Super Smash Bros. series

Gameplay modification: Difference between revisions

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In addition to cosmetic hacks such as [[file replacement]], '''modifications to the gameplay of individual games''', shorthanded to '''mods''', have become a widespread phenomenon within the hacking community. The first attempts at modding involved ''Brawl'', with such projects generally being viewed as novelties, not unlike the modification of [[palette swap]]s for characters; outside of this, forcing the Wii to load such mods was considered difficult, requiring use of the [http://www.wiibrew.org/wiki/Twilight_Hack now-inoperable Twilight hack]. The increasing complexity of game play mods and the discovery of the [[Smash Stack]] exploit, however, caused the mods to develop considerably more attention with observers.
In addition to cosmetic hacks such as [[file replacement]], '''modifications to the gameplay of individual games''', shorthanded to '''mods''', have become a widespread phenomenon within the hacking community. The first attempts at modding involved ''Brawl'', with such projects generally being viewed as novelties, not unlike the modification of [[palette swap]]s for characters; outside of this, forcing the Wii to load such mods was considered difficult, requiring use of the [http://www.wiibrew.org/wiki/Twilight_Hack now-inoperable Twilight hack]. The increasing complexity of game play mods and the discovery of the [[Smash Stack]] exploit, however, caused the mods to develop considerably more attention with observers.


''Brawl'' remains the most commonly modded game in the series, though some mods also exist for ''Melee'', ''Smash 64'', and ''Smash 4''. A majority of mods for ''Brawl'' can be loaded through the Smash Stack exploit, though alternate methods for loading them are available; mods for ''Melee'' often require the use of applications available for [http://wiibrew.org/wiki/Homebrew_Channel The Homebrew Channel]. ''19XXTE'', a gameplay mod for ''Smash 64'', requires patching a ROM image of the game, while a variety of experimental mods for ''Smash 4'' on Wii U make use of a kernel exploit built into the console's internet browser.
''Brawl'' remains the most commonly modded game in the series, though some mods also exist for ''Melee'', ''Smash 64'', and ''Smash 4''. The majority of mods for ''Brawl'' can be loaded through the Smash Stack exploit, though alternate methods for loading them are available; mods for ''Melee'' often require the use of applications available for [http://wiibrew.org/wiki/Homebrew_Channel The Homebrew Channel]. ''19XXTE'', a gameplay mod for ''Smash 64'', requires patching a ROM image of the game, while a variety of experimental mods for ''Smash 4'' on Wii U make use of a kernel exploit built into the console's internet browser.


Within the hacking community, the base game without any mods is often referred to as '''''vBrawl''''' or '''''vMelee''''' as a contraction for '''Vanilla ''Brawl''''' or '''Vanilla ''Melee'''''; the term "vanilla" comes from [[wikipedia:vanilla software|a common terminology featured in the computing world]].
Within the hacking community, the base game without any mods is often referred to as '''''vBrawl''''' or '''''vMelee''''' as a contraction for '''Vanilla ''Brawl''''' or '''Vanilla ''Melee'''''; the term "vanilla" comes from [[wikipedia:vanilla software|a common terminology featured in the computing world]].
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==Overview==
==Overview==
Specific changes to the game depend on the preferences of the developers, as well as their ultimate goal. There are a few different categories most mods fall into:
Specific changes to the game depend on the preferences of the developers, as well as their ultimate goal. There are a few different categories most mods fall into:
* '''Balance''' mods don't change the core gameplay and apply buffs and nerf to characters to reduce [[tier list|competitive inequality between characters]]
* '''Balance''' mods don't change the core gameplay and apply buffs and nerf to characters to reduce [[tier list|competitive inequality between characters]].
* '''Overpowered''' mods give every characters huge buffs so that everybody is equally overpowered.
* '''Overpowered''' mods give every character huge buffs so that they are all equally overpowered.
* '''Melee-inspired''' mods change the gameplay and movesets to be more fast-paced and technical like in ''Melee'', sometimes adding mechanics such as [[wavedashing]].
* '''Melee-inspired''' mods change the gameplay and movesets to be more fast-paced and technical like in ''Melee'', sometimes adding mechanics such as [[wavedashing]].
* '''Competitive''' mods don't change anything gameplays-wise, but add features for players to practice their skill and/or improvements for tournament play, such as quality of life changes.
* '''Competitive''' mods don't change anything gameplay-wise, but add features for players to practice their skill and/or improvements for tournament play, such as quality of life changes.
* '''New character''' mods try to bring new characters into the game with new 3D models, animations and movesets, either replacing characters or being a new addition.
* '''New character''' mods try to bring new characters into the game with new 3D models, animations and movesets, either replacing characters or being a new addition.
* '''Skin Mods''' bring new Alternate Costumes to characters using File Replacment.
* '''Skin Mods''' bring new Alternate Costumes to characters using File Replacment.
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==Stages==
==Stages==
In addition to raw gameplay, other portions of the game may be overhauled by developers to further change gameplay. The changing of '''stages''' is among the more common ways to do this;
In addition to raw gameplay, other portions of the game may be overhauled by developers to further change gameplay. The changing of '''stages''' is among the more common ways to do this:
 
===In Brawl===
===In Brawl===
[[File:BrawlMinusTemple.jpg|thumb|left|In ''Brawl-'', the stage [[Temple]] has been significantly condensed compared to its vanilla counterpart.]]
[[File:BrawlMinusTemple.jpg|thumb|left|In ''Brawl-'', the stage [[Temple]] has been significantly condensed compared to its vanilla counterpart.]]
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In ''Brawl'' mods, it has been possible for quite a long time to create new stages replacing others. It is also possible to use newly created slots on the stage selection screen or alternative stages that load when holding a specific button when selecting a stage.
In ''Brawl'' mods, it has been possible for quite a long time to create new stages replacing others. It is also possible to use newly created slots on the stage selection screen or alternative stages that load when holding a specific button when selecting a stage.


''Brawl-'' and ''Project M'' for instance, replace the ordinarily over-sized [[Temple]] with a smaller, more condensed version. Stages with transformations like [[Castle Siege]] or [[Pokemon Stadium]] are often changed to stay at the most competitive form of the stage.
''Brawl-'' and ''Project M'', for instance, replace the ordinarily over-sized [[Temple]] with a smaller, more condensed version. Stages with transformations like [[Castle Siege]] or [[Pokemon Stadium]] are often changed to stay at the most competitive form of the stage.
Outside of this, unpopular stages might be entirely replaced with others, such as how ''Project M'' replaces the highly non-standard [[Mario Bros.]] with a rendition of [[Fountain of Dreams]] from ''Melee''.  
Outside of this, unpopular stages might be entirely replaced with others, such as how ''Project M'' replaces the highly non-standard [[Mario Bros.]] with a rendition of [[Fountain of Dreams]] from ''Melee''.  


''[[Gameplay_modification#Legacy TE|Legacy TE]]'' added stages with the design of stages used for competitive play for each stage, using its theme in background models and textures and playing the same background music, that load when holding the Start, L, or Z button.  
''[[Gameplay_modification#Legacy TE|Legacy TE]]'' added stages with the design of stages used for competitive play for each stage, using their theme in background models and textures and playing the same background music, that load when holding the Start, L, or Z button.  
''[[Gameplay_modification#Legacy XP|Legacy XP]]'' added a lot of over 700 new stages into the game using new slots on the selection screen, as well as variants when holding down specific buttons. Button Shortcuts to quickly select popular ''Project M'' stages have also been added.
''[[Gameplay_modification#Legacy XP|Legacy XP]]'' added over 700 new stages into the game using new slots on the selection screen, as well as variants when holding down specific buttons. Button Shortcuts to quickly select popular ''Project M'' stages have also been added.
''[[Gameplay_modification#Smash 2|Smash 2]]'' added all stages that were in Melee back into the game.
''[[Gameplay_modification#Smash 2|Smash 2]]'' added all stages that were in ''Melee' back into the game.
Outside of stage layout changes, some textures and [[Music (SSBB)|tracks]] may be replaced, particularly in the case of original stages.
Outside of stage layout changes, some textures and [[Music (SSBB)|tracks]] may be replaced, particularly in the case of original stages.


===In Melee===
===In Melee===
''[[SD Remix]]'', released in 2015, features 3 pages of stages: One for the vanilla stages, one with 1 player mode only stages and one for newly created stages with some inspired from other games.
''[[SD Remix]]'', released in 2015, features 3 pages of stages: One for the vanilla stages, one with 1-player mode-only stages, and one for newly created stages, with some inspired from other games.


===In 64===
===In 64===
''[[19XX]]'' modifies the stage selection screen to contain otherwise unplayable in versus mode stages [[Battlefield]], [[Final Destination]] and [[Meta Crystal]]. ''[[19XXTE]]'' 's selection screen contains 11 instead of the original 9 slots for stages, ''[[19XXCE]]'' has 16 slots.
''[[19XX]]'' modifies the stage selection screen to contain otherwise unplayable in versus mode stages [[Battlefield]], [[Final Destination]], and [[Meta Crystal]]. ''[[19XXTE]]'' 's selection screen contains 11 instead of the original 9 slots for stages, and ''[[19XXCE]]'' has 16 slots.


In 2018 modders found a way to change stages, first only replacing [[Hyrule Castle]] but later it became possible to replace all stages. The mod [[SSBMSE]] replaces most stages in the game with more competitive stages modeled after their appearance in other Smash games.  
In 2018, modders found a way to change stages, first only replacing [[Hyrule Castle]], but later it became possible to replace all stages. The mod [[SSBMSE]] replaces most stages in the game with more competitive stages modeled after their appearance in other ''Smash'' games.  


In version 0.8.2 of [[Smash Remix]] it became possible to include new stages that don't replace old stages. Its stage selection screen featured 3 pages each with 9 slots of stages (like in the original game), the first containing the original stages, the second mainly stages from ''[[SSBMSE]]'' and the last mainly 1 player mode stages.
In version 0.8.2 of [[Smash Remix]], it became possible to include new stages that don't replace old stages. Its stage selection screen featured 3 pages, each with 9 slots of stages (like in the original game), the first containing the original stages, the second mainly stages from ''[[SSBMSE]]'', and the last mainly 1-player mode stages.


===In Smash 4===
===In Smash 4===
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===In Ultimate===
===In Ultimate===
Creating new stages is possible in [[Ultimate]], though stage collisions have new properties that cannot currently be edited by the Smash 4 stage collision editor.
Creating new stages is possible in ''[[Ultimate]]'', though stage collisions have new properties that cannot currently be edited by the Smash 4 stage collision editor.


==Gameplay modifications==
==Gameplay modifications==
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==Animations/Models==
==Animations/Models==
===In Brawl===
===In ''Brawl''===
{{incomplete|history}}
{{incomplete|history}}
For ''Brawl'' the tool BrawlBox easily allows modders to replace models and animations. Brawl mods usually feature a lot of new custom models and animations.  
For ''Brawl'', the tool BrawlBox easily allows modders to replace models and animations. Brawl mods usually feature a lot of new custom models and animations.  


