How do I start learning to play Smash compititvely?

[Dawn of Dark]

Hey!

So I want to start playing Smash Ultimate competitively and I have friends who already do (from other Smashes).

What I want to ask the community is how do I get started as a beginner? How do I learn the ropes and practice correctly?

Before anyone asks, I have already read through this excellent guide by Dr. James Rustles. However, I have 2 main concerns after reading it:

1. It was written for Smash 4. Of course most concepts carry over to Ultimate, but some may not and as a beginner I may not know which does and which does not.
2. It explains concepts and terminologies well, but it does not go into how to actually apply those in play, i.e. knowing what quantum physics is does not necessarily mean you can solve a problem in the subject when given one. So, I want to ask where I can get started to learn how to play well. Yes, experience is necessary, which I don't have much yet, but I think just playing a lot without knowing what I need to know would just feel like banging my head against the wall.

Would appreciate anyone pointing me to the right direction (a guide, training regime, etc.).

 

[TheBeastHimself]

Well the first thing I would do is select a main. After that, keep playing regular matches until you can effortlessly beat level 9 opponents. Or, you could play online. You might lose a lot as a beginner because there are really great players out there, but playing online can teach you so much about the game.

Also, learn as much as you possibly can about your main. What are their strengths and weaknesses? Research strategies that have already been established for your main.

 

[AmuroRed]

Play one on one with actual human players. You will lose. A lot. Learn from those losses. It will take you an incredible amount of frustration, time, and effort to change the way you play. Really that's all there is to competitive Smash, just keep playing other people. The details will come as you invest more time. Just play one v one and don't stop.