Fighting games have carved out a special niche in the gaming world, captivating players with their intense multiplayer experiences. These virtual arenas serve as battlegrounds where gamers can test their skills against friends or online opponents, making for thrilling competitions.
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Over the years, developers have crafted numerous iconic titles that have left a lasting impact on the industry. Our curated list of the top 30 best fighting games of all time takes into account their popularity, influence, gameplay depth, balance, innovation, and contributions to the genre's evolution. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, this collection offers a comprehensive journey through the history of fighting games. Let’s dive in!
We also encourage you to explore our other gaming collections:
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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: MidwayMortal Kombat, released in 1993, is a legendary title that set the standard for fighting games. During the early days of home consoles, it became a beacon of inspiration for countless developers. Its influence on the genre is undeniable, establishing the core gameplay formula of arena battles and combo systems.
While Street Fighter had already made waves in the Eastern market, Mortal Kombat captured the Western audience's imagination. Although no longer playable due to the passage of time, its impact on the gaming industry remains unparalleled, cementing its status as one of the greatest fighting games ever.
Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition
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Metascore: 86Link: Microsoft StoreRelease Date: September 20, 2016Developer: Double Helix Games, Iron GalaxyThe Killer Instinct series, while not as widely recognized as Mortal Kombat, holds a special place among fighting game enthusiasts. Its finely tuned balance, dynamic gameplay, and energetic soundtrack contribute to its acclaim.
One of the series' standout features is its diverse and charismatic character roster, ranging from a street boxer to a vampire and even a dinosaur. Each character boasts unique traits and musical themes that enhance their individuality. The game's low entry barrier makes it accessible to newcomers while still offering depth for seasoned players to master stylish combos.
SoulCalibur
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Metascore: 98Release Date: September 8, 1999Developer: Project SoulReleased in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, SoulCalibur is renowned for its stunning visuals and innovative gameplay. Unlike many fighting games that feature exaggerated jumps, SoulCalibur focuses on grounded combat with a variety of weapons.
The ability to move in 3D space across eight horizontal directions, similar to Tekken, added a new layer of depth to the gameplay. Coupled with excellent graphics, this feature emphasized strategic movement and the importance of distance in battles. SoulCalibur's fresh approach has kept it at the forefront of the genre.
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 engaging animations. Despite a modest character roster, each fighter has a distinct story mode and meticulously designed moves, making learning and mastering them a joy.
While it may not have revolutionized the genre, Skullgirls: 2nd Encore remains a well-crafted fighting game that delivers a satisfying experience for players.
Lethal League
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Metascore: 82Link: SteamRelease Date: August 27, 2014Developer: Team ReptileLethal League breaks the mold of traditional fighting games by introducing a baseball mechanic into its combat system. This innovative approach results in fast-paced battles where players must use a ball to execute combos, with speed determining damage.
Accompanied by energetic music, Lethal League offers a fresh take on the genre, perfect for veterans seeking new challenges.
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 showcases Capcom's prowess in crafting engaging crossovers. This game, a collaboration with Tatsunoko, features a simple combat system that appeals to casual players, particularly in Japan.
Its colorful and vibrant style makes it an ideal choice for fun, laid-back gaming sessions with friends.
Samurai Shodown
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Metascore: 81Link: SteamRelease Date: June 25, 2019Developer: SNK CORPORATIONSamurai Shodown offers a slower, more deliberate combat experience, reminiscent of a serene cherry blossom fall. Its gameplay emphasizes strategic movement and impactful sword strikes, complemented by visually stunning designs inspired by classical Japanese art.
This game is a must-play for 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, released five years after the original Street Fighter IV, revitalized the genre with new fighters, moves, and improved balance. While the PS4 version faced criticism for technical issues at launch, the Steam version offers a smooth experience.
This installment remains one of the best in the legendary Street Fighter franchise.
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, demonstrated the lucrative potential of video games with its record-breaking sales. Its vibrant characters, impressive combos, and well-designed locations captivated players worldwide.
Despite a less successful remake in 2017, the original remains a beloved milestone in gaming history.
Tekken 3
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Metascore: 96Release Date: March 26, 1998Developer: NamcoTekken 3 revolutionized the franchise with significant improvements in graphics and gameplay mechanics, such as sidestepping and parrying. Its spectacular and colorful battles made it a must-play title for PlayStation owners.
This iconic game remains a classic worth experiencing.
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 characters like Flash, Batman, and Superman. While its gameplay is similar to other fighting games, it offers a less violent experience and a low entry barrier, though mastering it requires dedication.
