Ganondorf (SSB4)/Forward smash

Ganondorf forward smash hitbox visualization
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Overview[edit]

Ganondorf performs a forceful elbow thrust very similar to Captain Falcon's forward smash, but with a dark effect. It has very slow startup and cooldown, but has the strongest knockback of all of his smash attacks, especially when hit with the sweetspot close to Ganondorf. These properties make it a very high-risk and high-reward option, useful when the Ganondorf player has a hard read or a large punish opportunity.
The move has three versions: upwards, forwards, and downwards angles. The upwards version is useful when attacking aerial opponents, while the forwards version has the greatest horizontal reach. The downwards version can potentially help when reaching over a ledge or the edge of a platform to connect further below Ganondorf.
This move's very high damage means it is dangerous to shielding opponents. Although punishable, an uncharged forward smash will take more than half of a shield's health; a fully charged one will cause an instant shield break. It also allows the move to destroy most projectiles, and out-prioritise most attacks.