Editing Robin (SSB4)

|name = Robin

|image = {{tabber|title1=Male|content1=[[File:Robin_Male_SSB4.png|x250px]]|title2=Female|content2=[[File:Robin_Female_SSB4.png|x250px]]|title3=Both|content3=[[File:Robin_SSB4.png|x250px]]}}

|game = SSB4

|availability = [[Starter character|Starter]]

|tier = D

|ranking = 36-37

<!--NOTICE BEFORE EDITING: When using pronouns, use those that match the gender of the default when referring to their Smash incarnation (treating the alternate gendered variant as a character costume like Alph) and gender neutral for home series info. However, completely omitting pronouns is entirely a valid style, as long as the sentence stays coherent.-->

:{{cquote|''Robin Brings the Thunder!''|cite=Introduction Tagline}}

'''Robin''' ({{ja|ルフレ|Rufure}}, ''Reflet'') is a playable newcomer in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''. He was confirmed during a live stream, alongside {{SSB4|Captain Falcon}} and {{SSB4|Lucina}}, on the official ''Super Smash Bros.'' website on July 14th, 2014. Like in Robin's home game ''{{s|fireemblemwiki|Fire Emblem Awakening}}'', players can select either male and female versions of the character, similarly to {{SSB4|Wii Fit Trainer}}, {{SSB4|Villager}}, and {{SSB4|Corrin}}.

In the English version, David Vincent, who is male Robin's first voice option in ''Awakening'', reprises his role, while Lauren Landa voices female Robin in place of Michelle Ruff from ''Awakening''. In the Japanese version, both Yoshimasa Hosoya and Miyuki Sawashiro reprise their roles as the voice actors for  male Robin and female Robin, respectively.

 

Robin is ranked 36th/37th out of 54 on the [[tier list]], placing him in D tier and tied with {{SSB4|Samus}}. Robin's greatest strength is his zoning game; his tomes give him an array of useful spells and projectiles. {{b|Thunder|Robin}} is a versatile projectile due to having varying effects at each level of charge, [[Arcfire]] is a strong tool for traps and combo initiation, [[Elwind]] provides a highly damaging neutral infinite and is capable of [[edgeguarding]] due to being a strong [[meteor smash]] at point blank range, and [[Nosferatu]] is a self-healing [[grab]] that is very hard to escape when the opponent has a high percentage. In addition, Robin's [[List of swords#Levin Sword|Levin Sword]] is an excellent weapon, courtesy of its great KO potential, which also extends to his aerial attacks, which, when used with the Levin Sword, have fearsome KO potential. The Bronze Sword is not to be disregarded either: while it is immensely weak and has unimpressive range, it is always available to Robin and can easily combo. Finally, Robin's unique durability mechanic can also be used to his advantage, as his depleted tomes and broken Levin Swords are surprisingly strong, which makes them unorthodox KO options.

 

However, Robin has numerous weaknesses. His overall mobility is arguably the worst in the game, due to his dashing speed being the slowest in the game, and his air speed being average. Robin also has a very poor defensive game, as several moves are slow in regard to startup lag and even more so in ending lag. Robin's range is also startlingly lacking, as while the Levin and Bronze Swords provide disjointed range, they have very short reach. This not only forces Robin to trade blows frequently, but it also makes him glaringly susceptible to combos. Due to this, Robin has a severe lack of oppressive options in his moveset. Finally, Robin's durability mechanic can massively turn against him, as the loss of any tomes puts Robin in a lot of trouble: losing Thunder leaves him unable to zone, losing Arcfire prevents him from starting combos, losing Elwind makes it very hard to recover, and losing Nosferatu prevents Robin from healing and forces the use of his poor grab.

 

As a result, Robin requires players to play with extreme precision in order to avoid wasting any uses of his weapons, as well as know how to play around the opponent when any weapons are broken. Robin's high learning curve and technical playstyle has given him limited tournament presence in the years following ''Smash 4''{{'}}s release. Nevertheless, several dedicated mains, such as {{Sm|Dath}} and {{Sm|Mr.II}}, have been able to perform well with the character at a national level.

Robin is a tall [[weight|middleweight]] character who has very appalling mobility. Robin’s [[dash]]ing speed is the slowest in the game, and his [[walk]]ing speed is the twelfth slowest in the game. Outside of these attributes, Robin's other traits are archetypical of a middleweight; his [[air speed]], [[traction]], [[falling speed]], and [[gravity]] are all average. However, Robin's [[air acceleration]] is above average. As a result of these attributes, Robin has difficulty chasing opponents and fleeing from them at the same time, though his oddly decent aerial mobility compensates this to a degree.

