The name "Super Smash Bros." finally has an official origin story, 25 years after the game's debut. Series creator Masahiro Sakurai recently revealed the intriguing backstory behind the title in a YouTube video.
Sakurai Explains the "Smash Bros" Origin
The video explains that the name reflects the game's core concept: friends resolving minor conflicts. This is a far cry from the game's actual roster, which features characters who aren't brothers, or even male, in many cases. The naming process involved brainstorming sessions with the team, including a meeting with Shigesato Itoi, creator of the Mother/Earthbound series.
The pivotal role of former Nintendo president Satoru Iwata is highlighted. Sakurai credits Iwata with selecting the "brothers" element of the title, emphasizing that it conveyed a sense of friendly rivalry rather than outright combat. Iwata's vision was to portray the characters as settling disagreements amongst themselves, even if they weren't literally brothers.
The video also includes personal anecdotes from Sakurai about his relationship with Iwata, including Iwata's direct involvement in programming the original Super Smash Bros. prototype, then known as "Dragon King: The Fighting Game" for the Nintendo 64. This personal touch adds a layer of emotional depth to the explanation of the game's iconic name. The video offers a fascinating glimpse into the collaborative spirit and creative decisions behind one of Nintendo's most successful franchises.
