Editing Inkling (SSBU)

|image = {{tabber|title1=Girl|tab1=[[File:Inkling SSBU.png|x240px]]|title2=Boy|tab2=[[File:Inkling-Alt1 SSBU.png|x240px]]}}

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'''Inkling''' ({{ja|インクリング|Inkuringu}}, ''Inkling'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''. Although the default form is female, both male and female forms of this character are playable. They were first characters that were suggested to appear in the then unnamed ''Ultimate'' in its first [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3Gt42kVgCw teaser trailer] at the end of the March 8th, 2018 [[Nintendo Direct]], and officially announced as a newcomer in ''Ultimate''{{'}}s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L93H7YC-83o E3 2018 trailer], alongside {{SSBU|Daisy}} and {{SSBU|Ridley}}. Inkling is classified as fighter #64.

Yuki Tsujii voices both genders of Inkling, via voice clips from ''Splatoon''.

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*Clear {{SSBU|Classic Mode}} with {{SSBU|Samus}} or any character in her unlock tree, being the 1st character unlocked.

With the exception of the third method, Inkling must then be defeated on [[Moray Towers]].

Inkling is a character that excels greatly in many areas, but is typically defined by quick, slippery movement and fast attack speed. As a result, most attributes are overall consistent with combo-heavy middleweights, with a focus on a fast-approach "footsies" playstyle: the Inkling has fast overall mobility due to high initial dash (16th highest) and [[run]]ning speeds (22nd highest), alongside high [[air speed]] (12-16th fastest, tied with {{SSBU|Sonic}}, {{SSBU|Mario}}, {{SSBU|Little Mac}} and {{SSBU|Donkey Kong}}). However, the rest of of Inkling's traits are mostly average, with middling [[air acceleration]], [[fall speed]], [[walk]] speed, and [[weight]], and low traction. As a result, Inkling can easily traverse large distances very quickly, but can have issues changing directions in midair; additionally, the combination of middling weight and fast fall speed do not give much of an advantage when escaping combos.

Inkling's greatest strength, is, fittingly, fast general movement and attack speed. Inkling's dash is notable for shifting Inkling's entire hurtbox during movement, which in some cases allows Inkling to low-profile through certain attacks, and its obscure animation - which shares a visual similarity to its spot dodge animation - along with its strong initial dash, gives the character an effective and deceptive [[dash-dance]]. While the range on many attacks is rather lacking, this is made up by extremely fast frame data, which allows Inkling to put the fast mobility to good use and rush opponents down in a flurry of moves. Additionally, Inkling boasts a strong ground and aerial offense, with many moves being capable of stringing together, particularly when coupled with an [[up throw]], which is an effective combo initiator till high percents and can even KO through its setups. As a result, opponents can have a tough time finding openings in the Inkling's offense, since the high speed and low landing lag allow the Inkling to weave around any foe very easily, and an extremely potent combo ability easily turns any mistake on their end into a potential combo starter.  

The Inkling's damage racking potential is further enhanced by the unique [[ink]] mechanic, lifted from the Inkling's game of origin, ''Splatoon''. Select moves - such as [[Splattershot]] - will cover opponents in ink, which increases damage dealt to them up to a maximum of 1.5x, though this will wear off over time. When an opponent is fully inked, many combos are capable of effectively dishing out surprising amounts of damage over a short period on careless opponents. As a downside, this ink mechanic also affects the power of certain moves such as [[neutral attack]] infinite, [[forward throw]], [[special move]]s and [[smash attack]]s, which lose significant KO power or damage on an empty ink tank (and with some moves, completely failing to do damage). Due to this, the Inkling has to recharge the ink tank by going into a "charging" stance once the ink tank is completely depleted. As this leaves Inkling wide open to attacks with no escape options till the charge animation ends, managing the ink supply with care is crucial, and it's important to keep a safe distance from the opponent when recharging.

Inkling also has powerful offstage capability due to their attributes. Despite having a relatively linear recovery, it is very lengthy, and Inkling is able to mix it up by being able to double jump out of [[Splat Roller]] in combination with [[Super Jump]], allowing the recovery to be less predictable. Coupled with the sheer speed of the moves, this makes it difficult to challenge the Inkling with an offstage [[edgeguard]]. Inkling also has one of the best air speeds to supplement this, and likewise can edgeguard very proficiently through strong usage of aerials. Among most notable is their [[back aerial]], which is one of their safest moves not only offstage but in neutral, as it sports a notable disjoint and is able to combo into itself at mid-percents, which can lead to a [[wall of pain]] in certain situations. Inkling's [[Splat Bomb]]s are a crucial tool both in neutral and when covering the ledge; while the bomb can be thrown off-stage to intercept the opponent, the angle and awkward timer of the bomb also makes for a powerful frame trapping tool, particularly on opponents that are recovering on the ledge.

Even with a fantastic set of strengths, the character is not without several major weaknesses. Despite having explosive damage racking potential, most of Inkling's strongest KO moves are all comparatively unsafe - particularly Splat Roller and smash attacks - meaning Inkling is often forced to rely on reads and edgeguarding in order to guarantee a stock at kill percents. While the issue is partially alleviated by being one of the few characters in the game to have a kill confirm off of a grab, the percentage windows vary from character to character - with the confirm being borderline impossible on a select few characters - and it's also affected by [[rage]]. The ink mechanic also forces Inkling to be resourceful with many of their moves, as without ink, they lose access to several crucial attacks such as Splat Roller, and Splat Bombs. Finally, Inkling lacks aerial attacks that cover their full hurtbox, most egregiously their neutral aerial, meaning that despite their good aerial speed, Inkling does not possess the most reliable landing options in disadvantage.

