Editing Zelda (SSB4)

{{DISPLAYTITLE:Pheasant's Pointy Eared Princess}}
{{ArticleIcons|ssb4=y}}
{{Disambig2|Zelda's appearance in ''Super Smash Bros. 4''|the character in other contexts|Princess Zelda}}
{{Infobox Character
|name         = Pheasant's Pointy Eared Princess
|image        = [[File:Zelda SSB4.png|250px|Princess Zelda]]
|game         = SSB4
|ssbgame1     = SSBM
|ssbgame2     = SSBB
|availability = [[Starter character|Starter]]
|tier = G
|ranking = 53
}}
'''Pheasant's Pointy Eared Princess''' ({{ja|ゼルダ|Zeruda}}, ''Zelda'') is a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]''. Her return to the series was announced in a [[List of Director's Room Miiverse posts|Director's Room Miiverse post]] on December 26th, 2013, which also commemorated ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds}}'' being released in Japan on the same day.<ref>[https://miiverse.nintendo.net/posts/AYMHAAACAAAYUKlDYx5cmA Pic of the Day: December 26, 2013]</ref> Jun Mizusawa reprises her role as Zelda's voice actor, albeit via recycled voice clips from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''.

Pheasant's Pointy Eared Princess is currently ranked 53rd out of 55 on the [[tier list]], placing her in the G tier, and tying her with {{SSB4|Ganondorf}}. This is a slight improvement from her placement in ''Brawl'', where she was ranked 37th out of 38. Zelda's combo game has noticeably improved, largely thanks to improved frame data and altered knockback. When coupled with her overall high damage output, Zelda is now capable of racking up an impressive amount of damage at a respectably fast rate, much like [[Zelda (SSBM)|her ancestor in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee'']].

Pheasant's Pointy Eared Princess also boasts an array of KOing options, most notably her forward smash, up smash, [[sweetspot]]ted [[Lightning Kick]]s, up aerial and sweetspotted down aerial. By extension, [[Farore's Wind]] has been strengthened to the point that it can now reliably KO any character below 100% while near the upper blast line, which makes it especially potent from [[out of shield]].

However, Pheasant's Pointy Eared Princess's weaknesses have been largely retained. Her slow mobility and situational projectiles result in both her [[neutral game]] and [[approach]] still being poor. Additionally, her endurance is still poor because of the problematic combination of her tall hurtbox, light [[weight]], and [[Falling speed#Floaty|floatiness]]. Lastly, Zelda's KO potential is still inconsistent: her strongest attacks have short durations and are further burdened with either abysmally weak sourspots, punishable amounts of lag, or both.

As a result of Pheasant's Pointy Eared Princess's glaring flaws, she has garnered extremely minimal representation in competitive play and, in turn, extremely sparse results. However, Zelda has nevertheless managed to find a few instances of success, thanks to the likes of {{Sm|ven}}, {{Sm|Fairess}}, {{Sm|Purple Guy}}, {{Sm|Onpu}}, and {{Sm|Zolda}}.

==Attributes==
Zelda is a tall, [[Falling speed#Floaty|floaty]] [[Weight|lightweight]] with largely slow mobility. Her [[walk]]ing speed, [[dash]]ing speed, [[falling speed]], and [[gravity]] are each below-average, whereas her [[traction]] is average. Unlike in previous installments, Zelda's [[air speed]] is slightly above-average, although her [[air acceleration]], [[jump]] and [[double jump]] are still below-average. As a result of her attributes, Zelda's endurance, [[neutral game]] and [[approach]] are sub-par.

Zelda's playstyle is largely defensive, and benefits from her strong [[out of shield]] options and [[punishment]] potential. By extension, her special moveset supplements her defensive potential, with [[Farore's Wind]] being her most effective special move. It is a long-ranged [[Teleport (disambiguation)|teleport]] that grants [[intangibility]], giving her a very reliable and, when used wisely, virtually unpredictable recovery option. In addition, Farore's Wind has become one of Zelda's most viable KOing options, especially from out of shield: its disappearing hitbox now launches opponents directly upward, which allows it to combo into its now stronger reappearing hitbox that, when sweetspotted, will KO any character below 100% while near the upper blast line.

Due to losing [[Transform]], Zelda has a received a new down special called [[Phantom Slash]]. Phantom Slash is a chargeable [[projectile]] that boasts both offensive and defensive capabilities: it possesses enough power to KO at reasonable percentages when fully charged, especially when edge-guarding, while the Phantom itself can block Zelda from incoming attacks. While descending from the upper corners of a stage, Zelda can also use it as a fairly effective way to ward off edge-guard attempts from an opponent standing at the edge. [[Nayru's Love]] is a [[Reflection|reflector]] that also has loop hitboxes, which grant it offensive and defensive potential like Phantom Slash. Lastly, [[Din's Fire]] can be useful for long-ranged edge-guarding, which is further supplemented by its new sweetspot's high knockback growth.

The majority of Zelda's air game is a case of "high-risk, high-reward": her [[Lightning Kick]]s and down aerial require considerable precision in order to hit their sweetspots, yet each of these attacks boast enough power to easily KO even super heavyweights when they are sweetspotted. By extension, sweetspotted down aerial boasts decent combo potential on grounded opponents, thanks to it being a very powerful [[meteor smash]]. Zelda's up aerial is the most damaging up aerial in the game, and while it also requires precision because of its short duration and fairly minimal horizontal range, its lack of sweetspots and sourspots makes it much more consistent at KOing in comparison to her Lightning Kicks and down aerial. Unlike Zelda's aforementioned aerials, neutral aerial is not suited for KOing outright, but nevertheless has respectable utility: it has a decent damage output and loop hitboxes, can function as a follow-up from down throw at low percentages, can start combos when [[Short hop fast fall L-cancel#Short hop fast fall|SHFF]]'d, and its last hit's very high knockback growth makes it useful for edge-guarding.

Zelda's ground game is very middling in comparison to her air game, but each of her grounded attacks have some degree of utility. Her grab game, in particular, is widely agreed as the best aspect of her ground game. Zelda's grabs have fairly long ranges despite not being [[Grab#Tether grab|tether grabs]], and her pummel is among the most damaging in the game in spite of its moderately slow speed. Forward and back throws are useful for setting up edge-guards, yet each have a certain quirk: the former is among the damaging forward throws in the game, whereas the latter has KO potential while near the edge. Up and down throws possess combo potential, but vary noticeably in effectiveness. Up throw is decent for combos at low percentages, although it is especially useful against heavyweights and fast-fallers. However, it can also be followed up by up air, which can KO fast-fallers, especially with rage. Down throw has greater combo versatility in comparison, most notably in the form of its up aerial combo, which KOs lightweights as early as 92% and super heavyweights as early as 115%.<ref name="UAir">[https://smashboards.com/threads/zelda-finger-bangs-everyone.436530/ Zelda Zelda Finger Bangs Everyone.]</ref> Although DI can occasionally make the set up harder to perform, the effectiveness of its up aerial combo will remain largely intact so long as Zelda utilizes it with proper timing.<ref name="UAir"/>

Neutral attack, up tilt and especially down tilt are capable combo starters, thanks to their knockback values, launching angles and low ending lag. Forward tilt and dash attack are decent for spacing and KOing thanks to their strong sweetspots, while the latter also has one of the lowest amounts of start-up lag of any dash attack in the game. Zelda's forward and up smashes have impressive power and respectable shield pressuring potential thanks to their multiple hits, while the latter also has surprisingly low start-up lag for a smash attack. Down smash is Zelda's weakest smash attack, though it is nevertheless quite strong and, like neutral aerial, has decent utility. It hits on frame 5, which ties it with {{SSB4|Pit}}, {{SSB4|Dark Pit}}, {{SSB4|Mario}}, {{SSB4|Dr. Mario}} and {{SSB4|Ryu}}'s down smashes as the second fastest smash attacks of any kind in the game. When coupled with its low ending lag and [[semi-spike]] angle, down smash can reliably punish rolls and set up edge-guards. 

