Fighting games have always held a special place in the hearts of gamers, largely due to their intensely competitive multiplayer focus. Virtual battlegrounds offer the perfect stage for showdowns with friends or online rivals. Over the decades, developers have crafted iconic titles, and this list celebrates not only popularity and industry influence, but also gameplay depth, balance, innovation, and overall contribution to the genre's evolution.

Presenting the top 30 best fighting games of all time—a blend of timeless classics and modern masterpieces, perfect for newcomers and seasoned veterans alike. Let's dive in!

Explore our other curated game lists:
**Best Games | Shooters | Survival | Horrors | Platformer | 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 a legend—the 1993 Mortal Kombat. Released during the nascent years of home consoles, it became a genre-defining force, inspiring countless fighting games. Its impact is undeniable, establishing the core formula: arena combat between two fighters, utilizing combos. While Street Fighter preceded it, Mortal Kombat's influence dominated the Western market. Though no longer directly playable in its original form, its legacy remains cemented as a pivotal moment in fighting game history.

Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition

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

Almost as old as Mortal Kombat, Killer Instinct boasts a dedicated following, often cited as one of the best fighting games ever created. Its finely tuned balance, dynamic gameplay, and energetic soundtrack, complete with character-specific musical themes, contribute to its enduring appeal. The diverse and charismatic roster—from street boxers to vampires and dinosaurs—offers unique gameplay styles, yet remains surprisingly accessible to newcomers.

SoulCalibur

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

Released in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, SoulCalibur remains a visual masterpiece. Instead of flashy acrobatics, it emphasizes grounded weapon-based combat. Its innovative 3D movement across eight horizontal directions, a feature that set it apart, added strategic depth beyond simple attacks, incorporating dashes and spatial awareness. This fresh approach continues to solidify its place among the genre's elite.

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 animation. While featuring a smaller roster, each character is meticulously designed, boasting distinct moves and satisfying combos. Though not revolutionary, its polished gameplay and charming aesthetic make it a worthwhile experience.

Lethal League

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

Lethal League cleverly subverts traditional fighting game conventions by replacing hand-to-hand combat with a high-speed, baseball-based mechanic. This unique approach results in incredibly fast-paced battles where the ball's speed dictates damage, all set to an upbeat soundtrack. A refreshing take for genre veterans seeking something new.

Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars

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

A vibrant and memorable crossover, this title boasts a simpler combat system that may not appeal to all Western audiences, but it remains a beloved entry, especially in Japan. Its bright, colorful aesthetic and slightly chaotic nature make it perfect for casual play with friends.

Samurai Shodown

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

A successful reboot, Samurai Shodown offers deliberate, slower-paced gameplay, contrasting with many faster-paced fighters. Its elegant swordplay and visually stunning art style, heavily influenced by classical Japanese aesthetics, make it a compelling choice for fans of both fighting games and Japanese art.

Ultra Street Fighter IV

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

An enhanced version of the acclaimed Street Fighter IV, Ultra Street Fighter IV delivers the same dynamic and energetic gameplay with added characters, moves, and improved balance. While its initial console release suffered from technical issues, the Steam version provides a smoother experience, allowing players to enjoy this classic.

Super Street Fighter II

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

A seminal title that defined a generation, Super Street Fighter II's record-breaking sales showcased the potential of the fighting game market. Its colorful cast, impressive combos, and well-designed stages captivated players worldwide, making it a true classic.

Tekken 3

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

A best-selling title for the original PlayStation, Tekken 3 introduced significant advancements over its predecessors, including improved graphics, sidestepping, and parrying. Its spectacular visuals, diverse characters, and deep combat system cemented its place as a timeless classic.

Injustice 2: Legendary Edition

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

Injustice 2 delivers a compelling DC universe experience, pitting iconic heroes against each other in a relatively accessible yet deeply strategic fighting game. While the core mechanics are familiar, the absence of excessive gore makes it a more broadly appealing entry.

Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes

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

Beloved for its massive roster of Marvel and Capcom characters, Marvel vs. Capcom 2 allows for three-on-three battles. Despite its age, the sheer number of characters and chaotic gameplay remain engaging, though its visuals haven't aged as gracefully.

