Tech Desk 
Aug 14, 2025
In 2025, the fighting genre is full of great games with variety, accessibility, and competitive depth, from classic franchises like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Street Fighter 6, and Tekken 8 to crowd-pleasing games like Dragon Ball FighterZ and Mortal Kombat 1.
Whatever type of fighting game you are interested in, whether it is tag team (Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3), cinematic (Guilty Gear Strive), or unique independent fighters such as Skullgirls 2nd Encore, 2025 has an abundance of exciting titles worth trying.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate:
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, the best crossover fighting game. The roster may never be topped, from iconic Nintendo characters to third-party fan favourites, along with entertaining mechanics that allow for casual play but can also be played competitively. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is still playing strong on Switch and in e-sports.
Street Fighter 6:
Capcom undoubtedly raised the bar with a fresh approach to the franchise, with modern graphics, approachable mechanics, and a live system to roll out the Years 1–2 Fighters Edition full of quality updates that included crossplay and enhanced online update features. Street Fighter 6 continues a long legacy that is accessible, yet so deep.
Tekken 8:
Bandai Namco are experts in the 3D fighting game space, as evidenced by the heavily refined mechanics of the Heat System, polished combat, and expansive competitive scene. The past updates on Tekken 8 continue to build momentum and grow the community!
Dragon Ball FighterZ
This fast-paced, anime-based fighter is known for having flashy combos, cel-shaded graphics, and system mechanics inspired by some of the greatest tag-team fighters. Although not new to 2025, it is still widely played and offers praise for accessibility and flair.
Mortal Kombat 1
Combining brutal fatalities, cinematic presentation, and fair systems, Mortal Kombat 1 emerged as the best-selling fighting game of its generation, even after its support lifecycle ended; a testament to the polish of the game and the ever-existing appeal to players.
Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection
The Street Fighter brand has always been iconic within video games, and this collection of games is a nostalgic treat. Each title has its own flavour in the franchise, likely perfect for fans and newcomers to explore the origin of the genre.
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3
An ultra-fast, tag-team marvel, where the biggest wow factor is the cast of characters, nonstop fighting, and nostalgia. Classic comic-book fighting game style with the highest level of finesse.
Injustice 2
Injustice 2 features the most incredible DC superheroes, combining adrenaline-rushing gameplay with rich story content and tactical gear systems, a combination that should pique the interest of anyone who enjoys an epic showdown.
Soul Calibur 6
Soul Calibur 6 offers a weapon-centric combat mechanic that is elegantly designed and gives players the ability to personalise their fighters. Soul Calibur 6 is still one of the most notable fighting games for players interested in fighting games that offer a more profound depth in combat and theatrics.
Skullgirls 2nd Encore
An indie darling, Skullgirls 2nd Encore charms with hand-drawn art, tight combo-based mechanics, and rich character designs. Its responsive gameplay and vibrant style make it both accessible and endlessly replayable.
