Fighting Games

Tobal 2 is a critically acclaimed 3D fighting game developed by DreamFactory and published by Square. It builds upon the groundbreaking mechanics of its predecessor, offering fluid 60 frames per second combat, refined grappling systems, and unique unblockable fireball attacks for every character. The game is widely celebrated for its innovative arena movement, enhanced Gouraud-shaded character models, and pioneering support for Sony's Dual Analog Controller. Delivering deep mechanics and robust game modes, it remains a standout title in the golden era of 3D fighters.

✦ Best for retro fighting game enthusiasts wanting a smooth 60fps japan-exclusive challenge.

Tobal No. 1 is an innovative 3D fighting game developed by DreamFactory and published by Square, featuring character designs by Akira Toriyama's Bird Studio. Helmed by Virtua Fighter and Tekken co-creator Seiichi Ishii, the title stands out for its high-resolution Gouraud-shaded graphics running at 640x480, fluid 3D movement allowing for behind-the-back attacks, and an intricate grappling system. Beyond traditional arcade-style fighting matches, the game introduced players to a sprawling dungeon exploration quest mode, adding unprecedented adventure depth to the genre. Upon its initial release, the PlayStation classic also famously bundled a highly anticipated playable demo for Final Fantasy VII, making it a landmark release in gaming history.

✦ Best for retro fighting fans wanting 60fps 3d action and dungeon quests.

Final Fight Revenge is a 1999 3D one-on-one fighting game developed by Capcom USA for arcade hardware running on the Sega ST-V board. Players can select from a roster of iconic characters from the Final Fight universe to engage in fast-paced martial arts combat. The game later received a Japan-exclusive home port for the Sega Saturn in March 2000, marking the final official Capcom release for that console. It stands out as the only sequel in the Final Fight franchise specifically built for the arcade fighting game genre.

✦ Best for retro fighting fans seeking a rare 1999 capcom 3d spin-off.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl is the third installment in the beloved crossover fighting game series, following up on Super Smash Bros. Melee. It retains all core mechanics of the franchise, including damage meters, stocks, and Smash-style attacks, while introducing devastating super attacks called Final Smashes. Players can also dive into a brand-new side-scrolling platform adventure mode titled The Subspace Emissary, where Nintendo's iconic heroes unite to stop the Subspace Army and the ultimate mastermind, Tabuu. With support for both single-player and multiplayer modes, it delivers an unforgettable crossover showdown.

✦ Best for nintendo fans seeking a massive crossover fighting game with an adventure mode.

Super Smash Bros. Melee is a legendary crossover platform fighting game developed by HAL Laboratory and published by Nintendo. Players choose from iconic franchises like Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Star Fox, Pokémon, and Fire Emblem to battle on dynamic stages, aiming to knock opponents off the arena rather than deplete traditional health bars. Renowned for its incredible speed, mechanical depth, and competitive longevity, the game supports up to four players simultaneously in chaotic multiplayer matches alongside robust single-player modes. Its enduring legacy has fostered one of the most passionate and long-running esports communities in gaming history.

✦ Best for fighting game fans and esports enthusiasts seeking deep mechanical skill.

Super Smash Bros. is a crossover fighting video game featuring characters from several different Nintendo franchises, marking the first installment in the celebrated series. Unlike traditional fighting games that rely on depleting an opponent's life bar, players must knock opposing characters off the stage while managing a damage percentage meter. Developed by HAL Laboratory and published by Nintendo, the game combines frantic multiplayer action with familiar items and power-ups. It supports various gameplay modes, allowing both solo players and groups to enjoy fast-paced, platform-style combat across stages themed after classic Nintendo universes.

✦ Best for nintendo fans and party gamers seeking multiplayer crossover fighting.

Mortal Kombat: Special Forces is a 2000 action-adventure spin-off putting players in control of the Special Forces agent Jackson 'Jax' Briggs. Set before the events of the original Mortal Kombat tournament, the game details Jax's dangerous mission to track down the criminal mastermind Kano and rescue his missing partner, Lieutenant Sonya Blade. Players navigate through complex 3D environments, utilizing an arsenal of heavy weaponry and devastating martial arts combos. As the story unfolds, Jax finds himself pulled deeper into the supernatural conspiracies of the Mortal Kombat universe, culminating in an unforeseen and dramatic climax against his arch-rival.

✦ Best for lore completionists and retro action fans wanting a jax and kano backstory.

Mortal Kombat 4 brings the legendary 1 vs 1 fighting franchise into the third dimension while maintaining its signature brutal combat and classic mechanics. Players can choose from a roster of fifteen initial fighters, featuring both returning favorites like Scorpion and Sub-Zero alongside fresh challengers. Set after the escape of the fallen Elder God Shinnok from the Netherrealm, Earthrealm's warriors must once again unite to prevent total universal conquest. With the introduction of weapon usage in combat and classic fatalities, the game delivers an intense arcade fighting experience.

✦ Best for fans of retro arcade fighting games wanting classic 3d combat.

Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 combines the best elements of the franchise into a single thrilling experience. Shao Kahn seeks revenge as his legions attempt to eliminate all Earthrealm souls, and Queen Sindel awaits her evil king to reunite and take control of both realms. Players can jump straight into the action with 23 immediately available characters like Reptile, Cyrax, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Jax, Katana, and Sonya. Enjoy various game modes including one-on-one, two-on-two, and the intense 8-fighter tournament against computer opponents.

✦ Best for retro arcade enthusiasts wanting a large 23-character fighting roster.

Mortal Kombat 3 introduces groundbreaking elements to the iconic 2D fighting series, including multi-level playfields, Dial-A-Combo attacks, and a dedicated Run button that significantly accelerates the battle pace. Players can also utilize Vs. codes during pre-match screens to unlock special powers and abilities. The storyline unfolds as Shao Kahn resurrects Queen Sindel in the Earth Realm, merging it with Outworld and unleashing extermination squads. Players must fight their way through warriors to defeat the Centaurian enforcer Motaro and the ruthless emperor Shao Kahn himself.

✦ Best for fighting fans and retro arcade enthusiasts wanting intense 2d action.

Mortal Kombat II is a classic arcade fighting game developed by Midway that expands upon its predecessor with enhanced mechanics and deeper mythos. Players travel to Outworld to battle formidable new combatants under the watchful eye of the brutal ruler Shao Kahn. Featuring expanded finishing moves and a roster of legendary characters like Kitana, Mileena, and Kung Lao, the game delivers intense competitive action. Earthrealm's defenders must overcome extreme danger to prevent Outworld from conquering their home.

✦ Best for retro fighting game fans wanting classic arcade action against shao kahn.

Mortal Kombat is a side-scrolling fighting game where martial artists battle in one-on-one combat using punches, kicks, and special moves. Players must defeat their opponents across intense rounds, culminating in the iconic and blood-soaked Fatality finishing move. Seven fighters from Earth step into Shang Tsung's secret tournament to stop the reigning champion Goro and protect their realm. The roster features diverse combatants including Raiden, Liu Kang, Johnny Cage, Sonya Blade, Kano, Sub-Zero, and Scorpion, each with distinct motivations and unique abilities.

✦ Best for fighting game fans and retro arcade enthusiasts craving iconic combat.