Robin's tomes provide a myriad of spacing, pressuring, and additional damaging capabilities. Both the [[fireemblemwiki:Thunder (tome)|Thunder]] and [[fireemblemwiki:Fire (tome)|Fire tome]]s can disrupt opponents, rack up damage, and open up windows to chain attacks together. {{B|Thunder|Robin}} and the slightly stronger Elthunder peppers at mid-range or shorter, while Arcthunder travels for longer and has trapping capabilities for pressure, combos and set-ups, and Thoron pierces through opponents and deals considerable knockback. [[Arcfire]] produces a trapping, multiple hitting pillar of flame that is instrumental for approaching or disrupting [[approach]]es, pressuring, and chaining together attacks. In addition to the Fire tome, Robin's neutral attack involves the [[fireemblemwiki:Wind (tome)|Wind tome]]: the former tome generates a singular explosion of fire magic that deals strong diagonal knockback, while the latter tome generates a neutral infinite consisting of wind magic that deals high damage and concludes with a blast of wind magic that deals strong vertical knockback. [[Elwind]] provides respectable vertical recovery and its first hit can be used to punish aerial and post-recovery opponents by spiking them at point-blank with the first hit. Lastly, [[Nosferatu]] is a self-healing move which heals Robin, especially if cast from behind and while having a higher damage percentage than his opponent, while it also cannot be shielded due to functioning like a grab. However, it is tricky to use, as the opponent must be at almost point-blank range to land it, although Arcthunder's trapping ability can help Robin land it easier.

Aside from using tomes, Robin's Levin Sword is a potent weapon in its own right. It is a powerful, fairly long-ranged, and electrically-charged sword that functions as a terrific offensive tool due to its excellent pressure capabilities, its impressive combo potential and its high KO power. Robin whips this out for his smash and directional aerial attacks when a smash input is inputted. It can be swung eight times before it breaks. Despite being vastly inferior to the Levin Sword in regards to KO potential, the Bronze Sword has combo potential due to its weaker knockback. His neutral aerial covers both front and back sides successively, which can be useful for spacing in the air. His down tilt can keep away grounded opponents in front of him.

Once Robin's tomes are depleted and the Levin Sword is broken, they can act as throwable items that deal immense damage, shieldstun and knockback. Properly managing Robin's discarded weapons is crucial for optimal play, as the opportunities they can potentially grant are significant. Outside of his magic and sword attacks, Robin has two useful throws: back throw is a viable KOing option near the edge, while down throw is a reliable combo starter.

However, Robin suffers from numerous weaknesses. The most notable includes his aforementioned mobility, being the overall slowest in the game courtesy of possessing the slowest [[dash]]ing speed in the game and average [[air speed]] at best. Altogether, Robin is especially vulnerable to speed demons, such as {{SSB4|Sonic}} and {{SSB4|Captain Falcon}}. He lacks defensive options and has trouble brushing off opponents, especially those who are directly beneath, making him susceptible to rushdowns and juggles. Robin’s tilts generally have short range, making it difficult for him to fight at mid-range outside of the usage of tomes. Several of Robin's moves, specifically his [[smash attack]]s and [[special move]]s, have significant ending lag, which leaves Robin wide open for punishment proceeding his execution. His [[forward smash]], though extremely strong, has extremely limited range, occasionally and completely missing fighters when said fighters crouch, and is also extremely laggy. His [[down smash]] is a strong move with a great range, however, the range has limited success as the farthest portion of the range is also one of the weakest parts. Finally, his [[up smash]] is a strong move with considerably less ending lag compared to his other smash attacks, however, it has mediocre range, and even worse range while using the Bronze Sword, whereas Robin is unable to even hit fighters standing directly next to him. Elwind leaves him vulnerable and interceptable after usage, and when not properly managed or retaining track of, can run out at critical times.

Lastly, Robin's durability mechanic can drastically weaken Robin's offensive game once either the Levin Sword or tomes are exhausted. Losing the Levin Sword gives him almost nonexistent KO power despite the Bronze Sword's respectable combo game. Losing [[Thunder (Robin)|Thunder]] removes one of his only zoning options, as well as losing combo potential. Losing Arcfire sacrifices Robin damage output and even more combo potential. Losing Nosferatu makes Robin's survivability weaker, especially with his average weight. Losing Elwind is the worst case for Robin, as his [[double jump]] is merely average, leaving Robin effectively helpless while recovering should he be launched too far offstage without Elwind available.  

 

Overall, Robin is a tactically-based character with varied spacing, damage-accumulating and KO options that must have wise usage. Simultaneously, his lack of mobile and defensive options leaves him vulnerable to pressure and combos. With this, Robin players must maintain track of their weapons' durability, intelligently respond to their opponents, and take precise offensive action for success.

Robin has been noticeably buffed via updates, especially in update [[1.1.0]] with increased damage outputs, decreased ending lag, and larger hitboxes for certain attacks. The knockback and ending lag on his down throw were also reduced, which consequently improved its combo potential. Update [[1.1.3]] increased down aerial's damage output, decreased the lag for down smash and all of his aerials, and increased the sizes of the hitboxes for a few moves, most notably forward tilt. Robin also benefits from the changes on the shield mechanics in brought about by updates 1.1.0 and [[1.1.1]], with the high [[hitlag]] on his Levin Sword-based attacks becoming more useful and safer on shield. However, update [[1.1.5]] slightly nerfed Robin's neutral attack, an extremely important part of his [[neutral game]], by having its base [[knockback]] increased. This results in his neutral infinite becoming nearly useless when the opponent properly uses [[directional influence]] at low-mid percentages, while neutral attack's first two hits' ending lag results in it failing to chain into from another neutral attack or a grab. To slightly compensate, Nosferatu comes out 1 frame faster, grabbing at frames 15-16, and has 2 less frames of ending lag when broken out of.

