"Weekly Pro Gamer File" File.303: Player Shirayuki (Shirayuki) [Super Smash Bros. Series]
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/412/G041234/20251006011/
Writer: Harada Hajime | 2025/10/07 01:00 (UTC)
Thumbnail image for Gallery No. 001 / Weekly Pro Gamer File, File.303: Player Shirayuki (Shirayuki) [Super Smash Bros. series]
In the “Weekly Pro Gamer File” series, we spotlight one professional gamer each week from a wide range of genres, introducing their profiles. This week’s featured player is Shirayuki (Shirayuki), an active force in the competitive scene of the Super Smash Bros. series.
Player Profile
■ Name: Shirayuki (Shirayuki)
■ Age: 23
■ Affiliation: AREA310
■ Primary Game Title: Super Smash Bros. series
■ Major Achievements:
- Smash Ultimate SP18 Champion
- Smash Ultimate SP48 Runner-up
- MaeSma TOP#9 Runner-up
- UltCore5th 5th place
- UmeBra SP12 13th place
※As of October 7, 2025
Ten Questions for the Pro Gamer
Q01. What inspired you to become a professional gamer?
Around 2021, I started consistently placing in the upper ranks at offline tournaments, and that’s when I first began consciously thinking about becoming a pro.
Q02. What has changed the most since becoming a pro?
I’ve been able to participate in far more offline events than before. Not only local tournaments but also various competitions across Japan and even internationally. Engaging with players from different regions, both through competition and conversation, exposed me to diverse playstyles and perspectives—contributing greatly to my personal growth.
Q03. What kind of practice do you usually focus on?
I use “Smamate,” a competitive matchmaking service known for attracting top-tier players, to engage in high-quality matches. I make sure not to just play aimlessly during these sessions; instead, I stay mentally active and think critically throughout every match.
Additionally, I place strong emphasis on “theory”—reviewing my own matches, studying other players’ games, and applying insights through practice. I strive to continuously refine my approach.
Q04. Who are the professional players you respect or aim to emulate?
There are two people.
First is current pro player Acola. I truly believe no one plays Smash with more dedication than Acola. Beyond sheer skill and knowledge, I’ve heard from others that he spends the longest time thinking about Smash compared to any other player—something I deeply admire. His level of commitment inspires me to strive for similar focus.
Second is former pro player Yoshidora. I’ve always looked up to him as someone living my ideal lifestyle: balancing a full-time job while passionately pursuing his hobby, Smash. He’s approachable in every way—offering advice, sharing meals, and connecting with people on a personal level. Moving forward, I want to become the kind of person Yoshidora is.
Q05. Are there any non-player figures you’re particularly interested in?
I’m very interested in Naru-san and Syd-san, who run the YouTube channel “chibi tv / chibi television.” Thanks to them, connections have formed between Japan’s and overseas Smash communities—serving as a bridge that enables events, exchanges, and discussions. I personally got my first chance to compete in an international tournament because of their support, so I’m extremely grateful.
Q06. What other games do you enjoy playing besides your main title?
It’s a mobile app, but I often play Monster Strike. It’s super fun whether solo or with friends.
Q07. What are your hobbies or interests outside gaming?
I like watching anime and spending time with friends.
Q08. How do you usually spend your weekends?
When there’s a tournament scheduled, I tend to attend it. On other days, I either practice Smash, hang out with friends, or enjoy doing things I love.
Q09. Is there something you’d like to challenge in the future?
It’s not exactly a “challenge,” but as someone who works full-time while remaining active as a pro player, I want to prove through results that “You can get better at Smash and win tournaments—even while working.”
Q10. Please share a message for your fans.
Thank you so much to all my fans for always supporting me—it truly motivates me. I’m really happy lately as it feels like more people are starting to support me. Going forward, I’ll keep striving to earn your belief that “It was worth cheering for Shirayuki.” Your continued support would mean the world.
4Gamer’s Player Profile
A professional gamer from AREA310 who is making a name for himself in the competitive scene of the Super Smash Bros. series. He primarily uses Inkling in tournaments. Impressive is his proactive attitude—balancing full-time employment while frequently traveling to attend offline events across Japan and overseas.
In matches, even when he loses early, he often advances through the losers’ bracket to reach high rankings—an indicator of his strong mental toughness developed from extensive experience. While his average performance in tournaments is already very high, he remains unsatisfied with that level and continues striving for victory rather than just top-tier results. Though currently among the elite players, there’s still significant room for growth—making his future performances highly anticipated.
This Week’s Tournament Information
| Date | Tournament Name | Game Title | Stream |
|——|——————|————|——–|
| October 7 | Street Fighter League: Pro-JP 2025 Division S Round 5 | Street Fighter 6 | YouTube
Twitch |
| October 6–12 | VALORANT Game Changers Pacific | VALORANT | YouTube
Twitch |
| October 12 | ALGS Year 5 Split 2 Pro League APAC North Regional Final | Apex Legends | YouTube
Twitch |