A jab reset is a technique in Super Smash Bros. Melee that is performed by jabbing an opponent while they are knocked down. The jab will force the opponent to getup, where the opponent can then hit them with almost any move they desire, which is usually utilised to land a KO move. This only works with extremely weak set knockback attacks, or attacks with extremely low base knockback at very low percentages, such as the first hit in most jabs. This is because higher knockback attacks will force the opponent into knockback. Unlike a normal getup from knockdown, a jab reset induced getup does not have any invincibility frames. Jab resets can also be used to continue a combo on an opponent even after a knockdown.
This technique works differently in Super Smash Bros. Brawl, where when hit by such an attack, an opponent goes into a flopping animation, and if not hit after this with a knockback inducing attack, they'll automatically perform a standard getup. However, unlike the previous games, an opponent can be repeatedly hit to induce the flopping animation if hit with a sufficiently weak attack in this state, which can result in a lock, such as various jab locks and the laser lock.
In Super Smash Bros. 4, the technique functions similarly to how it does in Brawl, but characters will be thrown into the air after three jabs are used[1].
In Super Smash Bros. Melee
Frame data animations
Falco's first animation during which he can be jab reset.
Falco's second animation during which he can be jab reset.
Falco's standing up animation that is forced in a jab reset.