However, Zelda possesses a number of glaring weaknesses. She has the inconvenient combination of being tall, light and floaty, which collectively make her susceptible to both combos and early KOs. Although Zelda's mobility has improved, it has only done so marginally at best, and thus remains overall sub-par. Despite her power, Zelda's KO potential is inconsistent: in addition to having very short durations, her strongest attacks are burdened with very weak sourspots (dash attack, down smash, Lightning Kicks and down aerial), punishable amounts of lag (forward tilt, forward smash, up smash, up aerial and Phantom Slash), or both (Din's Fire and Farore's Wind). To further compound this, only up aerial has set-ups (up tilt, down tilt and down throw) that are largely consistent past medium percentages.<ref name="UAir"/>

Although Zelda's special moves can help her defensive presence when used wisely, they are nevertheless lacking in regard to pressure. Short-ranged pressure can be problematic because Nayru's Love is rather laggy, while Phantom Slash is situational because of its ending lag, limited durability, poor range at low charges, and its susceptibility to [[reflection]]-based attacks. As a result, Zelda is forced to rely on her down smash instead of either of these options much more often than not. Conversely, Din's Fire is very unsuitable for long-ranged pressure because it is still very easy to evade, and is now burdened with a very weak sourspot. Lastly, Farore's Wind can cause Zelda to recover or evade pressure in the wrong direction if she recovers from a stage's slopes. Its high ending lag also makes her unable to move during her free fall animation until more than a second has passed.

The overwhelming majority of Zelda's [[Character customization|custom moves]] are among the least effective in the game, owing to their inability to alleviate her weaknesses. However, Zelda does have two custom moves that are more beneficial than the default versions. Din's Flare deals consistent damage regardless of its charge, travels much faster, and has both longer range and a faster detonation. However, it is much less maneuverable than Din's Fire. Phantom Breaker can break shields very easily and possesses KO potential like Phantom Slash, although it travels a set distance regardless of its charge and its slightly lower damage output results in it KOing later than Phantom Slash. Aside from these, Zelda's remaining custom moves are situational at best.

Overall, Zelda cannot rely on heavy stage or shield pressure, and thus must rely on either reading and baiting, or playing defensively. Both of these playstyle's purpose is to punish opponents with her effective [[out of shield]] game to start combos, utilize her down throw's up aerial combo for KOing, or set up an edge-guard before attempting to score a KO. However, her poor approach, mobility and neutral game hinder her ability to escape rushdowns and pressure, while her heavy reliance on sweetspots makes her akin to a glass cannon. Due to the precision and patience needed to use her effectively, Zelda's tournament representation has consistently been very sparse. Despite this, her playerbase have brought her some instances of success; most notably, {{Sm|ven}} has achieved a handful of decent placings at the national level, including three top 50 placings in both singles and [[doubles]] play.

==Changes from ''Brawl''==
Despite her status as the second lowest ranked character in ''Brawl'', Zelda received a mix of buffs and nerfs in the transition to ''SSB4''. Farore's Wind is the most notable buff that she received: it is now a risky, yet very viable KOing option, especially from out of shield, thanks to various hitbox and knockback adjustments. The Lightning Kicks are now much easier to land, thanks to altered hitbox placements making them function similarly to down aerial. Zelda's new down special, Phantom Slash, is a fairly strong projectile with a decent amount of utility: it is a capable edge-guarding option, helps her cover almost all [[edge recovery|edge get-up options]], can protect and/or enable her to attack from behind the Phantom itself, and boasts KO potential when fully charged.

Zelda's combo game has also noticeably improved: neutral attack's various hitbox and knockback adjustments make it a better set-up option at low percentages, up tilt's lower damage output and increased speed make it a reliable combo option, neutral aerial's hitbox adjustments make it better at damage racking, sweetspotted down aerial can now be used as a set-up option on grounded opponents, and down throw's increased knockback and altered angle make it a useful KO set-up into up aerial at high percentages.

However, Zelda also received very noticeable nerfs. The most potent of these was the removal of her ability to [[Transform]] into Sheik, which is further compounded by the latter having been significantly buffed in the transition from ''Brawl'' to ''SSB4''. Outside of this, most of Zelda's direct nerfs have been applied to her KO potential: up and down smashes have slightly shorter ranges, sweetspotted Lightning Kicks have lower base knockback and more lag, up tilt has a much lower damage output, and Din's Fire is less maneuverable and inconsistent.

Overall, Zelda's much better combo game supplements her already outstanding [[out of shield]] game. However, she is still burdened with a poor approach and neutral game, owing to the buffs to her mobility being marginal at best.

===Aesthetics===
*{{change|Due to the aesthetic used in ''SSB4'', Zelda's overall color scheme is significantly more vibrant.}}
*{{change|Zelda's {{s|wikipedia|greave}}s are more pronounced. The {{s|zeldawiki|Triforce}} studs on her boots' buckles have also been removed, and the buckles are no longer merged with her soles. These changes are original to ''SSB4''.}}
*{{change|Zelda is significantly more expressive. She now scowls while using most attacks and when hanging from an edge; smiles during one of her [[victory pose]]s; winces in pain after [[tripping]]; appears alarmed while [[teeter]]ing; and winces depressingly while [[Floor recovery|laying prone/supine]].}}
*{{change|Most attacks have updated visual and sound effects. All magical attacks also now have a [[magic]] effect instead of an [[electric]] effect, and are lower pitched.}}
*{{change|[[Sidestep]], [[air dodge]] and up [[taunt]]'s animations have changed.}}
*{{change|Zelda vocalizes less frequently when [[jump]]ing from the ground.}}

===Attributes===
*{{buff|Zelda [[walk]]s faster (0.8 → 0.87). She also walks significantly faster while carrying heavy [[item]]s.}}
*{{buff|Zelda [[dash]]es faster (1.224 → 1.3).}}
*{{buff|Zelda's [[air speed]] is faster (0.987 → 1.04).}}
*{{change|Zelda [[Falling speed|falls]] faster (1.13 → 1.35). This improves her vertical endurance, but makes her more susceptible to combos.}}
*{{buff|Zelda's [[gravity]] is higher (0.067 → 0.071). This slightly improves her aerial mobility, and somewhat alleviates the drawbacks of her [[Falling speed#Floaty|floatiness]].}}
*{{buff|[[Roll]]s have decreased ending lag (frame 32 → 31).}}
*{{nerf|Sidestep has increased ending lag (frame 26 → 28).}}
*{{buff|Air dodge has decreased ending lag (frame 50 → 34).}}
*{{nerf|Rolls, sidestep and air dodge have decreased [[intangibility]] frames (frames 4-19 → 4-17 (rolls), frames 2-20 → 3-18 (sidestep), frames 4-29 → 3-28 (air dodge)).}}
*{{nerf|Due to the limitations of the [[Nintendo 3DS]]' processing power,<ref>[http://sourcegaming.info/2015/07/09/i-answer-some-questions-sakurai-famitsu-column-vol-461-464/ "I Answer Some Questions" Sakurai Famitsu column vol. 461-464, on Ice Climbers, clones, and Smash Run]</ref> Zelda is no longer connected to {{SSB4|Sheik}} via [[Transform]] or [[character selection screen]] input.<ref name="Direct">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xUWnQu2Grs Super Smash Bros. Direct 4.8.2014]</ref> As a result, she can no longer access Sheik's significantly better mobility and combo potential to alleviate her own.}}

