Shield (Link)

has his own personal shield that he uses while in battle. If Link stands still; projectiles will hit the shield instead of hitting Link which will push him back depending on the damage and knockback the projectile would do normally. This function is in the main Super Smash Bros. games with the exception of Super Smash Bros.; this mechanic is absent in Super Smash Flash despite Link possessing his Shield and the game coming after Super Smash Bros. Melee, but is finally present in Super Smash Flash 2.

However, projectiles must come in contact with the shield for them to be out-prioritized. So Link will take damage if the projectile hits his face, feet or back. However, sometimes a projectile will come in contact with the shield and still damage Link.