How to Beat SEPHIROTH in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through effective strategies to defeat Sephiroth in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. By understanding his strengths and weaknesses, and learning specific tactics to counter his moves, you can improve your chances in battle against this formidable character.

Step 1: Understand Sephiroth's Range and Moves

• Respect His Range: Sephiroth's sword attacks have a tipper mechanic, dealing more damage when struck near the tip. Avoid landing near him to prevent quick retaliation from moves like up smash or up air.
• Familiarize with his Aerials: His aerial attacks deal significant damage but can be predicted. Maintain safe spacing to avoid getting hit.
• Movement Strategies:
  • Roll or air dodge away after landing.
  • Consider recovering to the ledge rather than landing near him.

Step 2: Counter Octaslash Effectively

• Recognize Octaslash: This move can easily take stocks below 100%.
• Best Response: Always shield against Octaslash to avoid damage. After shielding, you have ample time to punish Sephiroth.
• Avoid Charging Attacks Near the Ledge: Octaslash can hit you through the ledge, so be cautious when he's close.

Step 3: Handle Giga Flare and Shadow Flare

• Dealing with Giga Flare:

  • It’s powerful but slow; learn to dodge it effectively during your recovery.
  • Use invincibility frames when grabbing the ledge to avoid the hit.
  • Be prepared for follow-up attacks after Giga Flare, like down smash or up smash.

• Countering Shadow Flare:

  • Do not panic. Maintain your offense; attacking Sephiroth is often better than shielding.
  • Use invincibility frames when rolling or dodging to avoid the projectiles.

Step 4: Exploit Sephiroth's Weaknesses

• Poor Endurance: Sephiroth is one of the lightest characters, making him susceptible to combos.
• Slow Movements: His attacks have a slow startup and long end lag. Use this to anticipate and punish his missed moves.
• Close Combat Struggles: He doesn’t have quick moves to fend off close-range attacks effectively. Use quick characters to capitalize on this.

Step 5: Use Reflectors and Edge Guarding Techniques

• Reflectors: If your character has a reflector, use it against Shadow Flare and Giga Flare to turn the tables on Sephiroth.
• Edge Guarding: Be wary of Sephiroth’s edge guarding tools like Scintilla, and mix up your recovery approaches to avoid getting hit.

Step 6: Analyze Your Matches

• Learn from Each Encounter: Pay attention to habits, such as how often Sephiroth jumps or charges certain attacks.
• Adjust Your Strategy: Adapt your approach based on what you observe. If he relies on a specific move, find ways to counter it effectively.

Conclusion

By respecting Sephiroth's range, countering his key moves, and exploiting his weaknesses, you can significantly improve your chances of winning against him. Practice these strategies in matches, analyze your gameplay, and continue to adapt your tactics. With dedication and skill, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the match-up against Sephiroth.