Combos, timing and duels: the fighting game is an art of mastery, from 2D versus to 3D arenas. RomWize re-ranks the best games in the genre by its re-evaluated scores, each with its current score, its versions, their rarity and their collector value.
"The ultimate fan fantasy taken to its limit. With a colossal roster and stages spanning gaming history, it's couch chaos at its finest. Mastering a character takes patience, but for local multiplayer nothing touches it."
"Tekken 3 is an absolute masterpiece that defined 3D versus fighting. Exceptional 23-character roster, fluid and technical gameplay, generous game modes including Tekken Force and Tekken Ball. Technically revolutionary for PS1. Often cited as the greatest PS1 game of all time."
"Capcom's peak of 2D versus, sublime in precision and depth. Parry, fluidity, cult cast and sublime animation: everything is at the top. An eternal masterpiece of the genre."
"The definitive version of SF4 with an expanded roster and improved balance. Among the finest 2D fighting games ever made. Essential for any competitive fighting game fan, with impressive mechanical depth throughout."
"The absolute peak of 3D versus from Namco and Project Soul. Precise controls, a legendary cast, sublime animation and unmatched tactical depth. A timeless masterpiece."
"Soulcalibur II remains a peak of weapons-based fighting. Huge roster, gorgeous animations and generous solo modes. An absolute 3D fighting benchmark, still worth playing today."
"A sumptuous 3D versus, fluid and stylish, with cinematic flair. Combos satisfy, the cast is iconic and every arena gleams with detail. A genre peak on Dreamcast."
"A peak of SNK 2D fighting, elegant and feverish. The Just Defense system is brilliant, the cast is charismatic and the arenas are stunning. A classic beloved by competitors."
"For many fans the favourite Smash across every generation. Wild speed, demanding tech, a tightly cut roster and combat physics never matched since. Tournaments still going twenty years on. Quite simply a fighting game high point."
"The Pro version sharpens the dream match: extra characters, retuned balance and a slicker presentation. Same magic, refined further, with every set inviting more study. Excellent versus."
"The ultimate crossover sequel, even crazier and more generous. A gargantuan roster, three character tags and explosive aerial combat: an absolute peak of 2D versus, still played today."
"The most complete Street Fighter Alpha 3 edition, with forty-four fighters including exclusive Eagle and Maki. Capcom polishes the European port, three play-style modes and ad hoc versus; a portable fighter of rare depth."
"Tekken 2 considerably improves on its predecessor with more characters, enriched moves and deeper game system. Namco's series definitively establishes itself as the 3D versus fighting reference on PS1. A major progression consolidating the franchise toward its peak with Tekken 3."
"Mortal Kombat Komplete Edition is the enriched version with all DLC including Freddy Krueger and Skarlet. The definitive version of the best Mortal Kombat in years with all available additional content. Essential for fans."
"Sega versus fighting compilation (VF2, Fighting Vipers, Bean the Dynamite...) with generous bonus content. Impressive technical showcase on Saturn. Eclectic but fun roster. One of the console's best fighting games."
"Sora Ltd. platform fighter with a Nintendo roster plus guests like Sonic and Snake. Stage-based combat, four-player local multi, scripted Subspace Emissary mode. One of the Smash series' peaks and an essential Wii multiplayer pick."
"Capcom relaunch the 2D fighter wars with a Street Fighter IV that pairs manga illustration and a deep Focus Attack system. Ryu and friends return sublimely in 2.5D, the competitive scene is reborn, and the 360 finds in this comeback an instant Capcom versus classic."
"A wildly original Capcom 3D versus where arenas turn into interactive playgrounds. Pickups to grab, spectacular projectiles and total fun. An unforgettable cathartic classic."
