So, you're diving into the world of competitive Super Smash Bros. Melee? Awesome! Getting started can feel a bit like learning a new language, especially when it comes to understanding all the rules that govern tournament play. Don't worry, though! This guide will break down everything you need to know, from the basic game settings to more nuanced regulations, making sure you're ready to compete with confidence.

Understanding General Tournament Rules

At its heart, Super Smash Bros. Melee is a party game. But when it comes to tournaments, things get serious (in a fun way, of course!). General tournament rules exist to ensure fair play, consistent gameplay, and a smooth experience for everyone involved. Think of them as the guardrails that keep the hype train on the tracks. These rules cover various aspects of the tournament, from match procedures to conduct expectations, so let's dive in!

Game Settings: The Foundation of Fair Play

First, let's talk game settings. These are the bedrock upon which every match is built. The standard tournament settings are designed to eliminate randomness and promote skill-based competition. Here's a breakdown of the key settings:

• Stock: 4 - This determines how many lives each player has. Four stocks is the standard for most competitive matches, providing a balance between comeback potential and strategic play.
• Time: 8 minutes - This is the time limit for each match. If time runs out, the player with the most stocks remaining wins. If both players have the same number of stocks, the player with the lower percentage wins. And if that's tied, well, sudden death decides it all.
• Stages: Starter and Counterpick - This is a big one, and we'll delve deeper into stages later. Suffice it to say, tournaments use a specific list of stages deemed fair and balanced for competitive play. There are "starter" stages that are used for the first game of a set, and "counterpick" stages that players can choose from after the first game.
• Items: Off - This is crucial. Items introduce randomness, which isn't ideal for a competitive environment where skill should be the deciding factor. Turning items off ensures that players win or lose based on their abilities, not on whether they got lucky with a Starman.
• Pause: Off - Pausing mid-match can disrupt the flow of the game and potentially be used for unsportsmanlike purposes. Therefore, pausing is generally disabled in tournament settings.
• Controller Ports: This might seem trivial, but ensuring that players can easily connect their controllers to the correct ports is essential for starting matches quickly and smoothly. Usually, the TO (Tournament Organizer) will designate specific ports for each setup.
• SDI (Smash Directional Influence): Is allowed, this is a mechanic of the game. Its not allowed the use of macros or any kind of external help that automates or simplify the inputs.

Match Procedure: From Start to Finish

Knowing what to do before, during, and after a match is just as important as knowing how to play. Here's a typical match procedure:

1. Character Selection: Players select their characters, usually in a blind pick format for the first game of a set. This means that both players secretly tell a third party (usually a judge) their character choice to avoid character counter-picking. After the first game, the winner is locked into their character, while the loser can switch if they choose.
2. Stage Striking/Banning: This is where the stage selection process comes into play. Players take turns banning stages from the starter list until only one stage remains. This stage is used for the first game. The specific banning order can vary depending on the tournament ruleset.
3. Playing the Match: Simple enough! Play your best, follow the rules, and have fun.
4. Winner's Choice: After the first game, the winner gets to choose the next stage from either the starter list or the counterpick list. This gives the winner a slight advantage, as they can choose a stage that favors their character or playstyle.
5. Loser's Counterpick: The loser of the previous game gets to choose their character for the next game. This allows them to switch to a character that might have a better matchup against the winner's character on the chosen stage.
6. Repeat: Steps 4 and 5 are repeated until one player wins the required number of games to win the set (usually best-of-three or best-of-five).

Conduct: Respect and Sportsmanship

Tournaments are community events, and maintaining a positive and respectful atmosphere is crucial. Here are some general guidelines for conduct:

• Respect Your Opponent: Win or lose, treat your opponent with respect. Avoid trash-talking, taunting, or any other behavior that could be considered unsportsmanlike.
• Follow the Rules: Abide by the tournament rules and rulings made by the tournament organizers. If you have a question or concern, address it respectfully with the TO.
• Be on Time: Arrive on time for your matches. Being late can disrupt the tournament schedule and inconvenience other players.
• Report Your Scores: After your match, report the results to the tournament organizers promptly.
• Maintain Hygiene: This should be obvious, but please practice good hygiene. Tournaments can be crowded, and no one wants to be stuck next to someone who smells bad.

Stage List: Where the Battles Take Place

The stage list is a curated selection of stages deemed fair and balanced for competitive play. These stages generally have simple layouts, minimal hazards, and are relatively neutral in terms of character advantages. The stage list is typically divided into two categories: starter stages and counterpick stages.

