The Best Fighting Games of All Time

Fighting games have captivated gamers worldwide, cherished for their intense multiplayer experiences. These virtual battlegrounds offer a perfect stage for both friendly and competitive matches with friends or online opponents.

Image: theouterhaven.net

Over the years, developers have crafted numerous iconic titles that have not only gained popularity but have also significantly influenced the genre. Our selection of the top 30 best fighting games of all time considers not just popularity and industry impact, but also gameplay depth, balance, innovation, and contributions to the genre's evolution.

Explore both timeless classics and modern masterpieces that serve as ideal entry points into one of gaming's most beloved genres. Let's dive in!

For more gaming insights, don't miss our other 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

Image: syfy.com

Metascore: TBDRelease Date: September 13, 1993Developer: Midway

We begin with the iconic Mortal Kombat, released in 1993. This game, launched during the early days of home consoles, became a beacon for fighting game developers, setting the standard with its arena, two-fighter format, and combo system. While Street Fighter was already popular in the East, Mortal Kombat captured the Western market. Though no longer playable today, its legacy is undeniable, marking it as one of the greatest fighting games ever.

Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition

Image: hobbyconsolas.com

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

The Killer Instinct series, nearly as old as Mortal Kombat, may not be as universally recognized, but it's celebrated in certain circles as a top-tier fighting game. Its well-balanced mechanics, dynamic gameplay, and energetic music create an engaging experience from the start. Each character's unique musical theme adds depth, reflecting their personality and backstory. The diverse roster, featuring characters like a street boxer, a vampire, a dinosaur, and a werewolf, offers a low entry barrier, allowing newcomers to master stylish combos quickly.

SoulCalibur

Image: youtube.com

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

Released in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, SoulCalibur remains one of the most visually stunning games on the platform. Unlike other fighting games with exaggerated jumps, SoulCalibur features grounded battles that rely heavily on weapon use. The ability to move in 3D space across eight directions, similar to Tekken, adds a strategic layer, focusing on quick dashes and spatial awareness. This fresh approach has kept SoulCalibur at the pinnacle of the genre.

Skullgirls: 2nd Encore

Image: moddb.com

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

With its unique visual style and animations, Skullgirls: 2nd Encore stands out in the fighting game genre. Though the character roster is modest, each fighter boasts a distinct look and story mode. The meticulously designed characters offer creative moves and combo sets, making learning them enjoyable. While not groundbreaking, Skullgirls is a well-crafted game that delivers a satisfying experience.

Lethal League

Image: steam.com

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

Innovating within the conservative fighting game genre, Lethal League replaces traditional combat with a baseball mechanic. This unique feature results in fast-paced battles where combos are executed using a ball that increases damage as it speeds up. Accompanied by energetic music, Lethal League offers a refreshing experience, ideal for genre veterans seeking something new.

Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars

Image: giantbomb.com

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

Capcom's crossover expertise shines in Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars. This game, though simpler in combat system and more popular in Japan, offers a bright, colorful, and fun experience perfect for casual play with friends.

Samurai Shodown

Image: twinfinite.net

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

In an era of remakes, Samurai Shodown stands out with its deliberate, slow-paced gameplay reminiscent of falling cherry blossoms. Each sword strike feels impactful, and the game's visual design draws heavily from classical Japanese art, appealing to fans of both fighting games and this aesthetic.

Ultra Street Fighter IV

Image: gamingdragons.com

Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease Date: August 7, 2014Developer: Capcom

The 2009 release of Street Fighter IV revitalized the genre, and its 2014 Ultra version enhanced it with new fighters, moves, and improved balance. Despite initial issues on PS4, the Steam version offers a smooth experience, making it one of the best entries in the legendary franchise.

Super Street Fighter II

Image: x.com

Metascore: TBDRelease Date: September 14, 1993Developer: Capcom

An unmatched classic from the genre's early days, Super Street Fighter II showcased the potential of gaming as a profitable industry with its record-breaking sales. Its colorful fighters, impressive combos, and well-designed locations were enough to draw teenagers to arcades. While a 2017 remake exists, it doesn't match the original's quality.

Tekken 3

Image: thekingofgrabs.com

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

Another game that drew crowds to arcades, Tekken 3 became iconic and one of the best-selling titles for the first PlayStation. Its innovations, including improved graphics, new mechanics like sidestepping and parrying, and its spectacular combat system, make it a must-play classic.

Injustice 2: Legendary Edition

Image: wbgames.com

Metascore: 88Link: SteamRelease Date: March 28, 2018Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOC

Showcasing the DC universe, Injustice 2 allows players to control iconic characters like Flash, Batman, and Superman. Its gameplay, while similar to competitors, offers a lower entry barrier but requires significant practice to master, making it a great choice for both newcomers and seasoned players.

Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes

Image: reddit.com

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

Despite legal issues delaying its sequel, Marvel vs. Capcom 2 remains beloved for its extensive roster of Marvel and Capcom characters. The ability to use up to three heroes in battle adds excitement, though the game hasn't aged well, making it better suited for an introduction to classics.

Guilty Gear Strive

Image: instant-gaming.com

Metascore: 87Link: SteamRelease Date: June 11, 2021Developer: Arc System Works

The latest entry in the Guilty Gear series showcases Arc System Works' creativity with its stylish visuals and detailed effects. The gameplay, including the special move cancel mechanic and the ability to break level walls, offers a deep and engaging experience, making it an excellent entry point into the genre and franchise.