*The {{s|fireemblemwiki|Bronze Sword}} has very minimal KO potential due to dealing low damage and significantly low knockback. It also has unimpressive reach, shorter-lasting hits and minimal [[freeze frame]]s. However, its weak strength enables it to combo effectively. Conversely, the {{s|fireemblemwiki|Levin Sword}} has significantly greater KO potential, due to it dealing significantly more damage and knockback. In addition to dealing [[electric]] damage, it has a greater [[reach]] than the Bronze Sword, freeze frames and a lingering hitbox, the latter of which deals less damage if it hits late.

|neutralname=Right Chop ({{ja|ライトチョップ|Raito Choppu}}) / Combination Chop ({{ja|コンビネーションチョップ|Konbinēshon Choppu}}) / Fire ({{ja|ファイアー|Faiā}}) / Wind ({{ja|ウインド|Uindo}}) / Wind Finish ({{ja|ウインドフィニッシュ|Uindo Finisshu}})

|neutral3dmg=5% (Arcfire)

|neutralinfdmg=1% (Elwind loop), 2% (Elwind last)

|neutraldesc=An upward slash followed by a downward slash. The move can then proceed to a third finishing hit or into a neutral infinite, depending on whether the attack button is held or button mashed. The former is a fiery explosion that deals high knockback and KOs around 170%, although it can be dodged at high percentages with an air dodge or jump; it costs 1 durability point from [[Arcfire]]. The latter is a barrage of blade-shaped blasts of wind magic that hits multiple times and ends with a blast that deals high knockback which draws from [[Elwind]]'s durability; it uses up 1 durability point for every 2 seconds for a maximum duration of 18 seconds. If both tomes are depleted, Robin will only be able to use the first two sword slashes. Its fast start-up, deceptively high range and damage/KO potential makes it a go-to option on the ground and the most pivotal part of Robin's neutral game.

|ftiltname=Front Hack ({{ja|フロントハック|Furonto Hakku}})

|utiltname=Upper Swing ({{ja|アッパースイング|Appā Suingu}})

|dtiltname=Leg Cutter ({{ja|レッグカッター|Reggu Kattā}})

|dtiltdesc=A crouching, outward slash. Though short-ranged and weak, it is Robin's fastest tilt and has very low ending lag, allowing it to be used as an anti-pressure option.

|dashname=Short Stab ({{ja|ショートスタッブ|Shōto Stabbu}})

|dashdesc=A low-angle thrust. It boosts Robin forward on start-up and, unlike his other Bronze Sword-based attacks, it deals knockback that is strong enough to KO at high percentages. However, its high ending lag after being used makes it unwieldy.

|fsmashname=Neck Striker ({{ja|ネックストライカー|Nekku Sutoraikā}})

|fsmashdesc=An underhanded outward thrust. A viable close-ranged punishment option, but suffers from long ending lag. This is remedied due to the Levin Sword's lingering hitbox, although this makes it unsafe if shielded. KOs around 175% with the Bronze Sword and around 100% with the Levin Sword.

|usmashname=Rising Thrust ({{ja|ライジングスラスト|Raijing Surasuto}})

|usmashdesc=An upward thrust. Deals mainly vertical knockback with decent power, but has high ending lag and low range (often missing opponents directly beside him). Without the Levin Sword, it has poor knockback and horizontal reach. The Levin Sword KOs around 110%.

|dsmashname=Earth Knock ({{ja|アースノック|Āsu Nokku}}) / Earth Shocker ({{ja|アースショッカー|Āsu Shokkā}})

|dsmashdesc=Kneels and strikes the floor via a slash with his equipped sword. The Levin Sword generates brief sparks on both sides of Robin, which can hit opponents even after getting up, thus warding off punishment attempts on either side. When coupled with the its hitbox's duration and late hit's surprisingly good knockback, the sparks also make it Robin's most reliable punish move on the ground. Its fair amount of hitlag also makes very effective against shields. However, like his other smash attacks, it suffers from high ending lag. KOs around 150% with the Bronze Sword and around 110% with the Levin Sword.

|nairname=Double Chop ({{ja|ダブルチョップ|Daburu Choppu}})

|nairdesc=An inward forward slash followed by an outward backward slash. The backward slash can hit opponents if Robin fast falls from a short hop behind them. A decent spacing option, though it has low knockback. If Robin uses this move while equipped with the Levin Sword, Robin will equip the Bronze Sword again, making this Robin’s only aerial with this property. Autocancels from a short hop.

|fairname=Air Upper Swing ({{ja|エアアッパースイング|Ea Appā Suingu}})

|fairdesc=An upward swipe. Because of its arc, it can catch grounded opponents while in the air. A reliable spacing tool that deals a lot of damage and autocancels from a short hop. It has very poor KO potential with the Bronze Sword, but its knockback makes it easy to combo with, usually into itself, or other aerials. It has a lingering hitbox with the Levin Sword that can deal damage during the move's final frames, with the clean hit from the Levin Sword KOing around 140%.

|bairname=Backhand Slash  ({{ja|バックハンドスラッシュ|Bakkuhando Surasshu}})

|bairdesc=A backward thrust. Fast, but has a somewhat narrow hitbox which can make landing it awkward, though it still autocancels from a short hop. It can hit a few frames after ending while using the Levin Sword, which can surprise opponents. It also KOs as early as 100% with the Levin Sword, making it Robin’s strongest aerial, although up aerial with the Levin Sword can KO earlier while high in the air.

