Masahiro Sakurai Reveals the Art of Fine-Tuning Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Stages in Latest YouTube Video

Masahiro Sakurai, legendary creator behind the Super Smash Bros.

franchise and a celebrated figure at Nintendo, has offered fans a rare glimpse into his high standards for game design through his latest YouTube video.

The showcase dives deep into the iteration process and highlights the meticulous work that goes into perfecting even minor details in Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate for the Nintendo Switch. Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate, developed by Bandai Namco Studios and Sora Ltd.

under Sakurai’s supervision and released in December 2018, has become a cornerstone of the Nintendo Switch library.

As of 2024, it stands as one of the best-selling titles for the platform, surpassing 34 million copies sold globally.

Yet, it’s not just the roster or gameplay that has driven the game's acclaim—it’s the attention to detail that Sakurai and his team pour into every stage and character. In his most recent YouTube upload, Sakurai breaks down the creative decisions behind the Mishima Dojo stage, a battleground inspired by the Tekken series.

He opens by displaying the original wall design submitted by his development team.

According to Sakurai, the initial version of the dojo wall, particularly on the left-hand side, appeared as if it had sustained a massive bite, rather than realistically splintering as wood typically would.

This discrepancy in visual authenticity prompted several rounds of revisions. Throughout the video, Sakurai demonstrates how the wall underwent a series of subtle but important changes.

Each iteration moved the visual effect closer to a natural depiction of broken wood, ultimately achieving a more believable outcome for players.

This thorough process highlights the unwavering commitment to realism and immersion that defines the game's visual identity. "Even small details can significantly affect how realistic or satisfying a stage feels," Sakurai explains in his commentary.

His hands-on approach offers an insightful window into the demands of modern game development and the high standards set by top-tier developers. The content isn’t limited to just the Mishima Dojo.

In the latter part of the video, Sakurai touches on other aspects of Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate’s design.

He presents two nearly identical images of Cloud Strife, inviting viewers to spot subtle but deliberate differences in lighting.

This segment further illustrates how intricate visual tweaks can enhance the player’s experience, even if those changes are initially imperceptible. Sakurai’s transparency through his YouTube channel continues to resonate with Nintendo fans and those interested in game development.

His breakdowns offer both seasoned developers and newcomers alike a chance to appreciate the dedication behind celebrated gaming experiences like Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate.

With each video, audiences gain a better understanding of the artistry that shapes Nintendo’s marquee releases, further solidifying the company’s reputation for excellence in interactive entertainment.

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