Smash tournaments are largely an enjoyable experience for most attendees, but my observations suggest that there are some things that many people could do that would maximize the enjoyment they have. Because of this, I've compiled a quick primer on what to expect at most tournaments, and tips on how to go about your day. This will ideally be most helpful for first-time attendees and others who are relatively new to the tournament scene, but I wouldn't be surprised if some veterans find a few useful tidbits in here as well.
Food and Beverage
Tournaments are all-day events, so at some point you are going to get hungry and/or thirsty. Before leaving, try to find out what sorts of refreshments may be served at or near the venue, and bring extra cash for that. I would personally recommend packing your own food, but some people find themselves in a rush. The benefits of packing your own food are significant, though; you save money and can be more certain that you will be eating nutritiously. Eating balanced meals throughout the day will help keep your mental state consistent, and your energy levels steady. I also personally recommend avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, especially soda. I personally drink two cups of coffee in the morning, and usually a third somewhere around midday, but I drink it black and bypass the colossal amounts of sugar that are in most sodas and energy drinks. Those who have attended tournaments with me know that I usually carry around a gallon of water. Being hydrated will also help with your mental endurance, and will keep your muscles loose and mobile. That could be the difference between hitting a game-winning input or losing because you miss that same input. Ninety-nine cents for a gallon of water is significantly less than your entry fee; there really is no reason not to bring water.
Before, Between, And During Matches
Before the brackets start, play as many friendlies as you can, and try to get advice from people who you don't usually play with. Someone will likely be able to find a hole in your gameplay that people you practice with regularly might miss. This will also give you a bit of experience against different characters and playstyles. Once the brackets start, do not play friendlies under any circumstances unless a staff member specifically tells you it is okay to do so. As someone who helps run brackets semi-regularly, I can say that if I see two people playing during bracket, I usually assume it is a bracket match. If it isn't, those players are contributing to a colossal waste of everyone's time. Every setup matters, and people playing non-tournament matches can be a serious time sink; I've personally threatened repeat offenders with disqualification. When you are playing your tournament matches, try to slow down, and play safe. Don't try anything new that you aren't consistent with yet; desperate, risky plays can easily cost you the match. Win and lose graciously, and shake your opponents hand. Be polite to the staff members; they are often trying to balance their participation in the tournaments with assisting in running them. With that said, if you have any comments, concerns, or even criticism, present them to the staff, politely, and most will listen if they aren't occupied.
I think that it is pretty easy to have an awesome time at a Smash Tournament, but I think that the tips above can genuinely help upgrade a good experience to a great one. To me, the ones regarding diet have been the most helpful; I used to drink about two liters of Mountain Dew at every tournament. I would leave every event crashing from the sugar and caffeine, with my mood seriously in the toilet. Sticking to water has improved both my performance in-game and my overall experience. Being a good sport and generally cooperative helps everything run smoother, and the smoother things run, the happier everyone is. I hope someone finds something useful for themselves in this article, and I hope everyone enjoys themselves at future tournaments.
