Jump Punch deals 10.44% more damage than its last hit in ''Melee'' (3% → 13.44%). This grants it KO potential in spite of its lower knockback (40 (base)/160 (scaling) → 30/100).}}

*{{nerf|Super Jump Punch has increased landing lag and a shorter duration (frames 3-21 → 3-19).}}

*{{change|Super Jump Punch can now be moved in the opposite direction upon hitting with its clean hitbox, which allows Dr. Mario to potentially avoid being punished after hitting with it or hit another opponent with its clean hitbox. However, it can no longer be [[Super Jump Punch#Up-B cancel|canceled]].}}

*{{change|Super Jump Punch's visual effects have changed. It no longer produces {{s|mariowiki|Coin}}s upon contact.}}

*{{nerf|[[Dr. Tornado]] deals less damage (13% (all grounded hits)/14% (all aerial hits) → 8.736% (all hits)) and has increased start-up lag (frame 8 → 10).}}

*{{buff|Dr. Tornado has decreased ending lag (frame 80 → 75). Its last hit also has increased knockback (75 (base)/120 (scaling) (grounded), 80 (base)/120 (scaling) (aerial) → 80/130 (both)) and its angle has been altered (361° → 45°), improving its edge-guarding potential.}}

*{{change|Dr. Tornado now consists of a single hitbox that re-hits every 6 frames and launch at 90°/180°/360°, instead of multiple hitboxes with short durations that launch at 180°/160°/100°. This makes its hits connect together better, but shortens its duration (frames 8-39 → 10-40).}}

*{{buff|The weakening of SDI makes Dr. Tornado significantly more difficult to escape from.}}

*{{change|Dr. Tornado's loop hits have lost their [[Priority#Transcendent priority|transcendent priority]], whereas its last hit has received transcendent priority. This allows its last hit to cancel out non-transcendent attacks, but hinders its approach potential.}}

*{{change|Dr. Mario now has a [[Final Smash]], [[Doctor Finale]]. Dr. Mario rears his arms back before thrusting them forward to generate and then launch two gigantic Megavitamins that move across the screen in a spiraling motion, which trap and repeatedly damage any opponents in their path. Aesthetically, it functions identically to [[Mario Finale]].}}

 

*{{change|Dr. Mario's stance is identical to Mario's, albeit slower.}}

*{{change|Dr. Mario is less vocal than Mario and some of his attacks emit different sound effects.}}

*{{change|Dr. Mario's [[on-screen appearance]], [[taunt]]s, [[idle pose]]s, and [[victory pose]]s are different from Mario's.}}

 

 

 

 

 

 

*{{change|Dr. Mario uses Ties as defensive [[Equipment]], whereas Mario uses Overalls.}}

Dr. Mario has been buffed slightly thanks to game updates. Updates [[1.0.4]] and [[1.0.6]] increased his forward aerial's damage output and knockback, which allow it to KO earlier. His KO potential was further improved in update [[1.1.0]], which increased his up smash's duration and knockback. Although the changes to [[shield]]s and [[shieldstun]] brought about by updates 1.1.0 and [[1.1.1]] hinder Dr. Mario's [[out of shield]] options because of his low traction, he also benefits from them unlike {{SSB4|Mario}}, thanks to his above-average damage output making his most powerful moves much safer on shield in comparison.

*{{buff|Up smash's knockback scaling increased|108|117, improving its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Clothesline Tornado deals 1% more damage|10.2% (first)/12.44% (last)|11.2%/13.44%.}}

*{{change|Clothesline Tornado's first hit's knockback altered|60 (base)/120 (scaling)|100/70. This improves its spacing potential, but hinders its KO potential.}}

*{{buff|Clothesline Tornado's first hit's hitbox size increased.}}  

|neutralname=&nbsp;

|neutraldesc=The {{s|mariowiki|Punch}} + Punch + {{s|mariowiki|Kick}} combo from ''Super Mario 64''. Its first two hits have set knockback that launch the opponent vertically, which enable its first hit to [[jab cancel]] quite reliably. Its most notable follow-ups are itself, down tilt, and [[Super Jump Punch]].

