Lucina Is Not The Same as Prince Marth, But Really Close

Super Smash Bros Lucina

We all know that the real star of Monday’s Super Smash Bros. for the Wii U and 3DS live-stream was Captain Falcon, but Fire Emblem: Awakening‘s contribution of Lucina is also an interesting pick. It addresses the much needed presence of a Fire Emblem female, but at the same time, many are worried that she will play too much like Prince Marth.

Director Masahiro Sakurai explains that while they sport strikingly similar fighting styles and mirrored techniques, the core of how to approach enemies couldn’t be more different. Prince Marth’s power is focused on the tip of his sword, allowing for more powerful precise slashes. Lucina’s power is spread across the entire blade, allowing safer attacks for a reduced damage output.

Essentially, she is a female build of Roy from Super Smash Bros. Melee. Almost a clone, but not just quite.

“With the Wii Fit Trainers, the male and female Robins, the Villagers, and Little Mac, varying their appearances and voices works just like selecting alternate color variations. However, whenever there is even a small difference in abilities, that character gets an actual roster slot. That is why you can select Lucina individually.”

He also spoke out about a design choice with Lucina even the most eagle-eyed gamers might have missed otherwise.

“By the way…there’s probably no chance you’ll be able to see this in the game, but Lucina has the mark of Naga in her left eye.”

Indeed she does!

I’m not sure where I stand on Lucina. I like the fact that they are bringing back the Marth/Roy dynamic from Super Smash Bros. Melee, but at the same time, I would have preferred an original fighter with an original moveset. I’ve said so before and I’ll say so again, Fire Emblem‘s Lynn would have been a far superior choice. Too bad she’s just a support trophy, and Nintendo already picked a green haired lady in the form of Kid Icarus‘ Palutena.

Robin, on the other hand, I am not a fan of. Limiting the use of spells and weapons works as a mechanic in a role playing game, but it is not smart for a fighting game that can stretch out for much longer than planned. Plus, the character’s magic abilities linger a little too close to Ness’ abilities. Robin’s presence makes me a little nervous for our baseball capped hero.

Super Smash Bros. for the 3DS will be released on Oct. 3, and the Wii U version is also due for a holiday release. We are nearing the end, and Wario, Ness, and Ganondorf have yet to be spoken for. Any others?