Arcana Heart

Image: videogamesnewyork.com

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

Featuring an all-female cast from diverse backgrounds and elemental spirits called Arcana, Arcana Heart offers a solid combat system and excellent stylization, appealing to fans of anime and fighting games.

The King of Fighters XIII

Image: animenewsnetwork.com

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

With over 20 entries, The King of Fighters series is legendary, and the thirteenth installment earned widespread acclaim for its perfect visuals and gameplay. Its complex, unforgiving mechanics challenge players, making it ideal for those seeking a tough fight.

Dragon Ball FighterZ

Image: fightersgeneration.com

Metascore: 87Link: SteamRelease date: January 26, 2018Developer: Arc System Works

As part of the legendary Dragon Ball franchise, FighterZ offers modern graphics and a game design that's perfect for newcomers. Its epic battles, explosive effects, and simple yet deep gameplay make it ideal for social gaming sessions.

Mortal Kombat 9

Image: ziedrich.wordpress.com

Metascore: 86Link: SteamRelease date: April 19, 2011Developer: NetherRealm Studios

Revitalizing the Mortal Kombat series, Mortal Kombat 9 focused on a balanced, brutal combat system. Its success paved the way for subsequent high-quality entries, holding its own against newer releases.

Under Night In-Birth Exe: Late[cl-r]

Image: twobeardgaming.wordpress.com

Metascore: 82Link: SteamRelease date: August 21, 2018Developer: FRENCH-BREAD

With its deep character development and top-notch combat system, Under Night In-Birth Exe: Late\[cl-r\] offers a stylish experience. While its 2D animation might not appeal to all, its inclusion in the EVO 2020 tournament speaks to its quality.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Image: reddit.com

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

With 13 million copies sold, Super Smash Bros. Brawl brings together iconic Nintendo characters in a game that's both accessible and deep. Its character attributes add variety to battles, making it a favorite among gamers of all ages.

Persona 4 Arena Ultimax

Image: youtube.com

Metascore: 84Link: SteamRelease date: March 17, 2022Developer: Arc System Works, ATLUS

While not the best entry point into the Persona universe, Persona 4 Arena Ultimax offers a high entry barrier but rewards with stylish visuals, familiar characters, and dynamic combat, making it a must-try for fans of the franchise and fighting games.

Them’s Fightin' Herds

Image: equestriadaily.com

Metascore: 80Link: SteamRelease date: May 1, 2020Developer: Mane6, Inc.

Featuring animal fighters designed by Lauren Faust, Them’s Fightin' Herds offers a serious combat system without the typical brutality, making it perfect for younger gamers.

Tekken 8

Image: youtube.com

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

The warmly received Tekken 8 retains the series' proven combat mechanics with minor updates, like a new health recovery system. Its top-notch graphics and detailed story scenes make it a great entry into the series.

Super Street Fighter IV

Image: youtube.com

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

Not to be confused with Ultra Street Fighter IV, Super Street Fighter IV introduced ultra-combos and new fighters, enhancing the series and paving the way for future entries, including the modern classic Street Fighter 6.

Super Smash Bros. Melee

Image: youtube.com

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

A simple yet deep and engaging game, Super Smash Bros. Melee became a best-seller on the GameCube and a favorite at the EVO tournament, even spawning the "Wombo Combo" meme.

Granblue Fantasy: Versus

Image: x.com

Metascore: 78Link: SteamRelease date: March 13, 2020Developer: Cygames, Inc., Arc System Works

Based on the popular Granblue Fantasy, this game combines Victorian architecture, medieval knights, and magic in a visually stunning package. Its combat mechanics offer depth and complexity despite a seemingly simple move list.

Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate

Image: nintendo-online.de

Metascore: 88Link: SteamRelease date: April 23, 2019Developer: NetherRealm Studios, QLOC, Shiver

Focusing on balance, new modes, and customization, Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate perfects the series' formula with brutal combat and spectacular arenas. Its Krypt and custom fighting styles offer engaging gameplay, making it ideal for newcomers to the genre.

Capcom vs. SNK 2

Image: maniac.de

Metascore: 80Release date: September 13, 2001Developer: Capcom

Despite its lesser-known status in the West, Capcom vs. SNK 2 gained global popularity with its extensive character roster and great combat. While the use of old sprites disappointed some, the game remains a fan favorite.

Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code

Image: arcsystemworks.com

Metascore: 78Link: SteamRelease date: April 20, 2016Developer: FRENCH-BREAD

Set in the Melty Blood universe, this game offers a simple yet deep combat system with three styles per character. While somewhat outdated, its active online community keeps it relevant.

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger

Image: siliconera.com

Metascore: 86Link: SteamRelease date: February 13, 2014Developer: Arc System Works

A classic 2D fighting game, BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger offers stylish visuals and a unique combat system. While it has some bugs, its excellent story makes it worth exploring.

Street Fighter 6

Image: psu.com

Metascore: 92Link: SteamRelease date: June 2, 2023Developer: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.

Possibly the pinnacle of the fighting game genre, Street Fighter 6 offers a simple yet deep combat system with top-notch graphics. Its friendly atmosphere and high online presence make it a must-play.

Fighting games remain a niche genre, beloved by many but not as widely popular as AAA open-world titles. Yet, within this niche, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. What are your favorite fighting games? Share them in the comments!