Top 10 arcade fighting games: A battle for the best

Arcade fighting games have been a staple in the gaming industry since the 1990s, with their popularity growing stronger each year. They are known for their fast-paced action, intense martial arts moves, and iconic characters that have become iconic in gaming. 

From the early days of Mortal Kombat II and Super Street Fighter II Turbo to the more recent Dragon Ball FighterZ and Super Smash Bros Ultimate, arcade fighting games have come a long way.

In this article, we'll look at the top 10 arcade fighting games of all time.

Mortal Kombat II - The classic that started it all

Mortal Kombat II is the game that started it all. Released in 1993, it became an instant hit with its gory fatalities and iconic characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden. The game also introduced the concept of the "Fatality" move, which allowed players to execute brutal finishing moves on their opponents.

With its memorable characters and intense gameplay, Mortal Kombat II has stood the test of time and remains one of the most popular arcade fighting games ever.

Super Street Fighter II Turbo - The best in the fighters series

Super Street Fighter II Turbo is widely considered to be the best game in the Fighters series. Released in 1994, it introduced new characters like Fei Long and Cammy and new moves and combo systems.

The game also featured a challenging AI opponent and a multiplayer mode that allowed players to face off against each other. Super Street Fighter II Turbo is still played today in competitive tournaments, cementing its place as one of the best arcade fighting games of all time.

Virtua Fighter - The pioneer of 3D fighting games

Virtua Fighter was released in 1993 and was the first 3D fighting game ever created. Developed by Sega, the game introduced a new level of realism to the fighting game genre with its detailed graphics and lifelike animations.

The game also featured a unique combat system that relied on timing and precision rather than button mashing. Virtua Fighter spawned sequels and spin-offs, with Virtua Fighter 5 being the latest installment.

Killer Instinct - The fan favorite

Killer Instinct was released in 1994 and quickly became a fan favorite with its over-the-top combo system and unforgettable characters like Jago, Glacius, and Fulgore.

The game also featured a unique combo breaker system that allowed players to interrupt their opponent's combo chain, creating a more dynamic and strategic gameplay experience.

Killer Instinct was rebooted in 2013 for the Xbox One, and it quickly became a hit with fans of the original game. The game features updated graphics and a new roster of characters, including fan favorites like Jago and Glacius.

The game also features a unique combo system and various game modes, including a story mode and online play. With its faithful recreation of the original game and updated graphics, Killer Instinct (2013) is a must-play for fans of the series.

Dead or Alive - The ultimate martial arts experience

Dead or Alive was first released in 1996, and it quickly became known for its fast-paced martial arts gameplay and stunning graphics.

The game featured a unique counter system that allowed players to reverse their opponent's attacks and turn the tide of battle. Dead or Alive has since spawned several sequels and spin-offs, with Dead or Alive 6 being the latest installment.

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom - The ultimate crossover

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom was released in 2011, and it brought together characters from two of the most popular franchises in gaming history: Marvel Comics and Capcom. The game features 50 playable characters, including fan favorites like Spider-Man, Ryu, and Wolverine.

The game also features a unique tag team system that allows players to switch between their two selected characters mid-fight, creating a more dynamic and strategic gameplay experience. Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom is still played today in competitive tournaments and remains one of the best arcade fighting games ever.

Dragon Ball FighterZ - The anime fan's dream

Released in 2018, Dragon Ball FighterZ quickly became a fan favorite with its stunning visuals and faithful recreation of the Dragon Ball anime's iconic characters and moves.

The game features a 3v3 tag team system that allows players to switch between their selected characters and perform devastating combo moves. Dragon Ball FighterZ also features a unique "Dramatic Finish" system that recreates iconic moments from the anime, making for a truly immersive and satisfying experience for fans of the series.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - The amazing party game

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate was released in 2018 and quickly became a staple at parties and gatherings. The game features a roster of over 80 playable characters, including fan favorites like Mario, Donkey Kong, and Pikachu.

The game also features various modes, including story, multiplayer, and online play. With its accessible gameplay and diverse roster of characters, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the ultimate party game for gamers of all ages.

Arc System Works - The masters of the fighting game genre

BlazBlue and Guilty Gear are two iconic arcade fighting game series developed by Arc System Works. Both series feature fast-paced gameplay, memorable characters, and intricate storylines that have captivated fans of the genre.

BlazBlue, first released in 2008, features a unique combat system that allows players to use different drive attacks unique to each character to gain an advantage over their opponent. The game's story mode is a standout feature, with a deep and intricate storyline told through a combination of visual novel-style cutscenes and battles. The game has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, with BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle being the latest installment.

Guilty Gear, first released in 1998, features fast-paced gameplay and a unique visual style that combines anime and heavy metal themes. Complex mechanics, including Roman Cancels and the Tension Gauge, make for a highly strategic gameplay experience. The series has also become known for its memorable characters and iconic music, with some of the game's soundtracks being highly regarded by fans. The latest installment is Guilty Gear -Strive-released in 2021.

Games that defined the genre

Arcade fighting games have come a long way since the early days of Mortal Kombat II and Super Street Fighter II Turbo. From the pioneer of 3D fighting games, Virtua Fighter, to the ultimate crossover game, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom, there's no shortage of unforgettable games.

Each game on this list has unique gameplay mechanics, memorable characters, and unforgettable moments that have made them stand the test of time. Whether you're a fan of classic games like Mortal Kombat II or newer releases like Dragon Ball FighterZ, there's something for everyone in the world of arcade fighting games.

If you're a fan of arcade fighting games, Gamestate is the perfect place for you! Check out our arcade with the best fighting games of all time, including classics like Mortal Kombat  and Street Fighter. 

Step into the ring, choose your champion, and let the battle for the best begin! With our state-of-the-art arcade machines and thrilling gameplay, you will have a blast.