Super Smash Bros Ultimate 9.0 Patch Notes

Hungrybox breaks down the balance changes and character additions in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate's 9.0 patch, with particular focus on the controversial buffs to Sonic and Pikachu alongside the arrival of Steve as a new fighter. The patch sparked debate in the community over buffing characters already considered problematic—Sonic's speed and Pikachu's electric pressure made their improvements especially noteworthy. Beyond the buffs and nerfs to the wider roster, this deep dive examines how the patch shifts the competitive landscape and what these adjustments mean for character viability moving forward. Hungrybox walks through the specifics of each major change, offering perspective on whether the balance decisions make sense for the game's metagame and how players should adapt their strategies accordingly.