While many consider the PAL version to be more "balanced," it is not the version used by the North American top players who have historically dominated the global meta. Consequently, PAL tournaments and tier lists are distinct from the main NTSC competitive scene. Top players and modding projects almost exclusively target the ISO as their base. For instance, the popular modding framework FRAY is based on "Super Smash Bros. Melee NTSC 1.02". This version has become the undisputed foundation for Melee's modern competitive identity.
| Tier | Character(s) | | :--- | :--- | | | Fox, Marth, Falco, Sheik, Jigglypuff | | A (High Tier) | Captain Falcon, Peach, Ice Climbers | | B (Mid Tier) | Yoshi, Pikachu, Samus, Luigi, Dr. Mario | super smash bros melee 102 iso better top