Guilty Gear Strive

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

Guilty Gear Strive showcases Arc System Works' mastery of stylish visuals and fluid animation. Its deep and rewarding combat system, featuring the classic special move cancel mechanic and the innovative wall-break mechanic, makes it a standout title.

Arcana Heart

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

An anime-inspired fighter, Arcana Heart features an all-female roster and unique "Arcana" elemental spirits that assist characters in battle. Its solid combat and distinct aesthetic make it a fun and engaging experience.

The King of Fighters XIII

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

A critically acclaimed entry in a long-running series, The King of Fighters XIII offers a challenging and unforgiving combat system that rewards mastery and punishes mistakes. Its deep mechanics and competitive scene make it a rewarding experience for dedicated players.

Dragon Ball FighterZ

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

Dragon Ball FighterZ captures the epic scale and explosive action of the Dragon Ball universe. Its accessible yet deep gameplay, combined with stunning visuals, makes it a perfect choice for both fans and newcomers to the franchise.

Mortal Kombat 9

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

A revitalizing entry in the Mortal Kombat franchise, Mortal Kombat 9 refined the series' formula, focusing on balanced combat and brutal action. Its polished gameplay and return to form helped revive the series' popularity.

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

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

Under Night In-Birth Exe:Late[cl-r] is known for its stylish presentation and deep combat system. While its 2D animation may not appeal to all, its sophisticated mechanics and competitive scene make it a strong contender.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

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

Super Smash Bros. Brawl's massive popularity stems from its accessible gameplay and inclusion of beloved Nintendo characters. Its surprisingly deep mechanics, incorporating character-specific attributes, add layers of strategy beyond simple button-mashing.

Persona 4 Arena Ultimax

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

Persona 4 Arena Ultimax offers a challenging yet rewarding fighting experience for fans of the Persona series. Its stylish visuals, familiar characters, and fast-paced combat make it a compelling entry for both newcomers and veterans.

Them’s Fightin’ Herds

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

A unique fighting game featuring anthropomorphic animal characters, Them’s Fightin’ Herds offers a polished combat system without the typical violence and gore, making it suitable for a wider audience.

Tekken 8

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

Tekken 8 delivers a refined and visually stunning experience, building upon the series' established mechanics while introducing new features like a health recovery system. Its polished gameplay and impressive graphics make it a must-have for fans.

Super Street Fighter IV

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

Another expansion to the Street Fighter IV series, Super Street Fighter IV introduced the ability to choose an ultra-combo, along with new characters and graphical enhancements. It served as a significant step in the series' evolution.

Super Smash Bros. Melee

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

A highly influential and critically acclaimed GameCube title, Super Smash Bros. Melee's simple yet deep gameplay and inclusion in the EVO tournament solidified its legendary status.

Granblue Fantasy: Versus

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

Granblue Fantasy: Versus boasts a visually stunning aesthetic, blending Victorian and medieval elements. Its deceptively simple yet complex combat system provides a rewarding experience for dedicated players.

Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate

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

Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate refines the series' formula, offering balanced combat, brutal action, and extensive customization options. Its polished gameplay and engaging features make it an excellent entry point for newcomers.

Capcom vs. SNK 2

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

A crossover featuring a massive roster of Capcom and SNK characters, Capcom vs. SNK 2 offers fast-paced and chaotic gameplay. Despite its dated visuals, its large cast and exciting combat remain engaging.

Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code

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

Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code offers a surprisingly accessible combat system with a stylish presentation. Its active online community adds to its longevity.

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger

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

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is a classic 2D fighter with stylish visuals and a unique combat system. Despite some technical issues, its compelling story and engaging gameplay make it a worthwhile experience.

Street Fighter 6

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

Street Fighter 6 is widely considered a pinnacle achievement in the fighting game genre. Its streamlined yet deep combat system, combined with stunning visuals and a vibrant online community, makes it a must-play title.

Fighting games, while a niche genre, hold a special place in gaming history. They offer a unique blend of skill, strategy, and intense competition. What are your favorite fighting games? Share them in the comments!