Overall, Inkling is a rounded character with solid mobility stats and damage racking capability across the board. Its deceptive traits and strong set of attacks make it a versatile fighter that excels both at defensive and offensive play. However, its lack of reliable KO options forces the character to maintain strong consistency in its play, as they can occasionally struggle to score kills and make up stock deficits, particularly against opponents who have a much easier time KOing or stymieing their movement options. Inkling has seen strong tournament representation, with names such as {{Sm|Armada}}, {{Sm|Abadango}}, and {{Sm|Xzax}} using Inkling as their mains. {{Sm|Cosmos}} is currently considered the best Inkling main in the world, having placed 7th at [[GENESIS 6]], and subsequently going on to hold the initial record for most consecutive top 8 appearances in nationals; a streak that ended with {{Trn|MomoCon 2019}}. Inkling's potential in [[doubles]] was noted by Sakurai himself as being one of the character's strengths, allowing teammates to rack up damage even faster. Due to their traits and consistent representation, many top players have speculated early on that Inkling is a solid top-tier candidate.

Despite already being considered by many to be a top tier contender in the early metagame, Inkling has received several minor buffs throughout the game's updates. Inkling's Splat Bombs received a buff in the game's day one update; predominantly in how much ink it applies to its opponents. Inklings’ most controversial move, Roller, has been subject to multiple changes. In 2.0.0, the move's base knockback was nerfed - affecting bury duration at lower percents - yet its knockback growth was buffed, making it a more potent move at higher percents. The Roller was further affected in 3.0.0, affecting the move's knockback if Inkling accelerates a second time when using it. While several changes come across as nerfs on paper, due to the way the Roller is used they are mostly considered negligible, and in the latter case actually open up some combo routes at mid percents that previously didn't exist - however, one aspect of the Roller that was an outright nerf in 2.0.0 was its scaled down hitbox, as it now needs to be at point-blank range for it to connect. Inkling's jab was buffed in 3.1.0, as part of a large scale effort to make several multi-hit moves connect more reliably.

*{{buff|[[Splat Bomb]] deals more damage (8%-14% → 9%-15%).}}

*{{buff|Splat Bomb applies more [[ink]] (80/140 → 110/170).}}

*{{buff|Shortened the amount of time Inkling is unable to grab a ledge after using neutral air (60 frames → 56).}}

**{{change|Splat Roller has altered knockback (60 base/80 scaling → 25/105). This decreases the bury duration at lower percents, but increases it at higher percentages.}}

***{{buff|Decreased base knockback allows combo potential at mid percentages.}}

**{{nerf|Splat Roller hitboxes were moved back, giving it less range.}}

**{{bugfix|The ink from the Splat Roller no longer launches specific characters such as the {{SSBU|Ice Climbers}} much higher when using their respective up specials on the ink.}}

*{{buff|Splat Roller deals less knockback when accelerating again. This increases its combo potential when hitting an opponent that was already buried.}}

*{{buff|Neutral attack 3 has more range and connects more reliably from neutral attack 2.}}

==Moveset==  

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*Inkling will transform into squid form while dashing and dodging. This allows Inkling to avoid some projectiles and attacks while dashing because of a lower [[hurtbox]] for a few frames.

*Inkling takes continuous damage while [[swimming]] in water. This trait is shared with {{SSBU|Charizard}}, {{SSBU|Sonic}}, and {{SSBU|Incineroar}}.

*Some of Inkling's attacks consume and apply [[ink]]. Attacks that use ink each use a set amount of the Ink Tank. If Inkling does not have enough ink for a move, it will deal less damage and knockback, and certain moves will have no effect at all.  

*The Ink Tank can be gradually replenished at any time by holding the special button while [[shield]]ing, or when the Ink Tank is completely empty, via neutral special or down special. This lowers the Inkling's hurtbox, but lacks any defensive options aside from canceling the charge (which is punishable). It is also restored to full capacity when the Inkling is KO'd.

*The Ink Tank is shown in Inkling's HUD and while charging ink. The red line on the tank is the minimum ink needed to throw a [[Splat Bomb]]. Once Inkling runs out of ink, the Ink Tank will flash with a red "X" both in the HUD and on Inkling's model.

The specifics of the ink mechanic are explained in detail after the moveset table.  

|neutralname=&nbsp;

|neutraldesc=A {{s|wikipedia|knifehand strike}}, followed by a mid-level {{s|wikipedia|roundhouse kick}}, followed by a {{s|wikipedia|side kick}}. If the button is mashed, the second hit is followed by a rapid series of spurts from the Splattershot that concludes with a single blast that launches the enemy. The neutral infinite covers opponents in ink. If the Inkling's Ink Tank is empty, the neutral infinite and finisher deal no damage and knockback. The first hit can [[lock]].

|ftiltname=&nbsp;

|ftiltdmg=9%

|ftiltdesc=Swings the Splattershot downward. It has average knockback and range, and can KO at very high percentages.

|utiltname=&nbsp;

|utiltdesc=A {{s|wikipedia|bicycle kick}}. Can combo into itself up to three times at 0% or twice at low percents, and into aerials at higher percents. Despite its animation, it has blind spots directly beside Inkling, and is unable to hit prone opponents.

|dtiltname=&nbsp;

|dtiltdesc=A [[wikipedia:Windmill (b-boy move)|windmill]]. Hits twice, and can KO at high percents, low-profile certain moves, and hit most ledge hangs.

|dashname=&nbsp;

|dashdesc=An [[wikipedia:Professional wrestling attacks#Elbow smash|elbow smash]]. Good as a burst option or punish option, although it struggles to KO even at very high percents.

