How Many Characters Are There to Unlock?

At the start of the game, you begin with the original eight characters from the Nintendo 64 version. These include classics like Mario, Link, Pikachu, and Kirby.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Total characters available: 89 (including DLC)
• Characters to unlock (base game): 63
• Characters from DLC: 12 (optional but powerful)

Each new character brings unique moves and playstyles, from fast-paced brawlers to technical zoners. You’ll need to unlock most of them through gameplay, so it helps to know the best methods to speed things up.

You can unlock characters in three main ways: Classic Mode, regular Smash battles, and World of Light adventure mode.

Method 1: Classic Mode Unlock Path

Classic Mode is a quick and reliable way to unlock characters in a specific order. You pick a starter and complete their path to unlock a new fighter. Each time you complete Classic Mode, a new challenger appears.

Here’s how it works:

• Choose a starting character (like Mario)
• Complete their Classic Mode run (usually takes 7–10 minutes)
• Fight the unlock challenger
• If you win, they join your roster

Each character unlocks a different chain of fighters. For example:

• Mario → Sonic → Bayonetta → Little Mac
• Link → King K. Rool → Incineroar → Isabelle

You can look up full chains online, but even without a guide, playing through Classic Mode several times is a consistent method. You can also retry failed unlock challenges by going to the “Challenger’s Approach” option on the Games & More screen.

This method is fun and structured, making it great for solo players who want to focus on one character at a time.

Method 2: Smash Battles and Rotation Unlocks

Another way to unlock characters is by playing regular Smash matches. After every 10 minutes of play or a few matches, a new challenger will appear.

To unlock characters through Smash mode:

• Play 1v1 matches (CPU or human)
• Set the stock to 1 and time to 1 minute to speed things up
• After a few matches, a new fighter will challenge you
• Win the fight to add them to your roster

This is the fastest method when done right. Here’s a time-saving trick:

1. Play a 1-minute match
2. Defeat the challenger
3. Close the game completely
4. Reopen and repeat the steps

This resets the timer, letting you unlock a character every few minutes. You can unlock the entire base roster in under three hours using this method.

It’s also a fun way to introduce friends to the game. You can take turns playing matches and battling new challengers. Want to make it even more fun? Host a mini-unlock party in a rented Streamer Room at HyperX Arena.

Method 3: World of Light (Adventure Mode)

If you prefer a single-player story, World of Light is a great way to unlock characters while exploring a full campaign.

Here’s what to expect:

• You start with Kirby
• Explore a giant map filled with battles and paths
• Rescue characters by winning special fights
• Use Spirits to power up your fighters along the way

Not every character is found in World of Light, but most are available through this mode. The more progress you make, the more fighters you unlock for all modes. This is perfect for players who enjoy story-driven content or want to practice in varied matchups.

While it’s the slowest method, it’s also the most rewarding for those who like a challenge.

Tips to Speed Up the Unlock Process

No matter which method you choose, these tips will help you unlock characters faster and with less effort:

1. Stick to One Method at a Time

Mixing methods can slow you down. Pick Classic Mode, Smash battles, or World of Light, and focus on it until you’ve made good progress.

2. Use Strong Starters

Characters like Mario, Link, and Pikachu have easy-to-learn moves and strong basics. They make early unlock battles easier to win, especially if you’re still learning the game.

3. Keep Matches Short

When using the Smash battle method, set matches to 1 stock and 1-minute timers. Speed helps you cycle through more matches and unlocks.

4. Retry Challenges Often

If you lose to a challenger, don’t worry. Go to “Challenger’s Approach” under Games & More and try again. This lets you unlock characters without starting over.

5. Play With Friends

Multiplayer sessions count toward unlocks too. Hosting a Smash night can help you build your roster while having fun.

Once you’ve unlocked a solid roster, test your skills at a Gaming Event or start practicing for competitive play.

Why Unlocking Matters for Competitive Play

You might wonder why unlocking every character is worth the effort. If you’re a casual player, the base eight fighters might be enough. But if you want to take part in tournaments, it’s essential to have the full roster.

Here’s why:

• Matchups: Learning how to fight every character helps you win more matches
• Counterpicks: In tournaments, switching characters can turn a match in your favor
• Practice variety: More characters mean  more ways to grow and improve

Knowing your character’s strengths and weaknesses is key to success. And the only way to build that knowledge is to play them—and play against them.

At HyperX Arena, you can train with other fighters, join brackets, or test your skills against new challengers. Use the Game Calendar to find upcoming tournaments and meetups.

Train and Test Your Roster 

Now that you know how to unlock every character in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, it’s time to put your roster to work. Playing with a full cast opens the door to new strategies, deeper matchups, and better results, whether you’re playing casually or preparing for serious competition. 

As you unlock fighters, take time to learn their moves and understand their strengths. Practice often, mix up your matchups, and challenge yourself to improve every session. 

Once you’re ready, HyperX Arena is the perfect place to level up. Join live brackets by checking the Gaming Events in Las Vegas, rent a Streamer Room for focused practice, or use the Game Calendar to plan your next big match. If you have questions or want to get involved, contact HyperX and take your Smash journey to the next level.