Volt Tackle

Pikachu, seen as a giant blue ball of light in this image, unleashing Volt Tackle.

Volt Tackle is Pikachu's Final Smash attack in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. When Pikachu uses this attack, it temporarily turns into a gigantic ball of light. The ball of light will then fly around the stage at great speeds, and the direction Pikachu goes during this move can be controlled by the player. When an opponent is hit, they take about 10% damage or 20% damage, depending on how much of the attack hits the opponent and how fast Pikachu is moving. The move has little knockback, barely stunning the opponent, but can rack up a lot of damage. The move can deliver much knockback, when the attack button is pressed. The Final Smash lasts around 10 seconds. The Final Smash is generally accepted as extremely powerful by fans, but its short length causes it to be severely less useful. Interestingly, when a direction is chosen, Volt Tackle will move on a somewhat "set path" and go back and forth until a new direction is chosen. When the attack is about to end, its appearance alters ever so slightly and is easier to control. During this stage of easier control, Pikachu cannot pass through walls.

Volt Tackle is named after a secret move in the Pokémon Advance games and later that only members of the Pikachu family can learn. This move in Pokémon is a direct reference to the signature move of the titular character of a Genesis/Mega Drive game called Pulseman made by Game Freak (the same developer that made Pokémon). The move's look and controls in Brawl are also direct references to the move's look and controls from Pulseman.

Trophy Description

Pikachu, transformed into a ball of light that can slam into foes. It can also fly to chase down those who try to jump out of range. Sparks get stronger when you press the attack button. However, its increased inertia makes midair movement tough. If you get carried away flying, the effect will end, and you'll destroy yourself. Be careful it doesn't happen to you.

External Links

[1] The Volt Tackle can be seen near the end of the clip.