|fsmashname=Inkbrush

|fsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|16}} (ink, Inkbrush), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|14}} (ink, handle), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12}} (no ink)

|fsmashdesc=Swings an {{s|inkipedia|Inkbrush}} outward, which covers opponents in ink. Has a sweetspot at the brush's tip. The hitbox does not cover the splatter of paint from the Inkbrush. KOs at 90% at the edge of [[Final Destination]] (with ink available), making for a very potent kill move, especially with its disjoint.

|usmashname=Blaster

|usmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|4}} (hit 1), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|15}} (hit 2, ink, center), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|10}} (hit 2, ink, outer) {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|10}} (hit 2, no ink, center) {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|6}} (hit 2, ink, outer)

|usmashdesc=Fires a {{s|inkipedia|Blaster}} upward, which covers opponents in ink. There is a hitbox next to the Inkling that launches the enemy into the air before the shot goes off, setting the enemy up for the attack; this hitbox can even pick up prone or buried opponents. KOs at 116% on Final Destination (with ink available).

|dsmashname=Slosher

|dsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12.5}} (hit 1, ink, close), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|7}} (hit 1, ink, far), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|11}} (hit 2, ink, close), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|6}} (hit 2, ink, far),  {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|10}} (hit 1, no ink, close), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|5}} (hit 1, no ink, far), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|9}} (hit 2, no ink, close), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|4}} (hit 2, no ink, far)

|dsmashdesc=Empties out a {{s|inkipedia|Slosher}} forward and then backward, which covers opponents in ink. The back hit deals less damage and knockback. The first hit KOs at 104% on Final Destination (with ink available). Useful for roll reads, for reading ledge options, or against ledge hangs.

|nairname=&nbsp;

|nairdesc=An aerial {{s|wikipedia|headspin}}. Despite its appearance, it has no lasting hitbox, and the move only covers Inkling's legs. Can combo into jab, grab, tilts, or back aerial. Can be used twice or followed by back aerial in a single short hop.

|fairname=&nbsp;

|fairdesc=A {{s|wikipedia|dropkick}}. Has some startup and acts as a [[sex kick]]. When sweetspotted, it is one of Inkling's most reliable aerial KO moves. KOs at 136% at the edge of Final Destination.

|bairname=&nbsp;

|bairdesc=Swings the Splattershot backward. The move sports one of the larger disjointed hitboxes in Inkling's moveset, and its low landing and ending lag makes it one of the Inkling's safest moves for approaching and spacing. Is capable of a pseudo-[[wall of pain]] in certain situations. One of Inkling's best edgeguarding options due to its good knockback and frame data.

|uairname=&nbsp;

|uairdesc=A {{s|wikipedia|540 kick}}. The first hit has [[set knockback]] and uses the [[autolink angle]], allowing it to set up into tilts, jab, or grab. The second hit has strong knockback at higher percents, making for a decent KO option. The animation is misleading, as the attack does not extend much horizontally.

|dairname=&nbsp;

|dairdesc=Briefly rears back before swinging the Splattershot downward. The sweetspot is at the Splattershot's nozzle and will [[meteor smash]], while the sourspot deals strong horizontal knockback.

|grabname=&nbsp;

|grabdesc=Reaches out with the free hand.

|pummelname=&nbsp;

|pummeldesc=Stomps on the opponent's foot.

|fthrowname=&nbsp;

|fthrowdesc=Fires the Splattershot at point-blank range. Hits twice, with the second hit covering the opponent in ink. Without ink, the first hit deals no damage. Has very weak knockback and will never KO, even at Sudden Death percents. The collateral hit has set knockback and will not KO even at 999%, making it near useless in doubles.

|bthrowname=&nbsp;

|bthrowdesc=Transforms into squid form, then spins and uses the tentacles to toss the opponent behind. Inkling's best kill throw, KOing at 129% at the edge of Final Destination.

|uthrowname=&nbsp;

|uthrowdesc=Tosses the opponent upward, then turns into squid form to headbutt them from below. Sends the opponent directly upwards. Can combo reliably into neutral aerial and up aerial at low to mid percents, and at higher percents up aerial can kill out of up throw.

|dthrowname=&nbsp;

|dthrowdesc=Slams the opponent head-first into the ground with one hand. Sends the opponent in front, allowing it to combo into tilts or jab depending on the opponent. KOs off the top blastzone at 209% on Final Destination.

|floorfdesc=Shoots the Splattershot on both sides of the Inkling. Despite its appearance, the move does not apply ink to opponents.

|floorbdesc=Shoots the Splattershot on both sides of the Inkling. Despite its appearance, the move does not apply ink to opponents.

|floortdesc=Shoots the Splattershot on both sides of the Inkling. Despite its appearance, the move does not apply ink to opponents.

|nsdmg=0.3% (above Ink Tank line), 0.2% (below Ink Tank line), 0.1% (almost empty)

|nsdesc=Rapidly fires the {{s|inkipedia|Splattershot}}, which covers opponents in ink at a fast pace. Only causes [[hitstun]] at very close range (3 character lengths), and slowly pushes opponents back at any further distance. Due to its high fire rate, it can lock opponents in [[shieldstun]]. Can be angled up and down, but the projectiles disappear after a set distance.  If the Ink Tank goes below the labeled line, both the projectiles and the close-range hitbox will shorten and lose damage. If this move is used without any ink, the Inkling will begin charging ink.

