Fighting games have carved out a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide, thanks in large part to their thrilling multiplayer experiences. These virtual battlegrounds offer an ideal arena for competing against friends or challenging other players online, making for some of the most engaging gaming experiences available.
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Over the years, game developers have gifted fans with a plethora of iconic titles. Our curated list considers not only popularity and industry impact but also gameplay depth, balance, innovation, and their role in shaping the genre's evolution.
We present to you a definitive list of the top 30 best fighting games of all time. This collection features timeless classics alongside modern marvels, providing a perfect entry point for anyone eager to delve into this vibrant genre. Let's explore!
We also encourage you to explore our other 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: MidwayKicking off our list is the legendary Mortal Kombat from 1993. Launched during the early days of home consoles, it became a beacon of inspiration for countless fighting game developers. Its influence is immense, setting the standard for arena-based, two-fighter combat with intricate combos.
While Street Fighter had already made its mark in Eastern markets, Mortal Kombat captivated the West. Although no longer playable today due to the passage of time, its indelible impact on the industry secures its place 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, while not as universally renowned as Mortal Kombat, holds a special place among fighting game aficionados. Its finely tuned balance, dynamic gameplay, and energetic soundtrack, which perfectly captures the essence of each character, contribute to its acclaim.
The diverse roster, featuring characters like a street boxer, a vampire, a dinosaur, and a werewolf, adds to its charm. The game's low entry barrier allows newcomers to quickly master stylish combos, making it accessible yet deep.
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 on the platform. Unlike other fighters with fantastical leaps, its battles are grounded, focusing on weapon-based combat.
The ability to move in 3D across eight horizontal directions, akin to Tekken, along with its excellent graphics, adds a layer of depth to the gameplay. This focus on strategic positioning and distance management keeps SoulCalibur 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 visual style and animation. Despite a modest character roster, each fighter boasts a distinct look and story mode, making them highly engaging.
The game's meticulously crafted characters and creative moves make learning them a joy. While it may not revolutionize the genre, its quality craftsmanship is more than enough to satisfy fans.
Lethal League
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Metascore: 82Link: SteamRelease Date: August 27, 2014Developer: Team ReptileIn a genre known for its established mechanics, Lethal League breaks the mold by replacing traditional hand-to-hand combat with a baseball-hitting mechanic. This innovation results in fast-paced battles where the ball's speed determines damage.
Accompanied by energetic music, this unique gameplay appeals to veterans seeking a fresh experience in the fighting game landscape.
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 exemplifies Capcom's prowess in crafting engaging crossovers. This collaboration with Tatsunoko delivers a game that, while simple in its combat system, was immensely popular in Japan for its colorful, memorable characters and casual-friendly gameplay.
Samurai Shodown
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Metascore: 81Link: SteamRelease Date: June 25, 2019Developer: SNK CORPORATIONIn an era of remakes, Samurai Shodown stands out as a reboot that delivers. Its slow, deliberate gameplay, reminiscent of falling cherry blossoms, contrasts with other fast-paced fighters. The game's visual design, inspired by classical Japanese art, appeals to fans of both the genre and its aesthetic.
Ultra Street Fighter IV
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Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease Date: August 7, 2014Developer: CapcomStreet Fighter IV revitalized the genre upon its 2009 console release. Its Ultra version, released five years later, introduced new fighters, moves, and improved balance. Despite initial hiccups on the PS4, its availability on Steam ensures a smooth experience for fans of this iconic series.
Super Street Fighter II
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Metascore: TBDRelease Date: September 14, 1993Developer: CapcomSuper Street Fighter II, a seminal classic from the genre's early days, showcased the lucrative potential of gaming with its record-breaking sales. Its vibrant characters, impressive combos, and well-designed arenas were enough to draw gamers to arcades worldwide. A 2017 remake, however, didn't quite live up to the original's legacy.
Tekken 3
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Metascore: 96Release Date: March 26, 1998Developer: NamcoTekken 3 became an iconic title for the first PlayStation, boasting significant improvements over its predecessors. Its introduction of new mechanics like sidestepping and parrying, along with its vibrant characters and spectacular combat system, make it a must-play classic.
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 its engaging gameplay. Featuring popular characters like Flash, Batman, and Superman, it offers a less violent alternative to other fighters. While accessible, mastering the game requires significant dedication.
Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes
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Metascore: 82Release Date: March 23, 2000Developer: CapcomMarvel vs. Capcom 2 faced delays due to legal issues, but its beloved status among fans stems from its extensive roster of Marvel and Capcom characters. Despite not aging gracefully, it remains a classic entry point into the series.