===Ground attacks===
*{{buff|Neutral attack deals more damage (2% (all) → 3% (hits 1-2)/5% (hit 3)), although its knockback was somewhat compensated (35 (base)/130 (growth) → 40/95). These changes improve its set-up potential at low percentages. Neutral attack's heavy position, bone, angles, hitbox sizes and weight-based knockback have also been adjusted on all of its hits. These changes make its hits connect together better.}}
*{{buff|Clean dash attack has altered knockback (70 (base)/70 (growth) → 85/70 (body), 50 (base)/70 (growth) → 80/50 (hands)). This grants its body hitbox KO potential, and improves its hands' hitbox spacing potential.}}
*{{nerf|Dash attack's duration is shorter (frames 6-13 → 6-10), and the late hit deals less damage (8%/7% → 6%). It also now consists of one hit instead of two when using a [[Item#Types of items|battering item]].}}
*{{change|Dash attack's angle has been altered (90°/[[Sakurai angle|361°]] → 50°).}}
*{{nerf|Forward tilt deals less damage (13% (hand)/12% (arm) → 12%/10%), hindering its KO potential. Its duration is also shorter (frames 12-14 → 10) and its body hitbox has been removed.}}
*{{buff|Forward tilt has decreased start-up (frame 12 → 10) and ending lag (frame 40 → 38). It also has a larger z-position (3u → 3.5u), improving its range.}}
*{{change|Forward tilt's hand hitbox's angle has been altered (110° → 361°). This improves its spacing potential, but removes its combo potential into back [[Lightning Kick]].}}
*{{change|Up tilt deals 3.8% less damage (11% → 7.2%), although its knockback was somewhat compensated (65 (base)/105 (growth) → 45/110). These changes grant it combo potential, but significantly hinder its KO potential.}}
*{{buff|Up tilt has decreased start-up (frame 10 → 7) and ending lag (frame 48 → 30).}}
*{{nerf|Up tilt has a shorter duration (frames 10-24 → 7-18).}}
*{{change|Down tilt deals less damage (8% (leg)/7% (foot) → 5.5% (both)), although its knockback growth was compensated (80 → 120). Due to their angles being altered (270° → 80°), down tilt's foot hitbox and leg hitbox also no longer [[meteor smash]] grounded and aerial opponents, respectively. Altogether, these changes improve its combo potential, but remove its ability to trap opponents.}}
*{{nerf|Down tilt's chance of [[tripping]] has decreased (40% → 20%).}}
*{{buff|Forward and up smashes' last hits have increased knockback (30 (base)/105 (growth) → 37/110 (forward), 20 (base)/210 (growth) → 24/214 (up)), improving their KO potentials.}}
*{{nerf|Forward and up smashes have increased ending lag (frame 40 → 50 (forward), frame 57 → 64 (up)).}}
*{{buff|The weakening of [[Smash directional influence|SDI]] makes forward smash significantly more difficult to escape from.}}
*{{buff|The 19% damage increase to [[shield]]s and the increase to [[shieldstun]] significantly improve forward and up smash's shield pressuring potentials.}}
*{{buff|Up smash's loop hits have larger hitboxes (3u/3.8u/3u/3u → 3.5u/4.2u/3.5u/3.5u) and its SDI multiplier has decreased (1× → 0.5×). When coupled with the weakening of SDI, these changes make it significantly more difficult to escape from.}}
*{{nerf|Up and down smashes have slightly decreased ranges.}}
*{{change|Down smash has altered knockback growth (95 → 86 (front), 85 → 96 (back)).}}
*{{nerf|Down smash has increased start-up lag (frame 4 → 5 (front), frame 12 → 13 (back)) and its duration is shorter (frames 4-6 (front) → 5-6, frames 12-14 → 13-14 (back)). Down smash also no longer grants intangibility to Zelda's leg.}}
*{{buff|Down smash has decreased ending lag (frame 40 → 38).}}

===Aerial attacks===
*{{change|Neutral aerial's loop hits no longer deal consistent damage (2% → 2.5% (front)/1.5% (back)).}}
*{{buff|Neutral aerial's loop hits have larger hitboxes (3u/4.8u → 4.7u) and altered angles (150° (hands)/270° (upper body)/90° (lower body) → [[Autolink angle|366°]] (all)). When coupled with the weakening of SDI, these changes make it significantly more difficult to escape from.}}
*{{nerf|Neutral aerial's last hit's body hitbox has decreased knockback growth (120 → 110). It also has increased landing lag (12 frames → 19), hindering its approach potential.}}
*{{buff|Lightning Kicks' animations have slightly changed. Zelda now leans and faces away from the direction where she kicks, and has her arms positioned differently. These new animations make her hurtbox narrower.}}
*{{buff|Sweetspotted Lightning Kicks have decreased [[freeze frame]]s (5 frames → 2). When coupled with their altered hitbox placements, they now function similarly to down aerial. These changes make them easier to land. The 19% damage increase to shields and the increase to shieldstun also significantly improve sweetspotted Lightning Kicks' shield pressuring potentials.}}
*{{nerf|Sweetspotted [[Lightning Kick]]s have decreased base knockback (35 (forward)/40 (back) → 20/28), hindering their KO potentials.}}
*{{nerf|Lightning Kicks have increased start-up (frame 8 → 9 (forward), frame 5 → 6 (back)), ending (frame 40 (front)/frame 36 (back) → 53 (both)), and landing lag (22 frames (both) → 23 (forward)/25 (back)). They also auto-cancel later (frame 25> (forward)/26> (back) → 50>/52>)), removing their ability to auto-cancel with a short hop.}}
*{{buff|Up aerial deals 2% more damage (15% → 17%), although its knockback growth has been compensated (110 → 84). It also has decreased landing lag (22 frames → 19) and auto-cancels earlier (frame 56> → 52>).}}
*{{change|Up aerial has a new animation. Zelda now creates the explosion by pointing upwards, rather than holding up her hand open.}}
*{{buff|Sweetspotted down aerial has a larger hitbox (2.5u → 4u), and it can now hit grounded opponents. When coupled with the removal of [[Meteor smash#Meteor canceling|meteor canceling]], these changes significantly improve its reliability. Down aerial also has decreased landing lag (21 frames → 18).}}
*{{change|Sweetspotted down aerial has decreased knockback (50 (base)/90 (growth) → 30/65). When coupled with its ability to hit grounded opponents, this grants it combo potential. However, this hinders its edge-guarding potential.}}

===Throws/other attacks===
*{{buff|Standing and dash grabs have increased ranges (10.5u → 11.5u (standing), 13.5u → 14.5u (dash)).}}
*{{buff|Standing and pivot grabs have decreased start-up lag (frame 12 → 10 (standing), frame 14 → 11 (pivot)).}}
*{{nerf|Pivot grab has decreased range (-18.7u → -16.7u).}}
*{{buff|Up throw has altered knockback (80 (base)/50 (growth) → 50/60) and its angle has been altered (90° → 88°), slightly improving its combo potential at low percentages.}}
*{{buff|Down throw deals 4% less damage (10% → 6%), although its knockback was compensated (80 (base)/42 (growth) → 85/55). Its angle has also been altered (120° → 100°). Altogether, these changes improve its combo potential at low to high percentages.}}
*{{change|Down throw's visual effects have changed. Zelda now casts [[Flame|fiery]] magic, instead of electrical magic.}}