|uairname=Arc Slash ({{ja|アークスラッシュ|Āku Surasshu}})

|uairdesc=An upward overhead slash. It is a great juggling option with the Bronze Sword due to its low knockback and large arc, while it is Robin's most effective aerial with the Levin Sword due to its massive range and KO potential. It has lingering hitboxes with the Levin Sword. It can autocancel from a short hop. KOs around 155% with the Bronze Sword and around 110% with the Levin Sword.

|dairname=Undercut ({{ja|アンダーカット|Andā Katto}})

|dairdmg=Bronze: 7.2% (clean), 6% (late)<br/>Levin: 11% (clean), 12% (mid, aerial opponent), 10% (mid, grounded opponent), 5% (late)

|dairdesc=A downward slash. It also hits slightly in front of Robin. The sweetspot in the middle of the Levin Sword can [[meteor smash]] while it is swung down, while the Bronze Sword cannot meteor smash at all. The move has a lingering hitbox if the Levin Sword is used. The long recovery frames and high landing lag makes this move unreliable, and it is Robin’s only aerial that cannot autocancel from a short hop.

|grabname=Grab ({{ja|つかみ|Tsukami}})

|grabdesc=Wraps the opponent in a whirling stream of magic. Despite its animation, its range is below average, unlike [[Greninja_(SSB4)|Greninja]]'s visually similar grab, which has an above average reach. Has fast start-up like other characters' standing grabs, but has the longest amount of ending lag of all non-[[tether grab]]s in the game, making it punishable if missed. The pivot grab has surprising reach, but slightly more ending lag than the standing grab. The dash grab has even more ending lag than the pivot grab and even less reach, giving Robin one of the worst dash grabs in the game, to the point that it is potentially on par with [[Ganondorf_(SSB4)|Ganondorf]]'s.

|pummelname=Grab Force Attack ({{ja|つかみフォースアタック|Tsukami Fōsu Atakku}})

|pummeldesc=A small blast of magic. The second slowest pummel in the game, being surpassed only by {{SSB4|Mii Swordfighter}}'s pummel. Its slow speed can result in opponents potentially breaking out of Robin's grab at low percentages before Robin can throw after a single pummel first. However, it becomes safer to use at higher percentages.

|fthrowname=Force Kinesis ({{ja|フォースキネシス|Fōsu Kineshisu}})

|bthrowname=Reverse Kinesis ({{ja|リバースキネシス|Ribāsu Kineshisu}})

|bthrowdesc=Turns around and magically tosses the opponent backward. Robin's strongest throw, with very high base knockback and decently high knockback growth, KOing even some heavyweights at around 170% near the edge without [[rage]]. It can also be used reliably for throwing the opponent out of his reach to charge Thunder.

|uthrowname=Launch Kinesis ({{ja|ローンチキネシス|Rōnchi Kineshisu}})

|dthrowname=Pressure Kinesis ({{ja|プレッシャーキネシス|Puressha Kineshisu}})

|dthrowdesc=Magically slams the opponent onto the ground, launching them vertically. Its extremely low base knockback and low ending lag makes it an excellent combo starter at almost any percentage. Its low hitstun until high percentages, however, prevents true combos into moves other than his neutral attack and up tilt. However, at high percentages, Robin can follow up with an up aerial for a safe KO; when performed correctly within the proper percent window, this combo is inescapable for every character except {{SSB4|Bowser}} and {{SSB4|Charizard}}. This combo is referred to by players as the "Checkmate".

|nsdefdmg=4.5% (Thunder), 10.5% (Elthunder), 3% (Arcthunder hit 1), 1% (Arcthunder loop, 6 hits), 1% (Arcthunder last), 2.6% (Thoron loop, ~4 hits, ~7 hits boosted)

|nsdefdesc=Robin casts [[fireemblemwiki:Thunder (magic)|thunder magic]] from his [[fireemblemwiki:Thunder (tome)|Thunder tome]]. It is a chargeable projectile with distinct properties for each charge level: Thunder (a fast, weak, and short-ranged spark) is produced when the move is uncharged, followed by [[fireemblemwiki:Elthunder|Elthunder]] (a yellow, stronger ball of lightning with more range), which is cast when briefly charged, then [[fireemblemwiki:Arcthunder|Arcthunder]] (a red, gradually accelerating and multiple hitting sphere), and finally [[fireemblemwiki:Thoron|Thoron]] (a powerful, long-ranged electrical energy beam that can stretch across the length of any stage; holding the special button also increases the beam’s damage and length) when fully charged. Each of them has its uses: Thunder and Elthunder can be used as an anti-pressure option, Arcthunder can be used for briefly trapping opponents for a free follow-up and has some off-stage KO potential, and Thoron has the highest KO potential of all of its versions, also making it useful if Robin’s tome is about to expire. Takes ~3 seconds to fully charge.

|nsc1dmg=5% (Thunder), 12% (Elthunder), 5% (Arcthunder hit 1), 1.2% (Arcthunder loop, 6 hits), 1.2% (Arcthunder last), 3.5% (Thoron loop, ~6 hits, ~9 hits boosted).

|nsc1desc=Robin casts bigger, stronger thunder magic that goes a little farther and comes out a little slower. The tome charges slower (~4 seconds) and has less durability.

