Top Fighting Games Ever Ranked

Fighting games have long captured the hearts of gamers around the globe, particularly due to their emphasis on multiplayer engagement. These virtual battlefields offer the perfect arena for thrilling competitions, whether you're facing off against friends or challenging players from around the world.

Image: theouterhaven.net

Over the years, developers have gifted us with a myriad of iconic titles. In creating this list, we considered factors such as popularity, industry influence, gameplay depth, balance, innovation, and overall contributions to the genre's evolution. Here, we unveil the top 30 fighting games of all time, a mix of timeless classics and modern gems that serve as excellent entry points into this beloved genre. Let's dive in!

For more gaming recommendations, don't forget to explore our other collections:

Best GamesShootersSurvivalHorrorsPlatformersAdventuresSimulators

Table 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

Image: syfy.com

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

Our journey begins with the legendary Mortal Kombat, which debuted in 1993 during the early days of home consoles. This game not only inspired countless others but also established the core gameplay formula of arenas, two fighters, and intricate combos. While Street Fighter had already made its mark in the East, Mortal Kombat brought this genre to the West with a bang. Although no longer playable today, its indelible impact on the gaming industry cements it as one of the greatest fighting games 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

Killer Instinct, almost as old as Mortal Kombat, might not be as widely known, yet it's revered in certain gaming circles as one of the best in the genre. Its finely tuned balance and dynamic gameplay, paired with an energetic soundtrack that pumps you up from the main menu, make it a standout. Each character boasts a unique musical theme that encapsulates their persona and story. The diverse roster, from street boxers to vampires and dinosaurs, ensures that everyone can find a fighter to suit their style, while the game's low entry barrier allows even beginners to pull off stylish combos with ease.

SoulCalibur

Image: youtube.com

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

Released in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, SoulCalibur remains a stunning showcase of the platform's capabilities. Unlike games with fantastical jumps, SoulCalibur's battles are grounded, focusing on weapon-based combat. A groundbreaking feature at the time was the ability to move in 3D space across eight directions, akin to Tekken, which added a new layer of depth to the gameplay. Combined with its superior graphics, this made for an immersive experience that still holds up today.

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 meticulous character design. Despite its modest roster, each fighter comes with a rich story mode. The game's original characters and their creative moves make learning and mastering them a delightful experience. While it may not revolutionize the genre, Skullgirls is a polished gem that offers a lot of fun.

Lethal League

Image: steam.com

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

Breaking the mold in the typically conservative fighting game genre, Lethal League replaces traditional hand-to-hand combat with a baseball mechanic. This innovation leads to incredibly fast-paced battles where combos are executed using a ball that increases in speed and damage. Set to an energetic soundtrack, Lethal League is a refreshing take on the genre, perfect for veterans seeking something new.

Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars

Image: giantbomb.com

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

Crossovers have always been a hit, and Capcom's collaboration with Tatsunoko is no exception. This game's simple combat system may not appeal to all Western players, but it was a massive hit in Japan. Its bright, colorful, and slightly zany nature 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 age of remakes, Samurai Shodown stands out with its thoughtful, slow-paced gameplay reminiscent of falling cherry blossoms. Each sword strike feels deliberate and powerful, while the visual design draws heavily from classical Japanese art. This makes it a must-play for 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, launched in 2009, revitalized the genre with its dynamic gameplay. Its Ultra version, released five years later, added new fighters, moves, and improved balance. Despite some initial issues on the PS4, the game is now available on Steam, offering a smooth experience and a chance to enjoy one of the best entries in this legendary series.

Super Street Fighter II

Image: x.com

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

A classic from the genre's early days, Super Street Fighter II was a commercial juggernaut that proved gaming could be highly profitable. Its colorful characters, impressive combos, and well-designed locations captured the imagination of gamers worldwide. A 2017 remake didn't quite meet expectations, but the original remains a cornerstone of fighting games.

Tekken 3

Image: thekingofgrabs.com

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

Tekken 3 was a game so beloved that it warranted skipping school to play. A massive improvement over its predecessors, it introduced new mechanics like sidestepping and parrying, alongside stunning graphics. The game's spectacular and colorful combat system deserves its own article, making it a must-play for any fighting game enthusiast.

