Rate Their Chances: GAME OVER! Join the RTC Social Group Today!

[Delzethin]

Only three days remain. It's hard to believe we only have this long to go. So many unanswered questions, so many characters' plights we've run out of time to help. I'd reference Majora's Mask further, but we're better off looking forward, not to the past.

Besides, all playing the Song of Time would do is make us wait even longer.

Impa
Chance: Abstain

We've seen two offshoots of the leak mention Impa...but neither are confirmed to be from Ninka, anyone else with knowledge of the leak, or anyone in contact with them. With the actual number of unknown newcomers still up in the air, I don't think I can fairly judge Impa's chances.

Want: 30%
-(40% if she borrows elements from Hyrule Warriors)
-(20% if she does not, or if she is a Sheik clone or semi-clone)

I always figured Impa was one of the most likely Zelda newcomers. She didn't quite have the flair of Ghirahim, but she's a recurring character just like every other Zelda character we've had in Smash and has played some important roles throughout the series. Being playable in Hyrule Warriors, where she has a unique appearance and a samurai-flavored fighting style, made me like the idea even more.

However...I wouldn't be as big on her if she didn't draw from Hyrule Warriors. Outside of that, she's used mostly ninja techniques, the kind that'd bring her uncomfortably close to Sheik's moveset. I'd really rather we didn't get another new clone when we're already dealing with three, you know?


Mach Rider
Chance: Abstain

Want: 15%

The concept is kind of interesting, at least. We certainly haven't had a character anything like a post-apocalyptic vigilante who rides a blaster-mounted motorcycle, that's for sure. His moveset potential seems shallow, but Sakurai and the gang have showed several times already how well they can work around it if they feel the potential is there.

Thing is...do we really need another retro character if we're already getting Duck Hunt Dog? I just think it'd be a little much.


Downloadable Content
Chance: 70%

Nintendo blew the door open on this one when they announced DLC for Mario Kart 8. It's comprehensive and shows a lot of dedication (Characters, vehicles, and tracks?). It shows a willingness to do some unconventional but awesome things (Did anyone else seriously think they'd add Link?). And on top of it, they have two sets of it planned already with the option to do more.

Needless to say, this is big news for Smash. If Nintendo is willing to devote time to large scale DLC for one of their big multiplayer series, they'd certainly be willing to do the same for the other one. We're looking at a very good chance.

Want: 100%

More characters (including some newcomers?), more stages, more of everything at reasonable prices? Count me in. This would be the perfect way to add some characters that barely missed the cut or that only became relevant after the initial roster was decided on.

 

[ShrekItRalph]

Impa
Want: She isn't Groose% (20)%
Chance 15%
I think it would be pretty funny if they ended up putting in this Impa instead of the Skyward Sword one.

Or CD-I Impa...
The Triforce of Wisdom promises the king will safely return.

Mach Rider
Want: 70%
Chance 12%
I think it would be fun to play as a character who is constantly on a motorbike, but I have no idea how they would implement it.

DLC
Want 95%
Chance 45%
YES! YES! YES! YES! YES! YES! YES!
Since we aren't likely to get another Smash game for awhile, I would love for Nintendo to release extras contend for Smash 4 over the next few years. I want new characters, extra stages, more music, items whatever. I don't mind if it's payed DLC as long as it's a reasonable price and it's not stuff that was ready to be put in the game at launch and was held back as DLC.

Imagine if one every few months we get a new newcomer trailer, it would be the hypest stuff ever. I want as much stuff as I can get.

Plus it's the only way that I'll get a Splatoon rep in Smash without having to wait 8 years.

 

[Hippopotasauce]

DLC Likelihood: 40%
Want: 80%

 

[Skyblade12]

Impa
Chance - 50%
I still believe the trophy tease, and I think she's incredibly likely as a newcomer from the Zelda franchise. Though Ridley is more likely still.
Want - 25%
I don't think she'd be a Sheik clone, and I think I'd like the moveset Sakurai would come up with for her that would fit Aonuma's vision of the character. But I want Isaac and Ridley more.

Mach Rider
Chance - 12.5%
Ridley, Impa, and Isaac are all stronger possibilities.
Want - 6.25%
I'm a little curious as to how he might play, but plenty of others I'd want in first.

DLC
Chance - 100%
Smash Kart DLC pretty much confirmed this for me. It may only be stages and music, but we'll be getting some.
Want - 100%
For all the characters who haven't made it in yet.