|nsc2dmg=2% (Thunder), 5% (Elthunder), 2.5% (Arcthunder hit 1), 1% (Arcthunder loop, 5 hits), 10% (Thoron)

|nsc2desc=Robin casts faster, smaller, weaker thunder magic that goes farther. The tome charges faster (~2 seconds). Arcthunder hits 6 times instead of 8. Thoron is now one hit, and only it’s length can be boosted. Tome durability is the same as Thunder.

|ssdefdmg=1% (fireball), 1% (pillar, 6 hits), 4% (explosion)

|ssc1desc=Uses a slower, stronger tome to cast Arcfire. Creates a large single-hit explosion with decent knockback in lieu of the usual flame pillar, and gives the fireball more horizontal reach, but the attack is slower. The projectile will vanish if it doesn’t strike a surface by the time it just reaches below Robin’s feet. Robin doesn’t say “Arcfire” when casting.

|ssc2dmg=7% (pillar)

|ssc2desc=Creates a larger pillar which sticks around longer and offers mild protection against attacks. The fire is also cast directly in front of Robin, and is sent almost directly downwards in the air. Casting is significantly faster. Robin does not say “Arcfire” when casting.

|usdefdmg=7% (hit 1 clean), 5% (hit 1 late), 5% (hit 2)

|usdefdesc=Robin casts [[fireemblemwiki:Wind (magic)|wind magic]] twice below himself from an [[fireemblemwiki:Elwind|Elwind tome]], which propels him into the air. The first hit can meteor smash aerial opponents directly beneath, while the late hit can set-up for the second hit, which launches the opponent too far to counterattack Robin. When Elwind is depleted, Robin will have no means of recovery for 6 seconds, which can prove disastrous if the tome’s uses are wasted. Robin is also left without protection from above when used, making him easy to gimp.

|usc1dmg=5% (hit 1), 5% (hit 2)

|usc1desc=The first gust is slightly weaker and doesn’t meteor smash, but the second gust, with more startup lag, sends Robin considerably higher. Horizontal movement is decreased slightly.

|usc2desc=Robin casts the first gust diagonally down behind him, providing more horizontal distance than vertical, while the second gives a lower amount of vertical height than the standard spell.

|dsdefdmg=0.8% (per hit) (up to 19 hits)

|dsdefdesc=Robin casts {{s|fireemblemwiki|Nosferatu}} on a nearby opponent to drain their health and heal Robin. Inflicts constant damage and cannot be shielded due to acting like a command grab. Victims can end the move sooner by button mashing, but like normal grabs, being at a higher percent decreases their chance of escaping (~120% will always perform 19 hits). Slightly more energy is drained if striking someone from behind, and Robin drains more energy the higher his damage percentage is compared to the opponent’s. Robin and the victim are vulnerable throughout the move’s use, and Robin will be left helpless if the move ends midair. It can also be used as a [[sacrificial KO]].

|dsc1dmg=0.6% (per hit) (up to 19 hits)

|dsc2dmg=1% (per hit), (up to 19 hits)

|dsc2desc=Robin casts {{s|fireemblemwiki|Goetia}}, the strongest {{iw|fireemblemwiki|Dark|magic}} tome in ''Fire Emblem Awakening''. Deals more damage and [[Push|sucks]] in opponents, but does not heal Robin and has much slower start-up. Robin does not say “Nosferatu” when casting.

|fsdesc=Summons [[Chrom]] via [[fireemblemwiki:Warp (staff)|warp magic]] to [[fireemblemwiki:Pair Up|pair up]] and attack. Chrom slashes the opponent upward into the air and then he and Robin relentlessly attack the opponent, with Chrom repeatedly slashing with {{iw|fireemblemwiki|Falchion|Archanea}}, while Robin casts thunder and fire magic, including {{s|fireemblemwiki|Bolganone}}. After they finish their barrage, they perform a final simultaneous strike that spikes the opponent to the ground, which deals enough recoil to launch them towards the upper blast line. It KOs at 45% and also fully replenishes all of Robin's weapons.

Robin has a unique [[character mechanic]]: true to the ''Fire Emblem'' series, where items break after being used too many times, Robin's tomes and Levin Sword do the same if they are used too often, with each weapon having a unique durability value. If Robin attempts to use an attack that uses durability-affected weaponry and is interrupted by an attack while attempting to use it, then that will count as one use of the weapon, even if no damaging hitbox is produced. Robin always carries the last weapon that was used, provided they are not depleted. As an additional visual indicator for durability, weapons that have been depleted by two-thirds will flicker. Once a depleted weapon is restored, Robin will perform a unique animation of the weapon appearing in both hands with a flash of light, provided that he is standing completely still; tomes appear in Robin’s left hand as it is held up in the air, while the Levin Sword reappears in Robin’s right hand as he flicks it in a manner similar to one of his idle poses.

