Dodging both saves your life and makes you look like a badass.
The dodge is an invaluable technique that’s easy to learn but difficult to master. It comes in two forms: the ground dodge, and mid-air dodge. The ground dodge can be done when you guard and hit down on the analog stick (or d-pad, for you wiimote heathens). Doing so will cause you to dodge in place. This move is perfect for avoiding a combo you’re stuck in, or about to receive. Also great for dodge items at ground level and life-ending smash attacks.
For those of you who like to get aerial, the mid-air dodge is an absolute must-learn technique. To pull one off, all you have to do is hit the guard button while you’re in the air. This technique will help you pass through a Smash player who’s being a total ass and air-juggling you. The mid-air dodge is also great for avoiding thrown items.
Another variation of the guard is the dodge roll. While guarding on the floor, move the analog stick either left or right, and your character will roll accordingly. This move is great for ending up behind your enemy and finishing them off. Careful though, heavy dodge-rollers tend to roll predictably, and experienced Smash players will pick up on this.
