What is Planking in Melee?
In the world of Super Smash Bros. Melee, planking is a technique that has been popularized by top players, particularly in the competitive community. It is a vital aspect of the game’s mechanics, allowing players to gain an advantage over their opponents. In this article, we will delve into the world of planking, exploring what it is, how it works, and its significance in the competitive scene.
What is Planking?
Named after a Meta Knight player from Maryland called Plank, planking refers to repeatedly dropping off the ledge and grabbing it again, gaining protection from the intangibility frames obtained from grabbing the ledge. This technique is used to avoid attacks, create distance, and recover from the edge of the stage.
How does Planking Work?
When a player is knocked off the stage, they enter a state of free fall. During this time, they are vulnerable to attacks and can be easily KO’d. However, by grabbing the ledge, the player can momentarily gain invincibility and protection from attacks. The key to planking lies in the timing and positioning of the grab.
When a player is about to grab the ledge, they must time their input perfectly to ensure a successful grab. If they fail to grab the ledge, they will continue to fall off the stage and become vulnerable to attacks again. The optimal frame window for grabbing the ledge is between 24 and 124 frames, depending on the character and percentage.
Benefits of Planking
Planking provides several benefits to players:
• Protection from attacks: By grabbing the ledge, players can avoid taking damage from attacks and protect themselves from KO’s.
• Recovery and distance: Planking allows players to recover from the edge of the stage, creating distance between themselves and their opponents.
• Mind games: Planking can be used to distract opponents, making them hesitant to attack or approach.
Common Planking Mistakes
To master the art of planking, players must avoid common mistakes:
• Incorrect timing: Failing to time the grab correctly can result in a missed grab and continued vulnerability to attacks.
• Poor positioning: Grabbing the ledge at the wrong angle or timing can lead to a failure to grab or a misgrab, leaving the player vulnerable.
• Insufficient spacing: Not leaving enough space between the character and the ledge can cause the character to clip off the stage, resulting in a KO.
Strategies and Tips
Here are some strategies and tips to help you improve your planking skills:
- Practice your timing: Mastering the timing of your grabs is crucial. Practice planking with your favorite characters to develop a sense of timing.
- Use the right character: Some characters are more suited to planking than others. Experiment with different characters to find the ones that work best for you.
- Pay attention to your opponent: Keep an eye on your opponent’s movements and positioning. This will help you anticipate their attacks and plan your planking accordingly.
- Use planking as a tool: Planking should be used in conjunction with other techniques, such as aerials and grabs, to create a well-rounded playstyle.
Conclusion
Planking is a fundamental aspect of Super Smash Bros. Melee, allowing players to gain an advantage over their opponents. By mastering the timing and positioning of grabs, players can avoid attacks, create distance, and recover from the edge of the stage. In this article, we have explored the basics of planking, common mistakes to avoid, and strategies for improvement. With practice and dedication, you can master the art of planking and take your gameplay to the next level.