Marth Side B Recovery: A Comprehensive Guide to Dominating Ultimate's Trickiest Recovery

Introduction

In the realm of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Marth stands as a formidable swordsman with a versatile and potent move set. Among his impressive abilities, his side B recovery, known as "Dolphin Slash," has become both a source of frustration for opponents and a beacon of hope for Marth mains alike. Mastering this intricate technique is essential for unlocking Marth's full potential and achieving victory on the battlefield.

This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of Marth's side B recovery, offering an in-depth analysis of its strengths, weaknesses, and strategic applications. By understanding the mechanics, identifying common pitfalls, and exploring advanced techniques, you will emerge as a skilled practitioner of this game-changing move.

Understanding the Mechanics

Marth's side B recovery involves lunging forward with his sword extended, striking a powerful blow that propels him upward and diagonally. The move has a unique trajectory that arcs through the air, allowing Marth to regain significant vertical and horizontal distance.

The initial hitbox of Dolphin Slash deals 12% damage and has a strong knockback angle, making it an effective defensive tool for catching airborne opponents. However, the subsequent arc of the move deals only 4% damage and has minimal knockback, primarily serving to carry Marth upwards.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Impressive Vertical Recovery: Marth's side B recovery offers exceptional vertical mobility, making it difficult for opponents to edgeguard him effectively.
• Multiple Hitboxes: The initial and subsequent hitboxes provide multiple chances to recover, increasing Marth's chances of survival.
• Flexible Trajectory: The arcing trajectory of Dolphin Slash allows Marth to adjust his recovery path and navigate difficult stage layouts.

Weaknesses:

• Horizontal Limitation: Marth's side B recovery has limited horizontal range compared to other characters, making it vulnerable to well-timed intercepts.
• Ledge Grab Delay: Marth experiences a slight delay before being able to grab the ledge after using Dolphin Slash, leaving him open to meteor smashes.
• Predictable Pattern: The trajectory of Dolphin Slash is relatively predictable, making it easier for opponents to anticipate and counter it.

Strategic Applications

Aerial Combat:

Dolphin Slash can be effectively utilized as a counterattack during aerial combat. When opponents attempt to juggle or edgeguard Marth, he can retaliate with Dolphin Slash to regain position and deal damage.

Recovery Mix-Ups:

By combining Dolphin Slash with other recovery options, such as his up B and neutral B, Marth can create unpredictable recovery paths and confuse his opponents.

Edgeguarding:

The initial hitbox of Dolphin Slash can be used to intercept opponents who are attempting to recover to the stage. By timing it correctly, Marth can knock his opponents back into the abyss.

Advanced Techniques

Short Hop Dolphin Slash:

By performing a short hop before using Dolphin Slash, Marth can gain additional height and horizontal distance in his recovery. This technique is particularly effective for reaching platforms that are slightly above his reach.

Pivot Dolphin Slash:

Pivoting slightly before using Dolphin Slash allows Marth to adjust the direction of his recovery, enabling him to grab ledges or avoid obstacles more precisely.

Reverse Dolphin Slash:

By inputting the side B command in the opposite direction, Marth can perform a reverse Dolphin Slash. This technique can be used to recover from the edge of the stage and surprise opponents who are expecting a standard recovery approach.

Avoiding Pitfalls

Overextending:

Avoid using Dolphin Slash from too far away, as it will leave you vulnerable to horizontal intercepts. Judge the recovery distance carefully before committing.

Consistent Patterns:

Do not rely solely on Dolphin Slash for recovery. Mix up your recovery options to keep opponents guessing and increase your chances of survival.

Ledge Grab Delay:

Be aware of the slight delay before you can grab the ledge after using Dolphin Slash. Practice timing it correctly to avoid being meteor smashed.

Conclusion

Marth's side B recovery, Dolphin Slash, is a versatile and potent tool that can turn the tide of battle in his favor. By understanding its mechanics, exploiting its strengths, and mastering advanced techniques, you will become a formidable opponent on the battlefield.

Remember, practice and experimentation are key to unlocking the full potential of Dolphin Slash. With dedication and a deep understanding of Marth's capabilities, you can unleash the true power of the Dolphin Knight and dominate the world of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.