 

[Glaciacott]

Abstaining on chances because I simply haven't done enough research and while some people say Impa and Mach Rider came up in leaks, other people say those were confirmed fake. Meanwhile, with DLC Sakurai is being coy about it so I'm also willing to avoid that bag of nuts.

Impa
Want - 51%
Indifference, with 1% of want in the sense I think it'd be just for Zelda to receive its first newcomer since melee in the wake of several mario and pokemon characters in the more recent installments.

Mach Rider
Want - 49%
Pretty much satisfied with Duck Hunt being a retro rep and don't think we need more than that. Aside from that, indifference.

DLC
Want - 75%
High in the sense that I think certain cut veterans would merit DLC, namely Wolf, Lucas and Ice Climbers. I can see Snake would be hairy because of the third party stuff ... but the other group would be cool to see again as DLC.
What brings it down is its use for newcomers. That would bother me for the following reasons:
1. Denial. I mentioned this mentality briefly in a character's thread, but I don't like the idea of fans of certain characters constantly badgering Sakurai for their characters to be playable even after disconfirmation from them being in the game as something else. I understand it sucks (my second favorite character, Lyn, is an eternal AT) but at a certain point you just got to enjoy the game and move on.
2. Balance. There's no issue with adding characters in Mario Kart, because really, how will it affect anything? As it is, several characters have the same properties and kart customization helps.
But smash doesn't work like that. Adding a character just like that without the context of how they balance with the other fighters will just dilute the balance of the roster, and suddenly it's either a meh character or an OP one.

But yea, nonetheless high optimism wins because I'd also be down for alt costumes and stage DLC.

 

[a Link to the Forums]

Disclaimer: I do not take any leaks into account when rating except for the one that has actually been confirmed.

Impa:
Chance: abstain
I'm not too sure about her anymore. I kinda still think the Trophy Quiz Theory has some merit. The only thing is that I thought Ghirahim would be the one to make it. Ghirahim just had more going for him with his theme playing in the Ballad of the Goddess remix. Obviously, that's not the case. It's really up in the air for me at the moment.
Want: 80%
Sure! She's still a great!

Mach Rider:
Chance: 5%
Nah, we already have a retro newcomer being Duck Hunt Dog.
Want: abstain

DLC:
Chance: 75%
Mario Kart 8 and Hyrule Warrriors are already getting DLC. I don't think Smash wouldn't do the same.
Want: 75%
WHAT!! NOT 100%!!! I'm for DLC but I don't think Nintendo or Sakurai would go all out and by that I mean make a lot of totally unique characters or stages or whatever like they are doing here. Look at the Mario Kart 8 DLC. We have Link. Great! But we also have Tanooki Mario and Cat Peach. I just don't expect to go as crazy as they have with Shulk or Rosaluma for example.

 

[Kalimdori]

(I don't believe the text leaks, and the Impa one is fake)
Impa Chance: 7%
I don't think we will get a Zelda newcomer.
Want: 0%
And until we get a decloned Ganondorf we shouldn't get one

Mach Rider Chance: 15%
I think DHD will be it in the retro category. That said, I think he is more likely then Impa.
Want: 50%
Unique potential that I wouldn't mind seeing.

DLC Chance: 100%
I think we will get DLC in some form. We're getting it in Mario Kart, we've gotten it in several other recent Nintendo games, Nintendo would have to be insane not to take advantage of the veritable gold mine that it Smash Bros DLC.

Want: 100%
More stuff = Good

 

[Parallel_Falchion]

Impa chance - 60%
I always believed the trophy theory, but as we near release and see a constant stream of "leaks" and rumors without her, her chances have begun to look worse. Still, she's now the most likely new Zelda rep, and Zelda, as one of Nintendo's big 3, hasn't truly gotten a newcomer since Melee.

Want - 65%
Lower on my list of wanted characters, but I would like to see her.

Mach Rider chance - 10%
I doubt it.

Want - 30%
Meh.

DLC chance - 85%
Once upon a time I thought it was unlikely, but whether it be free or paid, I'm now thinking it's pretty likely to happen.

Want - 85%
If it's free and/or like Mario Kart 8's DLC, then definitely. If it's quick cash-ins, no, but Nintendo seems to be better than that.

 

[Xenigma]

Impa - 10%
To be frank, I don't believe the "leaks" that list Impa are at all credible, and as such I have a hard time believing she could be in SSB4 even if we have character slots remaining. That said, she hasn't been deconfirmed despite all the information we got from the recent, proven credible ESRB leak, and she seems to be having an increased profile from the likes of Skyward Sword and Hyrule Warriors. I'd be very surprised if Impa were in, but she does have a notable chance.
Want - 0% - I've never much cared for her as a character, and I'd far prefer to see Tetra as a Zelda newcomer. I will say that her Hyrule Warriors incarnation is pretty cool, but I haven't seen any reason to believe Smash will take inspiration from that game.