|ssdmg=11% (grounded, ink), 2%-3% (moving after Ink Tank is empty)

|ssdesc=Wields a {{s|inkipedia|Roller}} and begins to slide it forward. The Roller spreads ink across the floor, with inked surfaces slowing opponents down. If Inkling and the opponent are grounded, it will [[bury]] them and cover them in ink, allowing for followups. The damage, bury duration and ink applied are determined by how fast Inkling is moving. If the target is already buried, Inkling is airborne, or the Roller is moving too slow, it will apply ink but knock the opponent upward instead of burying them. If the opponent is airborne, the Roller will not hit them. After rolling for a set distance, Inkling can cancel the move with the special or attack button, jump out of the animation, turn around by pressing back, or maintain her speed by holding forward. Otherwise the move will slow down until it no longer deals damage. In the air, the Roller can only be used once before landing, but jumping out of the move does not use a double jump, allowing it to extend Inkling's [[recovery]]. If Roller is started without ink, the Inkling will slowly walk forward with a dejected look, and cannot speed up or deal damage. If Inkling runs out of ink mid-Roller, the attack will deal damage if it is still traveling fast enough, but will not bury or apply ink. The Splat Roller is core to Inkling's KO setups and neutral game, and is primarily used to finish off opponents at higher percents with a [[smash attack]].

|usdesc=Performs a {{s|inkipedia|Super Jump}}. The move deals minor damage and knockback on startup, and also when Inkling lands, giving it some safety. It rises very high into the air, and can be angled left or right. However, the move is somewhat linear, the initial hitbox lasts only a few frames, the rising and falling animations do not deal damage, and if Inkling does not grab the ledge, the landing animation can be punished.

|dsdesc=Throws a {{s|inkipedia|Splat Bomb}}, which explodes on contact or after a fixed time, covering opponents in ink. The damage and amount of ink applied increase based on how long the player holds the special button. This also controls the bomb's trajectory: a toss upward if uncharged, or a long-distance fling forward if fully charged. If used uncharged, the Splat Bomb takes a short delay after contact with an enemy before exploding. Has multiple uses, including [[edgeguarding]], setting traps, or KOing at high percents. If this move is used without any ink, the Inkling will begin charging ink. If the Ink Tank is not empty but is below the labeled meter, the Inkling will be incapable of throwing a Splat Bomb, and will instead look back at the Ink Tank, leaving Inkling open for attack. When fully charged, it KOs at 143% at the edge of Final Destination.

|fsdesc=Wields the {{s|inkipedia|Killer Wail}} to emit a stream of [[wikipedia:Sonic weapon|damaging sound waves]], which after a short period of time, are replaced with ink. Although the sound waves can be angled similarly to [[Phazon Laser]] and [[Aura Storm]], the player also retains full control of Inkling while it is active. The looping hits cover opponents in ink, but only the final hit has KO potential, KOing at around 60%.

===[[Ink]] mechanic===

Inkling has a unique [[character mechanic]]: a handful of attacks will cover opponents in [[ink]]. Characters affected by ink are shown being coated with varying amounts of brightly colored liquid (which varies on Inkling's [[alternate costume]]), and can be repeatedly inked until they are fully coated. Inked opponents take additional damage proportional to the amount of ink covering them. The damage multiplier caps at 1.5× after the opponent is coated by roughly 60% of the maximum value; applying more ink only lengthens the duration of being coated, and has no further effect on damage. Attacks on inked targets inflict normal knockback, but increased [[freeze frames]].

Ink gradually disappears over time, from around 5 seconds for the smallest application, to around 20 seconds for a completely covered character. Ink can also be applied onto some [[Assist Trophies]].

 

Once the Inkling runs out of ink, the only ways to regain charge are to be KO'd, or manually recharge it by holding the shield and special button at once (or via the special button with an empty tank). The charge animation lowers the Inkling's hurtbox enough to dodge grabs and projectiles, but it can can only be done on the ground, prevents the Inkling from dodging or moving, and has noticeable ending lag, making it very punishable.

*All [[smash attack]]s. Without ink, all of them do significantly lower damage and knockback, but still feature ink splatter effects.

**Splattershot will gradually lose damage and range once it passes the line of the Ink Tank, and will not fire any projectiles when no ink is remaining. Pressing the special button once this happens will cause Inkling to charge ink.

**Splat Roller will slowly lose speed once no ink remains, and is completely harmless if used with an empty tank. This will also cause the Inkling to walk forward slowly and dejectedly.

**Splat Bomb cannot be thrown if Inkling has less ink than the line of the Ink Tank. If attempted, Inkling will quickly look back at the Ink Tank, giving opponents a chance to attack freely.

Lands with a splash of ink in squid form, then transforms into humanoid form and flaps both arms excitedly before wielding the Splattershot. This is {{s|inkipedia|Agent 3}}'s entrance animation in [[inkipedia:Octo Valley (mode)|Octo Valley]].

*'''Up taunt''': Raises the Splattershot several times into the air in a celebratory cheer. Based on the "C'mon!"/"This Way!" {{s|inkipedia|signal}}.

*'''Side taunt''': Fires the Splattershot into the air with one hand while smirking.

*Casually poses with the Splattershot pointing upward, with the other hand on resting on Inkling's hip.

The male Inkling has an altered standing stance, where he does not shake his hips as much as the female Inkling. However, this does not apply when holding a small item.

SSBUInklingIdle1.gif|Inkling's first idle pose

SSBUInklingIdle2.gif|Inkling's second idle pose

All of Inkling's animations are based on the victory poses when using particular weapons in ''Splatoon'' and its sequel. The animations vary slightly between female costumes and the male costumes.