If Robin fully depletes a weapon, it will be thrown away behind him. In the case where Robin is sent flying by knockback immediately after depleting a weapon, he will drop the used weapon on the spot before getting knocked back himself. They disappear almost immediately after hitting the ground once, but they can also be picked up and thrown; the Levin Sword deals 15% when smash thrown, while his tomes deal 18% when smash thrown, making both attacks potent surprise KOing options due to their high base knockback. If Robin does not have the proper tome for corresponding special the move and tries to perform it, Robin will perform the animation but will not produce any hitboxes. For the Levin Sword, all such attacks will instead use the Bronze Sword, which cannot break, but has shorter range, deals considerably less damage and knockback, and also lacks the Levin Sword's lingering electrical hitboxes. Weapons restore gradually after they have been depleted, with their restoration times varying on their type. When Robin scores a KO, it reduces the respawn timer for all currently-regenerating weapons by a small amount. Respawn times are unaffected by custom movesets.

|10 seconds

| -3.33 seconds

 

If the tome has less durability than the spell requires, it can still be performed, though the tome will be immediately depleted afterward. If {{SSB4|Kirby}} [[Inhale (Kirby)|copies]] Robin, he will lose the [[List of Copy Abilities|Copy Ability]] altogether once he depletes his tome.

|colspan="2"|20

|colspan="2"| -1.5 seconds

 

====Arcfire tome====

|6

| -1.0 second

!Arcfire

!Neutral attack finisher

|1

 

====Elwind tome====

| -2.0 seconds

!Elwind

|1 (per blade)

|1 (per second)

 

|40 seconds

| -1.0 second

!Nosferatu

 

|ff = 2.4

|jumpheight = 33.208813

|djump = 33.208813

 

Robin English Announcer SSB4-SSBU.wav|English

Robin Japanese Announcer SSB4-SSBU.wav|Japanese/Chinese

|desc-up=Points the active sword upwards and says, "Let's tip the scales!" ({{ja|戦局を変える。|Senkyoku wo kaeru.}}, ''I'll change the state of war''.). Female Robin says, "Time to tip the scales!" ({{ja|戦局を変えます。|Senkyoku wo kaemasu.}}, ''I'll change the state of war''.)

|desc-side=Magically suspends the active sword and tome above both hands, rotates the sword in place and flips through the tome's pages using magic, and says, "Prepare yourself!" In Japanese, male Robin says {{ja|覚悟はいいかい?|Kakugo wa ī kai?}}, (''Are you prepared?''), while female Robin says {{ja|覚悟はいいですか?|Kakugo wa ī desu ka?}}, (''Are you prepared?'')

|desc-down=Magically encircles himself with the active sword and tome and says, "You're not ready!" ({{ja|やってやるさ。|Yatte yaru sa.}}, ''Let's do it then.'') Female Robin says, "Here I go!" ({{ja|いきますよ!|Ikimasu yo!}}, ''Let us go!'')}}

|desc-1=Looks at the active tome.

|desc-2=Slowly waves the active sword in front of himself with a flourish.

|victory-desc=An orchestral excerpt of the title theme from ''{{s|fireemblemwiki|Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light}}'', which has since become the main theme of the ''Fire Emblem'' series.

|desc-1=Crosses arms with weapons in hand, then spins clockwise and swings the Levin Sword. Male Robin says "I'm always three steps ahead." In the Japanese version, he says {{ja|常に三手先を考えるんだ。|Tsune ni san tesaki wo kangaerun da.}} (''I always think three steps ahead.'') Female Robin says "A good tactician has nothing to fear." In the Japanese version, she says {{ja|戦略を練れば、恐るるに足りません。|Senryaku wo nereba, osore ruru ni tari masen.}}, (''If you have a strategy, there is nothing to fear.'')

|desc-2=Holds the Thunder tome in left hand and spreads out right arm. Male Robin says "The key to victory lies within." In the Japanese version, he says {{ja|勝利の秘策はここにある|Shōri no hisaku wa koko ni aru.}} (''The secret to victory is here.'') Female Robin says "Ha! Checkmate." In the Japanese version, she says {{ja|私の策にはまりましたね!|Watashi no saku ni hamari mashi ta ne!}} (''According to plan!'')

**''If {{SSB4|Lucina}} is present after a match, male Robin sometimes says "Lucina, I hope I didn't hurt you." In the Japanese version, he says {{ja|ルキナ、痛くなかったかい?|Rukina, itaku nakatta kai?}} (Lucina, are you hurt?)

|desc-3=Robin and Chrom face the screen while back to back, posing with their weapons. Male Robin says "It seems our fates are joined." In the Japanese version, he says {{ja|僕たちは互いに絆で結ばれているんだ。|Bokutachi wa tagai ni kizuna de musubarete irun da.}} (''We are bonded by mutual ties.'') Female Robin says "I've got your back." In the Japanese version, she says {{ja|私が、あなたの半身になります。|Watashi ga, anata no hanshin ni nari masu.}} (''I'll be your other half.'')

**''If Lucina is present after a match, female Robin sometimes says "How can you protect Chrom if you can't protect yourself?" In the Japanese version, she says {{ja|そんなことじゃ、クロムさんを守れませんよ!|Sonna koto ja, Kuromu-san wo mamore masen yo!}} (You can't protect Chrom like that!)

**''If Robin used [[Pair Up]] during the match, Chrom will sometimes say "My strength is yours!" In the Japanese version he says {{ja|お前は俺が守る!|Omae wa ore ga mamoru!}} (I'll protect you!), the same quote Chrom shouts when a unit pairs up with him in ''Awakening''. Oddly, this clip is unavailable in the [[Sound Test]].''

