Get started
The best way to give it a try is to come to our ‘local’ (offline social event). You can expect a member of the organising team to chat to you. Any attendee will be happy to teach you the basics. There is a ‘newbie station’ with two controllers plugged in you can jump on and play. You can even just go against computer opponents too. Find what character you like, stick around for the main tournament bracket to start, spectate, and get inspired. Players knocked out early are put into a second round designed to match newer players together. Come again, sign up for bracket, and this might be you next time. You’re right on your way to your first win.
“No gaming experience is as unique as Melee with its infinite replayability. The community is very welcoming and inclusive.” - FructoseComa, Leeds
If you want to start today, or prefer to play at home first, there’s a bit more to it. There’s only one rule. Do not play on flatscreen TVs. Use modern monitors (laptops are fine) or retro big-box CRT TVs. The video delay on modern TVs destroys the fast, responsive feel Melee has which is core to the experience. However, we don’t recommend the GameCube/CRT approach. It’s expensive, hard to get, and you can’t practice online.
“The feeling of improving in this game is so gratifying, even in the small things. Been playing for less than a year and have had so much fun!” - Calcifer, Leeds
Instead, setup ‘Slippi’ (Melee Online) on your computer. A full guide can be found at melee.tv. Many players ranked in the global top 100 started with Slippi in 2020, beating out people who have played since 2001. You don’t need a fast PC to run it. There's offline play and computer opponents too. You can use your keyboard or a USB controller to play but it’s recommended you start learning on an official GameCube controller as soon as possible which can be bought on second-hand markets. With a GameCube controller, you will need a Mayflash GameCube to PC controller adapter too (Amazon), which all together will be roughly £40.