This morning we learn a little bit more about the mysterious Smash Ball that is used to execute a Final Smash. Although the Smash Ball is technically an item, it is quite unique from other items in the game in that you are unable to pick it up. Instead, players must continually attack the ball until it breaks. When this happens, the character that smashed open the ball will start to glow, and will be able to execute his or her personal Final Smash attack when the player presses B. While your character is glowing, you will have the option to move around normally, allowing you to use the attack from the best position and at the best possible time.
There is some risk, however, involved with waiting before performing the attack. If the glowing standby player takes damage, they may fumble the Smash Ball and lose the opportunity to use their Final Smash. In addition to this, Sakurai also mentions the Pity Final Smash, which occurs when a player is significantly behind in a match. Occasionally, when the player in last place respawns after being KOed, they will reappear on the map in the standby mode for their Final Smash. This is an interesting twist that could give players their second wind during a match!