===In Melee===
===In ''Melee''===
For ''Melee'' editing animations or models is very limited and rarely done.  
For ''Melee'', editing animations or models is very limited and rarely done.  


In 2017 the Smash 4 modding tool Smash Forge became compatible with Melee making it possible import new models over models over Melee characters [https://www.reddit.com/r/SSBM/comments/6hrrwp/melee_modding_tool_smash_forge/]. Some small mods that replace a costume of a character have been created, for example a [[Ryu]] model import over [[Captain Falcon]] [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KikbcDyNx_0]
In 2017, the Smash 4 modding tool Smash Forge became compatible with Melee, making it possible import new models over models over Melee characters [https://www.reddit.com/r/SSBM/comments/6hrrwp/melee_modding_tool_smash_forge/]. Some small mods that replace a costume of a character have been created, for example, a [[Ryu]] model import over [[Captain Falcon]] [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KikbcDyNx_0].


In ''SD Remix'' a few characters got different animations for some moves reusing animations from different moves, for example Pichu used his roll animation for his [[Dash attack]] [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brEeX54mwsc] and Bowser his aerial item down-throw for his [[Down aerial]] [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4fwlo0T7dg]. In March 2019 the first custom animation on a Melee character happened: Falco got his Forward Air imported from Ultimate [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpqWY2kc2Xc]
In ''SD Remix'', a few characters got different animations for some moves, reusing animations from different moves; for example, Pichu used its roll animation for its [[Dash attack]] [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brEeX54mwsc], and Bowser, his aerial item down-throw for his [[Down aerial]] [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4fwlo0T7dg]. In March 2019, the first custom animation on a Melee character happened: Falco got his Forward Air imported from Ultimate [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpqWY2kc2Xc]


===In 64===
===In 64===
For ''Smash 64'' editing animations or models is also very limited. In 2019 ''[[Smash Remix]]'' became the first mod with these features: A Ganondorf model replacing Captain Falcon got newly created animations for his smash attacks where he uses a trident weapon.  
For ''Smash 64'', editing animations or models is also very limited. In 2019, ''[[Smash Remix]]'' became the first mod with these features: A Ganondorf model replacing Captain Falcon got newly created animations for his smash attacks, where he uses a trident weapon.  


===In Smash 4===
===In Smash 4===
For ''Smash 4'' there is a tool called Smash Forge for changing models and animations [https://github.com/jam1garner/Smash-Forge/wiki]. Mods replacing Fox with Wolf [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P6xpF6MG-Q] and Dr. Mario with one of the Ice Climbers [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LO1BSz2A1eQ] from their ''Brawl'' appearances have been created.
For ''Smash 4'', there is a tool called Smash Forge for changing models and animations [https://github.com/jam1garner/Smash-Forge/wiki]. Mods replacing Fox with Wolf [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P6xpF6MG-Q] and Dr. Mario with one of the Ice Climbers [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LO1BSz2A1eQ] from their ''Brawl'' appearances have been created.


===In Ultimate===
===In Ultimate===
For ''Smash Ultimate'' there is a tool called StudioSB, which allows for model imports and animation imports. Add-ons for Blender were also made to edit some animation/model files. Material edits are done via ParamXML or CrossMod, to change properties like how metallic or bright an object appears.
For ''Ultimate'', there is a tool called StudioSB, which allows for model imports and animation imports. Add-ons for Blender were also made to edit some animation/model files. Material edits are done via ParamXML or CrossMod, to change properties like how metallic or bright an object appears.


==Adding new characters==
==Adding new characters==
[[File:ProjectMRoyVsMewtwo.jpg|thumb|left|{{PM|Mewtwo}} and {{PM|Roy}} square off in ''Project M''. The addition of new characters to mods is a new trend.]]
[[File:ProjectMRoyVsMewtwo.jpg|thumb|left|{{PM|Mewtwo}} and {{PM|Roy}} square off in ''Project M''. The addition of new characters to mods is a new trend.]]
In 2013, the '''addition of characters''' has become a possibility for ''Brawl'' mods. ''Project M'' notably added {{PM|Roy}} and {{PM|Mewtwo}} as playable characters in version 3.0 after the absence of the duo in ''Brawl''.  
In 2013, the '''addition of characters''' has become a possibility for ''Brawl'' mods. ''Project M'' notably added {{PM|Roy}} and {{PM|Mewtwo}} as playable characters in version 3.0 after the absence of the duo in ''Brawl''.  
In 2015 a build called ''Project M Ex'' was created, mainly by hacker PyotrLuzhin/Петр Лужин, that worked as template for builds to easily add new slots for characters. It included all characters present in Project M and [[Ridley]]. All future builds that were based on ''Project M'' ([[Legacy XP]], [[Smash 2]]) and added new characters are based on this template, and mods like ''Brawl-'' switched to this template reimplementing their changes.
In 2015, a build called ''Project M Ex'' was created, mainly by hacker PyotrLuzhin/Петр Лужин, that worked as template for builds to easily add new slots for characters. It included all characters present in Project M, as well as [[Ridley]]. All future builds that were based on ''Project M'' ([[Legacy XP]], [[Smash 2]]) and added new characters are based on this template, and mods like ''Brawl-'' switched to this template reimplementing their changes.


''Brawl-'' added [[Pichu]], Roy, Mewtwo, and newcomer [[Waluigi]] to the game. Newer mods based on ''Project M'' like ''Legacy XP'' add even more characters, that might have never been playable, into the game with completely original movesets.
''Brawl-'' added [[Pichu]], Roy, Mewtwo, and newcomer [[Waluigi]] to the game. Newer mods based on ''Project M'' like ''Legacy XP'' add even more characters, that might have never been playable, into the game with completely original movesets.


As of version ''0.9.4'' of Smash Remix, a Smash 64 mod, 8 characters have been added, [[Ganondorf]], [[Young Link]], [[Falco]], [[Dr. Mario]], [[Dark Samus]], [[Wario]] (the first to have a completely original moveset), [[Lucas]], and [[Bowser]] alongside the original 12. More original characters are also planned for the mod.
As of version ''0.9.4'' of Smash Remix, a Smash 64 mod, 8 characters have been added: [[Ganondorf]], [[Young Link]], [[Falco]], [[Dr. Mario]], [[Dark Samus]], [[Wario]] (the first to have a completely original moveset), [[Lucas]], and [[Bowser]] alongside the original 12. More original characters are also planned for the mod.


Adding new characters to ''Melee'', either version of ''Smash 4'', and ''Ultimate'' is not possible, only replacing others.
Adding new characters to ''Melee'', either version of ''Smash 4'', and ''Ultimate'' is not known to be possible, only replacing others.


=Notable gameplay mods=
=Notable gameplay mods=
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''Main article: [[19XX]]''
''Main article: [[19XX]]''
[[File:19xx.png|500px|center]]
[[File:19xx.png|500px|center]]
''[[19XXTE]]'' (''Tournament edition'') is the first and most notable of gameplay mods involving ''Smash 64''. Similar to the concurrently developed ''20XX'', ''19XXTE'' is intended to assist players in training their skills for professional play in ''Smash 64'', as well as adding various improvements for tournament play, such as a ''[[Match timer]]'' and allowing for access to the ordinarily unplayable stages [[Battlefield (SSB)]], [[Final Destination (SSB)]], [[Meta Crystal]] and cloudless [[Yoshi's Island]]. The mod has notably seen use in most ''Smash 64'' tournaments since [[Hitstun 3]] in late 2015, including [[GENESIS 3]], the first tournament with over 200 participants.  
''[[19XXTE]]'' (''Tournament edition'') is the first and most notable of gameplay mods involving ''Smash 64''. Similar to the concurrently developed ''20XX'', ''19XXTE'' is intended to assist players in training their skills for professional play in ''Smash 64'', as well as adding various improvements for tournament play, such as a ''[[Match timer]]'', and allowing for access to the ordinarily unplayable stages [[Battlefield (SSB)}|Battlefield]], [[Final Destination (SSB)|Final Destination]], [[Meta Crystal]] and cloudless [[Yoshi's Island]]. The mod has notably seen use in most ''Smash 64'' tournaments since [[Hitstun 3]] in late 2015, including [[GENESIS 3]], the first tournament with over 200 participants.  


''19XXGE'' (''Genesis edition'') is more or less identical to ''19XXTE'' and got its name from being designed for the {{Trn|GENESIS (series)}}.
''19XXGE'' (''Genesis edition'') is more or less identical to ''19XXTE'' and got its name from being designed for the {{Trn|GENESIS|series}} series.


''19XXCE'' (''Complete edition'') has more content, such as a bigger stage selection screen including all [[Super_Smash_Bros.#1P_Game-only_stages|1P only]] and [[Super_Smash_Bros.#Non-playable stages|unplayable test]] stages and an enhanced training mode with options for hitbox display, color overlays, flashes on Z-cancel, the option to set the percentages and more.
''19XXCE'' (''Complete edition'') has more content, such as a bigger stage selection screen including all [[Super_Smash_Bros.#1P_Game-only_stages|1P only]] and [[Super_Smash_Bros.#Non-playable stages|unplayable test]] stages, and an enhanced training mode with options for hitbox display, color overlays, flashes on Z-cancel, the option to set the percentages, and more.


===''SSBMSE''===  
===''SSBMSE''===  
[[File:SSBMSE.png|400px|center]]
[[File:SSBMSE.png|400px|center]]
''SSBMSE'' (''More Stage edition'') [https://smashboards.com/threads/ssbmse-more-legal-stages-mod.476271/] is a modification with the goal to add more tournament viable stages to the game. Version 0.3 was released in April 2019 and features [[Kalos Pokemon League]], [[Smashville]], non-transforming [[Pokemon Stadium]] and [[Final Destination (Melee)]] in addition to [[Dream Land]], [[Yoshi's Island (SSB)]], [[Battlefield]], [[Final Destination (SSB)]] and [[Meta Crystal]]. Since it got merged into ''Smash Remix'' it won't be developed any further.
''SSBMSE'' (''More Stage edition'') [https://smashboards.com/threads/ssbmse-more-legal-stages-mod.476271/] is a modification with the goal to add more tournament-viable stages to the game. Version 0.3 was released in April 2019, and features [[Kalos Pokemon League]], [[Smashville]], non-transforming [[Pokemon Stadium]], and [[Final Destination (Melee)|Final Destination]], in addition to [[Dream Land]], [[Yoshi's Island (SSB)|Yoshi's Island]], [[Battlefield]], [[Final Destination (SSB)|Final Destination]], and [[Meta Crystal]]. Since it was merged into ''Smash Remix'', it won't be developed any further.


