The game includes standard 2-to-4-player battle modes, including both time and stock matches, playable via either local wi-fi or internet play. It is also possible to design a custom Mii-style fighter using parts and abilities unlocked throughout the game this character can also be transferred for use in Super Smash Bros. Most of the fighters from previous entries have returned, along with numerous newcomers, including Mega Man, Pac-Man, Little Mac (Punch-Out), Shulk (Xenoblade Chronicles), Palutena (Kid Icarus), Villager (Animal Crossing), and numerous others for a total of more than three dozen playable characters. As characters take damage, they are sent flying further by attacks, and if they fly - or fall - out of the arena, then they're out!
The basic formula is unchanged since the previous title: up to four characters, controlled by either human players or the computer, duke it out in a side-scrolling arena. for Nintendo 3DS is the fourth entry in Nintendo's crossover fighting franchise, featuring dozens of characters from across Nintendo's catalog, along with a few special guests.