Looking for the Best Fighting Games to play on PC?
A good fighting games gets our blood pumping. Whether you like that down to the finish fighting or a complete blow out to make yourself feel unstoppable. We all enjoy that rush of adrenaline when the foe finally goes down. Take on one formidable enemy or bring the pain to a bunch, we just want that feel. And that is what makes a fighting game good, that unstoppable rush. So here are fantastic fighting games found on PC when that will get your heart racing.
1. Street Fighter 5
After the defeat of M. Bison, Charlie Nash wakes up in a tomb. Instructed by a woman named Helen, he seeks out an item that will help destroy Bison for good. Meanwhile, a group called Shadaloo creates seven satellites called the Black Moons to send the world into turmoil. Fighters must hunt down the pieces that control the satellites before M. Bison takes over the world.
The legendary fighting game returns in its fifth installment, along with fighting veterans like Ryu, Chun-Li, and M. Bison. Old and new fighters come to the game for a diverse roster, offering a wide variety of fighting styles for the players to choose. New battle mechanics focus on the V-Gauge and EX-Gauge that builds a layer of strategy. Utilize the V-Skill, unique to each character, and turn the tide of battle with the V-Reversals, counterattacks that make use of the V-Gauge stock. Then finish off the opponent with the EX-Gauge in the form of Critical Arts.
For the first time in franchise history, fight your friends on either the PS4 or PC to see who is the best streetfighter. Rise up the ranks in the Capcom Pro Tour, the go-to place for competitive fighting. With constant Downloadable Content with new characters and additional story mode, the game will keep players glued to their controllers.
The classic street fighter feels with a beautiful new look.
2. Brawlhalla
Brawlhalla is an eternal battle arena where the greatest warriors in history compete to prove who is the best fighter that has ever existed. Each match is an epic battle that puts skills, strength, and speed to the ultimate test. Victory brings eternal glory and bragging rights until the end of time.
Not just a simple fighting game, as these brawlers have access to different weapons and gadgets. Fighters race for the sword, axes, rocket launchers, and more to get that extra edge. Weapons change the play style and battle options for the player. Items like mines and bombs bring danger into the arena, allowing the tide of battle to change with a good throw or a well-played trap. Each character has their own skills and fighting style, giving the battlefield unpredictability as players fit themselves into the best style.
In true Smash Brothers fashion, players can have four players free for all that turns the battlefield into complete chaos. Or they can test their skills personally in one-on-one fights to claim untold levels of glory in Brawlhalla. And the game is continuing to evolve with more updates along the way.
Drop the hammer and send opponents flying off the stage
3. Dragonball Xenoverse
Demons are interfering with the timeline in the Dragonball Z Universe, and is damaging history. A group of warriors under the leadership of Trunks travel back in time to set things right. In order to defeat the demons and the Demon God Demigra, Trunks uses the Dragon Balls to wish for a warrior strong enough to save the timeline.
For those who have grown up watching Dragonball Z, many have dreamt of joining Goku and the others to fight the forces of evil. Now those dreams can become more of a reality. Create your own Dragon Ball character utilizing the different species found in the anime. Train under one of the main characters of the series to develop skills and techniques. With this master system you can build your custom character with fighting styles you see fit from the vast pool of heroes in villains from the show.
Once you have your character it is time to dive into battle. Fly across the battlefield at high speeds to meet your opponent head on in a fist of brawls. Or keep your distance with energy beams. Charge up your kai in order to unleashing devastating attacks, including your ultimate attacks based on the flashy anime-style strikes found in the show. Transform to become even more powerful, becoming even a Super Saiyan God.
There is multiple downloadable content available. Two packs of characters are based on the Dragonball GT series, which include characters like Pan, Super Android 17, and Super Saiyan 4 Goku. There is also new transformations based on the Resurrection of ‘F’ movie including Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan Goku and Vegeta. And also look for Dragonball Xenoverse 2 coming later this year.
It is up to YOU to save the world.
4. Street Warriors Online
It is time to tighten the knuckle tape as you enter endless street brawls. In this unique fighting game compete with players around the world using realistic close combat fighting styles. In this game there are no magical beams or hidden weapons. Only fists and flying kicks.
Create and develop your own unique characters. Prepare your own fighting style from a list of attack sequences that suit your own battle tactics. Spend attribute points to achieve the best results and deal the most damage. Using the Power Cards mechanic, alter their combat skills to make them your own uniquely powerful force. Keep your opponent’s on their toes by developing up to eight different characters with their own classes and attributes.
