Top Fighting Games: All-Time Greats

Fighting games have carved out a special niche in the gaming world, captivating players with their intense multiplayer battles and competitive spirit. These virtual arenas serve as the perfect battlegrounds for players to test their skills against friends or rivals online, fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts.

Image: theouterhaven.net

Over the years, developers have crafted numerous iconic titles that have not only been popular but have also significantly influenced the fighting game genre. This curated list showcases the top 30 best fighting games of all time, considering factors like popularity, industry impact, gameplay depth, balance, innovation, and their contribution to the genre's evolution. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the scene, this collection includes timeless classics and modern masterpieces that are excellent entry points into the exhilarating world of fighting games.

We also encourage you to explore our other collections for a broader gaming experience:

Best GamesShootersSurvivalHorrorsPlatformersAdventuresSimulatorsTable of Content ---

Mortal Kombat

Image: syfy.com

Metascore: TBD
Release Date: September 13, 1993
Developer: Midway

Our journey begins with the legendary Mortal Kombat from 1993. Launched during the early days of home consoles, it set a benchmark that inspired countless fighting game developers. Its impact is undeniable, establishing the core gameplay formula of arenas, two fighters, and combos. While Street Fighter had already made waves in the East, Mortal Kombat became the genre's king in the West. Although no longer playable due to the passage of time, its legacy remains as the greatest fighting game in history.

Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition

Image: hobbyconsolas.com

Metascore: 86
Link: Microsoft Store
Release Date: September 20, 2016
Developer: Double Helix Games, Iron Galaxy

Almost as old as Mortal Kombat, Killer Instinct may not be as widely recognized, but it holds a special place among fighting game aficionados. Its finely tuned balance, dynamic gameplay, and energetic music set it apart. Each character boasts a unique musical theme that complements their personality and backstory, enhancing the overall experience. The diverse and charismatic roster, from street boxers to werewolves, offers a low entry barrier, allowing newcomers to master stylish combos quickly.

SoulCalibur

Image: youtube.com

Metascore: 98
Release Date: September 8, 1999
Developer: Project Soul

Released in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, SoulCalibur is renowned for its stunning visuals and grounded combat. Unlike other games with fantastical jumps, SoulCalibur's battles are rooted in reality, focusing on weapon-based combat. Its unique feature at the time was the ability to move in eight horizontal directions, akin to Tekken, adding depth to the gameplay. The emphasis on quick dashes and spatial awareness remains fresh and invigorating, keeping SoulCalibur at the pinnacle of the genre.

Skullgirls: 2nd Encore

Image: moddb.com

Metascore: 82
Link: Steam
Release Date: July 7, 2015
Developer: Hidden Variable Studios

Skullgirls: 2nd Encore stands out with its unique visual style and character design. Despite a modest roster, each character is distinct and comes with their own story mode. The meticulously crafted characters and their creative moves and combo sets make learning them a joy. While it didn't revolutionize the genre, it remains a well-crafted fighting game that delivers an enjoyable experience.

Lethal League

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 82
Link: Steam
Release Date: August 27, 2014
Developer: Team Reptile

Lethal League breaks the mold of traditional fighting games by introducing a baseball mechanic. Instead of hand-to-hand combat, battles revolve around hitting a ball, which becomes faster and more damaging with each strike. This fast-paced gameplay, combined with energetic music, offers a fresh experience for genre veterans seeking something new.

Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars

Image: giantbomb.com

Metascore: 85
Release Date: December 11, 2008
Developer: Eighting Co., Ltd.

Capcom's prowess in crossovers shines in Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars. With a simple yet effective combat system, it may not appeal to all Western gamers but was a hit in Japan. Its bright, colorful, and slightly crazy aesthetic makes it perfect for casual fun with friends.

Samurai Shodown

Image: twinfinite.net

Metascore: 81
Link: Steam
Release Date: June 25, 2019
Developer: SNK CORPORATION

In an era of remakes, Samurai Shodown offers a thoughtful and slow-paced experience reminiscent of a falling cherry blossom. Its deliberate swordplay and visual design, inspired by classical Japanese art, appeal to fans of both fighting games and Japanese aesthetics.

Ultra Street Fighter IV

Image: gamingdragons.com

Metascore: 84
Link: Steam
Release Date: August 7, 2014
Developer: Capcom

Street Fighter IV revitalized the genre in 2009, and its Ultra version, released five years later, added new fighters, moves, and improved balance. While the PS4 version faced criticism for blurry textures and lag, the Steam release offers a smooth experience of this legendary title.

Super Street Fighter II

Image: x.com

Metascore: TBD
Release Date: September 14, 1993
Developer: Capcom

Super Street Fighter II, a classic from the genre's early days, demonstrated the gaming industry's commercial potential with record-breaking sales. Its colorful fighters, impressive combos, and well-designed locations were enough to captivate players worldwide. A 2017 remake, however, did not meet the same high standards.