Mach Rider - 5%
Like Impa before him, Mach Rider is the subject of "leaks" that seem to be piggybacking off the ESRB leak and have no actual credibility, but unlike Impa, he has much less reason to be in the game as he isn't even remotely important to modern Nintendo and we already have a retro Newcomer with Duck Hunt Dog virtually confirmed in. Would be a huge surprise if he showed up somehow.
Want - 0% - We've got a retro already; if Sakurai is willing to put the work into another newcomer from an unrepped series, I'd want it to be for a newer series like Golden Sun or Wars, not Mach Rider.

DLC - 95%
I've always had a gut feeling that SSB4 would be using DLC, and now thanks to the massive MK8 DLC announcement, I'm feeling more certain of this than ever. Maybe Sakurai's not a big fan of it himself, and it's pretty clear now that the base roster will be appropriately massive, but it seems like a no-brainer to use DLC to add even more fan-favorite newcomers and bring back cut veterans, never mind other additions like stages, character customizations, or additional game modes. This would also be a fine way to introduce balance patches as needed given they'd have to update the game anyway to prep for DLC.
Want - 100% - Maybe my opinion might change knowing what specific DLC might be introduced, but the simple prospect of continuing to grow SSB4 post-release is plenty exciting on its own, and MK8's DLC seems proof Nintendo will make sure you get your money's worth. Sakurai please!

 

[WeirdChillFever]

I abstain on newcomers

DLC: Chance: 50%
Either Nintendo pushes Sakurai to do it or Sakurai is stubborn enough not to listen/not to do it.

DLC Want: 0%
I don't want extra newcomers after launch for one reason:
I want this whole fest to be over, I want to go on and play the game instead of cheering for Retro rep #2539.
And as soon Sakurai announces DLC (newcomer DLC or not) I fear that the whole circlejerk begins again.
Rotten icing on the gross cake would be an AT changing role, so we're back to nothing again, for another 6 years.

Tl (I doubt it but whatever) ;dr
I don't want to speculate over a game that I can already play, and I definitely don't want people to get false hope.

 

[Turmalinium]

Impa
Chance: 30%
Want: 50%
Mach Rider
Chance: 10%
Want: 0%
DLC
Chance: 50%
Want: 100%

 

[Cutie Gwen]

Impa
Chance 65% She would be nice and we still aren't clear if she is 4 trophy or not
Want 80% if she was a clone, she'd be a good one!
Mach Rider
Chance 30% DHD already fits...the...bill...(Who wrote this?) as our Retro rep
Want 90% I'd love to see what he can do, even if I'm not interested in his game!

 

[ShinyRegice]

Impa chances: 14 % and want: 7 %
She's a very recurring character in the Zelda series, but her role is far from as important as Zelda as an NPC, and she doesn't interact very much with the players in most games. Also, while she could be potentially unique as a fighter, I can't think of anythink she could do that Shiek couldn't do as well. Plus I feel that TLoZ in already well represented with its five fighters, and five is already a somewhat insane number of reps for a series with generally one playable character per game. The series got a lot of Assist Trophies, even for characters with no relevance since Brawl like Midna and Skull Kid, and a huge amount of new items, plus at least three brand-new stages. All of those additions are almost worth a Zelda newcomer IMO.

Mach Rider chances and want: abstain for both
I don't know who is this character and I'm too lazy to do researches.

DLC chances: 75 %
I remember when I said that DLCs were unlikely because Smash is a game aimed at a very large audience, including younger people. Actually we got Mario Kart 8 DLCs, meaning that this argument is now invalid. The only problem with DLCs is the game balance: when you include a new character, you must check that it doesn't break the game balance. But it's completely possible with a lot of work and it's an easy way for Nintendo to gain more $$$

DLC want: 100 %
As long as paid DLCs are not launched at the game release I don't see the problem. Waiting several months to add more characters is a perfect way to renew the game experience, and it allows characters not in the initial roster to have a hope to be included without having to wait for the next gen SSB.

 

[Mega Hawlucha]

Impa Chance - 5%
I think the CSS is it, but she seems like a good pick for if I'm wrong and fits the trophy quiz.
Impa Want - 50%
Now Ghirahim is gone, Impa is my second choice. My vision of her would be a semi-clone of both Zelda and Sheik with her moves are stylized to look dark to fit her role as the Sage of Darkness.

