How Masahiro Sakurai Perfected Sora in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Developer Insights

Masahiro Sakurai Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Process for Sora's Integration in Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate on Nintendo Switch Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate for the Nintendo Switch has become renowned for its expansive roster of iconic crossover characters, and few additions have been as highly anticipated as Sora, the protagonist from the Kingdom Hearts series.

In a recent developer-focused video, director Masahiro Sakurai provided an in-depth look at the rigorous process of bringing Sora to life as a DLC fighter, offering fans unique insights into the care and attention to detail demanded by such an endeavor. As the creative force behind Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate, Sakurai has regularly shared development insights through video updates.

In this particular installment, he detailed the variety of feedback and refinements applied during Sora’s implementation.

The video features numerous pre-development visuals and in-game footage, illustrating how the team scrutinized every aspect of Sora’s presence in Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate. According to Sakurai, character accuracy was paramount.

He walked through adjustments related to Sora's "Final Smash" attack, his distinct facial animations when taking damage, and his celebratory applause after matches.

Special attention was also given to the design of Sora’s unique stage, ensuring that all elements faithfully represented the essence of the character and his origins. Sakurai highlighted that the inclusion of a new DLC character involves much more than simply modeling the character and adding new moves.

"Every tiny detail—from the motion on a jump to the timing of a smile—was carefully reviewed and iterated upon," Sakurai stated.

This perfectionist approach underscores the complexity behind seemingly minor animations and mechanics, all designed to maintain the high standards expected by both Nintendo and the series’ passionate fanbase. The video further emphasized the importance of collaboration throughout development.

While discussing the minute changes and ongoing iterations, Sakurai expressed appreciation for his team’s dedication.

"I do feel bad for placing so many demands on my team, but we were always moving forward together, grounded by mutual trust and a shared vision for excellence," he explained.

This dedication not only ensured Sora felt true to his original character but also cemented the cohesion and quality that defines Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate. Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate, first released for Nintendo Switch in December 2018, has become both a commercial and critical success, surpassing 30 million copies sold worldwide (as of December 2023).

Each new DLC character, including Sora, has contributed to the fighter’s reputation as one of the most ambitious crossover projects in gaming history.

The meticulous approach demonstrated by Sakurai and his development team continues to set a gold standard for downloadable content and character integration on the Nintendo platform. For more firsthand insights and visuals into the making of Sora in Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate, fans can view Sakurai’s latest developer video, now available on his official YouTube channel.

Super Smash Bros Nintendo Masahiro Sakurai Smash Bros Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Sora Sakurai Nintendo Switch Switch