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Ganondorf

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Template:SSB Infobox Ganondorf (known as Ganon in his beast form) is a the central antagonist of the The Legend of Zelda series, and archenemy of Link and Zelda. Originally a leader of the Gerudo, a race of desert brigands, he acquired the Triforce of Power in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Since then, he has become the king of darkness and used his powers to obtain domination over Hyrule through a variety of means, particularly by obtaining the other two pieces of the Triforce.

Primarily through the Super Smash Bros. series, Ganondorf has crossed over with the Super Mario series in Nintendo Land, Super Smash Bros. Melee, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, and Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS / Wii U. In the former, he appears as a major boss. In the Super Smash Bros. series, Ganondorf is an unlockable playable character except for Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, in which he is a default character. In Super Smash Bros. Melee his design is based upon his appearance in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, while in later games he is based on his The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess design.

History

Super Smash Bros. Melee

Main article: SmashWiki:Ganondorf (SSBM)
Artwork of Ganondorf, from Super Smash Bros. Melee.

In Super Smash Bros. Melee, Ganondorf appeared as an unlockable playable character, unlocked by either clearing Event Match 29: Triforce Gathering or by playing 600 Melee matches, and then defeating him in a one-on-one stock match; the player is forced to play as Link when facing him. Like Link and Zelda, in this title, Ganondorf's appearance is based on his design from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Like fellow secret characters Jigglypuff and Pichu, Ganondorf makes a cameo appearance in the title's introduction. His hand can be seen, along with Link's and Zelda's, one of the three Triforce pieces glowing on each of their hands.

His special and standard moves are similar to Captain Falcon's, making Ganondorf the only character in Super Smash Bros. Melee to share moves with a character from another series. His neutral special move is the Warlock Punch, his side special is the Gerudo Dragon, his up special is the Dark Dive, and his down special is the Wizard's Foot. Ganondorf moves and attacks slower than Falcon, but his attacks are more powerful. Ganondorf possesses the strongest meteor smash move (his down aerial attack), and his u-tilt move, despite being slow in execution, is stronger than most smash attacks.

Though his official artwork portrays him with a sword, Ganondorf only uses the sword in a taunt when he wins a match in one of the Melee modes. He was voiced by Takashi Nagasako, who would later voice Donkey Kong in the Super Mario and Donkey Kong series.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Main article: SmashWiki:Ganondorf (SSBB)
Ganondorf
File:BrawlGanondorf.jpg
Artwork of Ganondorf in Super Smash Bros. Brawl.

Ganondorf again appears as an unlockable playable character in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. He can be unlocked by clearing Classic Mode with Link or Zelda on hard difficulty, playing 200 Brawl matches, or having Ganondorf join the party in the Subspace Emissary. His appearance in this game is based upon his appearance in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.

Ganondorf, along with Falco, is the only clone characters from Super Smash Bros. Melee to return as playable characters in this game. Ganondorf is still a hard-hitting character in this game, but he's much more sluggish in movement. Also, some of his attacks are weaker than they were in Super Smash Bros. Melee. In addition, some of his moves have been altered to make them more original. His side special move has been replaced with the Flame Choke, in which Ganondorf charges forward and grabs the opponent, choking them with dark energy. His Final Smash, Beast Ganon, involves him transforming into his Ganon form from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and charging at enemies.

The Subspace Emissary

Ganondorf's snapshot in The Subspace Emissary.

In the Subspace Emissary storyline, Ganondorf is the true commander of the Subspace Army, though Bowser believes he is. He is working for Master Hand to bring the world into Subspace, though he plots to betray him and seize his power. He gathers several other villains such as Wario, Ridley, and Porky. Bowser acts as his second in command, while Ganondorf works behind the scenes. Wario, however, chooses to act independently (until he was turned into a trophy and sucked into Subspace). When many of the heroes infiltrate The Subspace Bomb Factory on the Isle of Ancients, he reveals himself to them and commands the R.O.B.s to set off multiple Subspace Bombs. He even commands them to attack the Ancient Minister, who then reveals himself to be the leader of the R.O.B.s and assists the fighters. The island is absorbed into Subspace, shortly after the heroes escape. Ganondorf emerges from Subspace with Bowser on a massive Subspace Gunship and fires at the Battleship Halberd, destroying it.

However, soon after that explosion, some of the game's heroes emerge from the explosion riding in ships belonging to Captain Olimar, Samus, Captain Falcon, and Fox McCloud, all in their own ships. They all shoot at the Subspace Gunship; however, the gunship is too powerful for them to destroy. Ganondorf attempts to destroy all the ships; however, Kirby then arrives, riding on Dragoon. He flies straight through the gunship's cannon, causing it to explode. The rest of the heroes keep firing at the Subspace Gunship, causing it to burst into flames, several parts exploding as well. However, shortly before the gunship is completely destroyed, Bowser and Ganondorf retreat into subspace.