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 pit iconic characters like Flash, Batman, and Superman against each other. While the gameplay is similar to other fighting games, it offers less violence and a lower entry barrier, though mastering it requires significant time and practice.

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 extensive roster of Marvel and Capcom characters. With up to three heroes battling at once, it's a fan favorite, though it hasn't aged as gracefully as some other classics.

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 at its creative best, with stunning visuals and intricate details in locations, characters, and combos. The gameplay, including the special move cancel mechanic and the ability to break level walls, is top-notch, making it an excellent entry point into both the genre and the franchise.

Arcana Heart

Image: videogamesnewyork.com

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

Arcana Heart is the epitome of anime-inspired fighting games, featuring an all-female cast from various backgrounds and the unique Arcana spirits that assist in battle. It's a solid game with excellent combat and a distinctive style.

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 is a standout, praised for its visuals and gameplay. Its complex fighting mechanics are challenging for beginners, requiring deep knowledge of character moves to compete effectively. However, for those seeking a tough challenge, it's well worth exploring.

Dragon Ball FighterZ

Image: fightersgeneration.com

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a perfect entry point into the Dragon Ball universe, offering epic battles and explosive effects with a simple yet deep gameplay system. Ideal for evening sessions with friends, it's a must-play for fans of the franchise.

Mortal Kombat 9

Image: ziedrich.wordpress.com

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

Before 2011, the Mortal Kombat series struggled, but Mortal Kombat 9 revitalized it with its classic, high-quality, and brutal combat. By focusing on a balanced system and quality fights, it set the stage for future successful entries in the series.

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 all about style, with deeply developed characters and a top-notch combat system. While the 2D animation might not appeal to all Western fans, its inclusion in the EVO 2020 tournament speaks to its quality.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Image: reddit.com

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

Super Smash Bros. Brawl, with 13 million copies sold, brings together almost all recognizable Nintendo characters in a game with a low entry barrier and deep mechanics. Its success lies in its ability to engage players 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

Though not the best way to immerse oneself in the Persona universe, Persona 4 Arena Ultimax offers stylish visuals, familiar characters, and dynamic combat, making it a great choice for fans of both the franchise and fighting games.

Them's Fightin' Herds

Image: equestriadaily.com

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

Them's Fightin' Herds is the most unusual entry on our list, featuring animals as fighters in a game with a serious combat system. With no typical brutality or violence, and art by Lauren Faust, it's perfect 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 a warm welcome from both critics and fans, with Bandai Namco refining the series' proven combat mechanics and adding a new health recovery feature. The game's top-notch graphics and flashy combo effects make it a great choice for newcomers to the series.

Super Street Fighter IV

Image: youtube.com

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

Not to be confused with Ultra Street Fighter IV, Super Street Fighter IV introduced the ultra-combo selection and added ten new fighters. Its graphical upgrades and new modes were significant steps forward for the series, paving the way for future entries.

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 games on the GameCube, is a simple yet deep and engaging game that appeals to players of all ages. Its inclusion in the EVO tournament and the "Wombo Combo" meme cement its legendary status.

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 in a stunning and authentic visual style. Its combat mechanics are deceptively simple yet offer deep complexity, making it a rewarding experience for players willing to explore its depths.

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 focused on balancing, new modes, and customization, perfecting the series' formula of brutality, balance, and online PvP. With spectacular arenas and brutal fights, it's an ideal entry point 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 roster of 48 characters and great combat, despite its lesser-known status in the West. However, the use of old sprites disappointed some fans.

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 may feel outdated, but its stylish visuals and simple yet complex combat system remain impressive. With active online modes, it's a game where players can truly immerse themselves.

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. While it has some bugs and isn't widely discussed, its excellent story mode is worth exploring.

Street Fighter 6

Image: psu.com

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

Street Fighter 6 is the pinnacle of the fighting game genre, offering a simple yet deep combat system with top-notch graphics. Its friendly atmosphere and high online presence make it a must-play while it's at the peak of its popularity.

Fighting games, though a niche genre, have a dedicated following worldwide. While they may not attract as broad an audience as AAA open-world games, they hold many hidden gems. Do you have a favorite fighting game? Share it in the comments!