===''Smash Remix''===  
===''Smash Remix''===  
[[File:SmashRemixLogo.png|300px|center]]
[[File:SmashRemixLogo.png|300px|center]]
''Smash Remix'' is a mod with the goal to expand Smash 64 with new characters, stages, etc. while staying true to its core gameplay. New mechanics from the other smash games, like [[wavedashing]] are now added. The vision involves having tournaments where the new characters are pitched against the old ones, all the clones being viable against the originals.  
''Smash Remix'' is a mod with the goal to expand Smash 64 with new characters, stages, etc. while staying true to its core gameplay. New mechanics from the other ''Smash'' games, like [[wavedashing]], are now added. The vision involves having tournaments where the new characters are pitched against the old ones, all the clones being viable against the originals.  


In May 2019 the first version titled ''0.5'' was released which replaced [[Captain Falcon]]'s model and moveset with [[Ganondorf]], mostly based on his ''Melee'' appearence. In later versions he got decloned and received completely new smash attacks based on his ones introduced in ''Ultimate'' where he uses a trident weapon resembling Phantom Ganon's weapon in ''Ocarina of Time'' rather than the sword from the Spaceworld 2000 demo. He also gained a unique series icon, being a cracked and broken Triforce. In versions ''0.7'', ''0.8.1'' & ''0.8.2'' [[Young Link]] replacing [[Link]], [[Falco]] replacing [[Fox]] and [[Doctor Mario]] replacing [[Mario]] were added. Notable differences from their ''Melee'' counterparts, where their cloned moveset was mostly based off, are Young Link using his roll from the ''Zelda'' series as a [[dash attack]], Falco not having [[laser]]s and instead using [[Falco Phantasm]] as his neutral special and Doctor Mario's [[down aerial]] being a strong [[spike]] like in ''Ultimate'' instead of a [[drill]] attack. He also later gained his own series icon, being a [[Megavitamin]]. All the newcomers received their own victory screen themes as well.
In May 2019, the first version, entitled ''0.5'', was released, which replaced [[Captain Falcon]]'s model and moveset with [[Ganondorf]], mostly based on his ''Melee'' appearence. In later versions, he got decloned and received completely new smash attacks based on his ones introduced in ''Ultimate'' where he uses a trident weapon resembling Phantom Ganon's weapon in ''Ocarina of Time'' rather than the sword from the Spaceworld 2000 demo. He also gained a unique series icon, being a cracked and broken Triforce. In versions ''0.7'', ''0.8.1'' & ''0.8.2'', [[Young Link]] replacing [[Link]], [[Falco]] replacing [[Fox]], and [[Dr. Mario]] replacing [[Mario]] were added. Notable differences from their ''Melee'' counterparts, where their cloned moveset was mostly based off, are Young Link using his roll from the ''Zelda'' series as a [[dash attack]], Falco not having [[laser]]s and instead using [[Falco Phantasm]] as his neutral special, and Dr. Mario's [[down aerial]] being a strong [[spike]] like in ''Ultimate'' instead of a [[drill]] attack. He also later gained his own series icon, being a [[Megavitamin]]. All the newcomers received their own victory screen themes as well.


In version ''0.8.2'' released in August 2019, it became possible to add new stages instead of replacing old ones like in previous releases. For example, in version ''0.8'' a new stage based on Ganon's castle in Ocarina of Time became the first new stage in this mod replacing Hyrule Temple. New stages are for example taken from the [[SSBMSE]] mod, which was merged with Smash Remix in version ''0.8.2''.
In version ''0.8.2'', released in August 2019, it became possible to add new stages instead of replacing old ones like in previous releases. For example, in version ''0.8'', a new stage based on Ganon's castle in Ocarina of Time became the first new stage in this mod, replacing Hyrule Temple. New stages are for example taken from the [[SSBMSE]] mod, which was merged with Smash Remix in version ''0.8.2''.


In version ''0.9'' released in October 2019, the new characters didn't replace older characters any more, and it was finally possible to play with each of the original 12 characters and the 4 new characters, expanding the [[character selection screen]] to 16 characters. Version ''0.9.1'', released Christmas Eve 2019, adds [[Dark Samus]] as a playable character who shares their gameplay from how it is in ''Ultimate'', but also gains some new moves that resemble the ones Dark Samus had as an [[Assist Trophy]] in ''Smash 4''. Eight more stages were added as well. In addition, it also incorporates all features from 19XXCE, such as Neutral Spawns and Hazard Toggle. Additionally [[Wario]] was teased for a future update.  
In version ''0.9'', released in October 2019, the new characters no longer replaced older characters, and it was finally possible to play with each of the original 12 characters and the 4 new characters, expanding the [[character selection screen]] to 16 characters. Version ''0.9.1'', released on Christmas Eve 2019, adds [[Dark Samus]] as a playable character who shares their gameplay from how it is in ''Ultimate'', but also gains some new moves that resemble the ones Dark Samus had as an [[Assist Trophy]] in ''Smash 4''. Eight more stages were added as well. In addition, it also incorporates all features from 19XXCE, such as Neutral Spawns and Hazard Toggle. Additionally [[Wario]] was teased for a future update.  


Version ''0.9.2'', releasing March 15th, 2020, follows through on this with the addition of Wario as the first unique newcomer to the game, and while most of his normals are similar to ''Brawl''{{'}}s take on the character, he has different smash attacks, specials (except [[Corkscrew]]), and a new down air, in addition to having a custom stage entrance in which he crash lands with his plane, the [[mariowiki:Bulldog|Bulldog]]. Overall, Wario more so represents the ''Wario Land'' series in this mod over the main series which focuses more on the ''WarioWare'' series. He also uses the ''Mario'' series icon rather than his usual "W" symbol, likely due to ''Wario Land'' not being established as its own "series" at the release of vanilla ''Smash 64''. It also adds more stages, support for more stage features like hazards and moving platforms, framerate optimizations for various stages, gameplay variants of the original 12 such as regional variants, polygon team, [[Metal Mario]] and [[Giant DK]], and full 1P mode accessability for the new cast, with new [[Break the Targets]] stages for them to complete. It also added changeable music for stages, with the option to choose a specific song or by random with each track having a different rarity of playing on its stage.
Version ''0.9.2'', releasing March 15th, 2020, follows through on this with the addition of Wario as the first unique newcomer to the game, and while most of his normals are similar to ''Brawl''{{'}}s take on the character, he has different smash attacks, specials (except [[Corkscrew]]), and a new down air, in addition to having a custom stage entrance in which he crash lands with his plane, the [[mariowiki:Bulldog|Bulldog]]. Overall, Wario more so represents the ''Wario Land'' series in this mod over the main series which focuses more on the ''WarioWare'' series. He also uses the ''Mario'' series icon rather than his usual "W" symbol, likely due to ''Wario Land'' not being established as its own "series" at the release of vanilla ''Smash 64''. It also adds more stages, support for more stage features like hazards and moving platforms, framerate optimizations for various stages, gameplay variants of the original 12 such as regional variants, polygon team, [[Metal Mario]] and [[Giant DK]], and full 1P mode accessability for the new cast, with new [[Break the Targets]] stages for them to complete. It also added changeable music for stages, with the option to choose a specific song or by random with each track having a different rarity of playing on its stage.
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On April 1st, 2020, the {{s|mariowiki|Mad Piano}} from ''{{s|mariowiki|Super Mario 64}}'' was “revealed” under the guise of version ''1.0.0'' as an April Fools’ joke. Because of this, version ''1.0.0'' and the Mad Piano were not released. However it was then officially added in version ''0.9.5'' sharing a slot with Luigi.
On April 1st, 2020, the {{s|mariowiki|Mad Piano}} from ''{{s|mariowiki|Super Mario 64}}'' was “revealed” under the guise of version ''1.0.0'' as an April Fools’ joke. Because of this, version ''1.0.0'' and the Mad Piano were not released. However it was then officially added in version ''0.9.5'' sharing a slot with Luigi.


Version ''0.9.3'' was released on May 12th, 2020; adding [[Lucas]] as a playable character with him mostly retaining his gameplay from the regular series. Though he rides in on the Pork Bean rather than the Coffee Table during his stage intro. [[PK Fire]] also replaces [[PK Freeze]] as his neutral special similarly to Ness's situation in this game due to ''64'' lacking unique side specials as well as the [[frozen]] status effect. The update also added more regional variants for the original cast, more stages (such as one for Lucas that takes place in [[New Pork City]] and a "Smashketball" stage based on a popular [[Custom Stage]] concept players make with the goal being to KO fighters by launching them into a [[Barrel Cannon]] that sends them directly downwards), more music for already existing stages, and unique [[Board the Platforms]] stages for most of the mod's newcomers. It also added more miscellaneous options such as the ability to switch the menu music between ''Smash 64'', ''Melee'', and ''Brawl''{{'}}s versions.
Version ''0.9.3'' was released on May 12th, 2020; adding [[Lucas]] as a playable character with him mostly retaining his gameplay from the regular series. However, he rides in on the Pork Bean rather than the Coffee Table during his stage intro. [[PK Fire]] also replaces [[PK Freeze]] as his neutral special, similarly to Ness's situation in this game, due to ''64'' lacking unique side specials, as well as the [[frozen]] status effect. The update also added more regional variants for the original cast, more stages (such as one for Lucas that takes place in [[New Pork City]], and a "Smashketball" stage based on a popular [[Custom Stage]] concept players make, with the goal being to KO fighters by launching them into a [[Barrel Cannon]] that sends them directly downwards), more music for already existing stages, and unique [[Board the Platforms]] stages for most of the mod's newcomers. It also added more miscellaneous options, such as the ability to switch the menu music between ''Smash 64'', ''Melee'', and ''Brawl''{{'}}s versions.