|ftiltname=&nbsp;

|ftiltdesc=A wheel kick. It can be angled and is useful for spacing beginning at 50%.

|utiltname=&nbsp;

|utiltdesc=A spinning uppercut. Like his normal self's up tilt, it is useful juggling and can combo into itself repeatedly at low percentages, or into an aerial attack at low to medium percentages. Unlike Mario's, however, it can also function as a situational KOing option. It KOs middleweights at 165% from anywhere on {{SSB4|Final Destination}} in {{for3ds}}, and at 156% in {{forwiiu}}. It appears to be based on the second hit of the [[mariowiki:List of weapons in Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars|Mega Glove]]'s combo from ''Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars''.

|dtiltname=&nbsp;

|dtiltdesc=A legsweep. It is Dr. Mario's best combo starter, as it can combo into any grounded attack or a grab at low percentages, into Super Jump Punch from low to medium percentages, and any aerial attack from medium to high percentages.

|dashname=&nbsp;

|dashdesc=The Slide Kick from ''Super Mario 64''. It clean and late hitboxes both launch opponents at 90°, which make it better at set-ups compared to his normal self's dash attack. However, it has a fair amount of ending lag like Mario's.

|fsmashname=&nbsp;

|fsmashdesc=A palm thrust that produces a blast of [[electric]]ity. Its range has increased since ''Melee'', but it now consists of a sweetspot and a sourspot. Its sweetspot is on Dr. Mario's arm, whereas its sourspot is the blast of electricity. Its sweetspot's impressive damage output and high knockback scaling make it Dr. Mario's strongest smash attack. While near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, its upward angled, non-angled, and downward angled sweetspot KOs middleweights at 72%, 78%, and 74%, respectively. In comparison, it KOs middleweights at 64%, 69%, and 66% when angled upward, not angled, and angled downward, respectively, while near the edge in the ''Wii U'' version. Although its sourspot deals less damage, it is nevertheless powerful enough to also KO reliably. While near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, its upward angled, non-angled, and downward angled sourspot KOs middleweights at 89%, 94%, 90%, respectively. In comparison, it KOs middleweights at 80%, 85%, and 82% when angled upward, not angled, and angled downward, respectively, while near the edge in the ''Wii U'' version. Due to it hitting on frame 15 and having 30 frames of ending lag, however, it is very punishable.

|usmashname=&nbsp;

|usmashdesc=An upward headbutt. It hits on frame 9, which is quite fast for a smash attack, and renders Dr. Mario's head [[Intangibility|intangible]] throughout its duration like his normal self's up smash. However, it has a slightly longer duration and more range than Mario's, as it can hit opponents behind Dr. Mario. It also launches at 130°, which makes it combo potential more varied than Mario's. When uncharged, it can combo into itself, up tilt, and Super Jump Punch at 0%-10%, and into forward and down tilts at 10%-15%. It KOs middleweights at 105% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 96% in the ''Wii U'' version. However, its launching angle also makes it reliable at KOing only while near the edge, whereas Mario's can KO reliably from anywhere on a stage. In addition, its 39 frames of ending lag make it very punishable.

|dsmashname=&nbsp;

|dsmashdesc=The Sweep Kick from ''Super Mario 64''. Due to it hitting on frame 5, it is tied with {{SSB4|Pit}}, {{SSB4|Dark Pit}}, {{SSB4|Zelda}}, {{SSB4|Ryu}}, and his normal self's down smashes for the second fastest smash attack of any kind in the game, being surpassed only by {{SSB4|Meta Knight}}'s [[buffer]]ed down smash. It is also a [[semi-spike]], which makes it excellent for edge-guarding, especially when landing its back hit. Depending on the opponent's position, both of its hits can potentially hit them. Its back hit KOs middleweights at 97% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 88% in the ''Wii U'' version. Although its front hit deals less damage, it is still powerful, as it KOs middleweights at 121% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 110% in the ''Wii U'' version. However, it is Dr. Mario's least damaging smash attack, and its 29 frames of ending lag make it punishable.