*'''Left:''' Jumps for joy twice, spins around, and poses with the Splattershot. Based on the victory animation when using a Shooter-type weapon in ''Splatoon 2''. The initial animation is based off the male Inkling's animation with the weapon of the same type in ''Splatoon''. This pose is slightly altered for the male Inkling.

*'''Up:''' Sways the Splat Roller from side to side, before striking a pose while resting the Roller's handle against a shoulder. This victory pose combines the victory animations in ''Splatoon'' and ''Splatoon 2'' when the Inkling uses a Roller-type weapon. The male Inkling rests his hand on his hip.

*'''Right:''' Tosses the Slosher upward with their right arm and catches it in their left whilst spinning. They then toss it upwards a second time , posing with their left arm on their hip while the Slosher spins on their right index finger. Based on the female Inkling's victory animation when using a Slosher-type weapon in ''Splatoon''.

[[File:SplatoonSeriesVictoryThemeUltimate.ogg|thumb|A remix of "{{s|inkipedia|Battle Victory}}" used in ''Splatoon''.]]

==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.-->

*{{Sm|Abadango|Japan}} (#40) - One of the best Inkling players in the world. Placed 3rd at {{Trn|Stunfest 2019}}, 9th at {{Trn|Umebura SP}}, 13th at {{Trn|Sumabato SP}}, and 25th at {{Trn|GENESIS 6}}. Has wins over {{Sm|Fatality}}, {{Sm|Raito}}, and {{Sm|Kie}}.

*{{Sm|Aperture|UK}} - The best Inkling player in the United Kingdom. Placed 9th at {{Trn|Regen 2019}} and 65th at {{Trn|GENESIS 6}}.

*{{Sm|Armada|Sweden}} - Placed 9th at {{Trn|Smash Ultimate Summit}}. Has wins over {{Sm|ZD}} and {{Sm|ZeRo}}.

*{{Sm|Chag|Mexico}} - Co-mains Inkling and {{SSBU|Palutena}} and is considered one of the best Inkling players in Mexico. Placed 3rd at {{Trn|BIT MASTER MTY 5}}, 13th at {{Trn|Smash Factor 8}}, and 33rd at {{Trn|EVO 2019}}.

*{{Sm|Cosmos|USA}} (#11) - The best Inkling player in the world. Placed 4th at {{Trn|Umebura Japan Major 2019}}, 5th at {{Trn|Frostbite 2019}}, 7th at {{Trn|GENESIS 6}} and {{Trn|Get On My Level 2019}}, and 9th at {{Trn|Glitch 6}}, and 65th at [[Tournament:EVO_2019|Evo 2019]]. Has wins over {{Sm|Dabuz}}, {{Sm|Lea}}, and {{Sm|Nairo}}.

*{{Sm|cyve|Germany}} - Placed 1st at {{Trn|Calyptus Cup Ultimate}} and 5th at {{Trn|Valhalla II}}.

*{{Sm|dyr|USA}} - Placed 2nd at {{Trn|Pre-Genesix}}, 5th at {{Trn|GatorLAN Spring 2019}}, 17th at {{Trn|Smash Conference United}}, and 65th at {{Trn|GENESIS 6}} with solo Inkling.

*{{Sm|falln|USA}} - Placed 1st at {{Trn|Poi Poundaz 2}} and 9th at {{Trn|SoCal Chronicles}}.

*{{Sm|JDB|USA}} - Placed 5th at {{Trn|Kumite in Tennessee 2019}}, 7th at {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem Ultimate}}, and 9th at {{Trn|COST 2019}} with Inkling.

*{{Sm|LetsTickle|Canada}} - The best Inkling player in Canada. Placed 4th at {{Trn|Emerald City 8}}, 7th at {{Trn|The Pinnacle 2019}}, and 9th at both {{Trn|Battle of BC 3}} and {{Trn|VORTEX}}.

*{{Sm|Mr.R|Netherlands}} (#36) - Plays Inkling as a secondary. Placed 1st at {{Trn|Regen 2019}}, 9th at both {{Trn|2GG: Prime Saga}} and {{Trn|Thunder Smash}} using Inkling as one of his characters.

*{{Sm|Space|Netherlands}} - Ranked 1st in the [[Dutch Power Rankings]]. Placed 3rd at [[Tech Republic IV]] and 4th at {{Trn|Elysium: Yggdrasil}}.

*{{Sm|Wonf|Mexico}} - One of the best Inkling players in Mexico. Placed 1st at {{Trn|BIT MASTER MTY 5}}, 4th at {{Trn|WeTecThose 9}}, and 17th at {{Trn|Smash Factor 8}}.

*{{Sm|Xzax|USA}} - Placed 2nd at {{Trn|NorCal Regionals 2019}}, 5th at {{Trn|Super Splat Bros}}, and 7th at {{Trn|Kawaii Kon 2019}}. Ranked 3rd on the [[NorCal Power Rankings#Super Smash Bros. Ultimate|NorCal Ultimate Power Rankings]].

Inkling fights opponents with differently colored alternate costumes matching the general color scheme of the stage, referencing the concept of {{iw|inkipedia|Turf War}} from the ''Splatoon'' games. The boss of this route, [[Marx]], also fits in with this theme due to his multicolored wings.