Afterward, the two travel to Master Hand. However, Ganondorf then betrays Bowser, using the only remaining Dark Cannon to reduce him to a trophy. Master Hand himself is seen to be controlled by Tabuu, the embodiment of Subspace. Ganondorf, surprised at this revelation, leaps to attack him, only to be turned into a trophy himself. When Bowser is revived by King Dedede, he furiously attacks Ganondorf's trophy in vengeance. Link and Zelda come across the trophy and revive him, forming a temporary alliance as all the characters prepare for the final battle against Tabuu. After every fighter is returned to normal, all of them, including Ganondorf, battle Tabuu, eventually defeating him. After Tabuu is destroyed, the world is returned from subspace.

Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS / Wii U

Ganondorf returns as an unlockable playable character in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and as a default character in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U. In the Nintendo 3DS versions, players can unlock him by completing Classic Mode with Link or Zelda on 5.0 intensity or higher or by playing 80 Smash matches, and they must defeat him in the subsequent match, taking place in Gerudo Valley, to unlock him.

Ganondorf's appearance remains the same The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, and he reuses his voice set, although he has minor details added to his design, such as the large, glowing crack in his armor and the more torn cape. Additionally, Ganondorf's facial expressions are different.

Ganondorf remains a slow, but powerful character, and his moveset, aside from his options for alternate custom special moves, continues to closely resemble Captain Falcon's moveset. In terms of his equipment options, Ganondorf can utilize the Magic Stone, Cape, and Shin Guards equipment.

Profiles and statistics

Super Smash Bros. Melee Trophies

Type Image Description
Classic Said to be the sole man born to the Gerudo tribe in a hundred years, Ganondorf aspired to conquer the world. He plundered a piece of the sacred Triforce from the Temple of Time when Link pulled the Master Sword from its pedestal. With the Triforce of Power in Ganondorf's possession, Hyrule was plunged into darkness until Link and Zelda defeated the fiend.
Adventure Since he's slow and can't jump very high, Ganondorf relies mainly on his immense physical strength to overwhelm his enemies. His great weight also makes him a difficult foe to send offscreen. Ganondorf's Warlock Punch is slow but absurdly powerful, and when he strikes with his Gerudo Dragon, enemies rise skyward enveloped in dark flames.
All-Star Ganondorf's slow speed works against him in single combat, but in melees, his crazy power lets him earn his keep with innumerable KOs. Ganondorf can't strike quickly, but each blow he lands adds up. Ganondorf is at his quickest when he uses the Wizard's Foot, and his Dark Dive blasts foes in a burst of dark energy.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Site bio

The demon thief Ganondorf has returned! He’s the largest and bulkiest of all human-type characters.

His movement, his attack capability—everything feels weighted. Ganondorf’s attacks land with heavy thunks, which gives him a very unique feel.

Solid Snake codec conversation

  • Snake: This guy is giving off a murderous vibe! Even getting close to him makes my skin crawl...
  • Otacon: Snake! Ganondorf is dangerous! His ambition is to rule the world, and he's got the power to do it. It's no wonder they call him "King of Evil."
  • Snake: Do modern weapons even work against him? Do I even have a chance?
  • Otacon: Take a look around you. There are plenty of people fighting with swords or even their bare hands. At least you've got firepower! Count yourself lucky! It's not like you to whine, Snake.
  • Snake: I was just asking, sheesh. Well, it's back to the mission for me.

Trophies

Type Image Game Description
Ganondorf BrawlTrophy071.png N64 The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Wii The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
A man who wants to use the power of the Triforce to conquer the world. In Twilight Princess, he gives strength to the Twilight King, Zant, and tries to change the land into a world of darkness. He possesses Zelda, transforms into a magical beast, and attacks Link. In the end, however, Link deals him a finishing blow and defeats him.
Beast Ganon BrawlTrophy072.png Wii Super Smash Bros. Brawl Ganondorf's Final Smash. When he grabs a Smash Ball, he transforms into a repulsive, evil beast. He'll vanish momentarily from the screen, then rampage from one side to the other in a straight, headlong rush. When he begins the move, any character before his eyes will flinch, so try to start the move near other characters.
Ganondorf (Wind Waker) BrawlTrophy360.png GCN The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker The king of evil. Ganondorf aims to collect the Triforce pieces and rule the world. Already in possession of the Triforce of Power, he secures Zelda and her Triforce of Wisdom, thus luring Link to his castle. However, he is ultimately defeated by Zelda's Light Arrows and Link's Master Sword.

Stickers

Image Game Effect
Ganondorf.png Zelda: Ocarina of Time [Darkness] - Attack +29
Usable by: Ganondorf
Ganondorf WW Sticker.png Zelda: The Wind Waker [Darkness] - Attack +33
Usable by: Ganondorf

Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS Trophies

Name Image Description Unlock Criteria
Ganondorf GanondorfTrophy3DS.png The King of Evil that awaits Link at the end of most of his adventures. Ganondorf possesses the Triforce of Power. In Smash Bros., he makes up for his low speed with devastating power. The strength of his blows can knock back most opponents. Get close with a dash attack, and pummel your foes! Clear Classic mode with Ganondorf.
Ganondorf (Alt.) GanondorfAllStarTrophy3DS.png Being the powerhouse that he is, the King of Evil is a great choice for free-for-alls. His Warlock Punch delivers a thunderous, dark-energy-fueled blow from his left hand. Unfortunately, left-handed dark-energy-fueled blows take some time to charge. You can turn to face someone as they cowardly try to hit you from behind. Clear All-Star mode with Ganondorf.
Ganondorf (Ocarina of Time) Trophy thumbnail image. Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS. The Great King of Evil who plots to steal the Triforce from the Sacred Realm and rule Hyrule. When Link reveals the secret entrance to the Sacred Realm, Ganondorf gains entry and acquires the Triforce of Power. With it literally in hand, his only concern is Link and Zelda stopping him.