Guilty Gear Strive
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Metascore: 87Link: SteamRelease Date: June 11, 2021Developer: Arc System WorksGuilty Gear Strive showcases Arc System Works' creativity at its finest. Its stunning visuals, detailed environments, and dynamic gameplay, including the innovative wall-breaking feature, make it a standout title for both newcomers and veterans.
Arcana Heart
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Metascore: 77Release date: October 11, 2007Developer: Yuki EnterpriseArcana Heart offers a unique anime-inspired experience with its all-female roster and elemental spirits called Arcana. Its solid combat and excellent stylization make it a compelling choice for fans of the genre.
The King of Fighters XIII
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Metascore: 79Release date: July 14, 2010Developer: SNK PlaymoreThe King of Fighters XIII is renowned for its complex and unforgiving combat mechanics. Its perfect blend of visuals and gameplay appeals to those seeking a challenging experience in the fighting game realm.
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 legendary franchise, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers. Its epic battles and explosive effects, combined with accessible yet deep gameplay, make it perfect for casual and competitive play alike.
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, brutal combat. By streamlining the game to emphasize balanced fights, it set a new standard for the series, holding its own against later entries.
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 and deep character development. While its 2D animation may not appeal to all Western fans, its top-notch combat system earned it a spot in the EVO 2020 tournament.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
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Metascore: 93Release date: January 31, 2008Developer: Sora Ltd.Super Smash Bros. Brawl built upon the success of Melee, selling 13 million copies by 2020. Its low entry barrier and deep character attributes, combined with iconic Nintendo characters, make it a beloved classic.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax
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Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease date: March 17, 2022Developer: Arc System Works, ATLUSPersona 4 Arena Ultimax may not be the best entry point into the Persona universe, but its high entry barrier and exciting combat appeal to fans of both franchises. Its stylish visuals and dynamic fights make it a rewarding experience.
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 unusual roster of animals and lack of typical violence. Its solid combat system and art style by Lauren Faust make it an ideal choice for younger gamers.
Tekken 8
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Metascore: 90Link: SteamRelease date: January 26, 2024Developer: Bandai Namco Studios Inc.Tekken 8 offers a legendary return with minor updates to its proven combat mechanics, including a new health recovery feature. Its top-notch graphics and detailed story scenes continue to impress fans and newcomers alike.
Super Street Fighter IV
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Metascore: 85Release date: April 27, 2010Developer: CapcomSuper Street Fighter IV, not to be confused with Ultra Street Fighter IV, introduced the ultra-combo selection and new fighters. Its significant upgrades paved the way for future entries in the series, including the acclaimed Street Fighter 6.
Super Smash Bros. Melee
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Metascore: 92Release date: November 21, 2001Developer: HAL LaboratorySuper Smash Bros. Melee earned its place as one of the highest-rated and best-selling GameCube titles. Its simple yet deep gameplay and inclusion in the EVO tournament make it a legendary entry in the genre.
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 seemingly simple combat mechanics reveal a depth that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned players.
Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate
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Metascore: 88Link: SteamRelease date: April 23, 2019Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOC, ShiverMortal Kombat 11 Ultimate refined the series with a focus on balance, new modes, and extensive customization. Its brutal arenas and engaging combat make it an ideal entry for newcomers, despite some grinding elements.
Capcom vs. SNK 2
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Metascore: 80Release date: September 13, 2001Developer: CapcomCapcom vs. SNK 2 gained worldwide acclaim for its massive character roster and great combat, despite some visual drawbacks from using old sprites. Its appeal spans both Japanese and Western audiences.
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 simple yet stylish combat system set in the Melty Blood universe. Its accessibility and active online community make it a worthwhile experience, despite its dated feel.
BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger
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Metascore: 86Link: SteamRelease date: February 13, 2014Developer: Arc System WorksBlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is a classic 2D fighter with stylish visuals and unique combat mechanics. Despite some bugs, its excellent story and character development make it a must-try for genre enthusiasts.
Street Fighter 6
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Metascore: 92Link: SteamRelease date: June 2, 2023Developer: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.Street Fighter 6 stands as a pinnacle of the genre, offering simple yet deep mechanics and stunning graphics. Its friendly atmosphere and high online presence make it a must-play title at the peak of its popularity.
Fighting games, while a niche genre, have a dedicated fanbase worldwide. They may not attract the masses like AAA open-world games, but within this niche, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Do you have a favorite fighting game? Share it with us in the comments!