Mach Rider Chance - 0.5%
As said, but Mach Rider has an even lower chance.
Want - 25%
Could be very interesting but could also be very boring, depends on what Sakurai and crowd brought with them.

DLC
Chance - 90%
I have a feeling characters that missed the cut will be added as DLC. It's easy money and allows them to buffer out the roster, so it's win-win.

That said, I have a feeling the only characters in the running will be veterans or from this games "Forbidden 'X'"/Characters that didn't make the cut. So potential DLC Characters I can see happening so far would be;
Lucas, Wolf, Mewtwo, Snake, Chorus Men/Rhythm Monkey.

I can also see Ridley being implemented as a Pseudo-Clone DLC Character of Charizard for all the money that would come with him.
Want - 95%
As long as it's not content gutted from the main game, I'm more than happy to see DLC come to Smash.

 

[Pureownege75]

Impa​

Chance: 60%
She's included in the text leak (I'm not sure how much I believe it right now), and so many other viable Zelda reps have been deconfirmed, so she seems like a good choice. I was originally pessimistic on the chances of another Zelda rep, but now that we have 7 Mario characters, 6 Zelda characters sees totally fine

Want: 25%
I haven't played any Zelda games with her in them, so I'm not well acquainted with her.

Mach Rider:​

Chance: 25%
Also included in the plethora of inconsistent text leaks, and I'm less sure of him. We already have a Retro rep now, so he just seems unnecessary.

Want: 15%
Could be hilariously unique, but I really don't care about him. I honestly never knew he existed before the leak, I thought he was the same thing as Excite Biker, which I was wrong on. I'd probably prefer Excite Biker due to higher popularity in all honesty, and I still have other characters I want more

DLC​

Chance: 80%
Considering how hard they are going with Mario Kart 8 DLC, Smash DLC seems like a no brainer. I could easily see cut veterans, alt costumes, new stages, and new characters make it in as DLC. I could even see Smash Run come to Wii U, and the Wii U excluvie mode come to 3DS as DLC as well.

Want: 100%
Smash is already an ever-green title, and adding DLC to it would make it even better. Of course the thing I want most is characters, but I'l take just about any form of Downloadable Content, and will gladly spend for more content

 

[zon770]

Impa:
Chances and Want:abstain

Mach Rider:
Chances: .2%
Want: 0%

DLC:
Chances: 85%
With MK8 getting such big DLC it's hard to imagine they wouldn't do it with Smash. But I do feel as though the would only add stages and characters that were cut from initial release. After they DLC all the cut characters, then I think they will move on to bigger, better things.
Want: 100%
Anything to keep Ice Climbers in.

 

[Kenith]

Impa:
Chance (Disregarding leaks): 20%.
Want: 50%.
Of all the potential Zelda reps, she is among my least wanted. If Mario truly receives seven characters and Zelda only has six with a new clone, then I hope it isn't her.

Mach Rider:
Chance (disregarding leaks): 15%.
Want: 80%. Always my most wanted retro character, if they remade him like they did Pit, he would turn out really cool.

DLC:
Chance: 75%. In the form of characters. Add-on characters for Smash Bros. seem\ like a no-brainer, and is practically free money for Nintendo. However, there's two issues with DLC characters I can see; firstly, a lot of the best candidates are Assist Trophies. Something tells me Sakurai doesn't want the characters' roles to overlap, which is why Alfonzo replaces Toon Link on the Spirit Train when someone is playing as Toon Link. However, this could easily be remedied by either removing those Assist Trophies when the playable version is in use, or just not using Assist Trophy characters, which would severely limit their options. The second issue is that Sakurai may simply be satisfied with the game upon completion and doesn't want to add characters to the game. He is very specific about that. Though, if there is enough demand for more characters (and there will be) he may reconsider. Also, this wouldn't rule out adding back cut characters. It all depends on how "complete" the roster we are getting ends up.

