Phantom Slash

Phantom Slash is Zelda's down special move in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS / Wii U, replacing her Transform move from Super Smash Bros. Brawl due to the elimination of in-battle transformation moves. The move involves Zelda summoning a Phantom that dashes forward to attack opponents before it disappears, based on Zelda's spirit being able to possess Phantoms in The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks. Phantom Slash can also be charged by holding the special button, which results in the Phantom travelling greater distances. When fully charged, the Phantom's jab will be followed by an upward swing for a second hit. The Phantom is treated like a projectile and as such is vulnerable to reflectors, and if the Phantom takes at least 13% it shatters and the move cannot be used for 9 seconds. A purple cloud aura will appear over Zelda's hand for the duration of this recharge period.

Two custom variants appear in both games: Phantom Breaker, which travels a set distance and deals more shield damage, and Phantom Strike, which is stronger but can only be cast right next to Zelda instead of at a distance from her.

Trivia

 * If Zelda summons a Phantom and it gets destroyed and she is KO'd afterwards, she will be unable to use the move as usual but the purple cloud on her hand will disappear.