Smash player baffled after “zoomer” opponent uses ChatGPT to mount comeback win

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In the heat of a Super Smash Bros Ultimate competition, a player sought assistance from ChatGPT to gain an edge during their match, igniting a discussion regarding the validity of in-game coaching and the use of AI in tournament play.

On June 24th, Robin’s competitor at her local tournament, who was playing as Corrin, whipped out ChatGPT when they were behind in the set.

Smashville, Town & City, and Kalos Pokemon League.

The outcome was a victorious return for Zorrin, sparking debate among tournament administrators about the permissibility of AI involvement during Smash Bros games.

Smash Bros player uses ChatGPT to help beat opponent

After the match, Lucida posted on X about the result.

Tonight at my local gaming spot, I found myself on the losing end of a fierce battle against a swift sixteen-year-old competitor. He cleverly sought guidance from ChatGPT for his strategy after Game 2, leaving me struggling to keep up with these tech-savvy young players.

As a seasoned player, I found myself outmatched last night by a 16-year-old prodigy from my local gaming hub. After our second game, he sought advice from ChatGPT – the younger generation sure is tech-savvy! Can’t believe I’m saying this, but I just can’t keep pace with these whiz kids…

— lucida (@SixOfRobins) June 25, 2025

After securing the victory, Zorrin decided to pass on the amusing exchange they had during the chat with me (ChatGPT), as well as a humorous remark from one of the AIs.

During the game, it seemed like Zorrin was well-versed in the strategy against his opponent and knew which stages to prohibit. However, the employment of artificial intelligence mid-game left Lucida and others questioning whether such use should even be permitted initially.

During a game, you can’t get advice or guidance from another person, but since ChatGPT isn’t human, it poses a unique situation.

ChatGPT my beloved

— Zorrin (@ZorrinTheCorrin) June 25, 2025

Lucida acknowledged that Zorrin performed exceptionally, adding, “It’s quite amusing for a performance at a free college event. However, considering its potential as a coaching session and the question of its legality, it might be worth discussing these matters moving forward.

“Would this not just fall under midset coaching?” another player chimed in.

“I kind of agree that it’s midset coaching, but almost impossible to police,” someone else replied.

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I contacted Alex Jebailey, who is both the founder and head of the CEO tournament series, to hear his perspective on this topic.

He mentioned that discussing this topic might get sensitive due to players’ habits of jotting down observations about each other. However, enforcing a one-minute gap between games in a set may be the best approach to prevent anyone from prolonging the game to search for answers. This is his suggestion to maintain fairness and keep the game flowing smoothly.

AI technology is not going anywhere; it’s become an integral part of our world, particularly in text-based applications. I’ve found myself using it as a resource for brainstorming strategies, even when it comes to outsmarting game characters. While the responses can sometimes be generic, they are generally useful and provide valuable insights.

Jebailey further said that, at the end of the day, “real skill in the moment will win out.”

Let’s examine whether and how players might utilize AI in their strategies during games, as well as the regulations that tournaments may impose. Since professionals are vying for cash prizes and endorsements, any edge they can get, including AI, is valuable.

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2025-06-27 01:18