Control the character in TPP mode using the Dynamic Combat System that allows for quick attacks and blocks as opposed to the average MMO game. Utilize the environment to your advantage when straight up force is not enough. Characters can throw heavy objects like garbage bins to strike multiple enemies at once. Light weapons like pipes and planks are at your disposal for one hand weapon combat. When in a pinch, utilize energy drinks which grant different effects.
There are multiple game modes available and up to eight fighters can face each other at a time. Play together with a friend in a 2-person group or go all out in free for all. Climb up in the rankings to unlock special rewards.
Use what you can to get ahead in battle
5. WWE 2k16
It is time to jump into the ring. The prestige of WWE video games makes a return. With it comes fun, authentic, and hard-hitting action like that takes players directly into the wrestling world. All the great game modes return, and brand new features make the game the best in the franchise.
Step into the shoes of one of the 120 different playable characters, including Superstar Stone Cold Steve Austin. Each crowd favorite includes their own fighting style that brings variety to the gameplay. Or create your own with in the Story Mode. Along the way to the championship, unlock legendary characters, entrance and ring gear and match types along with other things to make your own WWE experience. For the first time, Superstars can be assigned to multiple shows, allowing the player to have a deeper experience.
A lot of downloadable content is available for players that unlocks different characters like Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator and WWE legends like Big Boss Man. Obtain the new moves pack with over thirty new moves from the Corner Enzuigiri to the Avalanche Ram.
Put on a show while delivering punishment to your opponent
6. Paint the Town Red
Originally, the game was developed during the 7-Day FPS Game Jam, an event where game makers create and produce games within a week. South East Games decided on Day 6 that they wanted to continue developing the game.
Put up your dukes in this first person melee combat game. Travel to different locations and periods in history in this quirky designed fight game.
Voxel-based enemies can be punched, bashed, kicked and sliced open using anything in the room at your disposal. Keep a steady head in epic brawl fights and utilize everything in the room to not end up splattered on the ground. Different locations include a biker bar, prison, disco, and many more. Each with their own unique set of enemies and weapons to name a few. Once you are done squashing the hordes of enemies, take on the boss. Boss enemies have their own challenge to them, but offer great rewards. In Arena Mode, different challenges are frequently implemented to show who is the top fighter. Hone your skills in the Sandbox level to get a better feel of the weapons and mechanics.
The game is in early development with many new features promised to be coming along with updates. A rouge-like mode with character progressions. Online co-op modes. Level editor with Steam Workshop support. And, of course, many more weapons and enemies.
Use what you can to fight off the endless mob.
7. Batman: Arkham Knight
On Halloween night, a terrible alliance of villains comes together to drown Gotham in fright. Scarecrow, the Arkham Knight, and Deathstroke join forces to unleash a fear toxin on the city and unmask the Batman.
It is time to become the caped crusader and defend the streets of Gotham. Be the Batman with all the gadgets and abilities at your disposal, including the Free Flow Combat system, stealth, and the Batmobile. Driving around in the high-tech tank allows players to drive throughout the game world in high speed pursuits and then transform into all out military grade battle mode. The vehicle is stocked with enough firepower to bring down the entire city. Utilize missiles and machine guns to take down opposing vehicles while being quick to avoid attacks. Once you are done blowing things up, take down your opponent’s with the polished fighting mechanics. In the Free Flow Combat System, create a volley of blocks, blows and stunning attacks to takeout hordes of enemies before disappearing into the shadows. If straightforward fighting is not your forte, there is a utility belt filled with bat-a-rang and grapnel gun to launch the Batman at the opponent to get the drop on them.
After the disastrous bugs that crippled the game upon release, Rocky Steady studios were forced to pull the game and apply patches to fix major glitches. The last patch occurred this year in March, and has repaired the game for PC.
Free Flow Combat allows you to punish your enemies
8. Punch Club
On a dark, stormy night you watched as your father was brutally murdered. Twenty years later, you must train diligently and earn your place among the Punch Club ranks in order to find the man who ended his life.
A tycoon management game where you train prepare yourself as a fighter, revenge is the name of the game, but there are different ways achieving it with multiple branching storylines. Players can rise through the ranks honorably or take a dark and seedy route. To develop your fighter, you must follow the Way, the martial arts that will determine your fighting style. You can go the Way of the Tiger, or develop your own with an extensive skill trees that will determine skill, speed, and strength. Also it is not just about pumping iron. Players will have to juggle training and relationships, which ultimately affects you when it comes to throwing down.
