| Special Flag | |
|---|---|
 The Special Flag as it appears in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U. | |
| Appears in | SSB4 |
Special Flag (スペシャルフラッグ, Special Flag), also called S-Flag, is an item from numerous games developed by Namco. It appears in Super Smash Bros. 4 as an item. When used, the character will hold it in the air and become immobile for 3 seconds; the successful completion of its use will add a KO to the user's score in a timed match, or give the user an additional stock in a stock match. If a character takes any hit while using the Special Flag, they will automatically drop it (this resets the time needed to use the flag as well).
While holding the flag, all grounded up, down, and neutral standard attacks will activate the flag. A dash attack will not activate the flag. The flag can be tossed away without using it with the grab button.
Limits
Given the nature of the Special Flag's bonus, it can only appear in variations of Time and Stock matches, and will not appear at all in Coin or Stamina battles, even if it is specifically selected for in the Item Switch.
Additionally, if a fighter has the maximum amount of stocks (99) and uses a Special Flag, nothing will happen. This will not stop a computer player from still attempting to use it.
Origin
Special Flags have appeared in multiple games developed by Namco. The item debuted in the maze game of Rally-X, acting as an item that had to be collected by the player alongside other flags scattered throughout levels; the Special Flag, however, gave more points than other flags.
The item has appeared in more recent games by Namco, often acting as an easter egg to players; among these appearances include Star Fox: Assault and Tales of Vesperia. Similar to the various series symbols that have appeared in the Smash Bros. series, the Special Flag has also been a flagship symbol for the company, even being used as the favicon for its official website.
Gallery
Charizard holding a Special Flag.
Pikachu using a Special Flag.
Wii Fit Trainer using a Special Flag.
