Smashing Through Time: The Top 5 Best Super Smash Bros. Stages Ever, Ranked

Super Smash Bros., a series that has enthralled gamers since its debut in 1999, is famous for its unique and diverse stages. These stages are more than just scenery; they are battlefields that provide their own unique gameplay elements, challenges, and opportunities. From floating platforms to transforming terrain, each stage adds a unique flavor to the game, making each match a unique experience. But out of the many stages that have featured in the series, which ones stand out the most? Let's dive into the top 5 best Super Smash Bros. stages of all time, ranked.

5. Final Destination (Super Smash Bros. Melee)

Final Destination is as simple as it gets, but sometimes, simplicity is the key to brilliance. This stage, introduced in Super Smash Bros. Melee, is a flat platform with no terrain features or hazards, making it a test of pure skill.

Gameplay

The gameplay on Final Destination is straightforward. There are no platforms or hazards to interfere with the battle. This makes it a popular choice for serious matches, as it allows players to focus solely on their character's abilities and the opponent's moves.

Setting

The stage is set in space, with a stunning backdrop of stars and galaxies, and the platform seems to be traveling at light speed. This gives the stage a dramatic and intense atmosphere, fitting for the epic battles that take place on it.

Pros:

• No distractions or interruptions from terrain features or hazards.
• Great for serious matches and tournaments.
• Visually appealing background.

Cons:

• May be too simple for players who prefer stages with interactive elements.
• No cover or high ground to use strategically.

4. Battlefield (Super Smash Bros. series)

The Battlefield stage is a staple of the Super Smash Bros. series, appearing in every game since the original. Its balanced layout and neutral design make it a favorite among many players.

Gameplay

The Battlefield features a main platform with three floating platforms above it. These platforms add a vertical element to the gameplay, giving players more options for movement and attack angles.

Setting

The setting of the Battlefield varies between games, but it is usually a serene and tranquil place with a floating island or platform in the sky.

Pros:

• Well-balanced layout suitable for all characters and playstyles.
• Three floating platforms add complexity to the gameplay.
• Familiar and comfortable for players, as it appears in every game.

Cons:

• Lack of unique features or hazards may be boring for some players.
• Visual design is relatively plain compared to other stages.

3. Yoshi's Island (Super Smash Bros. Brawl)

Yoshi's Island, introduced in Super Smash Bros. Brawl, is a charming and colorful stage that adds a fun twist to the gameplay with its unique layout and interactive elements.

Gameplay

The stage features a main platform with a slope on one side and a floating platform that moves up and down. There are also Support Ghosts that appear periodically to act as temporary platforms.

Setting

The stage is set on Yoshi's Island, with a whimsical and vibrant background featuring elements from the Yoshi's Island series of games.

Pros:

• Unique layout and interactive elements add variety to the gameplay.
• Colorful and appealing visual design.
• Support Ghosts can be used strategically.

Cons:

• Sloped terrain can affect character movement and attack trajectories.
• Support Ghosts may disrupt the flow of the match.

2. Hyrule Castle (Super Smash Bros.)

Hyrule Castle, from the original Super Smash Bros., is a large stage with a variety of terrain features and an iconic setting, making it a classic favorite among many players.

Gameplay

The stage features multiple platforms, towers, and a greenhouse-like structure that provides cover. There is also a tornado hazard that can launch characters.

Setting

The stage is set on the rooftop of Hyrule Castle from The Legend of Zelda series, with a picturesque view of Hyrule in the background.

Pros:

• Diverse terrain features provide strategic options.
• Large size allows for more movement and spacing.
• Iconic setting will appeal to The Legend of Zelda fans.

Cons:

• Tornado hazard can be frustrating and unpredictable.
• Large size may be overwhelming for some players.

1. Dream Land (Super Smash Bros.)

Dream Land, also from the original Super Smash Bros., tops our list for its balanced layout, interactive hazard, and nostalgic setting.

Gameplay

The stage features a main platform with three floating platforms in a pyramid arrangement. The Whispy Woods in the middle occasionally blows wind, pushing characters sideways.

Setting

The stage is set in Dream Land from the Kirby series, with the iconic Whispy Woods and a scenic view of the countryside in the background.

Pros:

• Well-balanced layout with a mix of flat ground and platforms.
• Wind hazard adds a fun and unique challenge.
• Charming and nostalgic visual design.

Cons:

• Wind hazard can disrupt gameplay and may be annoying for some players.
• Visual design may be too simple for players who prefer more elaborate stages.

In conclusion, these five stages represent the best of what Super Smash Bros. has to offer in terms of gameplay, setting, and design. They each have their own unique features and challenges, yet they all share the same essence of fun and excitement that makes Super Smash Bros. such a beloved series. Whether you prefer the simplicity of Final Destination or the complexity of Hyrule Castle, there's a stage for everyone in Super Smash Bros.