Fighting games have always captivated gamers worldwide, particularly due to their emphasis on multiplayer combat. These virtual arenas serve as perfect battlegrounds for competing against friends or challenging other players online.
Image: theouterhaven.net
Over the years, developers have delivered a plethora of iconic fighting games. Our curated list of the top 30 best fighting games of all time takes into account not only their popularity and industry influence but also their depth of gameplay, balance, innovation, and contributions to the evolution of the genre.
Here, you'll find both timeless classics and modern masterpieces, offering a great starting point to explore one of the most cherished video game genres. Let's dive in!
We also encourage you to explore our other collections:
Best GamesShootersSurvivalHorrorsPlatformersAdventuresSimulators
Table of Contents
- 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
Mortal Kombat
Image: syfy.com
Metascore: TBD
Release Date: September 13, 1993
Developer: Midway
Our list begins with the legendary Mortal Kombat, released in 1993. A pioneer during the rise of home consoles, it set the standard for fighting games with its arena-based, two-fighter combat and combo system. Although Street Fighter had already gained traction in Eastern markets, Mortal Kombat captured the Western audience and remains a cornerstone of the genre, despite no longer being playable due to evolving trends. Its impact on the industry is undeniable, solidifying its place as one of the greatest fighting games ever.
Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition
Image: hobbyconsolas.com
Metascore: 86
Link: Microsoft Store
Release Date: September 20, 2016
Developer: Double Helix Games, Iron Galaxy
The Killer Instinct series, though not as widely recognized as Mortal Kombat, holds a special place among fighting game enthusiasts. Its finely-tuned balance, dynamic gameplay, and energizing music, complete with character-specific themes, enhance the gaming experience. The roster boasts charismatic and diverse characters, from street boxers to mythical creatures, offering an accessible entry point for newcomers to execute stylish combos.
SoulCalibur
Image: youtube.com
Metascore: 98
Release Date: September 8, 1999
Developer: Project Soul
Released in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, SoulCalibur stands out for its stunning visuals and grounded combat centered around various weapons. Its unique 3D movement system, akin to Tekken, added depth to the gameplay, making it stand out with its focus on strategic dashes and spatial awareness. SoulCalibur continues to be celebrated as a pinnacle of the fighting game genre.
Skullgirls: 2nd Encore
Image: moddb.com
Metascore: 82
Link: Steam
Release Date: July 7, 2015
Developer: Hidden Variable Studios
Skullgirls: 2nd Encore distinguishes itself with its unique art style and animation. Despite a modest character roster, each fighter has a distinct backstory and moveset, making them a joy to master. While it may not have revolutionized the genre, it remains a well-crafted fighting game that's worth exploring.
Lethal League
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Link: Steam
Release Date: August 27, 2014
Developer: Team Reptile
Lethal League breaks the mold by replacing traditional combat with a baseball-themed mechanic, resulting in fast-paced battles. Players must use a ball to execute combos, with its speed increasing the damage it deals, all set to an energetic soundtrack. This game is a fresh take on the genre, perfect for veterans seeking new challenges.
Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars
Image: giantbomb.com
Metascore: 85
Release Date: December 11, 2008
Developer: Eighting Co., Ltd.
Capcom's crossover with Tatsunoko results in a game that's simple yet appealing, particularly in Japan. It offers a colorful and fun experience ideal for casual play with friends, showcasing the joy of cross-universe battles.
Samurai Shodown
Image: twinfinite.net
Metascore: 81
Link: Steam
Release Date: June 25, 2019
Developer: SNK CORPORATION
Samurai Shodown brings a thoughtful, slower-paced combat style inspired by classical Japanese art. Its deliberate movements and striking visuals appeal to fans of both fighting games and traditional aesthetics, making it a standout reboot in the genre.
