Nintendo has confirmed Super Smash Bros Ultimate’s online multiplayer details.
You will be able to play online, with a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, or locally between Switch systems, similar to Smash Bros for 3DS.
Matchmaking
Old matchmaking options have been replaced with three new selections: Preferred Rules, Proximity (play in your region) and Global Smash Power, which is an online leaderboard that puts you against players on a similar level. Background matchmaking allows you to play selected other modes while waiting for an opponent.
Online co-op
Team up with a friend locally on one Switch and play online against another team of two.
Smartphone app and voice chat
As with other Switch online titles, Super Smash Bros Ultimate requires the Switch smartphone app if you want to partake in voice chat. If you prefer text chat, the D-pad can be used to send some family friendly predetermined messages.
There is also a companion app being developed called Smash World, which tracks your stats and allows you to share gameplay videos. The full features of this app are yet to be revealed.
Elite Smash
Play enough of the Global Smash Power mode, and once you achieve a high enough rank, you’ll be invited to join higher tier battles — these are for the very best players.
Smash Tag
This one is for ultimate bragging rights. Every player in Super Smash Bros Ultimate has a unique Smash Tag. By beating an opponent online, you’ll acquire his or her Smash Tag to add to your collection and display in your profile.
Battle Arenas & Spectator Mode
With Battle Arenas, you can create your own custom battlefields for online play to “compete against other players in a more intimate setting,” according to Nintendo.
If you’re part of the Twitch generation and more into watching than actually playing, Spectator Mode has you covered.
Battle Records
Battle Records track your Super Smash Bros Ultimate career with a full record of each fight. They are split into online and offline records.
In the Direct this morning, Nintendo also revealed the full roster of 74 characters and plans for DLC, as well as Spirits and the Adventure Mode.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate heads to Nintendo Switch on 7 December.
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