As for non-character DLC, specifically modes, trophies, and music, I would say it's all but guaranteed.
Want: 100 x 100%. A wise doctor once said:

======

 

[CaptainAmerica]

Impa:

Chance: 25%
Want: 50%
The trophy quiz theory (which I've never truly believed in, but has been interesting) has been pointing to a new Zelda newcomer, considering we haven't truly had a new character since Melee (Toon Link being a redone Young Link, and Zelda/Shiek originally being one), and with Ghirahim's deconfirmation, Impa is the next most likely. However, considering the amount of love the Zelda series has gotten, I don't see her being any more than a Shiek clone, if she even gets in. I'd have preferred Midna or Ghirahim, personally (or de-cloning Toon Link or Ganondorf, but let's ask for realistic things). That being said, Zelda has 5 representatives, all three and two alternate-versions-of-those-same-three of which are holders of the triforce, so any new Zelda character would not really fit with the rest in that way. She is heavily implicated in many of the various text leaks though, so take form that what you will.
​

Mach Rider:

Chance: 10%
Want: 0%
Another heavily-implicated character, this one seems less likely for me. I think it would be difficult to design a cycling character, but then again Captain Falcon is a racer too, and Bowser Jr. rides in a vehicle. However, the NES era is represented here quite well by Duck Hunt (Dog), so I don't know if we need another in this game. DHD also seems more recognized and cuter.
​

DLC:

Chance: 85%
Want: ALL of my want.
Yes please. MK8 is showing us that DLC is a thing that can be done by giving us Link in a karting game. SSB4 has more characters than Brawl now, so it's not like they're holding back a half-finshed game only to sell us the rest like other companies do. Plus, they've got all of the cuts they had to make to the roster, which would be perfect DLC characters. Smash is one of those games that does not get old, so by introducing DLC, it refreshes the game for us indefinitely. And is therefore worth more than every penny. Honestly, I see no reason NOT to inclue it, so I'll continue with my wishlist.
I'd like to see Squirtle, Ivysaur, and Wolf return as full characters, along with any of the big 3 who can't make it in. It's also a great way for deconfirmed characters like Midna or Ghirahim to be made playable, or to add in extra costumes for existing characters (Hyrule Warriors Ganondorf or Zelda?) I'd also like the return of the Pokémon Stadium stage from Melee. (And also, dare I hope, decloning certain characters by patches?)​

 

[Smasher 101]

Impa's chances: 25% - She's likely going to be the Zelda newcomer if we get one, but I don't think we will.
Want: 30% - I don't dislike the idea as much as I used to, but I still don't really want her.

Mach Rider's chances: 5% - And I really don't think we'll get another retro.
Want: 80% - I would have picked this over the Duck Hunt dog.

DLC chances: 50% - It's possible.
Want: 50% - I wouldn't be able to buy it as of now, so I don't care.

 

[Leafeon523]

Impa:
Chance: 3%
I don't think we are getting any more new characters, but you never know.

Want: 50%
Eh, I'm neutral.

Mach rider:
Chance: 1%
See Impa.

Want: 20%
I think we are already good on retro chatacters.

DLC:
Chance: 95%
Smash 4 most likely has cut characters. Mario kart 8, Nintendo's 2nd biggest spinoff cash cow, has great DLC. DLC would help us cope with the incredibly long wait time between iterations of smash. And even if Sakurai doesn't want to make DLC, the cash-strapped Nintendo will probably just demand that he do so.

Want: 100%
plzplzplzplzplzplzplzplplz make it happen Nintendo!

CDI-Link:
Chance: 99%
It's so great, he's already grabbing his stuff!

Want: 100%
I can't wait to bomb some dodongos!

Nominating CDI link revote x5

 

[Pacack]

Impa:

Chance: 8%
One of the only characters I can imagine getting in outside of the leaked characters and the big 3.

Want: 60%
I'd be happy, but I'd rather wait until next game and have her be entirely unique.


Mach Rider:

Chance: 0.5%
Duck Hunt Dog.

Want: Abstain


DLC:

Chance: 33.34%
I personally don't think it's happening, but I could see it with enough demand.

Want: 100%
Duh.

 

[wizardto1]

Impa: 40%
Popularity, Trophy Theory, can be made a clone, reverence in the series and all that.
Want : 60% I want HW Impa but I'll take her either way
Abstain on Mach Rider
DLC: 75% Nintendo has been doing a lot of fantastic DLC lately so they'll do it to WiiU's biggest seller
Want: 80% Minus 20% because I would need money.

 

[Diddy Kong]

Impa:

Chance: 75%
-Literally the only Zelda character that has a good shot. With the Skyloft stage, lots of items from Skyward Sword, the throphy theory, the roster being overflood with Mario characters, Impa appearing in all of the recent Zelda games bar WW HD, even clones being added (which she doesn't HAVE to be) she easily has some of the best chances of becoming playable.
Want: 100%
-Yes, give me that. Clone or unique, she'll be an addition I'll love.