Version ''0.9.4'' was released on September 6th, 2020 and saw the addition of [[Bowser]]. His moveset consists of moves he had in ''Melee'', in addition to a few new ones such as a [[sex kick]] [[neutral aerial]], a jab combo ending with a bite, and a new fire-breathing [[up aerial]]. His forward throw was changed to be like the [[Flying Slam]]. His running animation, [[back aerial]], and other attributes also more closely resemble how they've been since ''Smash 4.'' [[Giga Bowser]] was also added, selectable underneath Bowser's slot in the same fashion as Metal Mario, Giant DK, and the Fighting Polygons under their respective characters. Like [[Bowser (PM)|his ''Project M'' version]] and Dr. Mario in this mod, Bowser also has his own series icon rather than a [[Super Mushroom]], that being the iconic logo of his face, using its design from ''Super Mario 64'' as opposed to its ''Mario Kart: Double Dash!!'' design used in ''PM'' (although its modern design is used for his [[damage meter]]). His intro also differs from the main series being him riding in on his Clown Car. His skeletal form when getting hit by [[electric]] attacks also resembles {{s|mariowiki|Dry Bowser}}. Version ''0.9.4'' also adds new stages such as Bowser's Keep from ''Super Mario RPG'', Goomba's Road from ''Paper Mario'', and World 1-1 from ''Super Mario Bros.'', which is a scrolling stage similar to [[Mushroomy Kingdom]]; as well as {{SSB|Dream Land}} and [[Ω form]]s of the original 9 stages, {{SSB|Race to the Finish}} as a standalone mode akin to Break the Targets and Board the Platforms, [[Multi-Man Smash|Multi-Man Mode]], [[Cruel Mode|Cruel Multi-Man Mode]], and a 12 Character Battle Versus Mode that has a similar idea to [[Squad Strike]] and [[Smashdown]] as new game modes. Newcomers to the mod who still didn't have their own Board the Platforms stage gained one, including a unique one for the Polygon variants of the roster.
Version ''0.9.4'' was released on September 6th, 2020, and saw the addition of [[Bowser]]. His moveset consists of moves he had in ''Melee'', in addition to a few new ones such as a [[sex kick]] [[neutral aerial]], a jab combo ending with a bite, and a new fire-breathing [[up aerial]]. His forward throw was changed to be like the [[Flying Slam]]. His running animation, [[back aerial]], and other attributes also more closely resemble how they've been since ''Smash 4''. [[Giga Bowser]] was also added, selectable underneath Bowser's slot in the same fashion as Metal Mario, Giant DK, and the Fighting Polygons under their respective characters. Like [[Bowser (PM)|his ''Project M'' version]] and Dr. Mario in this mod, Bowser also has his own series icon rather than a [[Super Mushroom]], that being the iconic logo of his face, using its design from ''Super Mario 64'', as opposed to the design used since ''Mario Kart: Double Dash!!'' like in ''PM'' (although the modern design is used for his [[damage meter]]). His intro also differs from the main series, being him riding in on his Clown Car. His skeletal form when getting hit by [[electric]] attacks also resembles {{s|mariowiki|Dry Bowser}}. Version ''0.9.4'' also adds new stages such as Bowser's Keep from ''Super Mario RPG'', Goomba's Road from ''Paper Mario'', and World 1-1 from ''Super Mario Bros.'', which is a scrolling stage similar to [[Mushroomy Kingdom]]; as well as {{SSB|Dream Land}} and [[Ω form]]s of the original 9 stages, {{SSB|Race to the Finish}} as a standalone mode akin to Break the Targets and Board the Platforms, [[Multi-Man Smash|Multi-Man Mode]], [[Cruel Mode|Cruel Multi-Man Mode]], and a 12 Character Battle Versus Mode that has a similar idea to [[Squad Strike]] and [[Smashdown]] as new game modes. Newcomers to the mod who still didn't have their own Board the Platforms stage gained one, including a unique one for the Polygon variants of the roster.


Version ''0.9.5'' was released on December 6th, 2020 and was the first major update to not have a newcomer with their own slot, however the Mad Piano was officially added just like in the April Fools teaser, selectable under Luigi's slot like the other "boss" characters of the game. The update added transformation items which are brand new to ''Smash 64'', being the [[Super Mushroom]], [[Poison Mushroom]], and [[Cloaking Device]]. It also added Kirby Hats for the mod's newcomers.
Version ''0.9.5'' was released on December 6th, 2020 and was the first major update to not have a newcomer with their own slot; however, the Mad Piano was officially added just like in the April Fools' teaser, selectable under Luigi's slot like the other "boss" characters of the game. The update added transformation items which are brand new to ''Smash 64'', being the [[Super Mushroom]], [[Poison Mushroom]], and [[Cloaking Device]]. It also added Kirby Hats for the mod's newcomers.


Additionally, the mod will have smaller updates in between the major version changes that typically just fix bugs and are distinguished by placing a lower case letter after the version number, starting with "a" and moving onwards alphabetically. For example, version ''0.9.3c'' being the third update to ''0.9.3'' and fixing glitches regarding Jigglypuff's jump height, the combo meter not counting certain moves, and warping in the new bonus stages added amongst other issues.
Additionally, the mod will have smaller updates in between the major version changes that typically just fix bugs and are distinguished by placing a lowercase letter after the version number, starting with "a" and moving onwards alphabetically; for example, version ''0.9.3c'' being the third update to ''0.9.3'' and fixing glitches regarding Jigglypuff's jump height, the combo meter not counting certain moves, and warping in the new bonus stages added amongst other issues.


==''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''==
==''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''==
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''Main article: [[Melee: SD Remix]]''
''Main article: [[Melee: SD Remix]]''
[[File:Melee SDR.png|500px|center]]
[[File:Melee SDR.png|500px|center]]
''[[Melee: SD Remix]]'' is the first of notable of hacks involving ''Melee''. ''SD Remix'' holds some niche appeal amongst some devoted ''Melee'' players. The concept behind ''Melee: SD Remix'' can be compared to that of ''Balanced Brawl''; both mods avoid making changes to to the game's base engine in favour of buffing and nerfing individual attributes of characters to make the game more balanced. Some stages have also been altered as to allow for better competitive gameplay. The development for ''SD Remix'' continues today, but appears to have slowed down, with the last version being from 2015.
''[[Melee: SD Remix]]'' is the first of notable of hacks involving ''Melee''. ''SD Remix'' holds some niche appeal amongst some devoted ''Melee'' players. The concept behind ''Melee: SD Remix'' can be compared to that of ''Balanced Brawl''; both mods avoid making changes to the game's base engine in favour of buffing and nerfing individual attributes of characters to make the game more balanced. Some stages have also been altered as to allow for better competitive gameplay. The development for ''SD Remix'' continues today, but appears to have slowed down, with the last version being from 2015.


As of July 5 of 2015, a version loadable from a memory card, titled ''SD Remix Lite'' was released, it's also the only memory card mod that can run with full features on all versions of Melee, including NTSC/NTSC-J 1.00, 1.01, 1.02 and PAL Melee, and even though it's named version 3.2 it still contains all fixes of SD Remix Full 3.2.1.
As of July 5, 2015, a version loadable from a memory card, entitled ''SD Remix Lite'', was released; it is also the only memory card mod that can run with full features on all versions of Melee, including NTSC/NTSC-J 1.00, 1.01, 1.02, and PAL, and even though it is named version 3.2, it still contains all fixes of SD Remix Full 3.2.1.


===''20XX''===
===''20XX''===
''Main article: [[20XX]]''
''Main article: [[20XX]]''
[[File:20XXTELogo.png|500px|center]]
[[File:20XXTELogo.png|500px|center]]
The ''[[20XX Melee Training Hack Pack]]'' does not feature any true modifications to ''Melee's'' gameplay; rather, as its name suggests, it modifies ''Melee's'' overall user interface to allow players to train their skills for professional ''Melee'' tournaments. Hacks, for instance, can allow players to flash differing colours to allow for practising of [[L-cancelling]] or allow for players to view hitbox data for the game's various characters. Other, minor hacks are also available, allowing for players to modify stages, use [[PAL]] versions of characters, or use unique costumes.
The ''[[20XX Melee Training Hack Pack]]'' does not feature any true modifications to ''Melee''{{'}}s gameplay; rather, as its name suggests, it modifies ''Melee''{{'}}s overall user interface to allow players to train their skills for professional ''Melee'' tournaments. Hacks, for instance, can allow players to flash differing colours to allow for practising of [[L-cancelling]] or allow for players to view hitbox data for the game's various characters. Other, minor hacks are also available, allowing for players to modify stages, use [[PAL]] versions of characters, or use unique costumes.


An extension of the ''20XX Melee Training Hack Pack'' is the ''[[20XX Tournament Edition]]''. Developed by professional ''Melee'' player {{Sm|Dan Salvato}}, ''20XX Tournament Edition'' features various hacks to streamline the mod's performance in tournament use, as well as other minor improvements, such as widescreen support; it also uniquely runs via hacked save data on a GameCube [[memory card]], allowing for it to be spread through the standard software found on either the [[GameCube]] or [[Wii]].
An extension of the ''20XX Melee Training Hack Pack'' is the ''[[20XX Tournament Edition]]''. Developed by professional ''Melee'' player {{Sm|Dan Salvato}}, ''20XX Tournament Edition'' features various hacks to streamline the mod's performance in tournament use, as well as other minor improvements, such as widescreen support; it also uniquely runs via hacked save data on a GameCube [[memory card]], allowing for it to be spread through the standard software found on either the [[GameCube]] or [[Wii]].
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===''Silly Melee''===
===''Silly Melee''===
[[File:SillyMeleeLogo.png|250px|center]]
[[File:SillyMeleeLogo.png|250px|center]]
''Silly Melee'' [https://smashboards.com/threads/silly-melee-released-today.426631/] is a modification of ''Melee'' with the purpose of making every character overpowered. Made by {{Sm|Alpharad}} and MagicScrumpy with assistance from Casey O'Rourke it is self described on its official website as "Very, very silly. Characters do things that they never should have been able to do."
''Silly Melee'' [https://smashboards.com/threads/silly-melee-released-today.426631/] is a modification of ''Melee'' with the purpose of making every character overpowered. Made by {{Sm|Alpharad}} and MagicScrumpy with assistance from Casey O'Rourke, it is self-described on its official website as "Very, very silly. Characters do things that they never should have been able to do." Version 1.0 was released in December 2015.
Version 1.0 was released in December 2015.


==''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''==
==''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''==
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===''Legacy TE''===
===''Legacy TE''===
[[File:LegacyTELogo.png|400px|center]]
[[File:LegacyTELogo.png|400px|center]]
''Legacy TE'' is a tourney-viable modification of ''Project M 3.6'' that aims to add new content while also keeping core, fundamental gameplay unmodified. It features a variety of tourney-safe alternative stage skins, costumes, and quality of life features. This includes shortcuts to edit a players' controls without leaving the character selection screen, an improvement to character files to reduce crashing likelihood, and an improved menu interface. A debug menu made for the mod allows players to train their skills for professional tournaments. For example, there is an option to show [[DI]] lines that show how directional influence affects where an attack sends an opponent, with a clearly defined end point that either aims to the ground or stops in the air. A variety of tools and resources have also been made for the mod, allowing tournament organizers to easily customize their builds, including changing the stagelist, replacing costumes, or editing brand assets on menus. ''Legacy TE'' has received worldwide adoption and is generally considered the go-to edition of ''Project M'' by tournament players. Version 2.11 was released in January 2019. Version 2.5 was released on August 26, 2019, and features 15 costumes per character, stage alt toggle options in the code menu, and many other features.
''Legacy TE'' is a tourney-viable modification of ''Project M 3.6'' that aims to add new content while also keeping core, fundamental gameplay unmodified. It features a variety of tourney-safe alternative stage skins, costumes, and quality of life features. This includes shortcuts to edit a players' controls without leaving the character selection screen, an improvement to character files to reduce crashing likelihood, and an improved menu interface. A debug menu made for the mod allows players to train their skills for professional tournaments. For example, there is an option to show [[DI]] lines that show how directional influence affects where an attack sends an opponent, with a clearly defined end point that either aims to the ground or stops in the air. A variety of tools and resources have also been made for the mod, allowing tournament organizers to easily customize their builds, including changing the stagelist, replacing costumes, or editing brand assets on menus. ''Legacy TE'' has received worldwide adoption and is generally considered the go-to edition of ''Project M'' by tournament players. Version 2.11 was released in January 2019. Version 2.5 was released on August 26, 2019, and features 15 costumes per character, alternate stage toggle options in the code menu, and many other features.


