9. LUCARIO

Franchise / home series: Pokémon

Notable non-Smash games: Pokémon Diamond & Pearl (2006); Pokémon X & Y (2013, Mega Lucario)

Lucario entered Smash in Brawl, chosen as a popular, modern Pokémon that quickly became a mascot-like figure during the fourth Pokémon generation. Its design combines cool, aura-themed aesthetics with a martial arts influence, making it well-suited for a fighting game.

In Smash, Lucario’s defining mechanic is Aura: as Lucario takes damage, its attacks become stronger and its projectiles more threatening. This creates a comeback-oriented playstyle where high percentages, normally a disadvantage, can translate into tremendous KO power. Aura Sphere, Force Palm, and Extreme Speed form the core of its special moves, blending projectile zoning, command grab potential, and versatile recovery.

Over time, Lucario’s aura scaling and move properties have been adjusted to balance its late-game power. The character appeals to players who enjoy the thrill of comebacks and nuanced risk–reward management. Thematically and mechanically, Lucario embodies the idea of inner strength growing under pressure, both in Pokémon and within Smash’s competitive environment.