Fighting games have always captivated gamers worldwide, particularly due to their intense focus on multiplayer gameplay. Virtual arenas serve as the perfect battleground for competing against friends or challenging players online.
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Over the years, developers have crafted numerous iconic titles within this genre. Our curated list considers not only the popularity and industry impact of these games but also their depth of gameplay, balance, innovation, and contributions to the evolution of fighting games.
We present to you the top 30 best fighting games of all time, featuring both timeless classics and modern masterpieces that serve as excellent entry points into this vibrant genre. Let's dive in!
We also encourage you to explore our other curated collections:
Best GamesShootersSurvivalHorrorsPlatformersAdventuresSimulatorsTable of Content ---
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: MidwayOur journey begins with the legendary Mortal Kombat from 1993. Launched during the early days of home consoles, it became a beacon that inspired countless other fighting game developers. Its influence is monumental, having established the fundamental gameplay formula: arena, two fighters, and combos.
While Street Fighter had already made its mark, particularly in Eastern markets, the Western world eagerly awaited its own genre-defining title. Sadly, the original Mortal Kombat is no longer playable today, as time and trends have been relentless, even to iconic video games. However, its legacy remains unmatched, solidifying its position as one of the greatest fighting games in history.
Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition
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Metascore: 86Link: Microsoft StoreRelease Date: September 20, 2016Developer: Double Helix Games, Iron GalaxyThe Killer Instinct series, nearly as old as Mortal Kombat, may not have the same widespread recognition, yet it holds a special place among fighting game aficionados.
Its finely-tuned balance and dynamic gameplay, coupled with an energetic soundtrack that energizes players right from the main menu, make it a standout. Each character boasts a unique musical theme that encapsulates their personality and backstory.
The roster surprises with its eclectic mix of charismatic heroes, from street boxers to vampires and dinosaurs. What unites them is an accessible gameplay barrier, enabling even newcomers to master stylish combos quickly.
SoulCalibur
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Metascore: 98Release Date: September 8, 1999Developer: Project SoulLaunched in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, SoulCalibur remains one of the most visually stunning games on the platform. Its battles are grounded, focusing on various weapons rather than fantastical aerial maneuvers.
A standout feature at the time was the ability to move in 3D space across eight horizontal directions, akin to Tekken. Alongside its exceptional graphics, this added a layer of depth to the gameplay, emphasizing not just attacks but also strategic movement and distance management between characters.
This fresh approach has kept SoulCalibur at the pinnacle of the genre to this day.
Skullgirls: 2nd Encore
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Metascore: 82Link: SteamRelease Date: July 7, 2015 Developer: Hidden Variable StudiosSkullgirls: 2nd Encore stands out with its unique art style and visual design. Its pleasant animations and diverse, though modest, roster of characters each have their own story mode, adding depth to the experience.
The game's original characters are meticulously crafted, featuring creative moves and combo sets that make learning them a joy.
While it may not have revolutionized the genre, Skullgirls: 2nd Encore is a well-crafted fighting game that delights players with its charm.
Lethal League
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Metascore: 82Link: SteamRelease Date: August 27, 2014Developer: Team ReptileBreaking the mold in the conservative fighting game genre is no small feat. Lethal League does so by replacing traditional hand-to-hand combat with a unique mechanic centered around hitting a baseball.
This twist results in incredibly fast-paced battles, where combos are executed using the ball, which increases in damage as it accelerates. Accompanied by energetic music, Lethal League is a refreshing experience for genre veterans seeking something new.
Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars
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Metascore: 85Release Date: December 11, 2008Developer: Eighting Co., Ltd.Capcom's prowess in crossover fighting games is well-known, and their collaboration with Tatsunoko resulted in a title featuring a simple yet engaging combat system.
While it may not appeal to all Western gamers, its vibrant and colorful style made it hugely popular in Japan. It's perfect for casual fun with friends.
Samurai Shodown
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Metascore: 81Link: SteamRelease Date: June 25, 2019Developer: SNK CORPORATIONIn an era dominated by remakes, Samurai Shodown stands out with its slow and deliberate gameplay, reminiscent of the serene fall of cherry blossoms. Each sword strike feels purposeful and powerful.