Development ceased on March 13, 2020 with an announcement on their website[https://smashbroslegacy.com] and removal of all downloads. Project co-lead David V Kimball stressed no Nintendo involvement in the shutdown, and directed further questions to Ryan Morrison[https://twitter.com/davidvkimball/status/1238928426716692480?s=20], similar to the Project M shutdown.
Development ceased on March 13, 2020, with an announcement on their website [https://smashbroslegacy.com] and removal of all downloads. Project co-lead David V. Kimball stressed no Nintendo involvement in the shutdown, and directed further questions to Ryan Morrison [https://twitter.com/davidvkimball/status/1238928426716692480?s=20], similar to the Project M shutdown.


===''Project+''===
===''Project+''===
''Main article: [[Project+]]''
''Main article: [[Project+]]''
[[File:ProjectPlusLogo.png|500px|center]]
[[File:ProjectPlusLogo.png|500px|center]]
''[[Project+]]'' is a modification of ''[[Project M]] 3.6'' (based on ''Legacy TE'') with the aim to improve the balance among the cast by making small moveset changes to all or most characters. It is intended to become tournament standard. Development started in 2018 and version v1b was released in April 2019.
''[[Project+]]'' is a modification of ''[[Project M]] 3.6'' (based on ''Legacy TE'') with the aim to improve the balance among the cast by making small moveset changes to all or most characters. It is intended to become tournament standard. Development started in 2018, and version v1b was released in April 2019.


On March 17, 2020, ''Project+ 2.0'' was revealed with additional content, such as new modes, revamps to some characters movesets such as Bowser getting a new fireball attack and Charizard getting [[bulbapedia:Thunder Punch|Thunder Punch]], and the reveal of [[Knuckles the Echidna]] as the only new playable character beyond what Project M had.
On March 17, 2020, ''Project+ 2.0'' was revealed, with additional content, such as new modes, revamps to some characters' movesets such as Bowser getting a new fireball attack and Charizard getting [[bulbapedia:Thunder Punch|Thunder Punch]], and the reveal of [[Knuckles the Echidna]] as the only new playable character beyond what Project M had.


===''Legacy XP''===
===''Legacy XP''===
[[File:LegacyXPLogo.jpg|400px|center]]
[[File:LegacyXPLogo.jpg|400px|center]]
''Legacy XP'' is a modification of Project M 3.6 that includes more characters, 700+ additional stages and new modes. While the characters from Project M were mostly unaltered ([[Yoshi]] and [[Link]] received some non-PM 3.6 moveset-fixing edits and [[Snake]] got the ability to walk while using his [[Cardboard box|box taunt]]), 10 more fighters were added: [[Young Link]], [[Pichu]] and [[Doctor Mario]] returned from Melee and [[Ridley]], [[Waluigi]], [[Geno]], [[Lucina]], Metal-Sonic were added in the beta build released in September 2016. [[Shadow]] and Mage Ganondorf (inspired by his [[Ocarina of Time]] appearance) followed in version 2.0 Full in May 2018. Version 2.1 featuring some balance changes was released in March 2019.  
''Legacy XP'' is a modification of Project M 3.6 that includes more characters, 700+ additional stages, and new modes. While the characters from Project M were mostly unaltered ([[Yoshi]] and [[Link]] received some non-PM 3.6 moveset-fixing edits, and [[Snake]] gained the ability to walk while using his [[Cardboard box|box taunt]]), 10 more fighters were added: [[Young Link]], [[Pichu]], and [[Dr. Mario]] returned from Melee, and [[Ridley]], [[Waluigi]], [[Geno]], [[Lucina]], and Metal-Sonic were added in the beta build released in September 2016. [[Shadow]] and Mage Ganondorf (inspired by his [[Ocarina of Time]] appearance) followed in version 2.0 Full in May 2018. Version 2.1, featuring some balance changes, was released in March 2019.  


Just like the aforementioned ''Legacy TE'', development ceased on March 13, 2020 with an announcement on their website[https://smashbroslegacy.com] and removal of all downloads. Project co-lead David V Kimball stressed no Nintendo involvement in the shutdown, and directed further questions to Ryan Morrison[https://twitter.com/davidvkimball/status/1238928426716692480?s=20], similar to the Project M shutdown.
Just like the aforementioned ''Legacy TE'', development ceased on March 13, 2020 with an announcement on their website [https://smashbroslegacy.com] and removal of all downloads. Project co-lead David V. Kimball stressed no Nintendo involvement in the shutdown, and directed further questions to Ryan Morrison [https://twitter.com/davidvkimball/status/1238928426716692480?s=20], similar to the Project M shutdown.


''Legacy XP Lite'' is a combination of ''Legacy XP'' with some of the more competitive friendly stages from ''Legacy TE'' greatly reducing the number of stages and the mod size from over 5 GB to under 2 GB. Version 2.1 was released in March 2019.
''Legacy XP Lite'' is a combination of ''Legacy XP'' with some of the more competitive-friendly stages from ''Legacy TE'', greatly reducing the number of stages and the mod size from over 5 GB to under 2 GB. Version 2.1 was released in March 2019.


===''Smash 2''===
===''Smash 2''===
[[File:Smash2Logo.png|500px|center]]
[[File:Smash2Logo.png|500px|center]]
''Smash 2'' [https://twitter.com/Smash2Official] is a modification of ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'' that was designed to be like Melee if Nintendo had more time to develop it (leading to more characters) which makes it even more similar ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' than ''[[Project M]]''. In addition to the engine changes from ''Project M'' stage camera and lighting were edited and the movesets of all Melee veterans were made to be like in ''Melee'' with small buffs to the worse ones. For the newcomers in ''Brawl'' the half-clones [[Wolf]] and [[Lucas]] were designed to be more similar to the characters they were cloned from and for other characters abilities they that originated from games released after ''Melee'' got replaced (for example [[Dedede]]'s [[Jet Hammer]]).  
''Smash 2'' [https://twitter.com/Smash2Official] is a modification of ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'' that was designed to be like ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' if Nintendo had more time to develop it (leading to more characters), which makes it even more similar to ''Melee'' than ''[[Project M]]''. In addition to the engine changes from ''Project M'', stage camera and lighting were edited, and the movesets of all Melee veterans were made to be like in ''Melee'', with small buffs to the worse ones. For the newcomers in ''Brawl'', [[Wolf]] and [[Lucas]] were designed to be more similar to the characters they were partially cloned from, and for other characters, abilities they gained that originated from games released after ''Melee'' got replaced (for example, [[Dedede]]'s [[Jet Hammer]]).  


Wave 1.1 released in November 2017 had 32 characters ([[Zelda]] & [[Sheik]] sharing one spot in the character select screen), [[Wario]], [[Wolf]], [[Lucas]], [[Dedede]], [[Snake]] and [[Sonic]] in addition to the 26 from ''Melee''. In wave 1.8. released in July 2018 [[Diddy Kong]] and [[R.O.B.]] were added, but [[Lucas]] and [[Wolf]] were removed which caused a lot of controversy among the devs and fans and ultimately led to a lot of the devs leaving and a temporary end of Smash 2's development. There were plans to add the remaining ''Brawl'' characters that at the time of Melee's release already appeared in a game ([[Meta Knight]], [[Zero Suit Samus]], [[Pit]] & [[Olimar]], not [[Toon Link]] however, most likely due to Young Link's presence) and replace [[Ike]] & [[Lucario]] with Alm [https://fireemblemwiki.org/wiki/Alm] (from the 1992 game Fire Emblem Gaiden [https://fireemblemwiki.org/wiki/Fire_Emblem_Gaiden] having a similar moveset to Ike) and [[Togepi]] (with all its specials being Metronome [https://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Metronome_(move)] having random effects).<ref name="Smash 2 Plans">{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/_DestinyHiro/status/1099729244668731392|title="Smash 2 Plans"}}</ref>
Wave 1.1 was released in November 2017, having 32 characters ([[Zelda]] & [[Sheik]] sharing one spot in the character select screen): [[Wario]], [[Wolf]], [[Lucas]], [[Dedede]], [[Snake]], and [[Sonic]], in addition to the 26 from ''Melee''. In wave 1.8, released in July 2018, [[Diddy Kong]] and [[R.O.B.]] were added, but [[Lucas]] and [[Wolf]] were removed, which caused a lot of controversy among the developers and fans, and ultimately led to a lot of the developers leaving and a temporary end of Smash 2's development. There were plans to add the remaining ''Brawl'' characters that had already appeared in a game at the time of ''Melee''{{'}}s release ([[Meta Knight]], [[Zero Suit Samus]], [[Pit]], and [[Olimar]]; not [[Toon Link]], however, most likely due to Young Link's presence) and replace [[Ike]] and [[Lucario]] with {{s|fireemblem|Alm}} (from the 1992 game {{s|fireemblem|Fire Emblem Gaiden}}, having a similar moveset to Ike) and [[Togepi]] (with all its specials being {{s|bulbapedia|Metronome}} having random effects).<ref name="Smash 2 Plans">{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/_DestinyHiro/status/1099729244668731392|title="Smash 2 Plans"}}</ref>


Wave 2.0 released in May 2020, which added [[Olimar]] and [[Zero Suit Samus]] (under the name "Suitless Samus"). Additionally, Lucas and Wolf returned along with modifications to their and other newcomers' movesets. The menu was also changed to match Melee's design. One of the plans from the time before 2.0 for the potential addition of [[Meta Knight]] and [[Pit]] is being considered to be debatable, but the plans to add Alm [https://fireemblemwiki.org/wiki/Alm] and [[Togepi]] were ultimately scrapped.
Wave 2.0 was released in May 2020, which added [[Olimar]] and [[Zero Suit Samus]] (under the name "Suitless Samus"). Additionally, Lucas and Wolf returned, along with modifications to their and other newcomers' movesets. The menu was also changed to match Melee's design. One of the plans from the time before 2.0 for the potential addition of [[Meta Knight]] and [[Pit]] is being considered to be debatable, but the plans to add Alm and Togepi were ultimately scrapped.


===''Smash 2 Plus''===
===''Smash 2 Plus''===
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''Smash 2 Plus'' can be seen as the spiritual successor of ''Smash 2''.  
''Smash 2 Plus'' can be seen as the spiritual successor of ''Smash 2''.  


