If I used “string” in the title, fewer people would click. Everybody knows the term “combo,” which is why it’s used so comfortably. But let’s clear up the confusion.

Combo

A combo is a sequence of actions performed with strict timing that is inescapable and yields a significant advantage.

String

A string, unlike a combo, is escapable through DI (Directional Influence), air-dodging, teching, or other actions.

Combos vs. Strings

Let’s put this into perspective. A combo is a guaranteed sequence of hits—your opponent has no escape. A string involves reads and reactions, like following an air-dodge or tech chase. Combos are execution tests, while strings rely on creativity and adaptability. Many things you see in tournaments are strings that keep the advantage state flowing. Understanding strings is critical to securing kill confirms and extending advantage states.

How to Use Strings Effectively

Let’s take Mewtwo as an example. If Mewtwo grabs an opponent on a platform, they have multiple options:

1. Use F-Throw for offstage positioning.
2. Use Up-Throw for a juggling situation.
3. Use Down-Throw to set up a tech chase. The third option, Down-Throw, is where the magic happens. By setting up a tech chase, you can secure the stock if you predict your opponent’s option. Tech chases and strings require you to read your opponent’s habits, DI, and responses. 

For instance, instead of finishing a combo, you can purposefully abandon it to bait an air dodge, setting up another punish or kill confirm.

Adapting to Your Opponent

Reading your opponent is key.

Here’s how:

Tech Chases: Moves like Roy’s Down-Tilt are not combo starters but tech chase setups that lead to devastating follow-ups like F-Smashes or Jab-Back-Airs.
Air-Dodges: Players often air-dodge in panic to escape combos. Abandoning a true combo to predict an air-dodge can create even more lethal setups.
Stage Awareness: Combos and strings differ based on the stage. On platforms like Battlefield, Sephiroth’s Up-Smash excels in tech chases, while flat stages like Final Destination favor characters with strong landing traps like Kazuya.

Example: Adapting During a Match

Let’s break down an example. If you’re playing with Link and have a bomb in hand, your options are limited. You might opt for a B-Reverse Boomerang to create space. If your opponent approaches aggressively, like Wario in this case, your Boomerang might connect. Instead of following up with a standard Forward Air, you might adapt by using a C-Drop Neutral Air to continue your string. Watching your opponent’s DI, you can adjust your next moves, like a Back Air, footstool, or bomb detonation, to secure the stock.

Key Tips to Master Combos and Strings

1. Know Your Move Properties: Learn your character’s knockback angles, tech chase setups, and combo routes.
2. Understand Your Opponent: Pay attention to their habits and potential escape options, like Luigi’s “escape button.”
3. Adapt to the Stage: Certain setups work better on specific stages (e.g., Battlefield for tech chases, FD for trapping landings).
4. Anticipate Reactions: Be ready to adjust your gameplay based on DI, air dodges, and tech options.
5. Don’t Force Combos: If a combo isn’t true, wait for your opponent’s reaction and punish accordingly.

Final Thoughts

To combo effectively in Smash Ultimate, you need to think beyond just pressing buttons in the correct order. Combos are about execution, but strings are where the real skill lies—reading your opponent, adapting to their habits, and maintaining the advantage state.