17 Zelda
The Legend of Zelda (1986 - NES)
Possessing obliterating attacks, Zelda is a character who should not be underestimated. She can quickly gain stage control, highly pressuring her opponent thanks to her multiple projectiles. Since Melee, the princess is clearly no longer in Sheik’s shadow…
Characteristics
Strengths
- High damage potential
- Can easily kill
- Good edgeguard
- Great ledgetrap
- Excellent recovery
Weaknesses
- Lacks safe attacks
- Poor disadvantage state
- Struggles to approach
Matchups
Favourable
Unfavourable
Stages
Favourable
- Can hide under the platforms
- Down B is a real threat on SV and Lylat
Unfavourable
- Struggles to land on the field
Skills
Pro Tips
Features
Zelda's down B, Phantom Slash, has a specific mechanic. The knight can be partially or completely summoned, involving variations of the attack's span, distance, and damage output. The knight can also be used to withstand some attacks. However, the knight can be destroyed, preventing Zelda from calling it for a while. Be careful though, Phantom is known as a projectile, and thus, he can be absorbed or reflected.
Best moves
DOWN B
A neutral winning move that can pressure your opponent's shield, build up damage and even kill. Thanks to Down B's large range, this move can lead to interesting follow ups and is particularly useful in ledgetrap situations.
UP TILT
A good option to cover landing and one of the best combo starters for the princess, especially if you get the hitbox located behind Zelda's back. This move also is a disjoint, goddess knows Zelda needs it...
NEUTRAL AIR
A quick attack, really efficient to interrupt aerial approaches. Inflicting a bunch of damage, this move is also a great combo starter at low %.
FORWARD AIR, BACK AIR
Quite identical, even if the Back air is slightly more powerful, these moves are Zelda's best kill options. A strong out of shield option which is also often used during combos. Using the Sweetspot for an early KO is even better !
NEUTRAL B
Her trademark, Nayru's love, gives Zelda invulnerability from frame 4 to 13, which makes a good and highly appreciated combo breaker. It also deals a lot of damage and can even reflect projectiles. A unique 3 in 1 tool, which should be used carefully though since the move possesses a lot of endlag.