Fan Casting Ness in Earthbound

EarthBound's Ness became widely known for his appearance as a playable character throughout the Super Smash Bros. fighting game series,[16] debuting as a fighter in the first installment in 1999. [79] Ness's inclusion in the original release was among its biggest surprises,[80][nb 16] and renewed Mother series fans' faith in new content from Nintendo.[58] Ness was one of the game's most powerful characters, according to IGN, if players could perfect his odd controls and psychic powers.[80] In Europe, which did not see an EarthBound release, Ness was better known for his role in the fighting game than for his original role in the role-playing game.[83] Ness returned in the first sequel, Melee, alongside an EarthBound-themed item and battle arena.[80][nb 17] Lucas, the protagonist of Mother 3, joined Ness in Brawl.[85][86][nb 18] Several years after Brawl's release, Official Nintendo Magazine wrote that Ness was an unpopular Smash character who should be removed from future installments.[83] However, Ness returned in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate[89], and Lucas was later added as downloadable content.[90] Nintendo also produced Ness and Lucas Amiibo figurines.[90][91]