In version 1.5 released in December 2018 [[Wolf]] & [[Lucas]] are added back and [[Olimar]] & [[Toon Link]] are newcomers and in version 2.0 released in June 2019 [[Meta Knight]] & [[Zero Suit Samus]] appear as newcomers. [[Mute City]] returns which makes [[Poké Floats]] the only Melee stage not in Smash 2. A code for Melee random character select was added, where pressing A next to the character selection screen gives you a random character.
In version 1.5, released in December 2018, [[Wolf]] and [[Lucas]] are added back, and [[Olimar]] and [[Toon Link]] are newcomers, and in version 2.0, released in June 2019, [[Meta Knight]] and [[Zero Suit Samus]] appear as newcomers. [[Mute City (SSBM)|Mute City]] returns, which makes [[Poké Floats]] the only ''Melee'' stage not in Smash 2. A code for Melee random character select was added, where pressing A next to the character selection screen gives the player a random character.


=={{forwiiu}}==
=={{forwiiu}}==
{{stub|more details, release history, etc.}}
{{stub|more details, release history, etc.}}
===Melee inspired===
===''Melee''-inspired===
[[File:4XMLogo.jpg|300px|center]]
[[File:4XMLogo.jpg|300px|center]]
''4XM'' [https://twitter.com/4xmmod] is a modification of {{forwiiu}} that aims to change the engine to make the game more like ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' and add most mechanics like [[L-Canceling]] and [[Wavedash]] back. Development started in 2017 and in January 2019 4xM Beta v1.4.3 was released.
''4XM'' [https://twitter.com/4xmmod] is a modification of {{forwiiu}} that aims to change the engine to make the game more like ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'', and add most mechanics like [[L-Canceling]] and [[Wavedashing]] back. Development started in 2017, and in January 2019, 4xM Beta v1.4.3 was released.


''USM-eM'' [https://twitter.com/usm_em] is another modification independent from ''4XM'' with the same goal.
''USM-eM'' [https://twitter.com/usm_em] is another modification independent from ''4XM'' with the same goal.
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==''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''==
==''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''==
=== ''ProjectNX'' ===
=== ''ProjectNX'' ===
Announced at the beginning of Smash Ultimate's life cycle, with the initial name being '''Project Ultimate'''<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMqAlEAl4eo Project Ultimate announcement video by CLASH Tournaments], additional text.</ref>, ProjectNX is a Project M-esque mod currently being developed by [https://twitter.com/NyxTheShield NyxTheShield], that {{Sm|Nyx}}, at the moment, sees as his own "personal passion project" that he isn't going to release for some time into the future. So far it mostly modifies the engine and doesn't include ACMD moveset changes for the most part, but that is bound to change since he has made comments in the past where he has said he would like to fix [[Captain Falcon (SSBU)|Captain Falcon]]'s knee among other things. ProjectNX has garnered controversy within the Smash community, with many divided over the issue on whether or not modding ''Ultimate'' to act like ''Melee'' would serve justice. The project was eventually faced with legal pressure by Nintendo and has since ceased all development.
Announced at the beginning of Smash Ultimate's life cycle, with the initial name being '''Project Ultimate'''<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMqAlEAl4eo Project Ultimate announcement video by CLASH Tournaments], additional text.</ref>, ProjectNX is a Project M-esque mod currently being developed by [https://twitter.com/NyxTheShield NyxTheShield], that {{Sm|Nyx}}, at the moment, sees as his own "personal passion project" that he isn't going to release for some time into the future. So far, it mostly modifies the engine and doesn't include ACMD moveset changes for the most part, but that is bound to change, since he has made comments in the past where he has said he would like to fix [[Captain Falcon (SSBU)|Captain Falcon]]'s [[Knee Smash]] among other things. ProjectNX has garnered controversy within the ''Smash'' community, with many divided over the issue on whether or not modding ''Ultimate'' to act like ''Melee'' would serve justice. The project was eventually faced with legal pressure by Nintendo and has since ceased all development.


== References ==
== References ==

Revision as of 19:28, December 23, 2020

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In addition to cosmetic hacks such as file replacement, modifications to the gameplay of individual games, shorthanded to mods, have become a widespread phenomenon within the hacking community. The first attempts at modding involved Brawl, with such projects generally being viewed as novelties, not unlike the modification of palette swaps for characters; outside of this, forcing the Wii to load such mods was considered difficult, requiring use of the now-inoperable Twilight hack. The increasing complexity of game play mods and the discovery of the Smash Stack exploit, however, caused the mods to develop considerably more attention with observers.

Brawl remains the most commonly modded game in the series, though some mods also exist for Melee, Smash 64, and Smash 4. The majority of mods for Brawl can be loaded through the Smash Stack exploit, though alternate methods for loading them are available; mods for Melee often require the use of applications available for The Homebrew Channel. 19XXTE, a gameplay mod for Smash 64, requires patching a ROM image of the game, while a variety of experimental mods for Smash 4 on Wii U make use of a kernel exploit built into the console's internet browser.

Within the hacking community, the base game without any mods is often referred to as vBrawl or vMelee as a contraction for Vanilla Brawl or Vanilla Melee; the term "vanilla" comes from a common terminology featured in the computing world.

Overview

Specific changes to the game depend on the preferences of the developers, as well as their ultimate goal. There are a few different categories most mods fall into:

  • Balance mods don't change the core gameplay and apply buffs and nerf to characters to reduce competitive inequality between characters.
  • Overpowered mods give every character huge buffs so that they are all equally overpowered.
  • Melee-inspired mods change the gameplay and movesets to be more fast-paced and technical like in Melee, sometimes adding mechanics such as wavedashing.
  • Competitive mods don't change anything gameplay-wise, but add features for players to practice their skill and/or improvements for tournament play, such as quality of life changes.
  • New character mods try to bring new characters into the game with new 3D models, animations and movesets, either replacing characters or being a new addition.
  • Skin Mods bring new Alternate Costumes to characters using File Replacment.

Due to the Smash Stack exploit and relative ease of hacking the Wii compared to other consoles, alongside the popularity of Project M, modifications for Brawl are considerably more widespread than for any other game in the series.

Stages

In addition to raw gameplay, other portions of the game may be overhauled by developers to further change gameplay. The changing of stages is among the more common ways to do this:

In Brawl

In Brawl-, the stage Temple has been significantly condensed compared to its vanilla counterpart.
In Project M, the same stage layout was used to make the Skyloft stage.

In Brawl mods, it has been possible for quite a long time to create new stages replacing others. It is also possible to use newly created slots on the stage selection screen or alternative stages that load when holding a specific button when selecting a stage.

Brawl- and Project M, for instance, replace the ordinarily over-sized Temple with a smaller, more condensed version. Stages with transformations like Castle Siege or Pokemon Stadium are often changed to stay at the most competitive form of the stage. Outside of this, unpopular stages might be entirely replaced with others, such as how Project M replaces the highly non-standard Mario Bros. with a rendition of Fountain of Dreams from Melee.

Legacy TE added stages with the design of stages used for competitive play for each stage, using their theme in background models and textures and playing the same background music, that load when holding the Start, L, or Z button. Legacy XP added over 700 new stages into the game using new slots on the selection screen, as well as variants when holding down specific buttons. Button Shortcuts to quickly select popular Project M stages have also been added. Smash 2 added all stages that were in Melee' back into the game. Outside of stage layout changes, some textures and tracks may be replaced, particularly in the case of original stages.

In Melee

SD Remix, released in 2015, features 3 pages of stages: One for the vanilla stages, one with 1-player mode-only stages, and one for newly created stages, with some inspired from other games.

In 64

19XX modifies the stage selection screen to contain otherwise unplayable in versus mode stages Battlefield, Final Destination, and Meta Crystal. 19XXTE 's selection screen contains 11 instead of the original 9 slots for stages, and 19XXCE has 16 slots.

In 2018, modders found a way to change stages, first only replacing Hyrule Castle, but later it became possible to replace all stages. The mod SSBMSE replaces most stages in the game with more competitive stages modeled after their appearance in other Smash games.

In version 0.8.2 of Smash Remix, it became possible to include new stages that don't replace old stages. Its stage selection screen featured 3 pages, each with 9 slots of stages (like in the original game), the first containing the original stages, the second mainly stages from SSBMSE, and the last mainly 1-player mode stages.

In Smash 4

Creating new stages is possible in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U.

In Ultimate

Creating new stages is possible in Ultimate, though stage collisions have new properties that cannot currently be edited by the Smash 4 stage collision editor.

Gameplay modifications

An icon for denoting incomplete things.

Gameplay modifications for the games are intended to, as their name implies, modify how the actual gameplay works. Character movesets or even the core engine might be changed, techniques might be removed, altered or newly added.

Animations/Models

In Brawl

An icon for denoting incomplete things.

For Brawl, the tool BrawlBox easily allows modders to replace models and animations. Brawl mods usually feature a lot of new custom models and animations.

In Melee

For Melee, editing animations or models is very limited and rarely done.

In 2017, the Smash 4 modding tool Smash Forge became compatible with Melee, making it possible import new models over models over Melee characters [1]. Some small mods that replace a costume of a character have been created, for example, a Ryu model import over Captain Falcon [2].

In SD Remix, a few characters got different animations for some moves, reusing animations from different moves; for example, Pichu used its roll animation for its Dash attack [3], and Bowser, his aerial item down-throw for his Down aerial [4]. In March 2019, the first custom animation on a Melee character happened: Falco got his Forward Air imported from Ultimate [5]

In 64

For Smash 64, editing animations or models is also very limited. In 2019, Smash Remix became the first mod with these features: A Ganondorf model replacing Captain Falcon got newly created animations for his smash attacks, where he uses a trident weapon.

In Smash 4

For Smash 4, there is a tool called Smash Forge for changing models and animations [6]. Mods replacing Fox with Wolf [7] and Dr. Mario with one of the Ice Climbers [8] from their Brawl appearances have been created.

In Ultimate

For Ultimate, there is a tool called StudioSB, which allows for model imports and animation imports. Add-ons for Blender were also made to edit some animation/model files. Material edits are done via ParamXML or CrossMod, to change properties like how metallic or bright an object appears.

Adding new characters

Mewtwo and Roy square off in Project M. The addition of new characters to mods is a new trend.

In 2013, the addition of characters has become a possibility for Brawl mods. Project M notably added Roy and Mewtwo as playable characters in version 3.0 after the absence of the duo in Brawl. In 2015, a build called Project M Ex was created, mainly by hacker PyotrLuzhin/Петр Лужин, that worked as template for builds to easily add new slots for characters. It included all characters present in Project M, as well as Ridley. All future builds that were based on Project M (Legacy XP, Smash 2) and added new characters are based on this template, and mods like Brawl- switched to this template reimplementing their changes.

Brawl- added Pichu, Roy, Mewtwo, and newcomer Waluigi to the game. Newer mods based on Project M like Legacy XP add even more characters, that might have never been playable, into the game with completely original movesets.

