Countering recovery moves in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, such as Fox’s Cape and Squirtle’s Water Gun, requires anticipation and strategic execution. Here’s a breakdown of how to effectively approach these specific recovery options:

Fox’s Cape
Overview: Fox’s Cape not only reflects projectiles but can also flip opponents if timed correctly, making it a powerful tool during his recovery.

Counter Strategies:
1. Avoid Predictable Projectile Spamming: Since Cape reflects projectiles, refrain from simple projectile spamming or using direct offensive moves aimed at Fox while he attempts to recover.

2. Bait the Cape: Use safe, spaced attacks or grabs to bait out his Cape. By making Fox commit to using the Cape, he becomes vulnerable once the animation concludes.

3. Punish After Animation: Following the Cape animation, there is a brief moment of vulnerability. Be ready to capitalize on that window with quick attacks.

4. Fast Startup Moves: Characters with moves that have a fast startup can effectively interrupt Fox during his recovery. Practice the timing for these fast attacks to maximize effectiveness.

5. Utilize Counters: Characters like Marth can use their counters to not only punish Fox’s Cape but also reflect his move back at him during the startup of Cape. This can lead to significant damage or even a KO.

6. Disjointed Hitboxes: If your character has moves with disjointed hitboxes, use these to out-range Fox’s Cape, effectively avoiding the reflection and hitting him instead.

Squirtle’s Water Gun
Overview: Squirtle’s Water Gun can disrupt recoveries by pushing opponents away, making it vital to understand how to navigate around this move.

Counter Strategies:
1. Shield/Dodge Timing: Precise timing with shields or dodges can help you avoid the hitboxes of the Water Gun as you recover. Practice the timing to ensure you don’t get hit during your ascent.

2. Mix Up Recovery Angles: Varying your recovery angles can throw off Squirtle’s aim. Use different trajectories to make it harder for him to target you effectively.

3. Pressure Squirtle: By putting pressure on Squirtle during his recovery, you can limit his ability to freely fire the Water Gun. This can force him into a more defensive state.

4. Punish Overcommitment: If Squirtle overcommits to using the Water Gun, use mobility or disjointed attacks to counter him while he is vulnerable.

General Strategies for Countering Recovery Moves
– Mix Up Recovery Options: Varying your recovery angles, timing, and movement can make predicting your recovery much more difficult for your opponent. This unpredictability reduces their ability to effectively punish you.

– Utilize Edge-guarding Tools: Leverage your character’s edge-guarding abilities and be aware of your opponent’s recovery move’s startup and cooldown frames. Exploit these moments to punish effectively when they commit to using their recovery tools.

– Counterattack Opportunities: Characters possessing counter moves can respond effectively to aggressive recovery attempts. Using moves like Marth’s Counter or Little Mac’s Slip Counter can catch your opponent off guard and turn the tide in your favor.

Summary of Strategies

| Recovery Move | Counter Strategy |
|———————-|————————————————————————-|
| Fox’s Cape | Bait Cape, punish post-animation, use fast startup or disjointed moves, utilize counters if available. |
| Squirtle’s Water Gun | Time shields/dodges, mix up recovery angles, pressure Squirtle, punish overcommitment. |

In conclusion, mastering these counter strategies against recovery moves like Cape and Water Gun involves anticipating your opponent’s actions, varying your own recovery approaches, and taking advantage of their vulnerabilities. Effective edge-guarding and strategic pressure will aid significantly in overcoming these challenges in off-stage play.