|nairname=&nbsp;

|nairdesc=A flying kick. Like in ''Melee'', it is a "reverse [[sex kick]]": its late hitbox deals more damage and has more knockback, whereas its clean hitbox deals less damage and has less knockback. As a result, its late hitbox is useful for edge-guarding, whereas its clean hitbox is useful for combo breaking. It can also auto-cancel with a short hop.

|fairname=&nbsp;

|fairdesc=Rears back his fist and then throws an [[wikipedia:Overhand (boxing)|overhand]]. It is useful for edge-guarding and, with a proper read, against on-stage opponents when [[Short hop fast fall L-cancel#Short hop fast fall|SHFF]]'d. Unlike his normal self's forward aerial, its clean hitbox is not a [[meteor smash]], but instead launches at 50°. Regardless, Dr, Mario's clean forward aerial is the third strongest forward aerial in the game, to the point that it is capable of KOing middleweights at 92% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 84% in the ''Wii U'' version. Unlike in ''Melee'', however, it now has early and late hitboxes, which are much weaker despite their respectable damage outputs.

|bairname=&nbsp;

|bairdesc=A dropkick. Its hits on frame 6, while its clean hitbox's respectable damage output and high knockback scaling make it effective for spacing when used as part of a [[reverse aerial rush]], or edge-guarding. It also has a moderately longer duration compared to his normal self's back aerial. Its clean hitbox KOs middleweights at 134% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 123% in the ''Wii U'' version.

|uairname=&nbsp;

|uairdesc=A bicycle kick. It can auto-cancel with a short hop, but unlike his normal self's up aerial, it has slightly less ending lag, a moderately longer duration, and launches at 45°. Altogether, these traits make it a decent combo starter when SHFF'd, a decent edge-guarding option, and enable it to function as a set-up into Super Jump Punch. However, its launching angle also makes it much less suitable for juggling past medium percentages compared to Mario's.

|dairname=&nbsp;

|dairdesc=A diagonal corkscrew dropkick. It [[Drill (archetype)|hits multiple times]], similarly to [[Mario Tornado]]. Its last hit also launches the opponent at 45°, which makes it significantly better than Mario Tornado in regard to edge-guarding. Unlike Mario Tornado, however, it cannot auto-cancel with a short hop.

|grabname=&nbsp;

|pummelname=&nbsp;

|pummeldesc=A headbutt. Moderately slow, but it is the most damaging pummel in the game. While {{SSB4|Olimar}} and {{SSB4|Shulk}}'s pummels can deal more damage, this only occurs if they are using [[Pikmin (species)|White Pikmin]] and the [[Monado Arts|Buster Art]], respectively.

|fthrowdesc=Spins the opponent around once and throws them forward. It is useful for setting up an edge-guard, but can also be followed up with a dash attack at low percentages, or an aerial attack at certain percentages.

|bthrowname=&nbsp;

|bthrowdesc=Spins the opponent by their legs three times before throwing them backward. While its knockback has decreased since ''Melee'', it is still strong, as it KOs middleweights at 154% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 146% in the ''Wii U'' version. It also can hit nearby opponents during the spin. It is based on the throw that [[Mario]] uses against [[Bowser]] in ''Super Mario 64''.

|uthrowname=&nbsp;

|uthrowdesc=Heaves the opponent directly overhead with both hands. It is decent against heavyweights and fast-fallers for aerial follow-ups.

|dthrowname=&nbsp;

|dthrowdesc=A [[wikipedia:Professional wrestling throws#Body slam|body slam]]. Due to having average base knockback and low knockback scaling, it is better for aerial combos compared to his normal self's down throw, but much worse for grounded combos compared to Mario's. It can combo into forward, up, [[reverse aerial rush]]ed back, and down aerials, Super Jump Punch, and [[Dr. Tornado]] up to medium percentages, although the forward aerial combo requires a hard read. In comparison, its only reliable grounded combo is into up smash, which is effective at 0%-10% and only against characters with above-average falling speeds and/or large hurtboxes.

|floorfdesc=Kicks behind himself and then in front of himself while getting up.

|floortdesc=Kicks behind himself and then in front of himself while getting up.

|edgedesc=Performs an upward dropkick while climbing up.