As of version 0.9.4 of Smash Remix, a Smash 64 mod, 8 characters have been added: Ganondorf, Young Link, Falco, Dr. Mario, Dark Samus, Wario (the first to have a completely original moveset), Lucas, and Bowser alongside the original 12. More original characters are also planned for the mod.

Adding new characters to Melee, either version of Smash 4, and Ultimate is not known to be possible, only replacing others.

Notable gameplay mods

Super Smash Bros.

19XX

Main article: 19XX

19xx.png

19XXTE (Tournament edition) is the first and most notable of gameplay mods involving Smash 64. Similar to the concurrently developed 20XX, 19XXTE is intended to assist players in training their skills for professional play in Smash 64, as well as adding various improvements for tournament play, such as a Match timer, and allowing for access to the ordinarily unplayable stages [[Battlefield (SSB)}|Battlefield]], Final Destination, Meta Crystal and cloudless Yoshi's Island. The mod has notably seen use in most Smash 64 tournaments since Hitstun 3 in late 2015, including GENESIS 3, the first tournament with over 200 participants.

19XXGE (Genesis edition) is more or less identical to 19XXTE and got its name from being designed for the GENESIS series.

19XXCE (Complete edition) has more content, such as a bigger stage selection screen including all 1P only and unplayable test stages, and an enhanced training mode with options for hitbox display, color overlays, flashes on Z-cancel, the option to set the percentages, and more.

SSBMSE

SSBMSE.png

SSBMSE (More Stage edition) [9] is a modification with the goal to add more tournament-viable stages to the game. Version 0.3 was released in April 2019, and features Kalos Pokemon League, Smashville, non-transforming Pokemon Stadium, and Final Destination, in addition to Dream Land, Yoshi's Island, Battlefield, Final Destination, and Meta Crystal. Since it was merged into Smash Remix, it won't be developed any further.

Smash Remix

SmashRemixLogo.png

Smash Remix is a mod with the goal to expand Smash 64 with new characters, stages, etc. while staying true to its core gameplay. New mechanics from the other Smash games, like wavedashing, are now added. The vision involves having tournaments where the new characters are pitched against the old ones, all the clones being viable against the originals.

In May 2019, the first version, entitled 0.5, was released, which replaced Captain Falcon's model and moveset with Ganondorf, mostly based on his Melee appearence. In later versions, he got decloned and received completely new smash attacks based on his ones introduced in Ultimate where he uses a trident weapon resembling Phantom Ganon's weapon in Ocarina of Time rather than the sword from the Spaceworld 2000 demo. He also gained a unique series icon, being a cracked and broken Triforce. In versions 0.7, 0.8.1 & 0.8.2, Young Link replacing Link, Falco replacing Fox, and Dr. Mario replacing Mario were added. Notable differences from their Melee counterparts, where their cloned moveset was mostly based off, are Young Link using his roll from the Zelda series as a dash attack, Falco not having lasers and instead using Falco Phantasm as his neutral special, and Dr. Mario's down aerial being a strong spike like in Ultimate instead of a drill attack. He also later gained his own series icon, being a Megavitamin. All the newcomers received their own victory screen themes as well.

In version 0.8.2, released in August 2019, it became possible to add new stages instead of replacing old ones like in previous releases. For example, in version 0.8, a new stage based on Ganon's castle in Ocarina of Time became the first new stage in this mod, replacing Hyrule Temple. New stages are for example taken from the SSBMSE mod, which was merged with Smash Remix in version 0.8.2.

In version 0.9, released in October 2019, the new characters no longer replaced older characters, and it was finally possible to play with each of the original 12 characters and the 4 new characters, expanding the character selection screen to 16 characters. Version 0.9.1, released on Christmas Eve 2019, adds Dark Samus as a playable character who shares their gameplay from how it is in Ultimate, but also gains some new moves that resemble the ones Dark Samus had as an Assist Trophy in Smash 4. Eight more stages were added as well. In addition, it also incorporates all features from 19XXCE, such as Neutral Spawns and Hazard Toggle. Additionally Wario was teased for a future update.

Version 0.9.2, releasing March 15th, 2020, follows through on this with the addition of Wario as the first unique newcomer to the game, and while most of his normals are similar to Brawl's take on the character, he has different smash attacks, specials (except Corkscrew), and a new down air, in addition to having a custom stage entrance in which he crash lands with his plane, the Bulldog. Overall, Wario more so represents the Wario Land series in this mod over the main series which focuses more on the WarioWare series. He also uses the Mario series icon rather than his usual "W" symbol, likely due to Wario Land not being established as its own "series" at the release of vanilla Smash 64. It also adds more stages, support for more stage features like hazards and moving platforms, framerate optimizations for various stages, gameplay variants of the original 12 such as regional variants, polygon team, Metal Mario and Giant DK, and full 1P mode accessability for the new cast, with new Break the Targets stages for them to complete. It also added changeable music for stages, with the option to choose a specific song or by random with each track having a different rarity of playing on its stage.

On April 1st, 2020, the Mad Piano from Super Mario 64 was “revealed” under the guise of version 1.0.0 as an April Fools’ joke. Because of this, version 1.0.0 and the Mad Piano were not released. However it was then officially added in version 0.9.5 sharing a slot with Luigi.

Version 0.9.3 was released on May 12th, 2020; adding Lucas as a playable character with him mostly retaining his gameplay from the regular series. However, he rides in on the Pork Bean rather than the Coffee Table during his stage intro. PK Fire also replaces PK Freeze as his neutral special, similarly to Ness's situation in this game, due to 64 lacking unique side specials, as well as the frozen status effect. The update also added more regional variants for the original cast, more stages (such as one for Lucas that takes place in New Pork City, and a "Smashketball" stage based on a popular Custom Stage concept players make, with the goal being to KO fighters by launching them into a Barrel Cannon that sends them directly downwards), more music for already existing stages, and unique Board the Platforms stages for most of the mod's newcomers. It also added more miscellaneous options, such as the ability to switch the menu music between Smash 64, Melee, and Brawl's versions.

Version 0.9.4 was released on September 6th, 2020, and saw the addition of Bowser. His moveset consists of moves he had in Melee, in addition to a few new ones such as a sex kick neutral aerial, a jab combo ending with a bite, and a new fire-breathing up aerial. His forward throw was changed to be like the Flying Slam. His running animation, back aerial, and other attributes also more closely resemble how they've been since Smash 4. Giga Bowser was also added, selectable underneath Bowser's slot in the same fashion as Metal Mario, Giant DK, and the Fighting Polygons under their respective characters. Like his Project M version and Dr. Mario in this mod, Bowser also has his own series icon rather than a Super Mushroom, that being the iconic logo of his face, using its design from Super Mario 64, as opposed to the design used since Mario Kart: Double Dash!! like in PM (although the modern design is used for his damage meter). His intro also differs from the main series, being him riding in on his Clown Car. His skeletal form when getting hit by electric attacks also resembles Dry Bowser. Version 0.9.4 also adds new stages such as Bowser's Keep from Super Mario RPG, Goomba's Road from Paper Mario, and World 1-1 from Super Mario Bros., which is a scrolling stage similar to Mushroomy Kingdom; as well as Dream Land and Ω forms of the original 9 stages, Race to the Finish as a standalone mode akin to Break the Targets and Board the Platforms, Multi-Man Mode, Cruel Multi-Man Mode, and a 12 Character Battle Versus Mode that has a similar idea to Squad Strike and Smashdown as new game modes. Newcomers to the mod who still didn't have their own Board the Platforms stage gained one, including a unique one for the Polygon variants of the roster.

Version 0.9.5 was released on December 6th, 2020 and was the first major update to not have a newcomer with their own slot; however, the Mad Piano was officially added just like in the April Fools' teaser, selectable under Luigi's slot like the other "boss" characters of the game. The update added transformation items which are brand new to Smash 64, being the Super Mushroom, Poison Mushroom, and Cloaking Device. It also added Kirby Hats for the mod's newcomers.

Additionally, the mod will have smaller updates in between the major version changes that typically just fix bugs and are distinguished by placing a lowercase letter after the version number, starting with "a" and moving onwards alphabetically; for example, version 0.9.3c being the third update to 0.9.3 and fixing glitches regarding Jigglypuff's jump height, the combo meter not counting certain moves, and warping in the new bonus stages added amongst other issues.

Super Smash Bros. Melee

Melee: SD Remix

Main article: Melee: SD Remix

Melee SDR.png

Melee: SD Remix is the first of notable of hacks involving Melee. SD Remix holds some niche appeal amongst some devoted Melee players. The concept behind Melee: SD Remix can be compared to that of Balanced Brawl; both mods avoid making changes to the game's base engine in favour of buffing and nerfing individual attributes of characters to make the game more balanced. Some stages have also been altered as to allow for better competitive gameplay. The development for SD Remix continues today, but appears to have slowed down, with the last version being from 2015.

As of July 5, 2015, a version loadable from a memory card, entitled SD Remix Lite, was released; it is also the only memory card mod that can run with full features on all versions of Melee, including NTSC/NTSC-J 1.00, 1.01, 1.02, and PAL, and even though it is named version 3.2, it still contains all fixes of SD Remix Full 3.2.1.

20XX

Main article: 20XX

20XXTELogo.png

The 20XX Melee Training Hack Pack does not feature any true modifications to Melee's gameplay; rather, as its name suggests, it modifies Melee's overall user interface to allow players to train their skills for professional Melee tournaments. Hacks, for instance, can allow players to flash differing colours to allow for practising of L-cancelling or allow for players to view hitbox data for the game's various characters. Other, minor hacks are also available, allowing for players to modify stages, use PAL versions of characters, or use unique costumes.

An extension of the 20XX Melee Training Hack Pack is the 20XX Tournament Edition. Developed by professional Melee player Dan Salvato, 20XX Tournament Edition features various hacks to streamline the mod's performance in tournament use, as well as other minor improvements, such as widescreen support; it also uniquely runs via hacked save data on a GameCube memory card, allowing for it to be spread through the standard software found on either the GameCube or Wii.

Silly Melee

SillyMeleeLogo.png

Silly Melee [10] is a modification of Melee with the purpose of making every character overpowered. Made by Alpharad and MagicScrumpy with assistance from Casey O'Rourke, it is self-described on its official website as "Very, very silly. Characters do things that they never should have been able to do." Version 1.0 was released in December 2015.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Balanced Brawl

Balancedbrawllogo.png

Balanced Brawl is unusual amongst Brawl mods in that it does not significantly alter the core gameplay physics of Brawl. In its attempts to make the game more balanced, it instead primarily focuses buffing and nerfing all the characters, as well as adding some universal nerfs, such as altering how ledges work in order to combat planking. In addition to its various character tweaks, some of the stages were also changed, though not to an extent seen in other mods; most stage hazards are still present, but instead are either weakened or occur less often. Likely as a result of its lack of immediately visible changes, Balanced Brawl was unable to find the popularity of other mods for Brawl, though it did attain a small niche composed of those who opposed the changes made by Brawl+.

