The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Unlock the Old Master & Recluse Hidden Secrets

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is more than just a battle royale of characters—it’s a masterclass in combat, strategy, and deep game mastery. Among its countless hidden gems, few are as rewarding and elusive as the Old Master and the mythical Recluse hidden inside the roster. Whether you're a veteran pro or a curious newcomer, mastering these challenging fighters unlocks a new level of skill and joy in the arena.

In this ultimate guide, we dive deep into the strategies, tricks, and insider secrets to mastering the Old Master—the elegant martial artist hinted at through lore—and the elusive Recluse, hidden within the game’s hidden layers. From beginner fundamentals to advanced combos, everything you need to unlock these top-tier fighters is here.

Understanding the Context


Who is the Old Master in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate?

The Old Master isn’t officially confirmed as a fully available competitive character yet, but fans have long speculated—and rumors grow stronger every tournament. Rooted in the tradition of Asian martial arts and Nintendo’s lore, the Old Master embodies the discipline of old-world fighting philosophy, combining fluid controls, lightning-fast combos, and counter-striking finesse.

Unlike flashy powerhouses, the Old Master thrives on precision, timing, and reading opponent patterns—making him a king of control and mind games. Unlocking him isn’t just a stat grab; it’s unlocking a journey into beat-em-up mastery.

Key Insights


Why Unlock the Old Master?

Mastering the Old Master transforms your playstyle:

  • Super Art: Lightning Stance + Twin Blades — Controls intro ± mid-game with rapid combos.
  • Final Smash — A devastating energy wave that dominates large arenas.
  • Unique Motion — Precise joystick-and-button combos reward patience and practice.

Plus, truly mastering a fighting game legend is deeply satisfying—perfect for streamers, competitive players, and storytelling fans alike.

Final Thoughts


Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Old Master

1. Learn the Basics — Lunar Combos & Basic Inputs

Start with fundamentals:

Luminal Cranking → Triple Combo (Side → Forward → B) → Strike + Seitengeist → Smash  
Used for controlling space and networking pressure.  

Practice input weights to time punches and kicks without stalling.

2. Study the Old Master’s Motion Grid

The Old Master’s joystick fight relies on three axes: forward-backward, left-right, and vertical tilt. Learn to:

  • Shift stances fluidly to reset combos

  • Use diagonal tilt to fake strikes and bait counters

  • Top-mix with quick parries and snap back swings
    Pro tip: Watch pro replays where top players manipulate positioning to chain combos effortlessly.

3. Master the Twin Blades Super Time

Perfecting the “Twin Blade Lunar Combo” is essential:

Inputs:

  • SPD + B → Quick Parry → Forward + Side Combo → Strike → Super (presses UL+RT+B after stabilizing)

This combo hits hard, resets defense, and locks into a combo frame. Timing is key—quarter-second inputs separate pros from novices.

4. Utilize Airdash and refuge maneuvers

The Old Master’s Airdash links vertical and horizontal dash transitions—create stunning sweep combos when opponents break stance.
Combine with Refuge 1 on parry dives to reset retry intensity.