 

[Deleted member]

Abstaining from Impa.

Mach Rider:
Chance - 5%: He was mentioned once. Out of the ones that were supposedly mentioned, Mach Rider by far has the least going for him.
Want - 0%: Nope. Want me to explain? Too bad.

DLC:
Chance - 50%: It could go either way.
Want - Abstain: Depends. If it's costumes, sure! If it's stages, sure! If it's music, sure! If it's characters though, it heavily depends on the character. If it's a character I like, I'll buy it no question. If it's a character I do like, I'll begrudgingly buy it only to learn the matchup.

All this is invalid if DLC is free though.

 

[Toxicroaker]

I'm going to abstain from Impa and Mach Rider's chances. I just know too little about the leak to fairly rate them.

Impa Want: 15% Not very high for me. If we don't get a Zelda newcomer now, we will most likely get one next smash. If that happens, Ghirahim is pretty much out, but there are so many other cool Zelda characters that I want more.

Mach Rider Want: 90% Probably the closest thing that I can get to the Excitebiker.

DLC: 85% With how much DLC Mario Kart is getting, I find it highly unlikely that we don't get some here too. However, I don't think we will be getting DLC characters. I feel like Sakurai would be against having something like that (unless it's free... yeah, no.).
Want: 15% No. I don't want to have to pay for extra content. The 15% if for in the case that it's free.

 

[Sonic Poke]

Impa and Mach Rider: 10% At this point I doubt.
Want: 100% Would be awesome!!

DLC: 99% Look at how Mario Kart is going on...
Want: 100% Wolf, Lucas, Snake, Ice Climbers and Ivysaur... I need them back!

 

[Deleted member]

Oh man... we are rating the "Hype 3" in one day? That will get chaotic...
The Directory has been updated.
If you have rated Impa and Mach Rider, check to see what you've said on their days!

Impa
Chance: 5%
Same score as before.
I am skeptical on these new leaks that list her, Mach Rider, and several other characters. The leaks that we have been getting nowadays have been piggy-backing the unknown renders leak, meaning that we don't know whether or not these sources are totally legitimate or not. So, I can't raise her chances on those merits.
Want: 0%
No desire whatsoever.

Mach Rider
Chance: 5%
Take everything that I said about Impa and apply it here.
Want: 25%
Meh.

DLC
Chance: 50%
I can see this one go either way.
Mario Kart 8 has some pretty extensive DLC that ranges from many different courses, characters, and karts. Since Smash is one of their biggest titles, I wouldn't be surprised if this wasn't the case here. What we also see Nintendo do is spreading the DLC months apart so that players can play the game, take a break, and then play it again when the next big DLC approaches. It's honestly a smart approach towards bringing back old players while having the new players have something to look forward to. I wouldn't be surprised if they went this route for Smash by taking months to create brand new characters and stages and such.
Want: 100%
Seeing Mario Kart 8's DLC, I know that they could make some incredible stuff here.

 

[Rockaphin]

Impa:
Chance: 35%
Want: 60%

Mach Rider:
Chance: 15%
Want: 85%

DLC:
Chance: 85%
Want: 100%

I want Downloadable Content, not Disc Locked Content.

 

[andimidna]

Impa:
Chance: 47%
Just below likely.
I've made a lot of posts about her.
Let's see if I can make this quick...

1. She could be a clone

Marth- Lucina, Mario- Dr. Mario, Pit- Dark Pit, Sheik- Impa
It makes sense. Especially given Sheik's story, she's like the Lucina to Impa as Marth.
Sheikahs. Impa usually plays the role of Zelda's protector. Similar build, size, and the abilities fit. And that's all that matters.
Impa could have been originally made a Sheik alt, just as Lucina was, the Koopalings are, etc. Or made a semi-clone later. Either way.

2. She wouldn't have to be a clone

She has enough from the canon Zelda games to makes a moveset out of. She could easily be based off Skyward Sword with a mix of references. Like a defensive, agile mage, with barriers, dark magic, maybe that orb from the Gate of Time. Or the Gate of Time itself.
Not convinced?
Well, I was specifically trying to avoid Hyrule Warriors, as many think it came too late to affect the game, but if you watch her trailers in that game, you can get an idea of how that Impa would work in Smash easily.

Yea, definitely wouldn't have to be a clone anymore. She has a lot of potential as a samurai.