|nsc1desc=Throws a smaller Megavitamin that flies straight ahead, similarly to [[Blaster (disambiguation)|Blaster]]. It is very [[spam]]mable, thanks to its significantly lower start-up and ending lag. However, it deals less damage and hitstun.

|ssdefdesc=Waves a white sheet in front of himself. It deals damage, [[Reflection|reflects]] projectiles with 50% more power than they originally had, and [[reverse]]s opponents. Its hitbox is much smaller than [[Cape]]'s, but its reflection hitbox has a slightly longer duration. Unlike in ''Melee'', however, it lacks recovery potential because it no longer stalls him in midair.

|ssc1desc=The sheet discharges electricity, which launches opponents and destroys projectiles instead of reversing them and reflecting them, respectively. It deals noticeably more damage, and is strong enough to KO middleweights at 109% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version. However, it has more ending lag.

|ssc2desc=The sheet has slightly emits a small gust of wind that pushes opponents back. It is one of the best edge-guarding options in the game, thanks to the sheet itself possessing an extremely strong [[Wind#Pushing attacks|pushbox]]. However, it deals less damage and has slightly more ending lag.

|usdefdesc=A jumping uppercut. It covers less distance than his normal self's Super Jump Punch, but consists of clean and late hitboxes like {{SSB4|Luigi}}'s Super Jump Punch, which grants much greater KO potential compared to Mario's. Dr. Mario's Super Jump Punch also has the unique perk of allowing him to move himself in the opposite direction upon landing its clean hitbox, which makes it less punishable than Mario and Luigi's. Its clean hitbox KOs middleweights at 122% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 112% in the ''Wii U'' version.

|usc1desc=Covers significantly more vertical distance and, when moved left or right during start-up, more horizontal distance. However, it deals no damage and has slightly more ending lag.

|usc2desc=A [[Flame|flaming]] version that is significantly stronger. Its first hit leads reliably into its second hit, but it is not strictly necessary to use, as simply landing the second hit is typically sufficient enough to score a KO, thanks to its higher damage output, knockback and vertical angle. Altogether, these traits make it an even better KOing option than Super Jump Punch, as it KOs middleweights at 96% from anywhere on Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version. However, it covers significantly less vertical distance, and almost no horizontal distance.

|dsdefdesc=Rapidly spins around, trapping opponents and damaging them with a series of [[Wikipedia:Professional wrestling attacks#Clothesline|discus clotheslines]] and [[Wikipedia:Professional wrestling attacks#Spinning back fist|spinning backfists]] before assuming a [[wikipedia:Spreadeagle (position)|spread-eagle position]] to launch them. On the ground, Dr. Tornado allows Dr. Mario to slightly move left or right, while button mashing will make him leap into the air. In the air, button mashing immediately after the apex of a jump will make him ascend, thus helping his recovery. However, aerial Dr. Tornado can only be used once for recovery: if it is used at the apex of his first jump, using it at the apex of his second jump will result in him descending instead of ascending. Despite hitting on frame 10 and having 35 frames of ending lag, its loop hits' usage of the [[Autolink angle|auto-link angle]] enable it to reliably trap opponents. Although its last hit has a very low damage output, it possesses very high knockback scaling, [[Priority#Transcendent priority|transcendent priority]], and launches opponents at 45°. These traits enable it to function as a risky, yet very potent off-stage edge-guarding option, as it KOs middleweights at 82% while near Final Destination's left/right [[blast line]]s in the ''3DS'' version, and at 75% in the ''Wii U'' version. It resembles the {{s|mariowiki|Spin Jump}}.

|dsc1desc=Covers significantly more vertical distance, especially when button mashed, and has slightly less start-up lag. Unlike Dr. Tornado, it consists of a [[wind]]box and a hitbox, the latter of which deals twice as much damage and significantly more knockback than Dr. Tornado's last hit. Altogether, these traits make it much more efficient for recovering and edge-guarding compared to Dr. Tornado, as it KOs middleweights at 49% while near Final Destination's left/right blast lines in the ''3DS'' version. However, it does not cover any horizontal distance, cannot punish rolls because of its windbox, and has more ending lag.

