Today's entry will focus on a particular creature that has recently captured my attention—Poppant. I find Poppant to be exceptionally endearing, though I am certain that many may either struggle to recall its existence or be encountering it for the first time.

For context, a Poppant (ポッパラム, Popperam in Japan) is a recurring enemy in the Super Smash Bros. series. It made its debut in Super Smash Bros. Brawl and later returned in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS.

A Poppant is characterized by its trousers, which are filled with presents and candy. It is an inherently cowardly creature that flees upon encountering a player, scattering various objects in its wake. Some of these objects can inflict damage upon impact, making pursuit difficult. However, Poppant occasionally leaves behind food, and upon defeat, it primarily drops healing items, along with a few weaker random items. Due to its tendency to run off cliffs, capturing one can be particularly challenging unless the player strategically positions themselves between a ledge and the creature.

The fact that Nintendo dedicated a considerable amount of effort to designing this character only for it to serve as a minor enemy is somewhat unfortunate. I believe Poppant possesses significant potential beyond simply being a creature that distributes candy and items. However, this is ultimately the primary function it was designed to fulfill. I have come across various fanarts of Poppant, including artistic depictions of humanoid versions. One particular fan artwork captivated me, and I would like to share it here:

Created by s (this user has moved accounts so artwork isn't found).

What intrigued me further was Poppant's official trophy description, which states:

"A creature with a uniquely shaped lower body, where it carries boxes that look like gifts and candies. The boxes are even carefully tied with ribbons. It demonstrates its generosity by scattering its boxes as it wanders, but if it's seen, it will immediately flee at top speed. It redefines the word shy. No one knows why it spends its time scattering presents."

This description led me to form a personal theory: Poppant is not truly an enemy but rather a benevolent creature that simply wishes to distribute items and food to aid the player. Due to its extreme shyness, it instinctively runs away upon being noticed, inadvertently scattering supplies in the process. I prefer to interpret Poppant not as a foe but as a timid companion that unintentionally assists the player on their journey. While I would like to uncover a deeper origin or purpose for Poppant, I recognize that attributing extensive lore to such a simple creature may be excessive. Nonetheless, its enigmatic nature makes one ponder its true intentions—an adorable yet mysterious existence that raises more questions than answers. What, then, is the purpose of its seemingly horn-like protrusions? What function does its collar serve? If its primary role is simply to distribute items and food, why were these specific design elements included?

In an alternate reality, perhaps Poppant could serve as a valuable companion to the player. If the player were in danger, Poppant could come to their aid, providing healing and necessary items to ensure their survival. From my perspective, Poppant is not a mere obstacle but a creature with the potential to be helpful rather than troublesome. I wonder if Nintendo will ever give Poppant a more prominent role in the series, though I suspect it is very unlikely.

Of course, this may simply be my personal fascination with the character. I doubt Poppant has garnered much widespread attention, though a small yet dedicated community appreciates and creates artwork of it.