Its visual design, heavily influenced by classical Japanese art, appeals to fans of both fighting games and traditional aesthetics.
Ultra Street Fighter IV
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Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease Date: August 7, 2014Developer: CapcomStreet Fighter IV's release in 2009 was a turning point for the genre, and its Ultra version, released five years later, added new fighters, moves, and improved balance.
The game retains the dynamic and energetic feel of the series, though its initial PS4 release was marred by issues like blurry textures and input lag. Fortunately, the Steam version offers a smoother experience, allowing players to enjoy one of the franchise's best entries.
Super Street Fighter II
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Metascore: TBDRelease Date: September 14, 1993Developer: CapcomSuper Street Fighter II, a classic from the early days of the genre, proved the lucrative potential of the gaming industry with its record-breaking sales.
Its appeal lay in colorful fighters, impressive combos, and well-designed locations. For its time, it was enough to draw teenagers to arcades, often skipping school. A 2017 remake attempted to recapture this magic but fell short of expectations.
Tekken 3
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Metascore: 96Release Date: March 26, 1998Developer: NamcoTekken 3 was another title worth skipping school for. Building on the success of its predecessors, it became an iconic entry in the series and one of the best-selling games for the first PlayStation.
Its innovations included improved graphics, new mechanics like sidestepping and parrying, and a spectacular combat system. If you haven't experienced this classic, we highly recommend giving it a try.
Injustice 2: Legendary Edition
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Metascore: 88Link: SteamRelease Date: March 28, 2018Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOCInjustice 2 brings the DC universe to life with iconic characters like Flash, Batman, and Superman. Its gameplay, while similar to other titles in the genre, features less violence and a lower entry barrier, though mastering it requires significant time investment.
Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes
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Metascore: 82Release Date: March 23, 2000Developer: CapcomLegal issues delayed the sequel to Marvel vs. Capcom 2, but its beloved characters from both Marvel and Capcom universes, including Gambit, Hulk, and Chun-Li, cemented its place in fans' hearts.
Though it may not have aged well, it remains a great introduction to classic fighting games.
Guilty Gear Strive
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Metascore: 87Link: SteamRelease Date: June 11, 2021Developer: Arc System WorksGuilty Gear Strive represents the pinnacle of Arc System Works' creativity, boasting stunning visuals and high-quality details in locations, characters, and combos.
Its gameplay is equally impressive, featuring familiar mechanics like special move cancels and a controversial yet innovative level wall-breaking feature. This title is a must-play for both genre enthusiasts and newcomers to the franchise.
Arcana Heart
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Metascore: 77Release date: October 11, 2007Developer: Yuki EnterpriseArcana Heart is a visually appealing anime-style fighting game featuring an all-female roster from diverse backgrounds. The unique Arcana spirits assist characters in battle, adding an interesting twist to the gameplay.
It's a solid game with excellent combat and stylization.
The King of Fighters XIII
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Metascore: 79Release date: July 14, 2010Developer: SNK PlaymoreWith over 20 entries, The King of Fighters series is legendary, and its thirteenth installment earned widespread acclaim. Its complex and unforgiving mechanics challenge beginners, requiring mastery of all characters to excel.
While online matches can be intense and brief, this game is a must for those seeking a tough challenge.
Dragon Ball FighterZ
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Metascore: 87Link: SteamRelease date: January 26, 2018Developer: Arc System WorksDragon Ball FighterZ captures the essence of the legendary franchise with modern graphics and engaging gameplay. Its epic battles and explosive effects make it an ideal choice for evening hangouts with friends.
Mortal Kombat 9
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Metascore: 86Link: SteamRelease date: April 19, 2011Developer: NetherRealm StudiosBefore 2011, the Mortal Kombat series struggled, but Mortal Kombat 9 revitalized the franchise with its focus on classic, high-quality, and brutal combat. By removing unnecessary elements and enhancing the balanced combat system, it set a new standard that subsequent entries followed.
