Fighting games have long captivated the gaming community, particularly through their intense multiplayer battles. These virtual arenas are perfect for engaging in thrilling competitions with friends or challenging players online.
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Over the years, developers have crafted numerous iconic titles, each contributing uniquely to the genre. This curated list showcases the top 30 fighting games, considering factors like popularity, influence, gameplay depth, balance, innovation, and overall impact on the industry.
Explore both timeless classics and modern masterpieces that serve as excellent entry points into this dynamic genre. Let's dive in!
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Mortal Kombat Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition SoulCalibur Skullgirls: 2nd Encore Lethal League Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars Samurai Shodown Ultra Street Fighter IV Super Street Fighter II Tekken 3 Injustice 2: Legendary Edition Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes Guilty Gear Strive Arcana Heart The King of Fighters XIII Dragon Ball FighterZ Mortal Kombat 9 Under Night In-Birth Exe: Late[cl-r] Super Smash Bros. Brawl Persona 4 Arena Ultimax Them’s Fightin' Herds Tekken 8 Super Street Fighter IV Super Smash Bros. Melee Granblue Fantasy: Versus Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate Capcom vs. SNK 2 Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger Street Fighter 6 0 0 Comment on this Mortal Kombat
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Metascore: TBDRelease Date: September 13, 1993Developer: MidwayStarting our list is the legendary Mortal Kombat from 1993. Launched during the early days of home consoles, it set a benchmark for future fighting games with its arena-based battles and combo system. Although it's no longer playable due to the passage of time, its impact on the genre is undeniable, cementing its status as a historic masterpiece.
Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition
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Metascore: 86Link: Microsoft StoreRelease Date: September 20, 2016Developer: Double Helix Games, Iron GalaxyKiller Instinct: Definitive Edition may not be as widely recognized as Mortal Kombat, but it holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. With its balanced gameplay, dynamic combat, and energizing soundtrack, it offers a unique experience. The diverse roster of characters, from street boxers to werewolves, each with their own musical themes, adds to the game's charm, making it accessible yet rewarding for all players.
SoulCalibur
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Metascore: 98Release Date: September 8, 1999Developer: Project SoulSoulCalibur, released in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, remains one of the most visually stunning games of its era. Its grounded combat, focused on weapon-based battles, combined with the ability to move freely in 3D space, added a refreshing depth to the genre. The game's graphics and innovative mechanics have kept it at the forefront of fighting game excellence.
Skullgirls: 2nd Encore
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Metascore: 82Link: SteamRelease Date: July 7, 2015Developer: Hidden Variable StudiosSkullgirls: 2nd Encore stands out with its unique art style and engaging animations. Although the character roster is modest, each fighter is well-developed with individual story modes and creative movesets. It may not reinvent the wheel, but it offers a polished and enjoyable experience that fans of the genre will appreciate.
Lethal League
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Metascore: 82Link: SteamRelease Date: August 27, 2014Developer: Team ReptileLethal League breaks the mold by introducing a baseball-inspired mechanic to the fighting game formula. The fast-paced action, driven by the need to hit a ball to perform combos, set to an energetic soundtrack, offers a fresh take on the genre. It's an excellent choice for seasoned players seeking something new.
Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars
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Metascore: 85Release Date: December 11, 2008Developer: Eighting Co., Ltd.Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars is a beloved crossover that shines with its vibrant characters and straightforward combat system. While it may not appeal to all Western gamers, its popularity in Japan and fun, casual appeal make it a standout title for group play.
Samurai Shodown
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Metascore: 81Link: SteamRelease Date: June 25, 2019Developer: SNK CORPORATIONIn an era of remakes, Samurai Shodown offers a thoughtful and visually stunning reboot. Its deliberate, slow-paced combat, inspired by classical Japanese art, provides a unique experience that resonates with fans of both fighting games and Japanese aesthetics.
Ultra Street Fighter IV
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Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease Date: August 7, 2014Developer: CapcomUltra Street Fighter IV revitalized the genre with its dynamic gameplay and enhanced features. Despite some initial technical issues on the PS4, the Steam version offers a smooth experience. It remains a must-play for fans of the legendary franchise.
Super Street Fighter II
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Metascore: TBDRelease Date: September 14, 1993Developer: CapcomSuper Street Fighter II is a classic that defined the genre during the early days of arcade gaming. Its colorful fighters, impressive combos, and iconic locations captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. While a 2017 remake didn't meet expectations, the original remains a beloved gem.
Tekken 3
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Metascore: 96Release Date: March 26, 1998Developer: NamcoTekken 3 is another iconic title that transformed the series and the genre. Its innovative mechanics, such as sidestepping and parrying, along with its vibrant graphics and engaging combat system, made it a must-play for PlayStation owners. It's a classic that still holds up today.
Injustice 2: Legendary Edition
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Metascore: 88Link: SteamRelease Date: March 28, 2018Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOCInjustice 2: Legendary Edition brings the DC universe to life with its roster of iconic heroes and villains. The gameplay is accessible yet deep, making it perfect for both newcomers and veterans. It's a must-play for fans of the DC franchise.
Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes
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Metascore: 82Release Date: March 23, 2000Developer: CapcomMarvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes is a fan-favorite despite its legal issues delaying sequels. Its expansive roster of Marvel and Capcom characters, along with its thrilling three-character battles, make it a classic introduction to the genre.
