Differences Between Super Smash Bros. on 3DS and Wii U

Super Smash Bros. comes out later this year on two platforms. This popular game can’t come out quick enough for the Wii U. It also comes out on the 3DS and people may be wondering what the differences between the two versions are.

That’s where I come in, to let everyone know the current differences between each version of Super Smash Bros. Maybe you need help deciding which to get? Maybe you’re like me and will buy both, but still like to know if there are any big changes. I got you covered!

Playing Smash Bros. in the palm of your hand, or on a much bigger screen?

This marks the first time Super Smash Bros. plays on a handheld console. The 3DS is great for this game and shows it is up to the task. Let us get right down to the differences.

Smoother Edges for the Wii U Version

Obviously, the graphics are different. The Wii U has a higher resolution than the 3DS and is a more powerful machine, but that’s not all. 

• The 3DS version has a flatter look and black outline on the characters. This outline makes it easier to see each character on the smaller screen. You can adjust this in the game.
• The Wii U version has complex shading and smoother edges.

Moveset Customizations for the 3DS

The 3DS version has an exclusive moveset customization feature. Not much is known, but it will be like different variants of a certain move and stat changing items. 

Example: Gloves that increase attack power and changing Mario’s fireball to a slower moving projectile that hits multiple times.

These customizations can be transferred to the Wii U version. On both version, you can only use these in local play and when playing online with friends. You cannot use these when playing strangers.

Stages based on either handheld or console games

The stages are the biggest difference between each version. The 3DS version has more stages based on handheld Nintendo games, while the Wii U version has more stages based on console games.

The 3DS stages each have two different songs to choose from, like in Melee. The Wii U version has a higher section for each stage, which you can customize, like in Brawl.

Exclusive Game Modes

So far, the 3DS has an exclusive game mode called Smash Run.

Smash Run is a 5-minute adventure mode that involves exploration and battling enemies.

• Players can get power-up markers by defeating enemies, opening chests, breaking targets, and more.
• Enemies can steal power-up, as well as other players, so watch out.
• At the end of the 5 minutes, players face each other in a 1-minute challenge. 
• This challenge ranges from normal fights, special rule fights, or races.
• The power-ups gained during the adventure add to your characters stats at the end.

These are all the currently known differences between each version of Super Smash Bros. If any new changes come out between now and each launch, I’ll be sure to add them. Check back here from time to time so you don’t miss anything.