• Starter Stages: These are the stages used for the first game of a set. They are generally considered to be the most neutral and balanced stages in the game. Common starter stages include:
  • Battlefield
  • Final Destination
  • Fountain of Dreams
  • Yoshi's Story
  • Dream Land
• Counterpick Stages: These stages are available for selection after the first game of a set. They often have unique features or layouts that can favor certain characters or playstyles. Common counterpick stages include:
  • Pokemon Stadium
  • Princess Peach's Castle

Stage Striking and Banning: A Strategic Dance

Stage striking and banning is a crucial part of the match procedure. It's a strategic dance between players, each trying to eliminate stages that favor their opponent while leaving stages that benefit themselves. The specific banning order can vary depending on the tournament ruleset, but a common method is the 1-2-1 system, where players take turns banning stages until only one remains.

For example, let's say the starter stage list consists of Battlefield, Final Destination, Fountain of Dreams, Yoshi's Story, and Dream Land. In a 1-2-1 banning system:

1. Player A bans one stage.
2. Player B bans two stages.
3. Player A bans one stage.

The remaining stage is then used for the first game of the set.

Character Legality: Who's Allowed to Rumble?

In Super Smash Bros. Melee, all characters are legal for tournament play. Unlike some other fighting games, there are no characters that are banned or restricted due to balance concerns. This means you're free to choose your favorite character and compete to the best of your ability.

Glitches and Exploits: What's Considered Cheating?

While Super Smash Bros. Melee is a beloved game, it's not without its glitches and exploits. Some of these glitches are considered legal and are integrated into the competitive meta, while others are banned due to their potential to disrupt the game or create unfair advantages. Here's a general guideline:

• Legal Glitches: Wave dashing, L-canceling, and shield dropping are all examples of glitches that are considered legal and are essential techniques in competitive Melee. These techniques are widely used and accepted by the community.
• Banned Glitches: Glitches that allow players to clip through walls, become invincible, or otherwise gain an unfair advantage are typically banned. The specific list of banned glitches can vary depending on the tournament, so it's always a good idea to check with the TO.

Controller Rules: Your Connection to the Game

Your controller is your direct connection to the game, and ensuring that it's functioning properly and adheres to tournament regulations is crucial. Here are some common controller rules:

• Controller Type: The standard controller for Super Smash Bros. Melee is the GameCube controller. While other controllers may be allowed, they must be approved by the tournament organizers and must not provide any unfair advantages.
• Controller Modifications: Certain controller modifications may be allowed, such as button remapping or stick tension adjustments. However, modifications that automate inputs or provide an unfair advantage are typically banned.
• Controller Malfunctions: If your controller malfunctions during a match, you are typically allowed to pause the game and request a replacement. However, you may be required to forfeit the match if you are unable to provide a working controller.

What to do if a Rule is Broken

So, what happens if you think a rule has been broken during a match? The most important thing is to remain calm and respectful. Here's the typical procedure:

1. Pause the Game: If possible, pause the game immediately to address the issue. However, keep in mind that pausing may not be allowed in certain situations, so use your best judgment.
2. Call a Judge: Notify a tournament organizer or judge as soon as possible. They will be responsible for investigating the issue and making a ruling.
3. Explain the Situation: Clearly and concisely explain what happened and why you believe a rule was broken. Provide any evidence you have to support your claim.
4. Accept the Ruling: Once the judge has made a ruling, accept it gracefully, even if you disagree with it. Arguing or disputing the ruling will only create unnecessary drama and could result in further penalties.

Adapting to Different Rulesets

While the rules outlined above are generally considered the standard for Super Smash Bros. Melee tournaments, it's important to note that different tournaments may have slightly different rulesets. Some tournaments may use different stage lists, banning procedures, or even allow certain glitches that are banned elsewhere. Always be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific ruleset of the tournament you're attending.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Competition

Understanding the rules of Super Smash Bros. Melee tournaments is essential for competing effectively and ensuring a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. So, take the time to learn the rules, practice your skills, and most importantly, have fun! The Melee community is a passionate and welcoming group, and we're always excited to see new players join the ranks. Now get out there and smash! Remember to always be respectful, be sportsmanlike, and be ready to adapt. Good luck, and may the best Melee player win! With this knowledge in hand, you are now much better prepared to compete and enjoy everything that the competitive Melee scene has to offer. The Melee scene is more than just a game, so enjoy and be competitive.