==In [[competitive play]]==

===Most historically significant players===

<!--This character has a ten player limit for this section. Before adding and/or removing a player, read these guidelines: https://www.ssbwiki.com/SmashWiki:Notability#%22Most_historically_significant_players%22_guidelines -->

''See also: [[:Category:Robin players (SSB4)]]''

*{{Sm|Dath|USA}} - The best Robin player of all-time, best known for placing 3rd at {{Trn|Shine 2016}} defeating {{Sm|Larry Lurr}}, {{Sm|Marss}}, and {{Sm|6WX}}, which marks the best tournament run for a Robin player. He also has several of Robin's best major performances, having placed 9th at {{Trn|Frame Perfect Series 2}}, 17th at {{Trn|CEO 2016}} defeating {{Sm|Nietono}}, and 25th at {{Trn|EVO 2016}} defeating {{Sm|ANTi}}. He was ranked 32nd on the [[PGR v2]], the only Robin player ever ranked on a global ranking.

*{{Sm|Ke-ya|Japan}} - The best Robin player in Japan, co-maining the character alongside {{SSB4|Corrin}} and using both characters to defeat {{Sm|Ranai}} at {{Trn|Karisuma 11}}, placing 5th; and {{Sm|NAKAT}} at {{Trn|Umebura 25}}, placing 9th. As a solo-main, he also notably defeated {{Sm|Larry Lurr}} at {{Trn|Super Smash Con 2017}} to place 33rd.

*{{Sm|Mr.II|Japan}} - Although he rarely attends events, he is best known for defeating {{Sm|Nairo}} to place 33rd at {{Trn|Pound 2016}}, marking not only one of the greatest upsets in ''Smash 4'' but also the best win for a Robin player. His remaining results remained mixed outside of Pound, and he eventually went on hiatus due to personal issues.

*{{Sm|Skorpio|USA}} - The second-best Robin player in North America who regularly places highly at Midwest events, especially {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem|series}}. He is best known for placing 2nd at {{Trn|Nexus}}, defeating {{Sm|tyroy}} along the way, as well as placing 3rd at {{Trn|Midwest Mayhem 7: Mexico Invasion}}, where he placed 3rd after defeating tyroy yet again alongside {{Sm|Javi}}.

Opinions on Robin's viability have fluctuated throughout ''SSB4''{{'}}s metagame. At first, he was considered a high-tier character due to strong projectiles and keep away games, as well as high KO power thanks to the Levin Sword and back throw's immense power. Even so, a small number of players argued against him, pointing to his slow mobility, poor grab game, weak projectiles that took too long to charge and could be cancelled out by pretty much any other projectile, mediocre recovery, and limit to how many times he could use many moves before becoming virtually helpless as reasons why Robin was a low tier instead. The latter opinion became more prominent as time went on, leading to many of his early players, including {{Sm|Xzax}} and {{Sm|Nairo}}, to drop him for better characters. Fortunately, game updates gave Robin several buffs, particularly 1.1.0 and 1.1.1, which granted Robin better shield pressure and a combo throw. This, combined with slow improvements to his metagame and a notable performances from players such as {{Sm|Dath}} and {{Sm|Mr.II}}, eventually shifted opinions on Robin in a more positive direction. As such, he was ranked at 31st on the first ''4BR'' [[tier list]] as a mid-tier character.

Thanks to a string of strong performances throughout the rest of 2016, highlighted by Dath's run to 3rd at {{Trn|Shine 2016}} and {{Sm|Mr.II}}'s upset over {{Sm|Nairo}} at {{Trn|Pound 2016}}, Robin remained at 31st on the second tier list. However, his results would began declining after that, as his best players became less consistent or attended less events. With his playerbase remaining below-average, especially compared to other mid-tier characters, he had since slid down on subsequent tier list, ranking 34th on the third list and 36th/37th on the fourth and final tier list, tying with {{SSB4|Samus}}.

In All-Star Mode, Robin is fought in Stage 7 in the 3DS version or Stage 1 in the Wii U version alongside {{SSB4|Wii Fit Trainer}}, {{SSB4|Rosalina & Luma}}, {{SSB4|Greninja}}, {{SSB4|Dark Pit}}, {{SSB4|Lucina}}, {{SSB4|Shulk}}, {{SSB4|Corrin}}, and {{SSB4|Bayonetta}}.

* '''[[New Challengers 2]]''': Robin is one of the seven opponents fought in this event alongside {{SSB4|Greninja}}, {{SSB4|Palutena}}, {{SSB4|Shulk}}, {{SSB4|Dark Pit}}, {{SSB4|Mega Man}}, and {{SSB4|Pac-Man}}.

* '''[[The Falchion's Seal]]''': Robin must use [[Pair Up]] to defeat a giant {{SSB4|Charizard}}.

* '''[[The Ultimate Swordsman]]''': Both male and female Robins are opponents that {{SSB4|Ike}} must defeat.

* '''[[A Royal Errand]]''': Robin and {{SSB4|Marth}} must collect 500G from {{SSB4|Wario}} and {{SSB4|Bowser}}.

* '''[[Peach in Peril]]''': Female Robin is one of the opponents Bowser and {{SSB4|Bowser Jr.}} must defeat without KOing {{SSB4|Peach}}.

