Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a 2018 crossover fighting game for the Nintendo Switch, developed by Bandai Namco Studios and Sora Ltd. and published by Nintendo, with series creator Masahiro Sakurai at the helm. Launched on December 7, 2018, it fulfilled Sakurai's ambitious goal of including every playable fighter from previous installments, resulting in a base roster of 74 characters (89 with downloadable content) spanning Nintendo icons and third-party legends. The gameplay retains the classic platform-fighter formula where players raise opponents' damage percentages to launch them off the stage, supporting up to eight players across modes like Timed, Stock, and Stamina, plus items and Assist Trophies. Critics praised its refined mechanics, extensive variety, and fine-tuning of the series' best elements, though its online multiplayer was criticized for technical issues and matchmaking. Widely considered one of the greatest games ever made and a highlight of the Switch library, it became a competitive esports staple and the best-selling fighting game in history, having sold over 37 million copies as of December 2025.