{|class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"

|1||{{SSBU|Lucario}} {{Head|Lucario|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Green}} and {{SSBU|Sheik}} {{Head|Sheik|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Green}} ||{{SSBM|Yoshi's Island}}||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Splatoon|Splattack! (Original)}}''||

|2||{{SSBU|Greninja}} {{Head|Greninja|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Pink}}||[[Magicant]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Splatoon|Ink or Sink}}''||

|3||{{SSBU|Wario}} {{Head|Wario|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=ClassicRed}} and {{SSBU|Duck Hunt}} {{Head|Duck Hunt|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Red}}||[[Norfair]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Splatoon|Metalopod}}''||

|4||Giant {{SSBU|Yoshi}} {{Head|Yoshi|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Cyan}}||[[Summit]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Splatoon|Seaskape}}''||

|5||{{SSBU|Shulk}} {{Head|Shulk|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Lavender}}, {{SSBU|Ness}} {{Head|Ness|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Black}}, and {{SSBU|Mewtwo}} {{Head|Mewtwo|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Purple}}||[[Fountain of Dreams]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Splatoon|Kraken Up}}''||

|6||Inkling (×2) {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Yellow}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Green}}||[[Moray Towers]]||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Splatoon|Ink Me Up}}''||Free-for-all. If either of these costumes are being played as, the default Inkling Girl and Boy {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20x20px}} ({{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20x20px|cl=Blue}}) will be used for the CPU instead.

|Final||[[Marx]]||?||''{{SSBUMusicLink|Splatoon|Calamari Inkantation}}''||

During the opening cutscene, the Inklings were present when [[Galeem]] unleashed his beams of light. They decided to each hide in a puddle of their own ink; however, this proved ineffective when the beams of light destroyed the cliff they were on. Both were then placed under Galeem's imprisonment alongside the rest of the fighters, except for {{SSBU|Kirby}}.

{|class="wikitable sortable" style="width:100%;"

! style="width:5%;"|No.

! style="width:5%;"|Image

! Name

! Type

! Power

! Stage

! Music

| 64

| [[File:Inkling SSBU.png|center|108x108px]]

| {{SSBU|Inkling}}

| {{color|#dc1029|Attack}}

| 3,300

| [[Moray Towers]] ([[Ω form]])

| ''{{SSBUMusicLink|Splatoon|Splattack!}}''

{{-}}

Inkling's Fighter Spirits can be obtained by completing [[Classic Mode]]. They are also available periodically for purchase in the shop for 500 coins. Unlocking Inkling in World of Light allows the player to preview the first spirit below in the Spirit List under the name "???". As Fighter Spirits, they cannot be used in Spirit Battles and are purely aesthetic. Each Fighter Spirit has an alternate version that replaces them with their artwork in ''Ultimate''.

Additionally, the Squid form of the default Inkling appears as a Support Spirit.

Inkling Girl Spirit.png|1,025. '''''Inkling (Girl)'''''

Inkling Boy Spirit.png|1,026. '''Inkling (Boy)'''

Orange squid.png|1,027. Inkling

==In Spirit battles==

|{{anchor|Blooper}}Blooper

|''Super Mario series''

|•Tiny {{SSBU|Inkling}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}} (×3)

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|•Timed battle<br>•Gravity is reduced<br>•The enemy tends to avoid conflict

|{{SSBUMusicLink|Super Mario Bros.|Underwater Theme - Super Mario Bros}}

|{{anchor|Kamek}}[[Kamek]]

|''Super Mario series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} Team {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}} (x4)

|[[File:SpiritTypeGrab.png|20px|center|Grab]]

|•All fighters are easy to launch after a little while<br>•Reinforcements will appear after an enemy is KO'd<br>•The enemy starts the battle with a [[Star Rod]]

|{{anchor|Huey}}Huey

|''Paper Mario series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} Team (x4) ({{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Blue}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Yellow}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Pink}})

|[[File:SpiritTypeGrab.png|20px|center|Grab]]

|{{anchor|Yuga}}Yuga

|''The Legend of Zelda series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Purple}}<br>•Giant Inkling {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Purple}}

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|{{anchor|Mipha}}Mipha

|''The Legend of Zelda series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Pink}}

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|{{anchor|Phantoon}}Phantoon

|''Metroid series''

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|{{anchor|Smeargle}}Smeargle

|''Pokémon series''

|[[File:SpiritTypeNeutral.png|20px|center|Neutral]]

|{{anchor|Inkay}}[[Inkay]]

|''Pokémon series''

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|•Periodic earthquakes will shake the stage after a little while<br>•Only certain Pokémon will emerge from Poké Balls ([[Inkay]])

|[[File:Jeff2.png|center|64x64px]]

|[[Jeff]]

|''Earthbound series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}} (×3)

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|•Assist Trophy Enemies ([[Jeff]])<br>•Item: Shooting Types

|{{s|fireemblemwiki|Tsubasa Oribe}}

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|{{SSBUMusicLink|Nintendo|Style Savvy: Trendsetters}}

|{{anchor|Amy}}[[File:Amy Spirit.png|center|64x64px]]

|[[Amy]]

|''Sonic the Hedgehog series''

|[[File:SpiritTypeAttack.png|20px|center|Attack]]

|{{anchor|Chaos}}[[File:Chaos Spirit.png|center|64x64px]]

|[[Chaos]]

|''Sonic the Hedgehog series''

|[[File:SpiritTypeGrab.png|20px|center|Grab]]

|[[File:Squid Sisters.png|center|64x64px]]

|[[Squid Sisters]]

|''Splatoon series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Pink}} (×4)

|[[File:SpiritTypeAttack.png|20px|center|Attack]]

|[[Moray Towers]]

|•Assist Trophy Enemies<br>•Easy to Launch

|[[File:Sheldon Spirit.png|center|64x64px]]

|Sheldon

|''Splatoon series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} Team (×4) ({{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Yellow}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Green}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Pink}})

|[[File:SpiritTypeNeutral.png|20px|center|Neutral]]

|[[File:Jelonzo Spirit.png|center|64x64px]]

|Jelonzo

|''Splatoon series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} (×2) ({{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Purple}})