|dsc2desc=Deals significantly more damage and higher knockback. Its first hit has deceptive range and is a semi-spike, which allows it to hinder approaches. Conversely, its last hit launches opponents vertically and is extremely powerful, as it KOs middleweights at 72% from anywhere on Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version. However, its first hit does not KO middleweights until 151% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, whereas its second hit is very difficult to land because of its first hit's long duration. In addition, it has significantly more start-up and ending lag, which make it unusable for recovering or edge-guarding.

|fsdesc=Rears his arms back before thrusting them forward to generate and launch two gigantic Megavitamins that move across the screen in a spiraling motion, which trap and repeatedly damage any opponents in their path. It functions identically to [[Mario Finale]], but deals slightly more damage.

|desc=A large stack of {{s|mariowiki|Megavitamin}}s appears on-stage. Another Megavitamin then lands on the top, causing a chain reaction which disintegrates the entire stack, revealing Dr. Mario behind them. Initially, Dr. Mario appears to be thinking with his eyes closed, but then opens his eyes with a surprised expression once the entire stack of Megavitamins disappears.

|desc-side=Pulls out a randomly colored {{s|mariowiki|Megavitamin}}, rolls it down his arm, uses his shoulder to toss it into the air, then catches it.

|desc-2=Sways his head around, doing a basic neck exercise.

{{Crowd

|char=Dr. Mario

|game=SSB4

|desc-us=Go Doc!

|desc-jp=Doc-tor!

|pitch-us=Group chant

|pitch-jp=Group chant}}

|desc-1=Throws two randomly colored {{s|mariowiki|Megavitamin}}s, dusts off his gloves, and then pulls out two more Megavitamins that are the same color as the ones he threw.

==In competitive play==

===Notable players===

<!--If you are planning to add a player you consider to be notable, please provide tournament results in some shape or form in the edit summary (be it a link to a results thread or bracket of placing high in a tournament of other notable players or a video of them beating a notable player). Winning tournaments without notable players present is generally not enough to warrant a spot.-->

 

 

Upon ''SSB4''{{'}}s release, Dr. Mario's slower mobility, lack of reliable KO set-ups, lower damage output, worsened combo game and recovery, and his inability to successfully adapt to ''SSB4''{{'}}s game physics collectively saw him widely perceived as a low-tier or even bottom-tier character. Despite his poor perception, {{Sm|Nairo}} surprisingly utilized Dr. Mario for some matches at [[MLG World Finals 2015]] alongside {{SSB4|Zero Suit Samus}}, with a notable example being a set against {{Sm|ESAM}} that concluded with Nairo winning 3-0 against him in Losers Finals after using Dr. Mario to defeat ESAM's {{SSB4|Pikachu}} for the first two matches, and his {{SSB4|Samus}} for their final match. Other professionals, such as {{Sm|2ManyCooks}}, would also proceed to achieve decent results with him.

 

Despite these flashes of success and vocal support of Dr. Mario because of his Super Jump Punch combos, his back aerial granting him a niche over Mario in very specific matchups, and his frame data being mostly identical to {{SSB4|Mario}}'s, Dr. Mario's metagame has remained stagnant. This is because of both his tournament results and representation being considered among the most sparse in the game, even more so than a few characters ranked below him. These aspects have been reflected in his tier placement, in which he was ranked 45th on the first [[tier list]], before dropping to 48th on the second tier list.

 

Due to Dr. Mario's representation and results still remaining very sparse, as well as his best player, 2ManyCooks, dropping him in favor of Mario, he is now ranked 51st on the third and current tier list. However, it is unlikely that Dr. Mario will drop any further down the tier list, largely because of his strengths being greater than those of the characters ranked below him.

 

::{{flag|ntsc}} ''In the 1990 puzzle game Dr. Mario, Mario threw on a white coat and decided to take a shot at that whole "medicine" thing. In this game, he's a balanced fighter who can throw Megavitamin capsules and nimbly deflect blows with his Super Sheet. He's not quite as quick as normal Mario, but his attacks deal a bit more damage.''

::{{flag|pal}} ''In Dr. Mario, released in Europe in 1991, Mario threw on a white coat and decided to have a bash at the whole medicine thing. In this game, he's an all-rounder who can throw Megavitamin capsules and nimbly deflect blows with his Super Sheet. He's not quite as quick as normal Mario, but his attacks deal a bit more damage.''

