Overview
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate includes a large roster that you unlock gradually through play. This evergreen explainer covers reliable methods to unlock all characters, whether you prefer playing versus modes, completing challenges, or using alternative options. Details reflect mechanics available after game updates through 2024 and focus on practices unlikely to change with future patches.
Standard Ways to Unlock Fighters
The primary paths to unlock fighters are playing Versus matches, completing Classic Mode, and finishing target tests or special conditions. Each method contributes progressively to your unlock list, and some characters require multiple steps or specific conditions. If you play regularly with different modes, you will steadily complete the roster without relying on obscure shortcuts.
Versus Mode and Timed Battles
- Play 10 versus matches with any character to unlock a series of starting fighters.
- Continue playing versus; many later fighters unlock at milestones such as 20, 50, or more matches.
- Timed Battles and Squad Strike can also count toward standard match unlocks depending on settings.
Classic Mode and Special Conditions
- Clear Classic Mode with any character to unlock specific fighters and costumes.
- Complete Special Conditions, such as defeating opponents under restrictions, to unlock fighters directly.
- Some characters require a combination of Classic clears and additional conditions.
Challenge Mode and Target Tests
Smash Tour and the Spirits mode do not directly unlock playable fighters, but many character-specific target tests do. These appear as small missions on the stage where the fighter is fought in Classic or Special Smash. Completing a target test unlocks that fighter instantly and can often be skipped later by purchasing them from the in-game shop after initial availability.
Structure of Target Tests
- Each target test features a stage, enemy team, and simple objective.
- Victory typically unlocks the fighter and sometimes a spirit or sticker.
- Tests can be replayed, and cleared targets usually remain unlocked after updates.
Buying and Scanning Options
You can reduce grind by purchasing fighters from the Vault Shop once they become available. Some fighters are offered in rotating shop rotations, while others may appear after you complete related content. Amiibo scanning can also unlock specific characters when supported figures are detected, though availability varies by region and update cycle.
Unlock Order Reference
Below is a concise reference of how typical unlock progression aligns with common milestones. Exact requirements can vary by patch, so treat this as a durable overview rather than a fixed sequence.
| Milestone | Typical Unlock Impact | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Initial roster (pre-download) | 8 fighters available from start | Game build |
| ~10 versus matches | Additional fighters unlock in batches | Verified patches |
| Complete Classic Mode once | Specific characters and costumes unlocked | In-game triggers |
| Clear all target tests | Remaining fighters typically unlocked | Developer documentation |
| Vault Shop availability | Purchasable fighters, rotating offers | In-game shop data |
Time-Saving Tips
If you want to complete the roster efficiently, combine modes in a single session: start with versus matches for batch unlocks, run a few Classic clears for specific characters, and tackle a target test when one appears. Consistent short play sessions can finish the unlock list faster than infrequent long runs. Tracking which fighters remain in the shop can also help you prioritize purchases instead of repeating unnecessary challenges.
Summary and Takeaways
Unlocking all characters in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate relies on three core activities: playing versus matches, completing Classic Mode and target tests, and using optional methods like the Vault Shop or amiibo. Progress carries over across updates, and most fighters become accessible through persistent, varied play. For long-term reference, maintain a checklist of remaining characters and shop rotations so you can focus on content that still needs completion rather than repeating already unlocked fighters.