Use your time to train and become stronger
9. DEAD OR ALIVE 5: Last Round
A military patrol is ambushed, and the soldiers are cut down by a hooded figure with inhuman speed. The mysterious assailant seems to dissolve into thin air. One of the survivors, Bayman, goes out to seek revenge.
Become one of 34 different fighters and jump into the action fighting game. Gameplay is based off the Dead or Alive 3 game mechanics with some improvements. Fights are based off a triangle system where strikes beat throws, throws beat holds, and holds beat strikes. Tag team fights also make their way back to add a deeper layer to the fighting, allowing players to discover which combination of styles works best for them. A new feature is the Power Blow which enables players to knock opponents away with a powerful blow, but only when their health is low.
Make use of the stage by tossing players into the Danger Zones, or get thrown over a cliff in one of the multiple-level stages. With this comes a few feature called Cliffhanger, cinematic quick time events to inflict even more damage. The Critical System allows players to deal stunning attacks, powerful combos, and the Critical Bursts that renders the target completely defenseless.
New downloadable content is also available that has new characters and costumes. It can be purchased in a bundle with the DLC “Samurai Warriors”.
The hooded figure will cut you down
10. Streets of Fury EX
The streets of Paris are littered with crime. Join with up to four players to face off against the gangs in this classic beat ‘em up.
Join with four others in co-op play or fight against each other. Taking the classic side-scrolling style of gameplay, players can select up to 17 playable characters to take down hordes of enemies. Characters have their own arsenal of moves. Fight enemies with ground and aerial combos, dodge moves, furies, and special moves. Gain even more by unlocking new characters, game modes, and move pools.
Engage in an expansive number of modes. With story mode, take to the streets of Paris and hunt down gang leaders across different districts. Or become the gang leader in alternate story mode. In versus mode fight your friends to see who is the best brawler.
The game uses camera shots to create the characters, and features famous YouTube star Benazaie as the fighter Hard Corner.
Use powerful moves to take down the gangs
11. Double Dragon Neon
Martial Arts brothers Billy Lee and Jimmy Lee join forces to rescue Marian from the Shadow Warriors gang. The evil Super-Lich Skullmageddon is out to destroy them and will use his shadow warriors to do so.
Taking on the classic Double Dragon series, players become the two brothers in this side-scrolling fighting game. Keeping the nostalgic feel, the game has designated moves with different buttons, from the evasion button to the standard punch and kick buttons. Evading enemies at the right moment will allow a brief boost in attacks. Replenish health with soda pop, and buy items from the shop. Special mixtapes, item drops found in the, game, allow for special power attacks.
In two-player mode, Billy and Jimmy can make use of the special “high-five” technique to share their life meter, splitting it in equal amounts. Or be a jerk and “psych” your friend out to harm them and make them fall over, or instantly trigger the same effect of avoiding enemies.
Enter the dragon with powerful special moves
12. Tekken 7
The next installment in the Tekken series comes with a slew of new features. Returning characters like the evil Akuma come with all new moves from previous games, giving veterans and newcomers alike a new feel for their fighters. New features to the fighting include the Rage Arts and Power Crush.
The Rage Arts are powerful attacks that only become available when health is low. Their health bar glows red, allowing players to tap into unbridled fury. Triggering this ability allows the fighter to make a last ditch effort to come back. Powerful super moves that if they connect deal monumental damage with a flashy, cinematic show.
Meanwhile the Power Crush moves are special attacks that will not be interrupted if the opponent hits them mid-move. It keeps the player invulnerable, although they can still take damage during the animation of the move’s execution. It is believed that the move will execute even if the health bar almost reaches zero.
Currently, Tekken 7 is in development, and is expected to be released sometime early next year.
It is a fight of good versus evil with Gouken and Akuma
13. Zeno Clash
In the fictional world of Zenozoik, a young man named Ghat regains consciousness after an explosion killed his hermaphroditic creature that raised him as a parent. Ghat must go on the run as his brothers and sisters seek to kill him.
New close combat mechanics bring a new standard from the traditional action first-person fantasy adventure game. The system allows for players to perform a variety of movements. Deflect and elude combos, knockback punishes, and punishing grab attacks make for a fantastic experience. And as the game progresses, players can learn new attacks to take on more formidable enemies. It is not just hand-to-hand combat with a feature of strange weaponry. The game features eccentric tools of destructions built from junk and other scraps.