3. She's becoming increasingly important, perhaps at the peak of her prominence

While she had multiple appearances before Brawl, OoT was the only reason anybody noticed her really. It's been lately that she has been prominent. With SS as her most notable appearance, even being in ALBW, and her being a central character in Hyrule Warriors, it's no surprise she's being heavily considered for Smash.

4. She's becoming increasingly popular, perhaps at the peak oh her popularity
(basically same as #3)
Her Hyrule Warriors design and moves seems to have gained her a lot of fans.

5. She has a past

She's existed in the Zelda Universe since the beginning, LoZ in 1986. Almost having as many appearances as Ganon himself.

6. She has a future

Well, there's always that possibility that she's the character that gets chosen when/if the Zelda series eventually gets a secondary female playable character in a game. But as for now, it's still a likely bet that she'll appear more often, even if just as an old nursemaid that only has prominence in the very beginning of the story. She'll come back.

7. Leaks

She's been showing up in many leak/rumors recently. Some fake, some undetermined. I can't help but notice how Impa and a few others are suddenly always getting talked about in leaks and rumors. It could mean nothing, but it only takes 1 to mean everything.

8. Trophy Theory?

She teaches Link the Ballad of the Goddess, maybe this means something. Impa and Ridley pls


Want: 100%

I had always liked Impa, but there were others I wanted more. Specifically from Zelda, Midna and Ghirahim. But Impa grew on me especially when Ghirahim was deconfirmed, I wanted Zelda to get the newcomer it deserved and Impa seemed like the only one left with any notable chance.

But after the supposed fake MFL Unknown Renders extension leak happened, I thought she was in, confirmed. I got all these thoughts about her trailer, playing as her, her design and alts. And I was excited, I realized how much I wanted her. She has a great design, she's important, and I like Sheik so I wouldn't mind her even as a clone.

I was so tired when I wrote this that I fell asleep at the end, anyways, posting now.
I'll do the rest later, because I do want to rate Mach Rider and DLC

Mach Rider:

Chance: 27%
Another highly rated character from me.
The leaks leave me suspicious, maybe he does still have a chance after Duck Hunt. Sakurai's retro fous statement would finally make sense.

Want: 90%
This would be awesome. I hope he has an Excitebiker alt, if he's not an assist.

DLC:
Chance: 90%

Ice Climbers, Chorus Men, Wolf, Lucas, Snake, Ivysaur, Squirtle, Roy, Young Link, Pichu, Captain Toad, Lana, Sceptile, Bandana Dee, Inkling, or Bayonetta?

Want: 100%

Ice Climbers, Chorus Men, Wolf, Lucas, Snake, Ivysaur, Squirtle, Roy, Captain Toad, Lana, Impa, Agitha, Cia, Sceptile, Mewtwo, Inkling, Bayonetta, Lip, Ridley, King K Rool, Dixie Kong, Mach Rider or others please (if not already in the game)?

 

[Jdaster64]

Mach Rider, Impa - Abstain (low for all four).

DLC chance: 10%, assuming character DLC is to be included. Mario Kart DLC and Smash Bros. character DLC are leagues apart in complexity, and at least Mario Kart had an internal development team.
DLC want: 90%. Gimme Lucas, dangit.

As much as I'd like to believe otherwise, time-locked content on the 3DS version is probably more likely.

 

[Deleted member]

Impa
Chance: 10%
Want: 100%
No clue about the leak, and the trophy theory seems eh at best. But if we're talking reps, I really don't know since last minute clones really shouldn't count towards series representation all that much.
Mach Rider
Chance: 1%
Want: 10%
I don't know about the leak, but I think it has a slim chance of being real. I'm not too fond of him
DLC
Chance: 50%
Want: 100%
I would love this, however, I think it depends on if Nintendo pushes Sakurai to support this game post-launch, which is pretty likely.

 

[Sari]

Impa
Chance: 10%
Want: 70%

Game is almost released and still no word of a new Zelda character. Aside from Ghirahim (who's an assist trophy), Impa would probably be the best choice.

Mach Rider
Chance: 10%
Want: 60%

Would be great to get a new retro character, although Nintendo probably has no interest in him.

DLC
Chance: 100%
Want: 100%

If Mario Kart 8 got DLC, there's no way Sm4sh can't. Hope they introduce new characters and stages.

 

[Jason the Yoshi]

Impa
Chance: Less than 1%
Want: 80%
I wouldn't mind seeing Impa in Smash, it kinda rests with her, Epona, and Toon Zelda for the Zelda newcomer.