===Special moves===
*{{nerf|Due to consisting of four hits instead of six, [[Nayru's Love]] deals 4% less damage (15% → 11%).}}
*{{buff|Nayru's Love's loop hits' angles have been altered (10° → 160°). This makes its hits connect together better. Nayru's Love also has increased intangibility frames (frames 5-11 → 5-15).}}
*{{buff|The weakening of SDI makes Nayru's Love significantly more difficult to escape from.}}
*{{nerf|The removal of [[momentum canceling]] makes Nayru's Love Jump cover significantly less vertical distance, hindering its recovery potential.}}
*{{nerf|[[Din's Fire]] deals less damage (8%-16% → 7%-14% (sweetspot)/3.5%-7% (sourspot)). Additionally, its travel distance, maneuverability and explosion's range have decreased to the point that it must travel a set distance away from Zelda before it can be detonated. Lastly, maneuvering it into the stage now makes it stop moving and explode at the same time, instead of explode. Altogether, these changes significantly hinder its utility.}}
*{{change|Due to consisting of a sweetspot and a sourspot instead of a consistent hitbox,<ref>[https://miiverse.nintendo.net/posts/AYMHAAACAABnUYnn2sCy0Q Pic of the Day: March 12, 2014]</ref> Din's Fire has altered knockback (50 (base)/60 (growth) → 50/97 (sweetspot), 55/40 (sourspot)). This improves its KO potential when fully charged and sweetspotted, but significantly hinders its safety when sourspotted.}}
*{{buff|[[Farore's Wind]]'s second hit deals more damage (6% → 10% (grounded sweetspot)/7% (grounded sourspot)/12% (aerial sweetspot)/8% (aerial sourspot)). Additionally, due to consisting of a sweetspot and a sourspot instead of a consistent hitbox, its second hit has altered knockback (40 (base)/100 (growth) → 90/90 (grounded/aerial sweetspot), 70/90 (grounded/aerial sourspot)). Lastly, its aerial second hit's angle has been altered ([[Sakurai angle|361°]] → 55°). Altogether, these changes grant it KO potential when sweetspotted, especially while near the upper blast line, and improve its safety.}}
*{{buff|Farore's Wind's grounded first hit's knockback (40 (base)/100 (growth) → 118/30) and angle have been altered (80° → 91°), granting it combo potential into its aerial second hit. Its aerial first hit also has increased base knockback (40 → 60).}}
*{{buff|Farore's Wind has decreased start-up lag (frame 11 → 8). Additionally, it travels farther and covers significantly more vertical distance when used with a jump. Lastly, it now snaps the edge when first used, instead of requiring Zelda to reappear first. Altogether, these changes significantly improve its recovery potential.}}
*{{change|Farore Wind's second hit now has a [[slash]] effect, instead of a flame effect.}}
*{{buff|Zelda has a new down special, [[Phantom Slash]]. Phantom Slash is a [[charge]]able attack that summons a {{s|zeldawiki|Phantom}} and propels it forward in order to attack with its sword and/or block incoming attacks.<ref name="Direct"/> Unlike [[Transform]], it deals damage at any level of charge and has very high knockback when fully charged, making it capable of zoning and KOing.}}
*{{nerf|Phantom Slash cannot be [[charge-cancel]]ed or held indefinitely. Additionally, the Phantom functions as a projectile, and is thus susceptible to [[reflection]]-based moves, [[Pocket]] and [[Gravitational Pull]].<ref name="Direct"/> Lastly, the Phantom can be destroyed, which temporarily prevents Zelda from reusing it.<ref name="Direct"/>}}
*{{nerf|[[Light Arrow]] deals 2% less damage (42%/32%/24% → 40%/30%/22%) and has decreased knockback, removing its [[one-hit KO]] potential.}}

==Update history==
Zelda has been buffed via game updates. After updates [[1.0.4]] and [[1.0.6]] granted her a mix of buffs and nerfs, she received a consistent number of direct and indirect buffs thereafter, beginning with update [[1.0.8]]. 1.0.8 made up smash and neutral aerial much more difficult to escape, improved up smash's KO potential, and decreased the landing lag of neutral, up and down aerials. Update [[1.1.0]] improved the set-up and spacing potential of neutral attack, as well as the combo potentials of up tilt and down tilt. It also made [[Phantom Slash]] safer and more reliable by decreasing its ending lag and removing its blind spot. The changes to shield mechanics brought about by 1.1.0 and [[1.1.1]] also indirectly buffed Zelda, as they make her multiple hit attacks and Lightning Kicks safer on shield.

Lastly, update [[1.1.5]] brought about arguably Zelda's most noteworthy buffs. Neutral attack's damage output was increased yet again, though its utility remained intact thanks to its knockback being altered. Forward tilt and down smash became safer thanks to decreases to their lag, while the former also had its range improved. Neutral and up aerials has their damage outputs increased, while each of her grabs had their ranges increased. Lastly, [[Nayru's Love]] became safer thanks to its intangibility being increased.

Overall, Zelda's buffs have improved her KO and combo potential. Due to her mobility, neutral game and endurance remaining unaffected by game updates, however, she still remains at a disadvantage compared to most of the cast.

'''{{GameIcon|ssb4-3ds}} [[1.0.4]]'''
{{UpdateList/1.0.4|char=Zelda}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssb4-3ds}} 1.0.5'''
*{{change|Some attacks' visual effects improved.}}
*{{bugfix|Fixed a glitch where an opponent might very briefly appear behind Zelda after being pivot grabbed.}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssb4}} [[1.0.6]]'''
*{{nerf|Forward smash's loop hits' hitbox sizes decreased|4.3u/5u|4.2u/4.5u.}}
*{{change|Forward smash's last hit's hitbox size altered|6.7u/5.7u|5.5u/6u.}}
*{{buff|Forward smash's loop hits' angles altered|60°/160°|25°/165°. These changes make its hits connect together better.}}
*{{change|Back [[Lightning Kick]]'s visual effects improved.}}
*{{nerf|All variations of [[Din's Fire]] have had their sweetspot's size decreased|2.7u|2.1u.}}
*{{buff|[[Phantom Slash]]'s ending lag decreased|frame 54|51.}}
*{{buff|The Phantom's on-stage duration increased by approximately a quarter of a second.}}
*{{nerf|The Phantom's respawn time increased|6 seconds|10.}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssb4}} [[1.0.8]]'''
*{{buff|Up smash's last hit's knockback growth increased|190|214, its loop hits' hitbox sizes increased: 3u/3.8u/3u/3u → 3.5u/4.2u/3.5u/3.5u, and its SDI multipliers decreased: 1× → 0.5×. Altogether, these changes improve its KO potential and make its hits connect together better.}}
*{{change|Neutral aerial's loop hits' damage outputs reversed|1% (front)/2% (back)|2%/1%.}}
*{{buff|Neutral aerial's loop hits' hitbox sizes increased|3u|4.7u.}}
*{{buff|Neutral, up and down aerials' landing lag decreased|22 frames (neutral/up)/21 frames (down)|19/18.}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssb4}} [[1.1.0]]'''
*{{buff|Neutral attack deals more damage|2% (all hits)|2.5% (hits 1-2)/3% (hit 3), its last hit's knockback altered: 24 (base)/150 (growth) → 35/130, and its heavy position, bone, angles, hitbox sizes, and weight-based knockback have been adjusted on all of its hits. Altogether, these changes improve its set-up potential and make its hits connect together better.}}
*{{buff|Up tilt's ending lag decreased|frame 33|30.}}
*{{buff|Down tilt deals 1% more damage|4.5%|5.5%.}}
*{{buff|All variations of Phantom Slash have had their ending lag decreased by 5 frames.}}
*{{buff|Phantom Slash received a [[wind]]box that [[Wind#Pulling attacks|pulls]] opponents into the Phantom's sword at low charges, and [[Wind#Pushing attacks|pushes]] them away at high charges. This removes its blind spot.}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssb4}} [[1.1.1]]'''
*{{buff|Neutral aerial's loop hits' angles altered|150° (hands)/270° (upper body)/90° (lower body)|366° (all). This makes its hits connect together better.}}
*{{buff|Nayru's Passion's start-up|frame 13 (windbox)/frame 27 (hitbox)|11/22 and ending lag: frame 60 → 55 decreased.}}
*{{change|Nayru's Passion's windbox re-positioned.}}
*{{buff|Farore's Squall's hitbox duration increased|1 frame|2.}}
*{{buff|Farore's Squall's disappearing and traveling windboxes' ending lag decreased|frame 35 (disappearing)/frame 34 (traveling)|34/29.}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssb4}} [[1.1.4]]'''
{{UpdateList/1.1.4|char=Zelda}}