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|[[File:Crusty Sean.png|center|64x64px]]

|Crusty Sean

|''Splatoon series''

|[[File:SpiritTypeGrab.png|20px|center|Grab]]

|[[File:Octoling.png|center|64x64px]]

|Octoling

|''Splatoon series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} Team {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Pink}} (×4)

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|[[File:Octolingandboy.png|center|64x64px]]

|Octoling Girl & Octoling Boy

|''Splatoon series''

|•{{SSBU|Inkling}} (×2) ({{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Pink}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Indigo}})

|[[File:SpiritTypeAttack.png|20px|center|Attack]]

|[[Midgar]] ([[Battlefield form]])

|{{anchor|Mermaid}}[[File:Mermaid Spirit.png|center|64x64px]]

|''The Legendary Starfy series''

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|[[File:Futaba Persona 5.png|center|64x64px]]

|[[Futaba Sakura]]

|''Persona series''

|{{SSBU|Inkling}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px}}

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|•Timed battle<br>•Hostile assist trophies will appear<br>•Items will be pulled toward the enemy

|{{anchor|Zelda (Breath of the Wild)}}Zelda (Breath of the Wild)

|''The Legend of Zelda series''

|•{{SSBU|Zelda}} {{Head|Zelda|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Blue}}<br>•{{SSBU|Link}} {{Head|Link|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=White}}<br>•{{SSBU|Inkling}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Pink}}<br>•{{SSBU|Donkey Kong}} {{Head|Donkey Kong|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Yellow}}<br>•{{SSBU|Falco}} {{Head|Falco|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Blue}}<br>•{{SSBU|Zero Suit Samus}} {{Head|Zero Suit Samus|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=ShortsBlue}}

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|[[File:Lil Judd Spirit.png|center|64x64px]]

|Li'l Judd

|''Splatoon series''

|•Tiny {{SSBU|Mr. Game & Watch}} {{Head|Mr. Game & Watch|g=SSBU|s=20px}}<br>•{{SSBU|Inkling}} (×2) ({{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Yellow}}{{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}})

|[[File:SpiritTypeAttack.png|20px|center|Attack]]

|{{anchor|Vince}}[[File:Vince Spirit.png|center|64x64px]]

|[[Vince]]

|''Art Academy series''

|•{{SSBU|Mii Swordfighter}} {{Head|Mii Swordfighter|g=SSBU|s=20px}} (Vince's Hat, Vince's Outfit)<br>•{{SSBU|Inkling}} {{Head|Inkling|g=SSBU|s=20px|cl=Cyan}}

|[[File:SpiritTypeShield.png|20px|center|Shield]]

|•[[Assist Trophy]] Enemies ([[Vince]])

|{{SSBUMusicLink|Nintendo|Swan Lesson}}

All of the Inkling's alternate costumes feature wearable gear that can be found in ''Splatoon'' and ''Splatoon 2''. Each of the costumes has a different [[Ink]] color, which matches the color of their hair and [[Inkling#Squid|squid form]].

Inkling poster.jpg|Inkling character poster, as posted on the official ''Splatoon'' Twitter account.

Inkling artwork.jpg|Inkling artwork, as posted on the official English Nintendo Versus Twitter account.

SSBUWebsiteInkling1.jpg|Female Inkling on [[Moray Towers]].

SSBUWebsiteInkling2.jpg|Male Inkling using his forward smash on {{SSBU|Luigi}} at [[Luigi's Mansion]].

SSBUWebsiteInkling4.jpg|Male Inkling using down smash on [[3D Land]].

SSBUWebsiteInkling6.jpg|Female Inkling using [[Splat Roller]] on {{SSBU|Link}}, {{SSBU|Samus}} and {{SSBU|Mario}} on [[Mario Circuit (SSBB)|Figure-8 Circuit]].

SSBUWebsiteYoungLink4.jpg|Female Inkling watching {{SSBU|Young Link}} drink [[Lon Lon Milk]] on [[Temple]].

SSBUWebsiteRathalos4.jpg|Female Inkling, Link, {{SSBU|Pikachu}} and {{SSBU|Bowser}} being attacked by [[Rathalos]] on [[Tortimer Island]].

ScreenKOSmashUltimate.png|Female Inkling getting [[Screen KO]]'d on Moray Towers.

8-PlayerSSBU 1.jpg|Female Inkling with Mario, {{SSBU|Donkey Kong}}, Link, Samus, {{SSBU|Ice Climbers}}, {{SSBU|Pit}} and {{SSBU|Villager}} on {{SSBU|Battlefield}}.

===Character Showcase Video===

<!--NOTICE BEFORE EDITING: When using pronouns, it is generally preferred, though not strictly required, that they match the gender of the default. If referring to one gender, only refer to the alternate when it specifically applies to them. While using gender-neutral pronouns is optional, it is heavily discouraged. However, completely omitting pronouns is entriely a valid style, as long as the sentence stays coherent.-->

*Both Inklings’ spirits have headwear that is absent on their default costumes (Inkling Girl wears the {{s|inkipedia|Studio Headphones}} in her spirit artwork, while Inkling Boy wears the {{s|inkipedia|Pilot Goggles}} in his).

**Ironically, official artwork of both default Inklings without said headgear exist, but are not used for their spirits’ artwork.

*Inkling can [[Swimming|swim]] in water in ''Ultimate''. This contradicts attributes established in ''Splatoon'', in which Inklings can only swim in [[Inkipedia:Ink|Ink]] (in [[Inkipedia:Squid|Squid Form]]) and dissolve when they touch water. However, in reference to this attribute, Inkling takes gradual damage while swimming in water and has an animation akin to other drowning animations as the basic swim animation.