{{Trophy games|console1=NES|game1=Dr. Mario 10/1990|console2=Wii|game2=Dr. Mario Online Rx 05/2008}}

:'''Dr. Mario (Alt.)'''

::{{flag|ntsc}} ''Mario and Dr. Mario are only slightly different. Basically, Dr. Mario is stronger, but his MD slows his speed and lowers his jump. He also has a move Mario doesn't: Dr. Tornado, a down special that can trap opponents before launching them. You can move left and right while doing it and press the button repeatedly to rise into the air.''

 

::{{flag|pal}} ''Mario and Dr. Mario are only slightly different. Basically, Dr. Mario is stronger, but his heavy coat affects his speed and jumping. He also has a move Mario doesn't: Dr. Tornado, a down special that can trap opponents before launching them. You can move left and right while doing it and press the button repeatedly to rise into the air.''

{{Trophy games|console1=NES|game1=Dr. Mario 10/1990|console2=Wii|game2=Dr. Mario Online Rx 05/2008}}

:'''Doctor Finale'''

::''In Dr. Mario's Final Smash, he spreads his arms wide and then lets loose a pair of giant vitamin capsules that spiral through the air, taking out any pesky "viruses" in their path. The wide range makes it tough for foes to avoid, and opponents they strike will take multiple hits, possibly even being pushed right off the screen!''

DrMarioTrophy3DS.png|Classic (3DS)

DrMarioAllStarTrophy3DS.png|Alt. (3DS)

DrMarioTrophyWiiU.png|Classic (Wii U)

DrMarioAltTrophyWiiU.png|Alt. (Wii U)

DrFinaleTrophyWiiU.png|[[Doctor Finale]]

==In [[Event Match]]es==

===Solo Events===

* '''[[All-Star Battle: Secret]]''': Dr. Mario is one of the opponents fought in this event. All of the opponents have been unlockable characters in previous ''Super Smash Bros.'' games.

* '''[[Doctor Schmoctor]]''': As {{SSB4|Wario}}, the player must defeat Dr. Mario before Wario's health is depleted via [[flower]]ing.

===Co-op Events===

* '''[[Viral Visitors]]''': Dr. Mario and {{SSB4|Peach}} must defeat four [[Kirby (SSB4)|Kirbys]].

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

SSB4 - Dr. Mario Screen-1.jpg|Dr. Mario in {{forwiiu}}.

SSB4 - Dr. Mario Screen-8.jpg|Using [[Doctor Finale]], his [[Final Smash]], on {{SSB4|Olimar}}, {{SSB4|Marth}}, and {{SSB4|Zero Suit Samus}}.

SSB4 - Dr. Mario Screen-9.jpg|His [[on-screen appearance]].

SSB4 - Dr. Mario Screen-10.jpg|Using [[Megavitamins]] on two Kirbys, in reference to the {{s|mariowiki|virus}}es from his [[Dr. Mario (game)|eponymous game]].

*Like Dark Pit and {{SSB4|Lucina}}, Dr. Mario was originally planned to be an [[alternate costume]]. However, all three were instead converted into being [[clone]]s late in ''SSB4''{{'}}s development, with [[Masahiro Sakurai]] explaining that the reason for doing so in regard to Dr. Mario was in order to appeal to his fanbase from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''.<ref>[http://www.gamnesia.com/news/sakurai-explains-why-dr-mario-is-his-own-character-in-smash-bros Sakurai explains why Dr. Mario is his own character in ''Smash Bros.'']</ref>

*Dr. Mario, {{SSB4|Bowser}}, and {{SSB4|Lucina}} are the only characters who are not playable in a solo event unless selected.

*Dr. Mario and {{SSB4|Lucario}} are the only characters that lack a [[meteor smash]] of any kind, including [[unconventional meteor smash]]es.

*Dr. Mario and {{SSB4|Pac-Man}} are the only characters who have a taunt that aesthetically changes each time it is performed. In Dr. Mario's case, his side taunt creates a randomly colored [[Megavitamins|Megavitamin]] each time it is performed.