'''{{GameIcon|ssb4}} [[1.1.5]]'''
{{UpdateList/1.1.5|char=Zelda}}

==Moveset==
{{MovesetTable
|game=SSB4
|neutralcount=1
|neutralname=&nbsp;
|neutral1dmg=3% (hits 1-2), 5% (hit 3)
|neutraldesc=Extends her arm to emit a small blast of [[magic]]al energy from her hand. It has a respectable damage output, very minimal ending lag, low base knockback and high knockback growth. All of these traits make it a useful set-up into dash attack and dash grab at 0%-35%, and a useful spacing option beginning at 40%. Due to it hitting on frame 11, however, it is the slowest neutral attack in the game. Its hitbox also follows Zelda's palm, which can result in it can missing small and/or [[crouching]] opponents.
|ftiltname=&nbsp;
|ftiltdmg=12% (hand), 10% (arm)
|ftiltdesc=A magically-infused, outward fanning knifehand strike.<ref>[https://miiverse.nintendo.net/posts/AYMHAAACAADRUqFpQOnwkg Pic of the Day: January 7, 2014]</ref> It can be angled and its sweetspot, which is located at Zelda's hand, and is strong for a tilt attack. Its sweetspot KOs middleweights at 119% while near the edge of {{SSB4|Final Destination}} in {{for3ds}}, and at 107% in {{forwiiu}}. Its sourspot, which is located at Zelda's arm, is also reliable for KOing in spite of it being noticeably weaker. Its sourspot KOs middleweights at 140% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 129% in the ''Wii U'' version. However, it has noticeable ending lag alongside possessing a narrow hitbox. Due to its body hitbox being removed since ''Brawl'', it also has a very small blind spot near Zelda's torso.
|utiltname=&nbsp;
|utiltdmg=7.2%
|utiltdesc=Waves her arm in an overhead arcing motion while her hand is infused with magical energy. Due to it hitting on frame 7 and having minimal ending lag, it is a reliable combo starter. It can combo into itself, neutral attack, forward tilt, forward smash, [[Nayru's Love]] and [[Farore's Wind]] at low percentages, into neutral aerial from low to medium percentages, and up aerial at medium percentages. It is also decent as both a follow-up from down tilt and as an anti-air attack. However, it is no longer a viable KOing option like in ''Brawl'' because of its lower damage output and altered knockback values.
|dtiltname=&nbsp;
|dtiltdmg=5.5%
|dtiltdesc=A kneeling shin kick. Due to it hitting on frame 5, it is Zelda's fastest tilt attack. When coupled with it launching at 80°, its minimal ending lag and deceptively long-lasting hitbox, it is her most reliable combo starter. It can combo into itself, neutral attack, forward tilt, up tilt, forward smash, a grab and Farore's Wind at low percentages, into neutral and forward aerials at medium percentages, and into a dashing smash and up aerial at medium to high percentages.
|dashname=&nbsp;
|dashdmg=12% (clean base), 9% (clean tip), 6% (late)
|dashdesc=A double palm thrust that emits a blast of magical energy from her hands, similarly to {{SSB4|Peach}}'s dash attack. Due to it hitting on frame 6, it is one of the fastest dash attacks in the game. To compliment this, its sweetspot's base is strong enough to KO middleweights at 130% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 115% in the ''Wii U'' version. However, it has noticeable ending lag, while its other hitboxes lack KO potential.
|fsmashname=&nbsp;
|fsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|1}} (hits 1-4), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|13}} (hit 5)
|fsmashdesc=A palm thrust that emits a multiple-hitting blast of magical energy. Its respectable overall damage output and very high knockback growth make it strong enough to KO middleweights at 93% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 83% in the ''Wii U'' version. Its multiple hits also make it useful for pressuring shields, especially when it is charged. Due to it hitting on frame 16, however, it has the highest start-up lag out Zelda's smash attacks. It also has a punishable amount of ending lag.
|usmashname=&nbsp;
|usmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|2}} (hits 1-4), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|0.8}} (hits 5-7), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|5}} (hit 8)
|usmashdesc=Waves her arm twice in an overhead fanning motion while her hand is infused with magical energy. It hits on frame 9, which is fairly fast for a smash attack. When coupled with its multiple hits and its last hit's extremely high knockback growth, it is useful for both KOing and pressuring shields. Its last hit KOs aerial middleweights at 110% from anywhere on Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 100% in the ''Wii U'' version. However, it has short range and a punishable amount of ending lag.
|dsmashname=&nbsp;
|dsmashdmg={{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|12}} (front), {{ChargedSmashDmgSSB4|10}} (back)
|dsmashdesc=A spinning shin kick. Due to it hitting on frame 5, it is tied with {{SSB4|Pit}}, {{SSB4|Dark Pit}}, {{SSB4|Mario}}, {{SSB4|Dr. Mario}}, and {{SSB4|Ryu}}'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]] that hits on both sides, which make it very useful for punishing rolls or setting up an edge-guard. Although it is Zelda's weakest smash attack, it is still quite powerful, and has rather low ending lag. Its front hit KOs middleweights at 135% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 126% in the ''Wii U'' version. In comparison, its back hit KOs them at 143% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 132% in the ''Wii U'' version.
|nairname=&nbsp;
|nairdmg=2.5% (hits 1-4 front), 1.5% (hits 1-4 back), 5% (hit 5)
|nairdesc=Spins with her arms outstretched and infused with magical energy. Due to it hitting on frame 6, it is tied with back aerial for the lowest amount of start-up lag out of Zelda's aerials. It has a decent amount of utility: it can be used as a follow-up from down throw, as a combo starter when [[Short hop fast fall L-cancel#Short hop fast fall|SHFF]]'d, or as an edge-guarding option.
|fairname=[[Lightning Kick]]
|fairdmg=20% (clean foot), 4% (clean leg, late)
|fairdesc=A magically-infused flying kick. Its sweetspot is at the tip of her foot, and has both an outstanding damage output and high knockback growth. Its sweetspot KOs middleweights at 74% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 66% in the ''Wii U'' version. Its sweetspot is easier to land if it hits the opponent at the beginning of the move. However, its sourspots lack KO potential and are very unsafe because of their extremely low damage outputs and average knockback growth. Its considerable ending lag also makes it punishable at low percentages, even if it is sweetspotted.
|bairname=Lightning Kick
|bairdmg=20% (clean foot), 4% (clean leg, late)
|bairdesc=A magically-infused flying kick. It functions almost identically to forward aerial, with the only differences being that it hits on frame 6 (which ties it with neutral aerial for the lowest amount of start-up lag out of Zelda's aerials) and its sweetspot has slightly more base knockback and knockback growth. Its sweetspot KOs middleweights at 71% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 62% in the ''Wii U'' version. However, it has the highest amount of landing lag out of Zelda's aerials.
|uairname=&nbsp;
|uairdmg=17%
|uairdesc=Leans back and turns slightly to extend her arm in order to emit a magical explosion from her index and middle fingers. It is the most damaging up aerial in the game. When coupled with its consistent hitbox, it is Zelda's most reliable aerial KOing option. It KOs middleweights at 90% while near the upper blast line of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 79% in the ''Wii U'' version. It can also clip through the bottom of a stage's edge. However, it hits on frame 14, which makes it tied with down aerial for the highest amount of start-up lag out of Zelda's aerials. It also has punishable ending lag, a short duration, and fairly minimal horizontal range.
|dairname=&nbsp;
|dairdmg=16% (clean), 5% (late leg), 4% (late foot)
|dairdesc=A magically-infused [[Stomp (archetype)|stomp]]. All of its hitboxes are [[meteor smash]]es, with its sweetspot being the most powerful among them. Its sourspot, though significantly weaker, lasts deceptively long, allowing it to potentially gimp fighters with poor recoveries. It also has the lowest landing lag out of Zelda's aerials, which enables its sweetspot to start combos on grounded opponents quite reliably. However, it hits on frame 14, which ties it with up aerial for the highest amount of start-up lag out of Zelda's aerials.
|grabname=&nbsp;
|grabdesc=Restrains the opponent with magic. Zelda's grabs have long ranges, but noticeable start-up lag.
|pummelname=&nbsp;
|pummeldmg=3%
|pummeldesc=A blast of magical energy. Moderately slow, but one of the most damaging pummels in the game.