Super Smash Bros. for Wii U

Palutena's Guidance

  • Pit: This Ganondorf guy definitely has the evil look down pat.
  • Palutena: He can sometimes take another form. As Ganon, he's known as the King of Porkness.
  • Viridi: It's ACTUALLY the King of Darkness. He's brought Hyrule to the brink of ruin more times than I can count.
  • Palutena: Hmm. My Archvillain Database doesn't bring up anything about his past.
  • Pit: Wow, I didn't know you had that app.
  • Palutena: Hee hee. A goddess must preserve SOME sense of mystery!
  • Pit: Huh?
  • Viridi: One thing you should know, Pit, is that there are many different Ganons.
  • Palutena: Just like there are multiple Links and Zeldas.
  • Viridi: But don't let that confuse you. I've spent years studying Ganon canon.
  • Palutena: Remember, Ganondorf is as heavy as he is powerful. Use that to your advantage.

Trophies

Name Image Appears In Description Unlock Criteria
Ganondorf Ganondorf trophy. N64 The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (11/1998)
Wii The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (11/2006)
NTSC-U: The King of Evil that awaits Link at the end of most of his adventures. Ganondorf possesses the Triforce of Power. In Smash Bros., he makes up for his low speed with devastating power. The strength of his blows can knock back most opponents. Get close with a dash attack, and pummel your foes!

PAL: The King of Evil is Link's arch-nemesis in most games in the Legend of Zelda series. With the Triforce of Power at his disposal, he's a fearsome opponent. In this game, his mighty attacks have so much impact, they easily make up for his slow speed, and his launching ability is extra impressive! Rush in when the enemy's open and strike hard.

Clear Classic mode with Ganondorf.
Ganondorf (Alt.) Ganondorf alternate trophy. N64 The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (11/1998)
Wii The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (11/2006)
NTSC-U: Being the powerhouse that he is, the King of Evil is a great choice for free-for-alls. His Warlock Punch delivers a thunderous, dark-energy-fueled blow from his left hand. Unfortunately, left-handed dark-energy-fueled blows take some time to charge. You can turn to face someone as they cowardly try to hit you from behind.

PAL: Being the powerhouse that he is, the King of Evil is a great choice for free-for-alls. His Warlock Punch focuses dark energy into his left hand to deliver a thunderous back-hander. Unfortunately, focusing all that energy takes time. If someone sneaks behind you just as you start the move, quickly try to turn around.

Clear Classic mode with Ganondorf, then find the trophy in the shop for 1000G.
Beast Ganon Beast Ganon trophy. NTSC-U: For Ganondorf's Final Smash, he morphs into a beast and attacks. As soon as he's transformed, he buries nearby fighters in the ground and then stuns them with his roar. Finally, he charges forward, dealing heavy damage and launching anyone in his way. Any foes buried by the first strike are doomed to be hit by the rest.

PAL: For Ganondorf's Final Smash, he morphs into a beast and attacks. As soon as he's transformed, he buries fighters nearby in the ground, then stuns them with his roar. Finally, he charges forward, dealing heavy damage and launching anyone in his way. Any foes who are buried by the first strike are guaranteed to be hit by the rest.

Clear All-Star mode with Ganondorf.
Ganondorf (Wind Waker) Ganondorf (Wind Waker) GCN The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (03/2003) NTSC-U: Long ago, in accordance with the prayers of the King of Hyrule, the gods sealed the King of Darkness, Ganondorf, beneath a vast ocean, along with the land of Hyrule itself. But this was not the end. In the forsaken fortress, Link discovers that Ganondorf has returned and the legend must go on with Link himself as the new hero!

PAL: Long ago, in accordance with the prayers of the King of Hyrule, the gods sealed the King of Evil, Ganondorf, beneath a vast ocean, along with the land of Hyrule itself. But this was not the end. In the Forsaken Fortress, Link discovers that Ganondorf has returned, and the legend must go on with Link himself as the new hero!

Name in other languages

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Trivia

Template:Niwa

  • Ganondorf appears as a property in the 2006 version of Nintendo Monopoly. He takes the place of Pacific Avenue and costs $300. In the 2010 version he was replaced by another Zelda series character, Midna.
  • In Super Smash Bros. Melee's Classic Mode, Ganondorf only appears as a teammate for the player.
  • In the Subspace Emissary, not counting the Shadow Characters, Ganondorf is the only playable villain character who is never fought.
  • As a possible Easter egg, one of Ganondorf's trophy's eyes glow red when the background is turned dark.

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