Ultra Street Fighter IV
Image: gamingdragons.com
Metascore: 84
Link: Steam
Release Date: August 7, 2014
Developer: Capcom
Street Fighter IV revitalized the genre upon its 2009 release, and its Ultra version, released five years later, enhanced it further with new fighters, moves, and balance. While it faced technical issues on PS4 at launch, its Steam version offers a smooth experience, making it a must-play for fans of the franchise.
Super Street Fighter II
Image: x.com
Metascore: TBD
Release Date: September 14, 1993
Developer: Capcom
Super Street Fighter II, a classic from 1993, showcased the potential profitability of the gaming industry with its record-breaking sales. Its colorful fighters, impressive combos, and engaging locations captivated audiences, making it a pivotal title in gaming history.
Tekken 3
Image: thekingofgrabs.com
Metascore: 96
Release Date: March 26, 1998
Developer: Namco
Tekken 3 became an iconic title on the PlayStation, known for its innovative graphics and new mechanics like sidestepping and parrying. Its spectacular combat system and vibrant characters make it a must-play classic in the fighting game genre.
Injustice 2: Legendary Edition
Image: wbgames.com
Metascore: 88
Link: Steam
Release Date: March 28, 2018
Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOC
Injustice 2 brings the DC universe to life, allowing players to control iconic characters like Batman and Superman. Its gameplay is accessible yet deep, offering a less violent experience than some competitors, making it a great entry point for newcomers to the genre.
Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes
Image: reddit.com
Metascore: 82
Release Date: March 23, 2000
Developer: Capcom
Marvel vs. Capcom 2 faced legal challenges but remains beloved for its extensive roster of Marvel and Capcom characters. Its three-hero battle system and iconic characters make it a classic, though it may not have aged as well as some contemporaries.
Guilty Gear Strive
Image: instant-gaming.com
Metascore: 87
Link: Steam
Release Date: June 11, 2021
Developer: Arc System Works
Guilty Gear Strive showcases Arc System Works' dedication to quality with its stunning visuals and detailed gameplay. Its special move mechanics and level-breaking feature add depth, making it an excellent entry point into the franchise and genre.
Arcana Heart
Image: videogamesnewyork.com
Metascore: 77
Release Date: October 11, 2007
Developer: Yuki Enterprise
Arcana Heart brings an anime flair to fighting games, featuring an all-female cast and elemental spirits called Arcana that aid in battle. Its solid combat and unique stylization make it a fun addition to the genre.
The King of Fighters XIII
Image: animenewsnetwork.com
Metascore: 79
Release Date: July 14, 2010
Developer: SNK Playmore
The King of Fighters XIII is a standout in a long-running series, praised for its complex and unforgiving fighting mechanics. Its visuals and gameplay are top-notch, offering a challenging experience for veterans of the genre.
Dragon Ball FighterZ
Image: fightersgeneration.com
Metascore: 87
Link: Steam
Release Date: January 26, 2018
Developer: Arc System Works
Dragon Ball FighterZ captures the essence of the legendary franchise with its modern graphics and engaging gameplay. Its epic battles and accessible mechanics make it an excellent choice for both fans and newcomers to the series.
Mortal Kombat 9
Image: ziedrich.wordpress.com
Metascore: 86
Link: Steam
Release Date: April 19, 2011
Developer: NetherRealm Studios
Mortal Kombat 9 revitalized the franchise with its focus on classic, brutal combat. It streamlined the gameplay, removing unnecessary elements to deliver a balanced and thrilling experience that holds up well against later entries.
Under Night In-Birth Exe: Late[cl-r]
Image: twobeardgaming.wordpress.com
Metascore: 82
Link: Steam
Release Date: August 21, 2018
Developer: FRENCH-BREAD
Under Night In-Birth Exe: Late\[cl-r\] is defined by its stylish visuals and deep character development. Its 2D animation may not appeal to all, but its combat system is top-tier, earning it a spot in prestigious tournaments like EVO.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Image: reddit.com
Metascore: 93
Release Date: January 31, 2008
Developer: Sora Ltd.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl sold over 13 million copies, thanks to its accessible gameplay and inclusion of beloved Nintendo characters. Its depth, achieved through varied character attributes, makes it a favorite among gamers of all skill levels.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax
Image: youtube.com
Metascore: 84
Link: Steam
Release Date: March 17, 2022
Developer: Arc System Works, ATLUS
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax offers a high entry barrier but rewards fans of the franchise with its stylish visuals and dynamic combat. Its fast-paced battles and familiar characters make it a compelling addition to the fighting game genre.