Players can add the Clash Model Pack for Garry’s Mod, which includes 70 models and characters for the popular Source Engine. Due to the success of the game, the developers have created the sequel Zeno Clash 2 with a supercharged combat engine.
Fight strange creatures with stranger weapons
14. The Takeover
Inspired by the old arcade games of old like Streets of Rage, this game takes the role of the classic 2D-Sicescroller beat ‘em up. Button mashing enables for extended combos to deal punishment to the enemies. Toss the enemies around for a momentary stun. When fists and kicks are not enough, items are littered around in boxes. Smash the crates and pick up things like a gun to fight from afar.
The game is currently in early access as it continues to be developed and perfected. New game modes are available along with different characters.
That classic fighting feel in the modern era
15. Enslaved: Odyssey to the West
Taking place 150 years in the future, global war has ravaged the earth. The human race has been nearly eradicated. Rogue robots plague the world, machines from an era long ago. With them they carry their prime directive, the extinction of humans.
In this third-person adventure game, players take on the role of a character that goes by the name of Monkey. The character uses a staff that works as a close combat weapon and a long range projectile. Taking on two forms, the staff has ammunition in the form of cylinders. Orange cylinders are used for blast damage while blue are for stunning enemies. The staff can also be charged to utilize the stuff attack in close combat. When facing off against various robots, Monkey can perform finishing moves that make use of the weapons belonging to his mechanized foe. Tearing off a turret makes quick work of the bucket of bolts. To absorb damage, he can also make use of his force shield, but requires a recharge so it must be used sparingly.
In the premium edition of the game, the downloadable content is included. It includes new characters and new skins like Ninja Monkey and Sexy Trip.
Fast-paced fighting to take down the machines
16. Sleeping Dogs
Wei Shen is arrested when a drug deal goes south. In jail, he is introduced to the Triad and is offered to enter their ranks upon his release. In actuality, Shen is an informant, and his arrest was staged to help infiltrate the Sun On Yee’ Triad.
The melee combat system has been compared to the Batman Arkham games. Players utilize a mixture of attacks, grapples, and countermoves to take on enemies. The three commands can be chained together with movement to create a fluid attack sequence. Make use of the environment by dragging enemies to certain objects, and finish them off using whatever is lying around. Weapons are also available, such as knives and tires, but break after so many uses so cannot be used endlessly. Players can also perform the Action Hijacks while driving. This causes the character to leap from the vehicle to steal another and attack whoever is in the driver’s seat. In combat, the player can take cover to recover health.
The Deluxe Edition is available with all 24 downloadable content, including additional story like “Year of the Snake” and the horror-themed “Nightmare in Northpoint”.
Chase down your target in this high-octane action game
17. Shaolin vs. Wutang
This game is currently in early access as developers make changes based on player input.
In this one-on-one indie fighting game, motion capture animation offers realistic melee and weapon combat that holds true to the classic 80’s Kung Fu films. All moves in the combat system are based off of real fighting styles in martial arts, and are accompanied by the same fighting sound affects we hear from Hollywood. Fourteen characters are available, each taught in different Kung Fu techniques that gives them a variety of moves and combos. The game offers single player and local co-op to give that nostalgic feel.
Different characters come with their own martial arts move pool
18. Real BoxingTM
It is time to lace up your gloves for the most realistic, no holds barred boxing experience. Motion capture infuses moves from real boxers into the game, making every hook and every jab feel incredible.
Train your fully customizable boxer as you seek the road of glory in the career mode, or spar against other players across the globe in multiplayer mode. Fight for the belt against twenty different opponents each with their own unique fighting style. Train your boxer using the same methods real boxers use, from skipping rope to hitting the heavy bag. Select from a pool of real world moves and techniques to create your own champion. Continue through career mode to unlock items to customize your fighter. From the ascetics from hair and tattoos to the equipment needed to deliver the that finishing blow.
There is content exclusive to those who purchase the game on steam. Play and earn the Ring Girl trading cards, as well as gear for your boxers. A sequel of the popular game is currently in development.
