Get ready to throw down and enter the ring as we present to you our highly anticipated countdown of the top 10 fighting video games of all time. From bone-crushing brawls to intense martial arts showdowns, these games have captivated players with their adrenaline-pumping action, iconic characters, and addictive gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned fighter or just getting your feet wet, join us as we celebrate the best of the best in the world of fighting games. So, tighten your gloves, warm up those thumbs, and let the battles begin
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10. Dragon Ball FighterZ (2018)
This highly popular fighting game developed by Arc System Works and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment was released in 2018 and has received widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. The game has been so well received is its attention to detail and faithful representation of the Dragon Ball universe, capturing the essence of the series, from the intense battles to the flashy energy attacks and over-the-top transformations.
It also features a compelling story mode, unique character interactions, and an online multiplayer component that allows players to challenge others from around the world. It successfully appeals to both fans of the franchise and fighting game enthusiasts, earning numerous awards and accolades for its quality and enjoyment factor.
9. Virtua Fighter 5 (2006)
Virtua Fighter 5 received acclaim for its smooth animations, precise controls, and deep combat system. It focuses on fundamental mechanics such as spacing, timing, and counter-attacks, providing a more realistic and technical fighting experience compared to other games in the genre. This attention to detail and commitment to authenticity has garnered praise from both casual players and fighting game enthusiasts.
The game offers various gameplay modes, including a robust single-player arcade mode, a comprehensive training mode for honing skills, and online multiplayer for challenging others globally. The online component allows players to compete against one another, participate in tournaments, and engage in ranked matches, adding to the game’s longevity and competitive appeal.
8. Injustice 2 (2017)
Released in 2017 as a sequel to Injustice: Gods Among Us. The game takes place in a universe where DC Comics superheroes and villains collide. It features an engaging story mode that continues the narrative from the first game, where players can experience an epic storyline involving iconic DC characters.
The fighting mechanics in Injustice 2 are accessible yet deep, allowing both casual and competitive players to enjoy the game. It introduces a Gear System, where players can customize and enhance their characters with various equipment, allowing for personalization and strategic choices. The Gear System adds an additional layer of depth and progression, as players can unlock new gear through gameplay and customize their characters’ appearance and abilities.
7. Mortal Kombat (2011)
Often referred to as Mortal Kombat 9, is a highly acclaimed fighting game serving as a reboot to the long-running Mortal Kombat franchise. Notable for its fluid and responsive combat system that combines accessible controls with a high level of depth and strategy. It reintroduces the signature “Fatality” finishing moves, as well as the “X-Ray” moves that showcase bone-crushing attacks and brutal damage.
The game offers a variety of single-player modes, including a story-driven campaign, challenge towers, and traditional arcade ladder matches. Mortal Kombat (2011) is celebrated for its successful revitalization of the franchise and captures the essence of Mortal Kombat’s signature style which provides an engaging experience for both fans and newcomers to the series.
6. Soulcalibur (1998)
Set in a fictional historical fantasy world, Soulcalibur features a diverse cast of characters who wield various weapons, such as swords, axes, staffs, and more. The game is known for its weapon-based combat system, which emphasizes strategic positioning, timing, and combos. The game allows players different skill levels to enjoy the game, while offering depth and complexity for more advanced players.
The game’s emphasis on movement and spacing adds an extra layer of strategy, making each battle dynamic and engaging. It was one of the first fighting games to utilize the power of the Dreamcast console, delivering impressive graphics and smooth animations that contributed to its overall visual appeal.
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5. Marvel vs. Capcom II: New Age of Heroes (2000)
Marvel and Capcom characters from various franchises come together in an epic battle. Players form teams of three fighters and engage in fast-paced combat across vibrant 2D stages. It’s enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors. First, the game’s extensive character roster, featuring beloved heroes and villains from both Marvel and Capcom franchises, appealed to fans of multiple series.
The fast-paced and visually stunning gameplay, combined with the ability to create unique team compositions and execute flashy combos, made it highly engaging. Overall, it succeeded by combining the appeal of beloved characters, accessible yet deep gameplay, and a vibrant competitive scene, making it a highly acclaimed and well-received fighting game.
4. Mortal Kombat II (1993)
Continuing the narrative of its predecessor, Mortal Kombat. The game refined the controls, introduced new special moves, and implemented the iconic “Run” button, which increased the speed and intensity of the matches. Mortal Kombat 2 also introduced more elaborate stage interactions and fatalities, the game’s notorious finishing moves.
The game became a massive success as it pushed the boundaries of violence in video games, introducing a level of graphic gore and brutality that was both controversial and intriguing for players. The combination of imaginative character designs, intense gameplay, and the thrill of executing fatalities contributed to its appeal. The games success can be attributed to its engaging storyline, refined gameplay mechanics, memorable characters, and the controversy surrounding its violent content.
3. Tekken 3 (1997)
Revolving around the ongoing feud between the Mishima Zaibatsu and the G Corporation. Tekken 3 maintains the series’ trademark 3D fighting mechanics, where players engage in one-on-one battles. It introduced several gameplay enhancements, including smoother animations, more fluid movement, and refined controls. The game expanded the character roster, introducing iconic fighters like Jin Kazama, Ling Xiaoyu, Hwoarang, and more.
Each character possesses a unique fighting style and a range of special moves and combos, allowing for diverse playstyles. Tekken 3 achieved immense popularity for several reasons. First, it showcased a significant leap in graphical quality and technical advancements compared to its predecessors. The game’s detailed character models, fluid animations, and vibrant stages were visually impressive for its time.
2. Street Fighter II (1991)
A legendary fighting game developed and published by Capcom. It revolutionized the genre and became one of the most influential and successful arcade games of all time. The game introduced a six-button control scheme, allowing players to execute a variety of attacks, including punches, kicks, and special moves. Each character had a unique set of moves, playstyle, and special abilities, encouraging players to explore different strategies and tactics.
Street Fighter II was groundbreaking in various technical aspects. It introduced the concept of combo attacks, allowing players to chain together sequences of moves for devastating combos. The game also implemented a diverse range of special moves, unique to each character, which added depth and excitement to the gameplay.
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1. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2018)
The fifth installment in the series, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate features a unique gameplay style that combines elements of traditional fighting games with platforming mechanics. Players control a variety of popular characters from different video game franchises and engage in dynamic battles on various stages. The objective is to knock opponents off the screen to earn points and emerge as the victor.
The game emphasizes accessibility, allowing both casual and competitive players to enjoy its fast-paced and chaotic gameplay. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s combination of accessible gameplay, extensive content, competitive scene, and ongoing updates has contributed to its widespread acclaim and popularity. It serves as a celebration of video game history and continues to captivate players of all skill levels.
Are there any fighting video games you think are more deserving of a place in our list? Let us know in the comments!
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