Masahiro Sakurai, director of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, has posted his first message to commemorate the launch of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in Japan.

First, the director thanked everyone for their support, and welcomes everyone to play the game.

ついに『スマブラSPECIAL』発売日を迎えることができました!
多くのゲームタイトルの制作者やファンの方々､スタッフ､関係者等に感謝しております｡ありがとうございました｡

さて､プレイしようかな!!

— 桜井 政博 / Masahiro Sakurai (@Sora_Sakurai) December 6, 2018

“We have finally approached Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s release date! I would like to express my gratitude to the many game creators, fans, staff, and other people that worked on this project. Thank you very much. Now, let’s play!”

Also shared was the first spirit Sakurai received upon booting up the game:

私がもらった最初のスピリッツは､『パンチアウト!!』のこの人でした｡
みなさんはどうでした?#スマブラ最初のスピリッツ pic.twitter.com/E7boq1nBra

— 桜井 政博 / Masahiro Sakurai (@Sora_Sakurai) December 6, 2018

“The first spirit I received was this person from Punch-Out!! What’s your first spirit?”

What do you think? Let us know in the comments!