Original Design Documents for Super Smash Bros. N64 Discovered by David V. Kimball

By Staff Writer

The nostalgia-laden virtual world of Super Smash Bros. has recently become a little more magical thanks to the discovery of its original design documents. Marketing director and content creator David V. Kimball has uncovered these fascinating blueprints, shedding light on the creative vision behind the beloved Nintendo 64 fighting game.

A Nostalgic Find

The discovery of these storyboards is both exciting for Super Smash Bros. enthusiasts and the larger gaming community. David V. Kimball, known for his engaging videos about Super Smash Bros. Melee, stumbled upon the design documents on HAL Laboratory’s website while using the Wayback Machine. Despite not actively searching for this gem, Kimball’s research for his upcoming video led him to this impressive find.

Inside the Storyboards

The original storyboard panels, which were hand-drawn by the game’s creator Masahiro Sakurai, offer a glimpse into the early stages of the game’s development. These storyboards detail the opening sequence of the Nintendo 64 platform fighter, showcasing iconic moments like Mario sitting on a desk and all the characters appearing on the screen together.

According to the translated HAL Labs website, the storyboards were prepared for the opening movie of Super Smash Bros. The game’s impact is further highlighted by the fact that it has sold over 5 million copies worldwide, solidifying its place in gaming history.

Looking Back at a Legacy

The unveiling of these design documents comes shortly after the end of development for the latest game in the series, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Masahiro Sakurai, who has been with the franchise since its inception, is now focusing on his YouTube channel, where he reflects on his storied career in game development. Sakurai has also shared footage of “Dragon King,” the prototype that eventually evolved into the first Super Smash Bros. game.

Community Reactions

Fans have expressed their enthusiasm and nostalgia upon seeing these storyboards. The discovery offers a unique look at the care and detail that went into creating a game that many grew up playing. The artwork not only brings back memories for longtime fans but also serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of the Super Smash Bros. series.

Final Thoughts

David V. Kimball’s discovery of the original storyboards for Super Smash Bros. is more than just an interesting footnote in gaming history. It serves as a connection point for fans, new and old, to appreciate the creative effort that went into making a game that has brought countless hours of joy and competition to players all over the world.

We highly recommend checking out the full storyboard panels using the Wayback Machine on HAL Laboratory’s website, as most of the links remain functional despite a few broken thumbnails.

What do you think of these original storyboards? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Alana has been with Nintendo Life since 2022, and while RPGs are her first love, Nintendo is a close second. She enjoys nothing more than overthinking battle strategies, characters, and stories. She also wishes she was a Sega air pirate.