Tekken 3

Image: thekingofgrabs.com

Metascore: 96
Release Date: March 26, 1998
Developer: Namco

Tekken 3, a game worth skipping school for, became an iconic title on the first PlayStation. Its innovations, including improved graphics, sidestepping, and parrying mechanics, set it apart from its predecessors. The colorful characters and spectacular combat system make it a must-play classic.

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 with iconic characters like Flash, Batman, and Superman. While its gameplay is similar to other fighting games, it features less violence and a low entry barrier, though mastering it requires dedication.

Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes

Image: reddit.com

Metascore: 82
Release Date: March 23, 2000
Developer: Capcom

Despite legal issues delaying its sequel, Marvel vs. Capcom 2 remains beloved for its vast roster of Marvel and Capcom characters. While it may not have aged well, it's a great introduction to classic fighting games.

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' creativity with its stylish visuals and detailed special effects. The gameplay, featuring familiar mechanics like special move cancels and the ability to break level walls, offers depth and excitement for both new and seasoned players.

Arcana Heart

Image: videogamesnewyork.com

Metascore: 77
Release date: October 11, 2007
Developer: Yuki Enterprise

Arcana Heart brings an anime flair to fighting games with its all-female roster and elemental spirits called Arcanas. Its solid combat and excellent stylization make it a cool addition to the genre.

The King of Fighters XIII

Image: animenewsnetwork.com

Metascore: 79
Release date: July 14, 2010
Developer: SNK Playmore

With over 20 games in the series, The King of Fighters XIII stands out for its perfect visuals and gameplay. Its complex and unforgiving mechanics challenge players, offering a rewarding experience for those who master it.

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 gameplay. Its epic battles and explosive effects make it perfect for evening hangouts with friends.

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 classic and brutal combat. By removing unnecessary elements and focusing on balanced fights, it set a standard that the series has followed since.

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] embodies style with its deeply developed characters and top-notch combat system. Despite some choppy 2D animation, it earned a spot in the EVO 2020 tournament, showcasing its competitive merit.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Image: reddit.com

Metascore: 93
Release date: January 31, 2008
Developer: Sora Ltd.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl's success lies in its inclusion of nearly all recognizable Nintendo characters and its low entry barrier. Its depth comes from character attributes like weight and speed, offering a unique twist on the genre.

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, though not the best entry point into the Persona universe, offers a high-quality fighting experience. Its stylish visuals, familiar characters, and dynamic combat make it a must-try for fans of both franchises.

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 unusual roster of animal fighters. Its solid combat system and lack of brutality make it perfect for younger gamers, featuring art by Lauren Faust.

Tekken 8

Image: youtube.com

Metascore: 90
Link: Steam
Release date: January 26, 2024
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios Inc.

Tekken 8's return was warmly received, focusing on minor updates to its proven combat mechanics, including a new health recovery feature. Its top-notch graphics and detailed story scenes continue to impress.

Super Street Fighter IV

Image: youtube.com

Metascore: 85
Release date: April 27, 2010
Developer: Capcom

Super Street Fighter IV, an expansion of the original game, introduced ultra-combos and new fighters. Its upgraded graphics and new modes paved the way for the "Ultra" version and the modern classic, Street Fighter 6.

Super Smash Bros. Melee

Image: youtube.com

Metascore: 92
Release date: November 21, 2001
Developer: HAL Laboratory

Super Smash Bros. Melee, one of the highest-rated and best-selling GameCube titles, offers simple yet deep gameplay. Its inclusion in the EVO tournament and the "Wombo Combo" meme highlight its lasting impact on the genre.

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 architecture, medieval knights, and magic into a visually stunning game. Its combat mechanics, though seemingly simple, offer depth and complexity for players 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 balancing, new modes, and extensive customization. Its brutal arenas and fights, along with features like the Krypt and custom fighting styles, make it ideal 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 worldwide popularity with its massive 48-character roster and great combat. Despite some visual shortcomings due to the use of old sprites, it remains a fan favorite.

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, set in the Melty Blood universe, offers a simple yet engaging combat system. Its stylish visuals and active online community keep it relevant despite feeling somewhat outdated.

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 fighting game with stylish visuals and a unique combat system. Despite some bugs, its excellent story and well-developed characters 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 stands as a pinnacle of the fighting game genre, offering simple yet deep mechanics. Its friendly, non-violent approach, coupled with top-notch graphics, makes it a must-play while it remains at the peak of its popularity.

Fighting games continue to captivate a dedicated community of players, even if they remain a niche genre compared to AAA open-world titles. Within this niche, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Do you have a favorite fighting game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!