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] is defined by its style, with deeply developed characters and a top-notch combat system. While its 2D animation may not appeal to all Western fans, it earned a spot in the EVO 2020 tournament, showcasing its competitive merit.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
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Metascore: 93Release date: January 31, 2008Developer: Sora Ltd.Super Smash Bros. Brawl sold 13 million copies by March 2020, thanks to its accessible gameplay and iconic Nintendo characters. The game's depth comes from character attributes like weight and movement speed, making battles unique within the genre.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax
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Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease date: March 17, 2022Developer: Arc System Works, ATLUSThough not the best entry point into the Persona universe, Persona 4 Arena Ultimax offers stylish visuals and dynamic combat. Its high entry barrier is offset by the excitement and speed of its fights, making it a great choice for fans of both the franchise and fighting games.
Them’s Fightin' Herds
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Metascore: 80Link: SteamRelease date: May 1, 2020Developer: Mane6, Inc.Them’s Fightin' Herds stands out with its unique roster of animals and the art style of Lauren Faust. While lacking typical brutality, its solid combat system makes it perfect for younger gamers.
Tekken 8
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Metascore: 90Link: SteamRelease date: January 26, 2024Developer: Bandai Namco Studios Inc.Tekken 8 received warm acclaim for refining its proven combat mechanics and introducing minor updates like health recovery. Its stunning graphics and detailed story scenes make it an excellent choice for newcomers to the series.
Super Street Fighter IV
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Metascore: 85Release date: April 27, 2010Developer: CapcomSuper Street Fighter IV, an expansion of the original game, introduced the ultra-combo selection and ten new fighters. Its upgraded graphics and new modes were significant steps forward, paving the way for future entries in the series.
Super Smash Bros. Melee
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Metascore: 92Release date: November 21, 2001Developer: HAL LaboratorySuper Smash Bros. Melee, one of the highest-rated and best-selling games on the GameCube, offers simple yet deep gameplay. Its inclusion in the EVO tournament and the famous "Wombo Combo" meme highlight its lasting impact on the industry.
Granblue Fantasy: Versus
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Metascore: 78Link: SteamRelease date: March 13, 2020Developer: Cygames, Inc., Arc System WorksGranblue Fantasy: Versus combines Victorian architecture, medieval knights, and magic into a visually stunning package. Its combat mechanics may seem simplistic at first but reveal depth and complexity upon further exploration.
Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate
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Metascore: 88Link: SteamRelease date: April 23, 2019Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOC, ShiverMortal Kombat 11 Ultimate focused on balancing, new modes, and customization options, perfecting the formula of brutality, balance, and online PvP combat. Its arenas and brutal fights are spectacular, though the Krypt can become a tedious grind.
It's an ideal entry point for newcomers to the genre, despite the monetization of the latest installment, Mortal Kombat 1.
Capcom vs. SNK 2
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Metascore: 80Release date: September 13, 2001Developer: CapcomCapcom vs. SNK 2 gained global popularity with its massive 48-character roster and engaging combat. Though its use of old sprites disappointed some fans, it remains a beloved title for its fan service and gameplay.
Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code
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Metascore: 78Link: SteamRelease date: April 20, 2016Developer: FRENCH-BREADMelty Blood Actress Again Current Code, while feeling somewhat outdated, retains impressive visuals and a simple yet engaging combat system. Its active online mode and character styles make it a game worth exploring.
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. Though it has its share of bugs, its excellent story and well-developed characters make it worth a look.
Street Fighter 6
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Metascore: 92Link: SteamRelease date: June 2, 2023Developer: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.Street Fighter 6 stands at the forefront of the fighting game genre with its accessible yet deep mechanics. Its friendly, brawl-like atmosphere and top-notch graphics, including impressive fabric and muscle physics, make it a must-play while it remains popular online.
Fighting games have carved out a dedicated niche in gaming history, attracting a passionate fanbase worldwide. While they may not have the broad appeal of AAA open-world titles, they offer hidden gems that are well worth exploring. Do you have any favorite fighting games? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