Mach Rider
Chance: 10%
Want: 40%
I would be all right with it, but I don't know Mach Rider very well

DLC
Chance: 100%
Want: 70%
So many characters who deserve to be in the store bought roster that aren't, like Lucas, Wolf, Krystal, and Galacta Knight. But I also have a beef with DLC since people are gonna harass Sakurai for requests for more MegaMan and Sonic characters. I am a fan of both franchises, but lots of people make me ashamed to be one.

 

[Groose]

YES! The newcomer choices I wanted to rate all got chosen!
But hmm... what about those veterans... that might be cut?
Is that too sad? Because... it's kind of a big deal, and not 100% one way or the other due to the possibility of more characters.
Just thought I'd ask before I rate-

Oh. Shoot. I meant to have a day for them, but I was so tired last night that I evidently wasn't thinking very straight. Well, let me amend the schedule:

Day 319: Impa, Mach Rider, and DLC
Day 320: Isaac, Chorus Men, and Dixie Kong
Day 321: Ice Climbers, Wolf, and Lucas
Day 322: K. Rool, Ridley, and Mewtwo
Day 323: Farewell Mode

We're not going to rate Ivysaur, Squirtle, or Snake because most everyone thought they were gone in the first place. They wouldn't really be worth a day because their scores wouldn't really drop that much. Except me. I honestly thought thought Snake was coming back. Still a bit surprised, actually. Don't care that he's gone, though.

 

[Sid-cada]

Impa

Chance - 2.5% - Much more skeptical about any of the characters not given a screenshot.

Want - 20% - Nope.


Mach Rider

Chance - 2.5% - Same here.

Want - 60% - If they can keep him on the bike, cool, if not meh.


DLC

Chance - 85% - Possible, but who knows what we're getting. I'm a bit pessimistic, though I can see them doing after Mario Cart 8's thing.

Want - 100% - Hey, who wouldn't?

 

[The Light Music Club]

Hey guys, I'm here to report the Micaiah results, which I think I did correctly. I tossed in my own scores as well.
Thanks @ Groose for letting us talk about her.

Micaiah AT:
Chance: 85% - I was 100% convinced at one point she was playable, but now that she isn't an AT makes some sense to have. I think Roy, Tiki, and Anna are the only three who have a chance beside her

Want: 99.9% - Why not 100%? Because DLC is still a possibility. I just want her in this game so badly. Since Ilyana will never happen.

Micaiah AT
Chance: 24.93%
Want: 57%

Interestingly enough you guys didn't seem to think she has as big of a chance as I thought she had. The want score though pleases me, as it's a big jump compared to her playability want, which means most wouldn't mind her being in the game at some point. ​

 

[FalKoopa]

Thanks for amending the schedule, Groose. I got the impression that re-rating them wasn't that necessary.

Anyway, I'm abstaining on Impa and Mach Rider, as I don't believe that text leak.

DLC:
Chance: 80%
Considering how absolutely incredible Mario Kart 8's DLC was, I'll be a little surprised if we don't get any DLC in Smash. Nintendo certainly knows how to handle DLC well - It delivered what we secretly wanted in our dreams even without us ever asking for it.

Want: 100%
Of course.

 

[False Sense]

With all these people abstaining from rating the characters, I'm worried that we're going to get a somewhat inaccurate rating today.

 

[Autumn ♫]

It's the final days of the RTC thread. I'm really going to miss this place.

Impa:
Chance:60%
The same chance score I'd give Vaati. I find both of them the only likely Zelda newcomers at this point. (Watch as Groose becomes playable)

Want:40%
She's my 3rd go to opinion for a Zelda newcomer after Vaati and Groose.

Mach Rider:
Chance:20%
I find him the most likely retro newcomer now, especially since it seems that DHD is our first retro.

Want:75%
He'd definitely be a very fun character to play as, and I do like his design too.

DLC:
Chance:60%
Definitely very plausible. We could possibly get some more stages or music or such with it.

Want:80%
I'd be completely fine with it.

Also, if you couldn't tell yet, I'm not a believer of any of the text leaks.

 

[The Light Music Club]

Impa and Mach Rider
Chance: 1%

I think the final four characters that aren't leaked are Wolf, Ridley, Mewtwo, and Ice Climber(s)

Impa Want: 50% - No connection. But she's welcome if they go with the Hyrule Warriors design

Mach Rider Want: 25% - Cool idea I guess, but I'd prefer other retro characters


DLC

Chance: 90% - Ice Climber(s) are in one way or another.
Want: 100% - Ice Climber(s) NEED to be in this game, or its just unfair. Also, I expect Lucas to come back via DLC.