The Best Fighting Games of All Time

Fighting games have always captivated gamers worldwide, largely due to their intense multiplayer focus. Virtual battlegrounds offer the perfect stage for friendly competition or epic online showdowns. Over the decades, developers have gifted us countless iconic titles. This curated list considers not only popularity and industry impact, but also gameplay depth, balance, innovation, and overall contribution to the genre's evolution. Prepare to explore 30 of the best fighting games ever created—a mix of timeless classics and modern masterpieces, perfect for newcomers and veterans alike. Let the battles begin!

We also invite you to explore our other game collections: Best Games, Shooters, Survival, Horrors, Platformers, Adventures, Simulators

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

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

Our journey begins with the legendary 1993 Mortal Kombat. A cornerstone of the home console era, its impact on fighting game development is undeniable. It established the core formula: arena combat between two fighters, utilizing combos. While Street Fighter preceded it, Mortal Kombat dominated the Western market, solidifying its place in gaming history. Though no longer playable in its original form, its influence remains immense, cementing its status as a true giant of the genre.

Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition

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

A near-contemporary of Mortal Kombat, Killer Instinct enjoys a dedicated following, often cited as one of the best fighting games ever made. Its finely tuned balance, dynamic gameplay, and electrifying soundtrack create an unforgettable experience. Each character boasts a unique musical theme, adding another layer to their personality. The diverse and charismatic roster—from street boxers to werewolves—offers accessible gameplay, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and seasoned veterans.

SoulCalibur

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

Released on the Sega Dreamcast in 1999, SoulCalibur remains a visual masterpiece. Instead of flashy acrobatics, it emphasizes grounded combat with a diverse range of weapons. Its innovative 3D movement system, allowing eight horizontal directions, added a new layer of strategic depth, focusing not only on attacks but also on positioning and spatial awareness. A true classic that still holds up today.

Skullgirls: 2nd Encore

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

Skullgirls stands out with its unique art style and animations. While the roster is smaller, each character is meticulously designed, boasting unique moves and satisfying combos. The game doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it executes its core mechanics flawlessly, making it a highly enjoyable experience.

Lethal League

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

A refreshing take on the genre, Lethal League replaces traditional hand-to-hand combat with a fast-paced, high-energy ball-based system. The faster the ball moves, the more damage it inflicts, creating incredibly dynamic and exciting matches. A highly recommended title for veterans seeking a unique and exhilarating experience.

Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars

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

A vibrant and memorable crossover, this title features a relatively simple combat system that might not appeal to all Western players, but its bright visuals and fun gameplay make it perfect for casual play with friends.

Samurai Shodown

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

A well-executed reboot, Samurai Shodown offers a deliberate and tactical pace, contrasting with many faster-paced fighters. The slow, methodical combat, combined with its stunning visual design inspired by classical Japanese art, creates a truly unique and immersive experience.

Ultra Street Fighter IV

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

An enhanced version of the critically acclaimed Street Fighter IV, Ultra Street Fighter IV delivers the same dynamic and energetic gameplay with added characters, moves, and improved balance. Now available on Steam, players can experience this classic without the technical issues that plagued the initial console release.

Super Street Fighter II

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

A timeless classic that defined a generation, Super Street Fighter II's colorful characters, impressive combos, and well-designed stages captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. Its record-breaking sales cemented its place in gaming history.

Tekken 3

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

A cultural phenomenon, Tekken 3's improved graphics, new mechanics (sidestepping, parrying), and spectacular combat system made it a must-have for PlayStation owners. A true classic that remains highly enjoyable today.

Injustice 2: Legendary Edition

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

Injustice 2 perfectly captures the essence of the DC universe, pitting iconic heroes against each other in thrilling battles. While the core gameplay is familiar, the game offers a more accessible entry point, while still providing depth for dedicated players.

Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes

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

A beloved crossover featuring a massive roster of Marvel and Capcom characters, Marvel vs. Capcom 2 allows for three-on-three battles. Despite its age, it remains a nostalgic favorite for many.

Guilty Gear Strive

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

Guilty Gear Strive showcases stunning visuals and a refined combat system, offering both accessible gameplay and immense depth for mastery. A standout title in the franchise and a great entry point into the series.

Arcana Heart

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

An anime-styled fighter featuring an all-female cast and unique elemental spirits that assist characters in battle. A solid combat system and charming visuals make this a worthwhile experience.

The King of Fighters XIII

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

A complex and unforgiving fighter demanding mastery of its intricate mechanics. While challenging for beginners, its depth and rewarding gameplay make it a worthwhile endeavor for dedicated players.

Dragon Ball FighterZ

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

Epic battles, explosive effects, and accessible yet deep gameplay make Dragon Ball FighterZ a must-have for fans of the franchise and fighting game enthusiasts.

Mortal Kombat 9

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

A triumphant return to form for the Mortal Kombat franchise, Mortal Kombat 9 delivers brutal, balanced combat and a refined gameplay experience.

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

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

A stylish anime fighter with a deep combat system and well-developed characters. While the animation might not appeal to everyone, its complex mechanics make it a favorite among competitive players.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

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

A massive crossover featuring a huge roster of Nintendo characters, Super Smash Bros. Brawl is known for its accessible gameplay and surprising depth.

Persona 4 Arena Ultimax

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

A stylish and dynamic fighter based on the popular Persona series, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for fans of both franchises.

Them’s Fightin’ Herds

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

A unique fighter featuring animal characters in a surprisingly deep and engaging combat system. Its family-friendly nature makes it a great choice for younger players.

Tekken 8

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

A highly-rated return to form for the Tekken franchise, offering refined gameplay and stunning visuals.

Super Street Fighter IV

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

An expansion to Street Fighter IV, adding new characters, moves, and improved graphics.

Super Smash Bros. Melee

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

A classic entry in the Super Smash Bros. series, known for its simple yet deep gameplay and memorable moments.

Granblue Fantasy: Versus

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

A stylish fighter based on the popular Granblue Fantasy game, offering a unique blend of Victorian and medieval aesthetics.

Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate

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

Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering refined gameplay and enhanced customization options.

Capcom vs. SNK 2

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

A crossover featuring a massive roster of Capcom and SNK characters.

Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code

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

A stylish anime fighter with a surprisingly accessible combat system.

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger

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

A classic 2D fighter with stylish visuals and a unique combat system.

Street Fighter 6

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

A modern classic, Street Fighter 6 delivers refined gameplay, stunning visuals, and a welcoming online community.

Fighting games, while a niche genre, boast a passionate global fanbase. Share your favorite fighting games in the comments below!