Unmasking Palutena’s Pantheon of Problems: Who Gives the Goddess a Game Over in Smash Bros.?
Palutena is the Goddess of Light. She wields celestial powers. In Smash Bros., she seems untouchable. Yet, even deities have off days. Some fighters can clip her wings. Who are these challengers who can send her back to the heavens?
Dash and Down Tilt Demons: Palutena’s Achilles’ Heel
A goddess can struggle with the basics. Palutena has trouble against fast characters. Dash attacks and down tilts pose a problem. This is her kryptonite, not green rocks. It’s about speedy attacks and low hits.
Why is this a challenge for her? Palutena lacks close combat skills. She excels at zoning and keeping competitors at distance. She uses projectiles and aerials for control. But dash attacks and down tilts can tear her zoning apart.
Consider these notorious nuisances:
- Metaknight: This shrouded warrior moves with speed and skill. His dash attack is rapid. His down tilt trips opponents and starts combos. Palutena can’t outmatch him in close combat; it’s like catching smoke.
- Fox: Fox McCloud is fast and aggressive. His dash attack pressures Palutena continually. His down tilt disrupts her approach, forcing her to stay grounded. That’s not a good position for a divine being.
- Greninja: The ninja frog has a slippery style. Greninja’s dash attack covers distance. His down tilt is a low sweep that links to follow-ups. Palutena struggles to keep up, as he moves in and out.
One player noted, “Options. She can’t box, so let’s box.” Characters like Metaknight or Fox force her to engage closely. These fighters dismantle Palutena’s strategy by putting her in uncomfortable situations.
Boxing Ring Blues: Palutena’s No-Go Zone
Palutena’s lack of boxing ability is crucial in these matchups. “Boxing” means close combat in Smash Bros., using jabs, tilts, and footwork for pressure.
Her moveset focuses on zoning. Attacks are slower in close quarters compared to aggressive foes. In a boxing match, especially against speedy characters, she often loses.
The “boxing ring” isn’t just literal; it symbolizes situations where she is trapped. Characters that use dash attacks make this boxing ring larger, constantly pressuring Palutena.
Even as a goddess, Palutena has weaknesses. If you face her in Smash Bros., pick a character that can exploit her vulnerability. You may bring the Goddess of Light down to earth, but let’s avoid any divine retribution.
