Buzz
Since 2001, Super Smash Bros. Melee has featured a fixed roster of 26 beloved Nintendo characters. Dedicated fans can probably recite the list from memory. Yet, few realize that the roster secretly includes one more legendary figure: Master Hand.
For those unfamiliar, Master Hand is the primary antagonist in the Smash Bros. series. Although the games lack a unified storyline, Master Hand has been a constant presence since the beginning. He appears as the final boss in the original Smash Bros. 1P Game, Classic Mode in Melee, Brawl, Smash Bros. 4, and segments of Ultimate. He also plays a significant role in The Subspace Emissary from Brawl and World of Light in Ultimate.
Interestingly, Master Hand was the first character ever introduced in a Smash Bros. game. When you start the original N64 version (or an emulator), the opening scene features Master Hand placing Yoshi and Samus figurines on a desk, setting the stage, and counting down before snapping his fingers to start the fight.
Master Hand has always been a part of the Smash Bros. series, but never as a playable fighter. Despite countless battles and completed game modes, he remained an unattainable character, never offered as a reward. Rumors persisted, however, that Master Hand was secretly unlockable. Some dismissed it as a myth, akin to the legend of Mew under the truck in Vermillion City. Yet, it turns out Master Hand is no myth—there’s a genuine method to play as him in Melee.
I first learned about this trick from Moonshine Gaming’s TikTok account. In their video, they demonstrate the exact steps to unlock Master Hand in Melee. Here’s how you can do it:
You’ll require two controllers—one for Player 1 and another for Player 3. Navigate to VS. Mode > Melee, select any character for Player 1, and position the cursor over the Back button in the top right. For Player 3, leave the character selection blank and hover over the “Name Entry” option. Simultaneously press the A button on both controllers. If successful, you’ll be able to choose a stage, and Master Hand will appear as Player 3's character.
However, Master Hand’s controls are limited. While you can’t move him extensively, his full move set is accessible via the D-Pad and GameCube buttons. The best part? Master Hand is invincible, guaranteeing victory in any match. While he’s not tournament-legal, you can surprise a friend with this hidden trick. Initially, they’ll be amazed by this Melee secret, but that amazement will quickly turn to frustration as they face certain defeat.
