Super Smash Bros. is a 1999 crossover fighting video game developed by HAL Laboratory, Sora Ltd., Game Arts, Bandai Namco Games and published by Nintendo.  The game serves as the first installment in the Super Smash Bros. video game series.

Positives:

• Highly competitive gameplay
• Terrific soundtrack
• Tons of replay value
• Highly customizable

Negatives:

• Dated graphics
• Repetitive gameplay
• Small character roster

Campaign: Although the campaign (referred to as Classic Mode) is fun, it lacks length, depth, and any kind of storyline, which is a let down because of the variety of characters.  An adventure mode would’ve been a great addition to help make a more in-depth campaign. The Classic Mode is challenging but the fact that it isn’t character specific does take away from the experience.   (3 out of 5)

Gameplay: The overall objective of the game is for players to eliminate the competition by knocking them beyond the boundaries of the stages.  To do this, players attack opponents to increase their damage percentage which therefore increases how far players can send opponents off the stage as well as easier.  The gameplay is fast-paced and competitive allowing players with a challenging experience.  The CPUs leveling system makes them incredibly challenging.  The characters do feel unique, with their individual move sets, combos, and special abilities. Items, weapons, and power ups are dispensed throughout the stages and these can definitely effect the outcome of a match.  (4 out of 5)

Graphics: The graphics are crappy compared to later installments, the character and set designs do have a blocky look to them that do come off as comical but hold true to their original look.  The intro is fast paced and does give a great action paced feel for the game.  The fact that each character has their own level theme. Characters even have multiple skins.  (3 out of 5)

Score: The score is absolutely great.  The soundtrack includes music from the different video game franchises that will appeal to fans. The sound effects are good.  (5 out of 5)

Replay Value: Replayability comes in the form of the multiple characters, multiple modes, and options to customize the matches such as creating teamed or free-for-all battles, timed (select time limit) or stocked (select number of lives) matches, and even item settings; all of which keep the gameplay immersive. Also, the game does feature unlockable content for players who want to challenge themselves. Even the games’ ability to allow 4 CPU’s to continue the fight should players become tired can be just as entertaining. There are three other modes; Break the Targets and Board the Platforms, both of which are character specific so they do help to master the characters’ abilities in order to accomplish the objective. Even the Training Mode is worth taking time out to play.  (4 out of 5)

The Verdict: In the end, Super Smash Bros., is a terrific game although it does have its share of flaws.  The graphics don’t hold up to today’s standards, the character roster is a bit limited, and the gameplay can be a bit repetitive.  However, the gameplay is entertaining, settings highly customizable, highly competitive and a terrific soundtrack.  This is definitely a game for fans of these franchise as well as fighting video games. Super Smash Bros. gets 4 out of 5.