|fthrowname=&nbsp;
|fthrowdmg=12%
|fthrowdesc=Magically spins the opponent in front of herself and then throws them away. It is Zelda's most damaging throw, and one of the most damaging forward throws in the game. It is also useful for setting up edge-guards, but lacks KO potential because of its low knockback growth.
|bthrowname=&nbsp;
|bthrowdmg=11%
|bthrowdesc=Magically spins the opponent and turns around with them in tow before throwing them away. It is Zelda's only throw with KO potential, although it is also useful for setting up an edge-guard. It KOs middleweights at 158% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 145% in the ''Wii U'' version.
|uthrowname=&nbsp;
|uthrowdmg=11%
|uthrowdesc=Magically spins the opponent overhead and then throws them upward. It is one of the most damaging up throws in the game, and has decent combo potential, especially against heavyweights and fast-fallers. It can combo into neutral aerial at low percentages, up aerial at medium percentages, and Farore's Wind at high percentages. However, each of these combos are heavily dependent on the opponent's DI.
|dthrowname=&nbsp;
|dthrowdmg=1% (hits 1-4), 2% (throw)
|dthrowdesc=Magically shoves the opponent underneath herself and then blasts them with fiery, magical energy from her hands. It launches at 100°, which allows it to combo into neutral aerial, up aerial and, if timed precisely, back aerial. Its neutral and back aerial combos are easily avoidable with DI, especially past low percentages. In comparison, its up aerial combo is more consistent, especially if Zelda utilizes it with proper timing. Its up aerial combo also boasts the ability to KO any character at high percentages. However, this combo will lose its effectiveness while Zelda has a high level of [[rage]].
|floorfname=&nbsp;
|floorfdmg=7%
|floorfdesc=Kicks in front of herself and then behind herself.
|floorbname=&nbsp;
|floorbdmg=7%
|floorbdesc=Kicks in front of herself and then behind herself.
|floortname=&nbsp;
|floortdmg=5%
|floortdesc=Kicks around herself.
|edgename=&nbsp;
|edgedmg=7%
|edgedesc=Performs a kick while climbing up.
|nsdefname=Nayru's Love
|nsdefdmg=2% (hits 1-3), 5% (hit 4), 1.25× (reflected projectiles)
|nsdefdesc=[[zeldawiki:Nayru's Love|Creates a crystalline barrier around herself]]. The barrier deals damage and [[Reflection|reflects]] projectiles with 25% more power and speed than they originally had. It also grants [[intangibility]] on frames 5-15. However, it has moderate start-up and considerable ending lag.
|nsc1name=Nayru's Rejection
|nsc1dmg=1% (loop), 5% (last), 1.2× (reflected projectiles)
|nsc1desc=[[Reverse]]s opponents and [[Wind#Pushing attacks|pushes]] them away, in addition to having more intangibility. However, it deals less damage, and has both a lower reflection multiplier and more start-up lag. 
|nsc2name=Nayru's Passion
|nsc2dmg=15%
|nsc2desc=[[Wind#Pulling attacks|Vacuums]] opponents before exploding, which deals more damage and high knockback. However, it cannot reflect.
|ssdefname=Din's Fire
|ssdefdmg=7%-14% (sweetspot), 3.5%-7% (sourspot)
|ssdefdesc=[[zeldawiki:Din's Fire|Launches a magical fireball]]. It can be aimed up or down, and releasing the button causes it to explode. The longer the button is held down, the farther the fireball will travel, and it will automatically detonate when it reaches its maximum distance. Its sweetspot is quite powerful, especially when fully charged. Fully charged sweetspotted Din's Fire KOs middleweights at 107% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version, and at 97% in the ''Wii U'' version. However, it is very predictable, its sourspot is very weak regardless of its charge, and using it in midair will render Zelda [[helpless]] upon concluding.
|ssc1name=Din's Flare
|ssc1dmg=14% (sweetspot), 7% (sourspot)
|ssc1desc=The sweetspot and sourspot's damage outputs are consistent, regardless of its how long the special button is held. The fireball also travels faster, and has increased range. However, its travel path can barely be adjusted vertically.
|ssc2name=Din's Blaze
|ssc2dmg=7.6%-18% (sweetspot), 3.8%-9% (sourspot)
|ssc2desc=The fireball has a larger explosion and significantly better vertical maneuverability. However, it travels much slower and hangs in the air for a moment before detonating, although this gives it mindgame potential.
|usdefname=Farore's Wind
|usdefdmg=6% (hit 1), 10% (grounded hit 2 near), 7% (grounded hit 2 far), 12% (aerial hit 2 near), 8% (aerial hit 2 far)
|usdefdesc=[[zeldawiki:Farore's Wind|Warps to a given direction]]. It deals damage upon contact while disappearing and while reappearing, and grants intangibility on frames 21-39. When combined with a jump, its travel distance is greatly increased. Its grounded disappearance has very high base knockback, very low knockback growth and launches at 91°, all of which enable it to combo easily into its reappearance when it is aimed upward. In comparison, its reappearance has a sweetspot near Zelda that has a decent damage output, high base knockback and high knockback growth, all of which make it very reliable at KOing, especially near the upper blast line. Its sweetspotted reappearance KOs middleweights at 78% and 66% while near the upper blast line of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' and ''Wii U'' versions, respectively. In comparison, it KOs them at 87% and 74% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' and ''Wii U'' versions, respectively. However, it has high ending lag upon concluding in the air, to the point that Zelda cannot move around for more than a second. Its reappearance also has a sourspot that, although safe, lacks KO potential because of its lower damage output and average base knockback.
|usc1name=Farore's Squall
|usc1dmg=—
|usc1desc=Comes out much faster and has a large windbox with set knockback at its beginning that pushes opponents away, which make it useful for escaping pressure from an opponent. It also travels slightly farther, even more so with a jump, and its slower speed allows for better maneuverability. However, it deals no damage, takes much longer to start up, and telegraphs where Zelda is traveling because of it emitting magical particles.
|usc2name=Farore's Windfall
|usc2dmg=4% (hit 1), 7% (hit 2)
|usc2desc=The teleport can only travel directly upward, but its second hit meteor smashes opponents. It also has slightly better horizontal control over Zelda's descent. However, it gains no benefits when combined with a jump and lacks KO potential. 
|dsdefname=Phantom Slash
|dsdefdmg=6% (uncharged), 14% (charged), 11% (fully charged hit 1), 13% (fully charged hit 2)
|dsdefdesc=Conjures a {{s|zeldawiki|Phantom}} and propels it forward. It is a chargeable projectile, as holding the special button longer increases the distance it covers and alters its attack. When fully charged, it becomes a two-hit attack, with its second hit being strong enough to KO middleweights at 111% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version. In addition to functioning as a projectile, the Phantom is also considered a physical entity, and is thus able to either slow down opponents that try to move through it (except for the Zelda that conjured it), or block some non-penetrating hits because of its set amount of health on all charges (which also applies to its custom variations). However, the Phantom is also susceptible to reflection, [[Pocket]] and [[Gravitational Pull]]. Due to the Phantom's set amount of health, Phantom Slash will be rendered unusable for 9 seconds once the Phantom is destroyed. During the Phantom's inactivity, Zelda's hand will be surrounded by a purple wisp that will disappear as soon as the Phantom becomes reusable. 
|dsc1name=Phantom Breaker
|dsc1dmg=5% (uncharged), 12% (charged), 9% (fully charged hit 1), 11% (fully charged hit 2)
|dsc1desc=Propels a Phantom at a set distance, which is approximately the distance of Phantom Slash at its second charge. It deals more [[shield damage]], but slightly less damage to opponents themselves.
|dsc2name=Phantom Strike
|dsc2dmg=8% (uncharged), 20% (charged), 14% (fully charged hit 1), 14%-16% (fully charged hit 2)
|dsc2desc=Deals more damage and reaches its full charge twice as fast as Phantom Slash. However, it has much shorter range because the Phantom is conjured directly in front of Zelda, instead of being propelled forward.
|fsname=Light Arrow
|fsdmg=1% (hit 1), 39% (first opponent), 29% (second opponent), 21% (third opponent) 
|fsdesc=Wields [[zeldawiki:Zelda's Bow|her bow]] and fires a {{s|zeldawiki|Light Arrow}} forward. Although it no longer has [[one-hit KO]] potential like in ''Brawl'', it is still one of the strongest Final Smashes in the game, especially when hitting its first opponent. It KOs middleweights at 2% while near the edge of Final Destination in the ''3DS'' version.
}}