**The animation speeds up once Inkling begins to drown.

*Inkling is currently the only newcomer in ''Ultimate'' to have received a [[:File:Inkling poster.jpg|''Smash Bros. 4''-style character poster]] to promote their inclusion as a playable character.

*At E3 2018, some of the demonstration videos for Inkling show both the Splattershot and the Splat Roller leaving ink on the ground. However, it was later confirmed that only the Splat Roller can do this. The reason for the Splattershot losing this attribute is unknown.

*Inkling is the first newcomer in ''Ultimate'' that was previously featured as a [[Mii Fighter]] [[Alternate costume (SSB4)#Mii Fighter|costume]] in ''Super Smash Bros. 4''. The others are {{SSBU|Chrom}}, {{SSBU|King K. Rool}}, and {{SSBU|Isabelle}}.

**Inkling is also the only sole representative to have this trait.

*Inkling was the only newcomer to be in the panoramic group artwork when it was first shown off in the E3 2018 Direct, due to being the only newcomer revealed at the time.

*Inkling is currently one of the only two newcomers in ''Ultimate'' to not have splash art and an introduction tagline, the other being {{SSBU|Daisy}}.

**For Inkling, this is most likely due to the fact that technically the Inklings were revealed in the first Ultimate teaser trailer.

*Inkling is one of two newcomers (the other being {{SSBU|Ridley}}) to be in a veteran's gallery on the official website, specifically {{SSBU|Young Link}}'s.

*Coincidentally, Inkling's fighter number, 64, is the same as the number of the female Inkling’s [[mariowiki:Costume Mario|costume]] in ''Super Mario Maker''. She shares this distinction with {{SSBU|Greninja}}.

*Inkling is the only character to have an alternate costume appear in the World of Light introduction cutscene, as the male Inkling appears alongside the default female Inkling.

**Despite the male Inkling appearing as a separate character from the female Inkling in said scene, he does not have a ''Smash'' amiibo of him.

*When Inkling is KO'd in [[Stamina Mode]], a ghostly squid can be seen drifting out of the KO explosion. In ''Splatoon'', this occurs when an Inkling's health is depleted (known in that game as being "splatted").

*Inkling is one of the few fighters to spin forwards instead of away from the screen in their [[Star KO]] (similarly to how Star KOs acted in ''Smash 4''). This trait is shared with {{SSBU|Cloud}}, {{SSBU|Corrin}}, {{SSBU|Incineroar}} and {{SSBU|Shulk}}.

*Depending on which [[Alternate costume (SSBU)#Inkling|costume]] the player chooses when doing Inkling's [[Classic Mode (SSBU)|Classic Mode]] route, two different colors of Inkling will appear as the penultimate battle. The orange, pink, and purple Inklings face off against their yellow and green counterparts, the blue and yellow Inklings face off against the orange and green ones, and the green, cyan, and indigo Inklings face off against the orange and blue ones.

*Inkling is the only non-DLC newcomer to be a sole representative of a new universe.

*Inkling, {{SSBU|Ike}} and {{SSBU|Pokémon Trainer}} are the only characters to have {{SSBU|alternate costume}}s with different animations. Some of the male Inkling's animations are altered from the female Inkling, including his idle pose, certain victory poses and [[Screen KO]].

*In German, Spanish and Italian, the name tag and voice clip from the announcer on the victory screen is slightly different from the one used on the character select screen, instead featuring a noticeable translation of "the"  ("'''die'''/'''der''' Inkling", "'''la''' Inkling chica"/"'''el''' Inkling chico" and "'''la''' Ragazza Inkling"/"'''il''' Ragazzo Inkling"). Inkling shares this trait with {{SSBU|Wii Fit Trainer}}, {{SSBU|Pokémon Trainer}}, {{SSBU|Villager}}, {{SSBU|Hero}}, and the {{SSBU|Mii Fighter}}s.

*In the Japanese version, Inkling's voice actor is not listed in the Sound Test.

*The costumes for Inklings were decided along with the ''Splatoon'' development team. <ref>https://twitter.com/PushDustIn/status/1097010525328748545</ref>

*With the addition of the DLC Futaba Sakura Spirit, Inkling is now one of the few characters who can appear in their default costume as a puppet in Spirit battles. The others are {{SSBU|Mr. Game & Watch}}, {{SSBU|Bowser Jr.}}, {{SSBU|Yoshi}}, {{SSBU|R.O.B.}}, {{SSBU|Robin}}, {{SSBU|Joker}}, {{SSBU|Peach}}, {{SSBU|Mario}} and {{SSBU|Luigi}}. Like Robin, and Joker, the Spirit battle is exclusive to DLC spirits.

**This is not counting {{SSBU|Alph}} and female {{SSBU|Corrin}}, who use their main colors in a few spirit battles, but themselves are alternate costumes.

**Although the default Inkling Girl was not used in any spirit battles prior to version 3.0, the default Inkling Boy was.

***This makes Inkling the only fighter with two costumes with alternate colors to use a default palette for both costumes in spirit battles.

*Not counting the male Inkling, the female default Inking is one of the four female fighters not to face {{SSBU|Master Hand}} (and {{SSBU|Crazy Hand}} if the difficulty is 7.0 or higher) as the final boss in Classic Mode, the other three being {{SSBU|Zelda}}, {{SSBU|Rosalina & Luma}} and {{SSBU|Bayonetta}}.

*If an Inkling opponent gets KO'd in either a Horde Battle or in [[Mob Smash]], their ink gauge will not be shown at zero level.