Smash Ultimate Fighter Pass 1: Your Essential Guide to Unlocking the Full Potential of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
If you’ve ever picked up a Joy-Con and felt the thrill of launching Mario into orbit or parrying a Falcon Punch at the last millisecond, then you already know: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate isn’t just a game — it’s a celebration of gaming history. But what truly transforms this fighter from “great” to “ultimate” is the Smash Ultimate Fighter Pass 1. More than a mere DLC bundle, it’s a curated expansion of the game’s soul — adding depth, variety, and nostalgia in equal measure. Whether you’re a casual weekend brawler or a tournament-tier competitor, understanding what this pass offers — and how to maximize it — is essential.
What Exactly Is the Smash Ultimate Fighter Pass 1?
Released alongside Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in late 2018, the Fighter Pass 1 (officially titled “Challenger Packs”) was Nintendo’s first major DLC initiative for the game. Priced at $24.99, it granted access to five Challenger Packs, each containing:
- One new playable fighter
- One new stage
- A curated selection of music tracks
- Dozens of Spirit unlocks
These weren’t random additions. Each pack was carefully themed, often drawing from franchises that fans had long requested — or never even dreamed possible.
The Fighters: Icons Reborn
The real stars of Smash Ultimate Fighter Pass 1 are, of course, the fighters. Let’s break them down:
1. Piranha Plant (Challenger Pack 1)
Originally a bonus for early adopters, Piranha Plant eventually became part of the pass. With its long-range chomp and poison breath, it introduced a zoning playstyle rarely seen in Smash. Its inclusion also marked Nintendo’s willingness to expand beyond humanoid characters — a precedent that would shape future DLC.
2. Joker (Persona 5)
Arguably the most impactful addition, Joker brought Persona 5’s stylish flair to the battlefield. His unique mechanic — the Rebel’s Guard — allowed him to absorb damage and unleash devastating counterattacks. In competitive play, Joker quickly rose to top tiers, forcing players to rethink defensive strategies.
Case Study: At EVO 2019, just months after Joker’s release, he appeared in 30% of top-8 matches — a testament to his immediate competitive relevance.
3. Hero (Dragon Quest)
Representing not one, but four different protagonists from the Dragon Quest series, Hero introduced RNG (random number generation) into Smash for the first time. Spells like Kaboom and Kaclang could turn the tide instantly — thrilling for fans, controversial for purists. Yet, his inclusion signaled Smash’s embrace of global RPG culture.
4. Banjo & Kazooie (Rare)
A love letter to 90s platformers, this duo brought quirky animations, unique item-based combos, and a nostalgic charm. Their moveset — complete with egg throws and honeycomb recovery — felt fresh and mechanically distinct. For many, their arrival symbolized Smash’s role as a bridge between Nintendo and Microsoft’s gaming legacies.
5. Terry Bogard (Fatal Fury / King of Fighters)
Closing out Fighter Pass 1, Terry brought SNK’s arcade fighting DNA into Smash. His special-cancel mechanics and command inputs were unlike anything else in the roster. He didn’t just add a character — he added an entire fighting game philosophy.
Beyond the Fighters: Stages, Spirits, and Soundtracks
While the fighters grab headlines, the Smash Ultimate Fighter Pass 1 delivers value in every corner:
- Stages like Mementos (Persona 5) and King of Fighters Stadium aren’t just backdrops — they’re interactive arenas with shifting platforms and thematic hazards.
- Music tracks span decades of gaming history. From the haunting Dragon Quest III Medley to the jazzy Last Surprise, each track enhances the emotional texture of battle.
- Spirits offer hundreds of new collectibles and team-building strategies. Many mirror the fighters’ origins — like equipping “Yoshi’s Island” spirits to boost egg-based attacks when playing as Banjo & Kazooie.
These elements don’t just pad content — they deepen immersion. They turn each match into a multisensory experience rooted in gaming heritage.
Why Fighter Pass 1 Still Matters in 2024
You might wonder: with Fighter Pass 2 now complete and a potential Pass 3 rumored, is Pass 1 still worth it?
Absolutely.
Here’s why:
- Meta Evolution: Fighters like Joker and Hero remain tournament staples. Learning their mechanics isn’t optional — it’s necessary for anyone serious about competitive play.
- Nostalgia Meets Innovation: These characters represent franchises that shaped gaming’s past — and their integration into Smash’s mechanics shows how creatively Nintendo can reinterpret legacy IP.
- Cost Efficiency: At less than $5 per Challenger Pack, it’s arguably the best value DLC in modern gaming. Even today, purchasing these fighters individually would cost more.
Moreover, many online lobbies and tournaments still feature Pass 1 characters prominently. Skipping them means missing out on a significant portion of the active player base’s preferred roster.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Pass
Don’t just download and dive in — strategize.
- Master One Fighter at a Time
Each Pass 1 character plays uniquely. Spend a week with Joker. Learn his meter management. Then switch to Hero and