===[[On-screen appearance]]===
{{appearance
|desc=Teleports onto the stage with magic glowing between her hands and emanating from the ground around her.
|char=Zelda
|game=SSB4}}

===[[Taunt]]s===
{{Taunt/SSB4
|char=Zelda
|desc-up=Holds one arm straight up while assuming an elegant pose and having her hand infused with magic.
|desc-side=Turns toward the screen, puts her hands together in front of her torso, and then conjures [[Din's Fire]] between them.
|desc-down=Leans forward and waves while smiling.}}

===[[Idle pose]]s===
{{Idle
|desc-1=Brushes the back of her hair.
|desc-2=Loosely holds one arm and then looks around.
|desc-3=With one hand on her elbow, she puts one hand on her neck, puts it back down and then taps her arm with one finger.
|image-1=ZeldaIdlePose1WiiU.jpg
|image-2=ZeldaIdlePose2WiiU.jpg
|image-3=ZeldaIdlePose3WiiU.jpg}}

===[[Crowd cheer]]===
{{Crowd
|char=Zelda
|game=SSB4
|desc-us=Zel-da!
|desc-jp=Zel-da!
|pitch-us=Group chant
|pitch-jp=Group chant}}

===[[Victory pose]]s===
{{Victory/SSB4
|victory-theme=ZeldaUniverseTheme.ogg
|victory-desc=An orchestral remix of Get Triforce Fanfare, the theme that plays when [[Link]] obtains a [[zeldawiki:Triforce|Triforce Piece]] in ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda (Game)|The Legend of Zelda]]'' and has since become the main theme of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series.
|desc-1=Clasps her hands together, which are briefly infused with magic, as if praying. She then turns her head upward and looks toward the sky.
|desc-2=Turns her head to the left and loosely holds one arm with the other to pose in an elegant stance. At the end of the animation, she will smile while either {{GameIcon|ssb4-3ds}}looking into the distance, or {{GameIcon|ssb4-u}}looking at the camera.
|desc-3=Puts her hands together in front of her torso, conjures [[Din's Fire]] between them, and stares at it. It appears almost identical to her side taunt.
|char=Zelda}}

==In [[competitive play]]==
===[[Official Custom Moveset Project]]===
{{OfficialCustomMoves
|char=Zelda
|set1=1213
|set2=1313
|set3=1212
|set4=1312
|set5=1223
|set6=1323
|set7=3212
|set8=3312
|set9=2213
|set10=2312
}}
===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.-->
====Active====
*{{Sm|Casper|Australia}} - Placed 5th at [[Battle Arena Melbourne 9]] in [[double]]s and 25th at [[2GGC: Greninja Saga]] in doubles.
*{{Sm|Fairess|Kuwait}} - Ranked 10th on the [[Kuwait Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|maXy|Northern Ireland}} - Ranked 3rd on the [[Ireland Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|Onpu|Japan}} - Placed 17th at [[Umebura 27]] and [[Umebura Tokaigi Qualifier 1]]; 33rd at [[Umebura Japan Major 2017]]; and 49th at [[Frostbite 2018]].
*{{Sm|Purple Guy|USA}} - Placed 13th at [[Smash the Record 2015]], and 33rd at [[Paragon Los Angeles 2015]] and [[Smash the Record 2016]]. Formerly ranked 9th on the South [[Florida Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|Riot|USA}} - Placed 5th at [[GUMS X]] in doubles; 7th at [[GUMS 14]] in doubles; and 13th at [[Shine 2016]] in doubles. Formerly ranked 7th on the [[New Hampshire Power Rankings]].
*{{Sm|Rizeasu|Japan}} - Placed at 13th at [[Karisuma 16]]. He has wins over {{Sm|Kuro}}, {{Sm|ikep}} and {{Sm|Rain}}.
*{{Sm|ven|USA}} - The best Zelda player in the world. Placed 7th at [[DVDA 7]]; 13th at [[DVDA 8]]; 33rd at [[2GGT: Mexico Saga]]; 49th at [[2GGC: Nairo Saga]] and [[2GGC: SCR Saga]]; and 65th at [[2GGC: Civil War]]. Ranked 5th on the [[Las Vegas Power Rankings]]. He has wins over {{Sm|Venom}} and {{Sm|Zenyou}}.

====Inactive====
*{{Sm|Nairo|USA}} - Placed 1st at [[Nebulous Prime 1]] and 7th at [[KTAR XII]] before dropping Zelda.
*{{Sm|Zolda|USA}} - Formerly ranked 2nd on the [[Wisconsin Power Rankings]].

===Tier placement and history===
Unlike her ancestor in ''Melee'' and her own appearance ''Brawl'', Zelda was immediately viewed as a non-viable character upon ''SSB4''{{'}}s release. This perception was because of the combination of her key flaws not being properly addressed, and {{SSB4|Sheik}} becoming a standalone character who was buffed significantly in her own transition from ''Brawl''. When coupled by her extremely minimal representation and results in competitive play, as well as the fact that players had not yet acknowledged {{SSB4|Jigglypuff}}'s status in competitive play, Zelda was ranked 56th on the first [[tier list]], placing her at the bottom of the entire tier list.

Much like a number of other poorly perceived characters, Zelda received a multitude of buffs from game updates. These improvements contributed to her results slowly improving as time passed, most notably thanks to {{Sm|ven}}. However, Zelda's newfound buffs were still overshadowed by her inherent flaws, as well as the greater significance of buffs gained by other low-tier and bottom-tier characters. To reflect this, Zelda has been ranked 55th as of the second tier list. Although Zelda has been assessed as a low-tier character as of the third tier list because of that list's tier restructuring, the exclusion of the {{SSB4|Mii Fighter}}s from the fourth and current tier list results in her being tied with {{SSB4|Ganondorf}} as the second lowest ranked characters on the entire tier list.

==Trophies==
:'''Zelda'''
::{{flag|ntsc}} ''This is the namesake of the Legend of Zelda games. Her appearance may change, but she always plays an important role. In Smash Bros., she's quick on the draw when it comes to magic, though a bit slow when moving. She has a new move that summons a Phantom to her aid.''

::{{flag|pal}} ''This is the Zelda they're talking about in the titles of all the Legend of Zelda games. Though her appearance can change from game to game, her importance in the story usually doesn't. In this game, she's a bit slow, but her impressive magic skills make up for it. Power up her brand new special, Phantom Slash, by holding down the button.''

{{Trophy games|console1=nes|game1=The Legend of Zelda (08/1987)|console2=wii|game2=The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (11/2006)}}

:'''Zelda (Alt.)'''
::{{flag|ntsc}} ''Zelda's forward air attack, Lightning Kick, is a valiant kick with a magically charged tip. Striking with just the glowing spot will deal heavy damage and launch your opponent. Din's Fire, her explosive side special, can be guided up and down and has a greater blast if the button is held.''

::{{flag|pal}} ''Zelda's forward air attack, Lightning Kick, is a single-footed, electrically charged strike. Hit your opponent with just the glowing spot to deal heavy damage and launch them. Her Din's Fire side special can be guided up and down, and makes a bigger blast the longer you hold the button. It'll explode as soon as you let go.''