This game is a perfect entry point into the DC gaming world.
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, despite legal issues that delayed its sequel, remains beloved for its vast roster of iconic characters. Featuring up to three heroes in battle, it's an excellent introduction to classic fighting games, though it may not have aged well.
Guilty Gear Strive
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Metascore: 87Link: SteamRelease Date: June 11, 2021Developer: Arc System WorksGuilty Gear Strive showcases Arc System Works' mastery of the genre with its stunning visuals and detailed special effects. The gameplay is both familiar and innovative, including the ability to break level walls.
This game is a perfect entry point into both the genre and the Guilty Gear series.
Arcana Heart
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Metascore: 77Release date: October 11, 2007Developer: Yuki EnterpriseArcana Heart immerses players in an anime-inspired world with a roster of female characters from diverse backgrounds. The game's unique Arcana system, featuring elemental spirits, adds depth to the combat.
Its solid gameplay and excellent stylization make it a standout title.
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 known for its complex and unforgiving fighting mechanics. Mastering this game requires a deep understanding of character moves and strategies.
It's an ideal choice for players seeking a challenging experience.
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 its modern graphics and approachable gameplay. Its epic battles and explosive effects make it a perfect game for both newcomers and fans of the series.
Mortal Kombat 9
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Metascore: 86Link: SteamRelease date: April 19, 2011Developer: NetherRealm StudiosMortal Kombat 9 revitalized the franchise with its focus on classic, high-quality, and brutal combat. By stripping away unnecessary elements and refining the combat system, it set a new standard for the series.
This title continues to hold its own against later installments.
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 stylish characters and deep development. While its 2D animation may not appeal to all, the game's top-notch combat system earned it a spot in the EVO 2020 tournament.
It's a must-try for fans of anime-inspired fighting games.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
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Metascore: 93Release date: January 31, 2008Developer: Sora Ltd.Super Smash Bros. Brawl, with its massive sales and low entry barrier, appeals to a broad audience. By incorporating a wide range of Nintendo characters and adding depth through character attributes, it offers a unique and engaging experience.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax
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Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease date: March 17, 2022Developer: Arc System Works, ATLUSPersona 4 Arena Ultimax, while not the best way to dive into the Persona universe, offers a high-quality fighting experience. Its stylish visuals, familiar characters, and dynamic combat make it a must-play for fans of both the franchise and the genre.
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 animal fighters and Lauren Faust's distinctive art style. While lacking in typical brutality, its solid combat system makes it an excellent choice for younger gamers.
Tekken 8
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Metascore: 90Link: SteamRelease date: January 26, 2024Developer: Bandai Namco Studios Inc.Tekken 8 received widespread acclaim for its refined combat mechanics and stunning graphics. While maintaining the series' core elements, it introduces minor updates like a health recovery mechanic.
It's a great entry point into the iconic Tekken 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 new fighters and the ultra-combo system. Its enhanced graphics and new modes marked a significant step forward for the series.
This title paved the way for future entries, including the critically acclaimed Street Fighter 6.
Super Smash Bros. Melee
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Metascore: 92Release date: November 21, 2001Developer: HAL LaboratorySuper Smash Bros. Melee, a beloved GameCube title, is renowned for its simplicity, depth, and fun gameplay. Its inclusion in the EVO tournament and the "Wombo Combo" meme highlight its lasting impact on the gaming community.
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 experience. Its combat system, while seemingly simple, offers endless depth and complexity.
Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate
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Metascore: 88Link: SteamRelease date: April 23, 2019Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOC, ShiverMortal Kombat 11 Ultimate focuses on balancing, new modes, and extensive customization options. Its brutal combat, spectacular arenas, and well-executed features like the Krypt make it an ideal choice for newcomers to the genre.
Capcom vs. SNK 2
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Metascore: 80Release date: September 13, 2001Developer: CapcomCapcom vs. SNK 2 gained worldwide popularity with its massive character roster and fan service. Despite some visual shortcomings due to the use of old sprites, its great combat system and crossover appeal remain strong.
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, offers a simple yet engaging combat system. With three styles per character and an active online mode, it's a game that invites deep immersion.
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 excellent story and 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 fighting game genre. Its simple yet deep mechanics, coupled with top-notch graphics and a friendly community atmosphere, make it a must-play title.
We highly recommend experiencing it while it's at the peak of its popularity and online presence.
Fighting games have carved out a niche in the gaming world, attracting dedicated fans despite not reaching the mainstream appeal of AAA open-world games. Within this niche, there are numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Do you have a favorite fighting game? Share it in the comments below!
