A semi-spike or pseudo-spike is an attack which sends the opponent downward yet mostly horizontally, thusly resulting in limited Directional Influence options for the target - DI'ing them correctly will only alter the angle just slightly and shorten the sendoff angle. This is distinct from a spike, which sends the enemy straight down.
Moves that are semi-spikes include (but are not limited to):
- Sheik's forward aerial
- Captain Falcon's forward aerial (though it's very noticable when you DI this one)
- Link's Up B attack after it's initial hitbox
- Peach's forward smash (Golf Club and Tennis Racket)
- Ganondorf's up aerial (the end of its animation)
- Captain Falcon's up aerial (the end of its animation)
- Pikachu's up aerial (while tail is directly or near directly above him) (also known as the tail-whip)
- Mr. Game and Watch's neutral B at close range (known as a Pan-spike)
- The tip of Marth's down tilt and his up smash, must not hit with sword.
- Fox's Shine
- Bowser's down aerial, using the hitbox when he hits the ground
- Hitting someone with a thrown Star Rod