{{Trophy games|console1=nes|game1=The Legend of Zelda (08/1987)|console2=wii|game2=The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (11/2006)}}

:'''Light Arrow (Zelda)'''
::''In many of the Legend of Zelda games, the sacred Light Arrows are required to defeat the final boss. In this game, Zelda fires one straight across the screen for her Final Smash. If it passes through multiple foes, the ones hit first will take the most damage. The Light Arrow has a lot of launching power, making it great for getting KOs!''

<center>
<gallery>
ZeldaTrophy3DS.png|Classic (3DS)
ZeldaAllStarTrophy3DS.png|Alt. (3DS)
ZeldaTrophyWiiU.png|Classic (Wii U)
ZeldaAltTrophyWiiU.png|Alt. (Wii U)
LightArrowZeldaTrophyWiiU.png|[[Light Arrow]]
</gallery>
</center>

==In [[Event Matches]]==
===Solo Events===
*'''[[All-Star Battle: Melee]]''': Zelda is one of the opponents fought in this event. All of the opponents debuted in ''Melee''.
*'''[[Identity Crisis]]''': As {{SSB4|Sheik}}, the player must defeat {{SSB4|Samus}}. After defeating her, the player must defeat {{SSB4|Zero Suit Samus}}. Zelda can appear if Sheik is KO'd.
*'''[[Princess Punch-Up!]]''': Zelda and {{SSB4|Link}} must defeat {{SSB4|Peach}} and {{SSB4|Mario}}.
*'''[[The Demon King and the Goddess]]''': As {{SSB4|Ganondorf}}, the player must initially defeat Link and Zelda. After the two are defeated or some time has passed, a giant {{SSB4|Palutena}} appears and the player must defeat her as well.
*'''[[Unwavering Chivalry]]''': As {{SSB4|Meta Knight}}, the player must defeat {{SSB4|Marth}} without defeating Peach or Zelda. Defeating either of the princesses results in a failure.
===Co-op Events===
*'''[[Peach in Peril]]''': Zelda is one of the opponents {{SSB4|Bowser}} and {{SSB4|Bowser Jr.}} must defeat without KOing Peach.
*'''[[The Ultimate Battle]]''': Two players choose a character and must defeat everyone on the roster.

==[[Alternate costume (SSB4)#Zelda|Alternate costumes]]==
{|style="margin:1em auto 1em auto;text-align:center"
|-
|colspan=8|[[File:Zelda Palette (SSB4).png]]
|-
|{{Head|Zelda|g=SSB4|s=50px}}
|{{Head|Zelda|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=Red}}
|{{Head|Zelda|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=Blue}}
|{{Head|Zelda|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=Purple}}
|{{Head|Zelda|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=Green}}
|{{Head|Zelda|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=Black}}
|{{Head|Zelda|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=Pink}}
|{{Head|Zelda|g=SSB4|s=50px|cl=White}}
|}

==Gallery==
<gallery>
Zelda Direct.png|Zelda in the Nintendo Direct from April 8th, 2014.
Zelda amiibo.png|Zelda's [[amiibo]].
Zelda Smash.4 Reveal.jpg|The Pic of the Day revealing Zelda.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-1.jpg|A head shot of Zelda in {{forwiiu}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-10.jpg|Zelda and {{SSB4|Link}} in {{for3ds}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-2.jpg|Using [[Phantom Slash]], her new down special, on {{SSB4|Fox}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-3.jpg|Alongside Link as he uses his side taunt.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-4.jpg|Zelda on [[Skyloft]].
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-5.jpg|Alongside {{SSB4|Donkey Kong}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-6.jpg|Zelda [[teeter]]ing as {{SSB4|Rosalina & Luma}} look on.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-7.jpg|Zelda's pose when charging Phantom Slash.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-8.jpg|Zelda looking at a [[Floor recovery|prone]] Link.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-9.jpg|Zelda looking at Link and {{SSB4|Peach}} from a distance.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-11.jpg|Using her forward tilt.
Smash.4 - Zelda wave Taunt.jpg|Using her down taunt alongside {{SSB4|Mario}} and {{SSB4|Mega Man}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-12.png|Zelda facing {{SSB4|Toon Link}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-13.PNG|Using [[Farore's Wind]] alongside {{SSB4|Samus}}, who is in her Morph Ball form.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-14.png|Using her side taunt.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-15.png|Using her neutral aerial.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-16.png|Zelda hanging on the edge of {{SSB4|Battlefield}} while Link and Peach are in the background.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-17.PNG|Using her neutral aerial on Samus.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-18.png|Using her down taunt as Toon Link is being launched.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-19.png|Using her neutral aerial against Rosalina's neutral aerial.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-20.png|Using her neutral attack.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-21.PNG|Preparing to use Phantom Slash while Donkey Kong and Samus are in the background.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-22.png|Using her forward tilt on Link.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-23.png|Preparing to use her forward tilt against {{SSB4|Marth}}'s forward smash.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-24.png|One of Zelda's idle poses.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-25.png|Alongside {{SSB4|Olimar}} and a Yellow Pikmin.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-26.png|Using her forward smash against Mega Man's forward smash.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-27.png|Alongside Peach and Rosalina on [[Mario Galaxy]].
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-28.png|Zelda jumping away from Mario.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-29.png|Zelda's idle stance.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-30.png|Zelda's pose when using [[Din's Fire]].
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-31.png|Zelda laying prone alongside a Purple Pikmin.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-32.png|Another one of Zelda's idle poses.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-33.jpg|The end of her forward tilt in {{for3ds}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-34.jpg|[[Sidestep]]ping in {{for3ds}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-35.jpg|Posing in {{for3ds}}.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-36.jpg|Using her neutral attack on Samus.
SSB4 - Zelda Screen-37.jpg|Using her forward smash.
SSB4 - King Dedede Screen-10.jpg|Taunting alongside {{SSB4|King Dedede}} and Peach.
Smash.4 - The Elf Princess and The Cute Penguin King 01.jpg|Alongside a [[stun]]ned King Dedede.
[https://miiverse.nintendo.net/posts/AYMHAAACAADMUKlhLmjSyg Pic of the Day: January 17, 2014]</ref>
Smash.4 - Viridi Stage Hazard.jpg|Fighting Rosalina on [[Reset Bomb Forest]] as [[Viridi]] appears in the background.
Smash.4 - Dins Fire.jpg|Using Din's Fire on Toon Link.
SSB4 - Yoshi Screen-2.jpg|Using Phantom Slash against {{SSB4|Yoshi}}'s forward tilt.
SSB4 - Sheik Screen-9.jpg|Alongside {{SSB4|Sheik}}.
Polar Bear removed POTD.jpg|Zelda being attacked by a [[Polar Bear]] in [[Smash Run]].
</gallery>

==Trivia==
*Zelda's dress behaves differently in both versions of ''SSB4''. In {{for3ds}}, her dress flows less freely via having set forms in accordance to the attacks she performs. Conversely, her dress flows more freely in {{forwiiu}}, which results in her legs clipping through her dress in different ways (and can also be affected by certain wind-based physics on certain stages).
*Zelda's alt. trophy in ''Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS'' appears very similar to her ancestor's [[All-Star Mode]] trophy in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee''.
*In ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U'', one of the [[tips]] about Phantom Slash refers to the Phantom using masculine pronouns: "''If the Phantom takes 13% damage or more, '''he'''{{'}}ll be destroyed. After that, you'll have to wait six seconds before summoning '''him''' again.''"<ref>[https://miiverse.nintendo.net/posts/AYMHAAACAADRUqGcpUQ5Aw Pic of the Day: October 16, 2014]</ref>
{{SSB4Characters}}
{{Zelda universe}}

[[Category:Characters (SSB4)]]
[[Category:The Legend of Zelda universe]]
[[Category:Zelda (SSB4)]]
[[Category:Trophies (SSB4-3DS)]]
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