Recs.
Updated
Specs
Pros
Pro DI/SDI/Shield DI
Directional Influence (DI) and Smash DI (SDI) add much depth to the game through mindgames, traps, and reading of your opponents inputs; as well as allowing players to escape or otherwise modify their oponents combos, and even survive otherwise deadly moves. Shield DI allows players to make adjustments to their positioning and alter the timing of their opponents moves. When combined with light shielding, Shield DI becomes more significant, adding greatly to the neutral game. DI makes every combo different and makes getting hit an active process, making the "punish game" active on both sides. DI forces players to constantly make split-second decisions and reactions.
Pro High APM
Top players reach over 300 Actions Per Minute (APM), not including di. Competitive players routinely play at 200+.
Commands are not input at a steady rate, but instead take on a stoccato pattern with periods of high intensity (eg: mashing, dash dancing, most shield pressure) and moments of respite.
Pro The Meta
Melee could be thought of as having two phases: the "neutral game" and "punish game." The neutral game is key, being where players poke and prod, attempting to safely secure an opening. This can be nigh on impossible against good players who implement crouch canceling and other techniques. Melees neutral game is complex, fast, and precise: comparing melee to other fighters is like comparing go to chess due to the emphasis of options in play. Once a hit has been successfully landed, the punish game begins.
The punish game is all about maximizing damage and potentially killing the oponent using techniques such as weak hits, chain grabs, tech traps, and ledgeguarding. The metagame in SSBM is extremely advanced because of its age, and deep because of its design. Players commonly use conditioning, deceptive movement, and advanced shield techniques to lure players into unsafe situations and potentially secure a stock, as one mistake may lead to death. With multiple shields, different types of dodge, and DI; melee is intense and satisfying for both aggressor and defender
Cons
Con Accessibility
Many users complain about difficulties getting a copy. Nowadays, you have to fork over $50+ to find one (Gamestop is a good place to look for it). Also, if you worry about other equipment, it's not much of a worry. Crt's are practically free, and you can use either a Gamecube or an original Wii in order to play.