Feel the pain in the most realistic boxing game
19. Injustice: God Among Us
In an alternate reality, the Joker tricks Superman into killing Lois Lane and their unborn child. The crazed clown then destroys Metropolis with a nuclear weapon, killing millions. In retribution for the death of his love and child, Superman kills the Joker. He then establishes a unified world government where he is the leader and establishes marshal law upon the world. A war breaks out between Superman and the other heroes.
Put on the tights and the capes, and step into the role as one of the mighty defenders of Earth. The heroes and villains have their own fighting style and special attacks for unique matchups. Gameplay uses a four-button layout with light, medium, and heavy attacks alongside traits for each character. Stages also play a role in the fighting. Striking an opponent off the stage will trigger a transition animation to a new stage while dishing out some extra damage. Players need to fill the Super Meters in order to execute special moves and counter opponent’s attacks.
In the game, the roster of playable characters falls within one of two classes. The first is the Power Class that relies on brute strength and abilities to defeat their foe. Characters like Superman fall into this class. Others are dubbed in the Gadget Class, who use weapons, items, or any other external mechanism to win. Someone like the frailer figured Joker would be categorized as such.
The Ultimate Edition is available which includes all the downloadable content that is available. The content included new skins for various characters as well as additional characters to be played including Scorpion from the Mortal Combat series.
Superman is not holding back anymore
20. Skullgirls
In the war-torn land of Canopy Kingdom, several groups seek to obtain an artifact known as the Skull Heart. It is said that once every seven years the heart grants a wish, but if the wisher has an impure heart, it will transform them into a monster known as a Skullgirl.
The fighting game incorporates a tag-team based combat system. Build the perfect team of one to three fighters from among fifteen playable characters. Team play is balanced so that numbers do not give the advantage. Single fighters have more health while three have it split among them, but can dish out tag team attacks. The Skullgirls fight using assists, snapbacks, and hyper combos to tear apart their opponents. And then finish off the foe with a cinematic special attack known as the Block Busters.
Each fighting style of the Skullgirl depends on the parasite she is possessed with. These entities are creatures that have bonded with their hosts and form a symbiosis with them. Often these creatures manifest themselves in the Skullgirl’s hair, like the fighter Squigly and her parasite called Leviathan. With her parasite, she specializes in long range attacks. Comparatively, the deranged doctor Valentine does not utilize her parasite, and instead uses quick ninja-like movements coupled with rapid combos to make up for her low damage output.
Crazy colorful characters each with their own way of killing
21. King of Fighters XIII
Fighter Ash Crimson has absorbed the power of two descendants of the clans that sealed Orochi away 1,800 years ago. As his former friend tries to stop him, fighters receive an invitation to another King of Fighters tournament hosted by a person labeled only as “R”.
Another installment in the 2D versus fighting game series, where players can choose from up to 36 different characters, each with their own fighting style and super abiliies. Team up in three-on-three battles, creating the ultimate team with over seven thousand possible combinations. Develop strategy by picking the best fighters that best fit your gameplay experience. After completing the expansive, novel-like storyline, jump online to face fighters across the globe.
For PC users, the game also features downloadable characters at the start of the game. Joining the roster of fighters are Iori with the Power of Flames, NESTS Style Kyo, and Mr. Karate.
Make a team of three for the ultimate tag-team experience
22. Mortal Kombat X
Two years have passed since the last Mortal Kombat tournament, Johnny Cage and others coordinate a battalion to protect Jinsei from the forces of Shinnok who has been manipulating the events of Mortal Kombat.
Fans of the series get returning gameplay with new elements mixed in. For the the first time in the series, players are able to choose from several variations of a single character, which changes up the style of certain special attacks while keeping the core fighting style. The game also features the return of the X-Ray cam which show how much punishment you are putting on your opponent during fights. Another first for the game is the introduction of the Stamina Meter. Certain actions like blocking causes the meter to deplete, forcing players to adjust their play style. The Super Meter makes a return, which can be filled through taking damage or dishing out special moves. Filling the bars allow for enhanced moves and even the X-Ray attack, which acts like a super move that deals big damage to the opponent.
Additional downloadable content is available in the Premium Edition. The content features new characters and skins for existing fighters.
“Get over here!” with stunning visuals
Power. We desire power. That is what players want in a good fighting game. A feeling of power, something we could not muster in the real world. Even in some cases where the game is realistic, players cannot actually use that power without dire consequences. These games come as an outlet to get that amazing feeling of fighting against the best, constantly testing our skills as he button-mash the controller/keyboard to victory.
Related Articles
15 Best Sword Fighting Games of 2016