* '''[[Scheming Sorcerer]]''': {{SSB4|Yoshi}} and {{SSB4|Toon Link}} must defeat male and female Robin, followed by a metal male Robin and a giant metal female Robin.

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

SSB4-3DS Congratulations Classic Robin.png|Classic Mode

SSB4-3DS Congratulations All-Star Robin.png|All-Star Mode

====Wii U====

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

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

==[[Trophies]]==

|name=Robin

|image-3ds=RobinTrophy3DS.png

|image-wiiu=RobinTrophyWiiU.png

|mode=Classic

|desc-3ds-ntsc=This is the male Robin, your avatar in Fire Emblem Awakening. The goal of this adventure doesn't change much because of your gender choice, but Robin's marriage options do. In Smash Bros., Robin brings powerful magic and swordplay to bear. He can exhaust his moves, but they'll be restored over time.

|desc-wiiu-ntsc=This is the male Robin, an avatar in Fire Emblem Awakening. The goal of that game doesn't change much because of your gender choice, but Robin's hairstyle options do. In Smash Bros., Robin brings powerful magic and swordplay to bear. He can exhaust his moves, but they'll be restored over time.

|desc-pal=When Robin is found at the start of Fire Emblem: Awakening, he (or she!) discovers that, even without his memories, he is a master tactician. In this game, his attacks are powerful, but in true Fire Emblem style, how many times his magic can be used is limited. This also applies to the thunder magic his sword is imbued with.

|gamelist-ntsc={{Trophy games|console1=3DS|game1=Fire Emblem Awakening|release1=02/2013}}

|gamelist-pal={{Trophy games|console1=3DS|game1=Fire Emblem: Awakening|release1=04/2013}}

}}

{{clrl}}

|name=Robin (Alt.)

|image-3ds=RobinAltTrophy3DS.png

|image-wiiu=RobinAltTrophyWiiU.png

|mode=Alt

|desc-ntsc=Robin's magic is powerful, but it has limited uses before needing to recharge. Thunder can be charged in stages, will become Thoron at max charge, and gains damage and speed with its charge. Arcfire creates a flame pillar, perfect for dealing with an edge-clinging foe.

|desc-pal=Robin's magic is powerful, but in return, its uses are limited. You can charge Thunder in steps, and when it's fully charged, it turns into Thoron, increasing its speed and dealing more damage. Arcfire creates a flame pillar when it hits something. Use it on an opponent who's clinging to an edge to stop them getting back on the stage.

|gamelist-ntsc={{Trophy games|console1=3DS|game1=Fire Emblem Awakening|release1=02/2013}}

|gamelist-pal={{Trophy games|console1=3DS|game1=Fire Emblem: Awakening|release1=04/2013}}

}}

{{clrl}}

 

{{Trophy/Fighter

|name=Pair Up

|desc-ntsc=Like the Pair Up feature in Fire Emblem Awakening that lets two characters attack a foe at once, Robin's Final Smash calls Chrom, the Prince of Ylisse, to the battlefield. First, Chrom dashes forward, and if he lands a hit, Robin joins him for a flawless combination of attacks. It can even catch multiple opponents at once!

|desc-pal=Like the Pair Up feature in Fire Emblem: Awakening, which lets two characters attack a foe at once, Robin's Final Smash calls Chrom, the Prince of Ylisse, to the battlefield. First, Chrom dashes forwards, and if he lands a hit, Robin joins him for a flawless combination of attacks. It can even catch multiple opponents at once!

{{ImageCaption|File:SSB4-3DS - Robin Levin Sword Item.png|File:SSB4-WiiU - Robin Levin Sword Item.png|width1=120x120px|width2=128x128px|align = right|caption=Robin wielding the Levin Sword as an item<br> alongside the Bronze Sword.}}

*When Robin's Levin Sword breaks, it can still be caught and carried around as a throwing weapon. While Robin is still holding it, they can gain another Levin Sword in the other hand after 6 seconds, making it look like two Levin swords are being held.

*Robin will hold their open hand out as if they were holding a tome even after discarding one. If Thunder is fully charged prior to tossing a different tome, the empty hand will still emit electricity indicating the tome's full charge.

*Robin is the only playable ''Fire Emblem'' character in ''Smash 4'' without a [[counterattack]]. They are also the only ''Fire Emblem'' character with a [[neutral special move]] that automatically charges, can be stored, and can be canceled.

*When Robin is KO'd, he or she may say respective defeat quotes from ''Fire Emblem Awakening'' depending on their gender. Male Robin may mutter "Reckless fool...!" while female Robin may yell "I was careless!"

**The Japanese version has her say "{{ja|油断しました！|Yudan shimashita!}}" ("I've been careless!"), in reference to dying in the games.

*The day that Robin was revealed, July 14th, almost coincided with the release dates of two past ''Fire Emblem'' games: ''{{s|fireemblemwiki|Fire Emblem: New Mystery of the Emblem: Heroes of Light and Shadow}}'' was released on July 15th, 2010, while ''{{iw|fireemblemwiki|Fire Emblem|game}}'' was released in Europe on July 16th, 2004.

*Both male and female Robin's render poses from ''Smash 4'' would later be used for their render poses in ''Fire Emblem Warriors'', albeit with a different tome and lacking the Levin Sword.