"Smash Bros Named After Friends' Beef 'Smashing'"

After 25 years of the Nintendo crossover fighting game's release, fans finally have the official backstory behind the iconic title of Super Smash Bros., thanks to its creator, Masahiro Sakurai.

The Origin of "Smash Bros": A Tale of Friendship and Feuds

In a recent episode of his YouTube series, Sakurai revealed the fascinating story behind the game's name. Contrary to popular belief, the "Brothers" in Super Smash Bros. doesn’t refer to literal familial ties. Instead, it symbolizes friendly rivalries among beloved Nintendo characters.

Sakurai explained that the name originated from the idea of friends "settling little disagreements" through exhilarating battles. The concept of friendly competition was central to the game's vision, and the title encapsulated that spirit perfectly.

Satoru Iwata’s Role in Naming the Series

The late Satoru Iwata, former Nintendo president, played a significant role in shaping the series' identity. According to Sakurai, Iwata was instrumental in finalizing the title. During brainstorming sessions, team members suggested various potential names, but it was Iwata who championed the inclusion of "Brothers."

"Mr. Iwata is the one who picked out the 'brothers' part," Sakurai recalled. "His reasoning was that, even though the characters weren’t brothers at all, using the word added the nuance that they weren’t simply fighting—they were friends who were settling a little disagreement!"

Iwata's input wasn’t limited to just the name. Sakurai shared heartwarming stories of their collaboration, revealing that Iwata personally assisted with coding the prototype of Super Smash Bros., originally titled Dragon King: The Fighting Game for the Nintendo 64.

A Legacy of Innovation and Collaboration

This revelation adds another layer of charm to the already beloved franchise. By understanding the origins of its name, fans gain deeper insight into the creative process and the collaborative spirit that birthed Super Smash Bros. Sakurai's storytelling brings the history of the series to life, reminding us why these characters continue to resonate with players across generations.

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