Them’s Fightin' Herds
Image: equestriadaily.com
Metascore: 80
Link: Steam
Release Date: May 1, 2020
Developer: Mane6, Inc.
Them’s Fightin' Herds stands out with its unique animal-themed fighters and family-friendly approach. Its solid combat system and charming art style make it an excellent choice for younger gamers.
Tekken 8
Image: youtube.com
Metascore: 90
Link: Steam
Release Date: January 26, 2024
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios Inc.
Tekken 8 received acclaim for its refined combat mechanics and stunning graphics. Its return to the series' roots with minor updates makes it a great choice for fans looking to dive back into the franchise.
Super Street Fighter IV
Image: youtube.com
Metascore: 85
Release Date: April 27, 2010
Developer: Capcom
Super Street Fighter IV introduced new ultra-combos and fighters, enhancing the original game's experience. Its graphical upgrades and new modes paved the way for future entries in the series, becoming a significant milestone in its history.
Super Smash Bros. Melee
Image: youtube.com
Metascore: 92
Release Date: November 21, 2001
Developer: HAL Laboratory
Super Smash Bros. Melee is a beloved classic on the GameCube, known for its simple yet deep gameplay. Its inclusion in the EVO tournament and the "Wombo Combo" meme highlight its lasting impact on the gaming community.
Granblue Fantasy: Versus
Image: x.com
Metascore: 78
Link: Steam
Release Date: March 13, 2020
Developer: Cygames, Inc., Arc System Works
Granblue Fantasy: Versus combines Victorian aesthetics with medieval elements, creating a visually stunning game. Its seemingly simple combat system hides deep mechanics, offering a rich experience for players willing to explore.
Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate
Image: nintendo-online.de
Metascore: 88
Link: Steam
Release Date: April 23, 2019
Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOC, Shiver
Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate focuses on balance and customization, delivering a brutal and engaging experience. Its arenas and combat are spectacular, though the story mode may not be its strongest aspect. It's an ideal entry for newcomers to the genre.
Capcom vs. SNK 2
Image: maniac.de
Metascore: 80
Release Date: September 13, 2001
Developer: Capcom
Capcom vs. SNK 2 gained fame for its extensive character roster and great combat. While its visuals may disappoint due to the use of old sprites, its gameplay and fan service make it a beloved title among fighting game enthusiasts.
Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code
Image: arcsystemworks.com
Metascore: 78
Link: Steam
Release Date: April 20, 2016
Developer: FRENCH-BREAD
Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code offers a simple yet engaging combat system with three styles per character. Though it may feel outdated, its active online community and stylish moments keep it relevant.
BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger
Image: siliconera.com
Metascore: 86
Link: Steam
Release Date: February 13, 2014
Developer: Arc System Works
BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is a classic 2D fighter known for its stylish visuals and unique combat system. Despite some technical issues, its well-developed story and engaging gameplay make it worth exploring.
Street Fighter 6
Image: psu.com
Metascore: 92
Link: Steam
Release Date: June 2, 2023
Developer: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Street Fighter 6 represents the pinnacle of the fighting game genre with its accessible yet deep mechanics. Its friendly, non-violent approach and stunning graphics make it a must-play, especially while it enjoys high online activity.
Fighting games, though a niche genre, have a dedicated fanbase worldwide. While they may not attract the broader audience of AAA open-world games, they offer unique experiences and hidden gems. Do you have any favorite fighting games? Share them in the comments!