While not officially abandoned, the last notable update for Balanced Brawl, version 3, was released in 2010, with only a 2011 bugfix patch for PAL regions being released since then. Because of the effectively ceased development, Balanced Brawl is generally considered to be antiquated. As its last version was based on the Brawl metagame from 2010, some notable developments are not reflected in Balanced Brawl, such as the emergence of Olimar as a top tier character, as well as the gradually decreasing dominance of Snake.

Brawl-

Main article: Brawl-

BrawlMinusLogo.png

Brawl-, like most other Brawl mods, attempts to change the cast and physics of Brawl in order to make the game more balanced. As a farcical jab to the then-concurrent mod of Brawl+ and its careful use of appropriate nerfs and buffs, the changes to the characters and physics in Brawl- are intended by the developers to be absurd and over-the-top in comparison; Brawl-'s development has relied on the mantra of "if everyone is broken, no one is". Hitstun, for instance, has been drastically increased as to allow for combos that are much easier to perform than either Brawl or Melee and all characters now have the ability to wall jump. In addition, instead of giving characters a mix of appropriate buffs and nerfs to balance the cast, all the characters have been buffed to ridiculous levels and each given a plethora of new, very powerful options; Ike, for instance, can charge Eruption and store it, allowing for a powerful kill move. The mod is noteworthy for being the only major Brawl mod aimed towards casual players instead of competitive players, though the mod is still intended to have competitive balance.

Brawl- enjoyed considerable popularity and attention when first released in 2010, and it became the most popular Brawl mod among the fanbase in this time, due to its more obvious changes compared to Balanced Brawl and its less controversial changes compared to Brawl+; the game was even featured as a side-event at some Brawl tournaments, such as at Apex 2010. As Project M got farther into development and started releasing more complete builds, however, Brawl- would become eclipsed in popularity, though it still has a large, devoted cult following. Despite the diminishing popularity and lack of representation at tournaments, development for Brawl- continues to this day, with builds being released into 2017.

Brawl+

Main article: Brawl+

Brawl+ Logo.png

Brawl+ was the first notable gameplay mod available for Brawl, and it also became the first mod to develop its own tournament scene, though such tournaments were not recognised as official. The mod featured multiple tweaks to gameplay that would later be seen in most future mods; in addition to changing the physics engine, some stages were changed in order to make them fit the guidelines for legality within tournaments, and individual characters had various attributes nerfed and buffed in an attempt to reduce competitive inequality between characters. Despite popularising the concept of modifying the base gameplay of Brawl and even being featured as a side-event at some Brawl tournaments, Brawl+ was immediately controversial to some members of the community, due to the fact that most of its changes were seen by many as solely attempting to make Brawl play exactly like Melee, particularly in regard to changes to individual characters, such as Fox and Jigglypuff having become altered to make them almost identical to their Melee counterparts. Brawl+'s own staff became estranged and antagonistic towards each other because of controversies over the development and ultimate goal of the mod.

Development of the mod ceased in 2010, with version 7.0.3. Most of its staff moved onto Project M, a mod with a similar design philosophy to Brawl+, but with a more concentrated and slightly different goal. Today, Brawl+ is mostly viewed as a curiosity amongst Smashers who are interested in seeing how the hacking scene of Brawl first started.

Project M

Main article: Project M

PMLogo.png

Project M can be seen as a spiritual successor to Brawl+, due to the two mods sharing much of the identical staff. Project M features many of Brawl+'s previous physics changes, but was able to distance itself from the previous mod and its related controversies by giving more thorough changes to all characters. Of all Brawl gameplay mods, Project M remains the most popular, due to its altered physics engine that makes it play similarly to Melee and thorough nerfing and buffing of all characters in the game; although aimed primarily at hardcore players as opposed to casual gamers, Project M's considerable "fanservice", such as the inclusion of Roy and Mewtwo, new palette swaps that reference more video games than Brawl's standard selections, and other such interests have allowed it to reach popularity amongst such players. Project M's popularity led to it eventually becoming a notable side-event in tournaments, and it later developed its own distinctive tournament scene, with Apex 2014's Project M event attracting even more entrants than Brawl's.

Newer revisions of Project M had other additions to the game, such as added multiplayer modes, new maps, and a new announcer, with the last major revision being 3.6. While intended to include several completely new characters in its next revision, as well as further buffs and nerfs, development on Project M ceased on 1 December 2015, due to concerns over the legality of the mod. Despite this stoppage, Project M continues to maintain a devoted following, with tournaments for it still being organised.

Legacy TE

LegacyTELogo.png

Legacy TE is a tourney-viable modification of Project M 3.6 that aims to add new content while also keeping core, fundamental gameplay unmodified. It features a variety of tourney-safe alternative stage skins, costumes, and quality of life features. This includes shortcuts to edit a players' controls without leaving the character selection screen, an improvement to character files to reduce crashing likelihood, and an improved menu interface. A debug menu made for the mod allows players to train their skills for professional tournaments. For example, there is an option to show DI lines that show how directional influence affects where an attack sends an opponent, with a clearly defined end point that either aims to the ground or stops in the air. A variety of tools and resources have also been made for the mod, allowing tournament organizers to easily customize their builds, including changing the stagelist, replacing costumes, or editing brand assets on menus. Legacy TE has received worldwide adoption and is generally considered the go-to edition of Project M by tournament players. Version 2.11 was released in January 2019. Version 2.5 was released on August 26, 2019, and features 15 costumes per character, alternate stage toggle options in the code menu, and many other features.

Development ceased on March 13, 2020, with an announcement on their website [11] and removal of all downloads. Project co-lead David V. Kimball stressed no Nintendo involvement in the shutdown, and directed further questions to Ryan Morrison [12], similar to the Project M shutdown.

Project+

Main article: Project+

ProjectPlusLogo.png

Project+ is a modification of Project M 3.6 (based on Legacy TE) with the aim to improve the balance among the cast by making small moveset changes to all or most characters. It is intended to become tournament standard. Development started in 2018, and version v1b was released in April 2019.

On March 17, 2020, Project+ 2.0 was revealed, with additional content, such as new modes, revamps to some characters' movesets such as Bowser getting a new fireball attack and Charizard getting Thunder Punch, and the reveal of Knuckles the Echidna as the only new playable character beyond what Project M had.

Legacy XP

LegacyXPLogo.jpg

Legacy XP is a modification of Project M 3.6 that includes more characters, 700+ additional stages, and new modes. While the characters from Project M were mostly unaltered (Yoshi and Link received some non-PM 3.6 moveset-fixing edits, and Snake gained the ability to walk while using his box taunt), 10 more fighters were added: Young Link, Pichu, and Dr. Mario returned from Melee, and Ridley, Waluigi, Geno, Lucina, and Metal-Sonic were added in the beta build released in September 2016. Shadow and Mage Ganondorf (inspired by his Ocarina of Time appearance) followed in version 2.0 Full in May 2018. Version 2.1, featuring some balance changes, was released in March 2019.

Just like the aforementioned Legacy TE, development ceased on March 13, 2020 with an announcement on their website [13] and removal of all downloads. Project co-lead David V. Kimball stressed no Nintendo involvement in the shutdown, and directed further questions to Ryan Morrison [14], similar to the Project M shutdown.

Legacy XP Lite is a combination of Legacy XP with some of the more competitive-friendly stages from Legacy TE, greatly reducing the number of stages and the mod size from over 5 GB to under 2 GB. Version 2.1 was released in March 2019.

Smash 2

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Smash 2 [15] is a modification of Super Smash Bros. Brawl that was designed to be like Super Smash Bros. Melee if Nintendo had more time to develop it (leading to more characters), which makes it even more similar to Melee than Project M. In addition to the engine changes from Project M, stage camera and lighting were edited, and the movesets of all Melee veterans were made to be like in Melee, with small buffs to the worse ones. For the newcomers in Brawl, Wolf and Lucas were designed to be more similar to the characters they were partially cloned from, and for other characters, abilities they gained that originated from games released after Melee got replaced (for example, Dedede's Jet Hammer).

Wave 1.1 was released in November 2017, having 32 characters (Zelda & Sheik sharing one spot in the character select screen): Wario, Wolf, Lucas, Dedede, Snake, and Sonic, in addition to the 26 from Melee. In wave 1.8, released in July 2018, Diddy Kong and R.O.B. were added, but Lucas and Wolf were removed, which caused a lot of controversy among the developers and fans, and ultimately led to a lot of the developers leaving and a temporary end of Smash 2's development. There were plans to add the remaining Brawl characters that had already appeared in a game at the time of Melee's release (Meta Knight, Zero Suit Samus, Pit, and Olimar; not Toon Link, however, most likely due to Young Link's presence) and replace Ike and Lucario with Alm (from the 1992 game Fire Emblem Gaiden, having a similar moveset to Ike) and Togepi (with all its specials being Metronome having random effects).[1]

Wave 2.0 was released in May 2020, which added Olimar and Zero Suit Samus (under the name "Suitless Samus"). Additionally, Lucas and Wolf returned, along with modifications to their and other newcomers' movesets. The menu was also changed to match Melee's design. One of the plans from the time before 2.0 for the potential addition of Meta Knight and Pit is being considered to be debatable, but the plans to add Alm and Togepi were ultimately scrapped.

Smash 2 Plus

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Smash 2 Plus can be seen as the spiritual successor of Smash 2.

In version 1.5, released in December 2018, Wolf and Lucas are added back, and Olimar and Toon Link are newcomers, and in version 2.0, released in June 2019, Meta Knight and Zero Suit Samus appear as newcomers. Mute City returns, which makes Poké Floats the only Melee stage not in Smash 2. A code for Melee random character select was added, where pressing A next to the character selection screen gives the player a random character.

Super Smash Bros. for Wii U

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Melee-inspired

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4XM [16] is a modification of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U that aims to change the engine to make the game more like Super Smash Bros. Melee, and add most mechanics like L-Canceling and Wavedashing back. Development started in 2017, and in January 2019, 4xM Beta v1.4.3 was released.

USM-eM [17] is another modification independent from 4XM with the same goal.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

ProjectNX

Announced at the beginning of Smash Ultimate's life cycle, with the initial name being Project Ultimate[2], ProjectNX is a Project M-esque mod currently being developed by NyxTheShield, that Nyx, at the moment, sees as his own "personal passion project" that he isn't going to release for some time into the future. So far, it mostly modifies the engine and doesn't include ACMD moveset changes for the most part, but that is bound to change, since he has made comments in the past where he has said he would like to fix Captain Falcon's Knee Smash among other things. ProjectNX has garnered controversy within the Smash community, with many divided over the issue on whether or not modding Ultimate to act like Melee would serve justice. The project was eventually faced with legal pressure by Nintendo and has since ceased all development.

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