Guilty Gear Strive
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Metascore: 87Link: SteamRelease Date: June 11, 2021Developer: Arc System WorksGuilty Gear Strive showcases the pinnacle of Arc System Works' creativity. Its stunning visuals, detailed locations, and innovative mechanics, like level wall breaking, make it a top choice for both newcomers and long-time fans of the series.
Arcana Heart
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Metascore: 77Release date: October 11, 2007Developer: Yuki EnterpriseArcana Heart brings a unique anime flair to the genre with its all-female cast and elemental Arcana spirits. Its solid combat and distinctive stylization make it a delightful addition to any fighting game collection.
The King of Fighters XIII
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Metascore: 79Release date: July 14, 2010Developer: SNK PlaymoreThe King of Fighters XIII is a critically acclaimed entry in a legendary series. Its complex and unforgiving combat mechanics challenge players to master every move, making it a rewarding experience for those seeking a tough fight.
Dragon Ball FighterZ
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Metascore: 87Link: SteamRelease date: January 26, 2018Developer: Arc System WorksDragon Ball FighterZ offers a modern take on the iconic franchise with its explosive battles and accessible gameplay. It's perfect for both fans of the series and newcomers looking for an exciting fighting game experience.
Mortal Kombat 9
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Metascore: 86Link: SteamRelease date: April 19, 2011Developer: NetherRealm StudiosMortal Kombat 9 revitalized the series with its focus on balanced and brutal combat. By stripping away unnecessary elements, it set a new standard for the franchise, ensuring its continued success.
Under Night In-Birth Exe: Late[cl-r]
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Metascore: 82Link: SteamRelease date: August 21, 2018Developer: FRENCH-BREADUnder Night In-Birth Exe: Late[cl-r] stands out with its stylish characters and top-notch combat system. While its 2D animations may not appeal to all, its inclusion in major tournaments like EVO showcases its quality and appeal.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
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Metascore: 93Release date: January 31, 2008Developer: Sora Ltd.Super Smash Bros. Brawl brought together Nintendo's iconic characters in a game that was both accessible and deep. Its success, with over 13 million copies sold, highlights its enduring popularity and impact on the genre.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax
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Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease date: March 17, 2022Developer: Arc System Works, ATLUSPersona 4 Arena Ultimax offers a challenging entry into the Persona universe with its high-quality visuals and dynamic combat. It's a must-try for fans of the series and fighting game enthusiasts alike.
Them’s Fightin' Herds
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Metascore: 80Link: SteamRelease date: May 1, 2020Developer: Mane6, Inc.Them’s Fightin' Herds brings a unique and family-friendly twist to the genre with its animal fighters and lack of violence. Its solid combat system and charming art style make it a great choice for younger gamers.
Tekken 8
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Metascore: 90Link: SteamRelease date: January 26, 2024Developer: Bandai Namco Studios Inc.Tekken 8 continues the series' legacy with its refined combat mechanics and stunning graphics. Its new health recovery mechanic adds a fresh twist, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers and a thrilling experience for veterans.
Super Street Fighter IV
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Metascore: 85Release date: April 27, 2010Developer: CapcomSuper Street Fighter IV expanded on the original with new fighters, ultra-combos, and enhanced graphics. It was a significant step in the series' evolution, paving the way for future entries and cementing its place in fighting game history.
Super Smash Bros. Melee
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Metascore: 92Release date: November 21, 2001Developer: HAL LaboratorySuper Smash Bros. Melee is a beloved classic that combines simplicity with depth, appealing to a broad audience. Its inclusion in major tournaments and cultural impact, such as the "Wombo Combo" meme, highlight its lasting influence on the genre.
Granblue Fantasy: Versus
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Metascore: 78Link: SteamRelease date: March 13, 2020Developer: Cygames, Inc., Arc System WorksGranblue Fantasy: Versus combines stunning visuals with solid combat mechanics. Its seemingly simple moveset hides a deep and complex system, making it a rewarding experience for players willing to explore its depths.
Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate
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Metascore: 88Link: SteamRelease date: April 23, 2019Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOC, ShiverMortal Kombat 11 Ultimate refines the series' formula with balanced combat, new modes, and extensive customization options. Its brutal arenas and engaging gameplay make it a perfect entry point for newcomers to the genre.
Capcom vs. SNK 2
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Metascore: 80Release date: September 13, 2001Developer: CapcomCapcom vs. SNK 2 gained global popularity with its massive roster and engaging combat. While its use of old sprites may disappoint some, its fan service and enjoyable gameplay make it a beloved title.
Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code
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Metascore: 78Link: SteamRelease date: April 20, 2016Developer: FRENCH-BREADMelty Blood Actress Again Current Code offers a stylish and accessible fighting game experience. Its simple yet deep combat system, along with active online play, makes it a great choice for fans of the series.
BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger
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Metascore: 86Link: SteamRelease date: February 13, 2014Developer: Arc System WorksBlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is a classic 2D fighting game with stylish visuals and a unique combat system. While it has some technical issues, its engaging story and solid gameplay make it worth exploring.
Street Fighter 6
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Metascore: 92Link: SteamRelease date: June 2, 2023Developer: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.Street Fighter 6 represents the pinnacle of the genre with its accessible yet deep mechanics. Its stunning graphics and friendly atmosphere make it a standout title, perfect for both newcomers and seasoned players.
Fighting games have carved out a dedicated niche within the gaming world. While they may not attract the masses like AAA open-world titles, they offer unique and thrilling experiences. Do you have a favorite fighting game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
