Top 10 Fighting Games as of 2025
Here’s a ranked list of most popular fighting games during the first month of 2025. Ranking is based on player base, competitive scene, and general influence within the fighting game community.
1. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Nintendo)
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Why it’s #1: With the largest roster of fighters in any game and an active competitive scene, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate reigns supreme. It's accessible to newcomers but also offers depth for competitive players. The game continues to dominate in terms of tournament entries, casual popularity, and sheer influence in the gaming world.
2. Street Fighter V (Capcom)
Platforms: PS4, PC
Why it’s so high: Street Fighter is the foundation of competitive fighting games, and SFV is the latest in the legendary series. The game has a thriving competitive scene with events like Capcom Pro Tour and EVO, and remains a favorite among both casual and hardcore players.
3. Tekken 8 (Bandai Namco Entertainment)
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Why it’s so high: Tekken 8 offers deep, complex combat that has made it a staple in the FGC. Its fluid 3D fighting mechanics and continued updates have kept it fresh, with Tekken World Tour being a huge draw for competitors worldwide.
4. Mortal Kombat 11 (NetherRealm Studios)
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch
Why it’s iconic: Known for its ultra-violent Fatalities and highly polished combat mechanics, Mortal Kombat 11 is both a casual favorite and a staple of the professional scene. Its rich lore and character variety make it one of the most beloved fighting franchises.
5. Dragon Ball FighterZ (Arc System Works)
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Why it’s special: Combining the iconic world of Dragon Ball Z with fast-paced, high-energy 3v3 combat, Dragon Ball FighterZ is a fan-favorite. The visual appeal and fun mechanics have made it a smash hit in the competitive scene as well as for casual players.
6. Guilty Gear -Strive (Arc System Works)
Platforms: PS4, PS5, PC
Why it’s so high: A visually stunning and mechanically complex fighting game, Guilty Gear -Strive- has made waves in the FGC. Its distinctive anime art style, coupled with deep mechanics, has garnered a passionate following, especially with its seamless online play and strong competitive presence.
7. SoulCalibur VI (Bandai Namco Entertainment)
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Why it’s up here: The SoulCalibur series offers unique weapon-based combat in a 3D space. SoulCalibur VI continues to deliver with its refined gameplay and exciting character roster, making it a must-play for fighting game fans.
8. King of Fighters XV (SNK)
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Why it’s ranked: The King of Fighters franchise has a deep history, and its latest installment, KOF XV, continues the legacy with its signature 3v3 team combat. It has a dedicated fanbase, especially in regions like Japan and Latin America, and a growing competitive scene.
9. BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle (Arc System Works)
Platforms: PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch
Why it’s listed: A blend of characters from multiple franchises (BlazBlue, Persona, RWBY), this 2D anime fighter is a crossover extravaganza. Its fast, combo-heavy gameplay makes it a favorite for anime fighting game fans.
10. Samurai Shodown (2019) (SNK)
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Why it’s ranked: The Samurai Shodown reboot brought back the beloved franchise with its trademark weapon-based fighting and intense duels. Its focus on careful positioning and high-damage strikes sets it apart from more combo-heavy fighters.
Honorable Mentions:
Marvel vs. Capcom 3: (Capcom)
Though older, Marvel vs. Capcom 3 continues to have a legacy in the fighting game scene with its iconic 3v3 battles and beloved characters.
Injustice 2: (NetherRealm Studios)
Injustice 2 brings the world of DC Comics into fighting games with slick mechanics, fantastic storytelling, and an interesting gear system.
Brawlhalla: (Ubisoft)
A free-to-play platform fighter that is a lighter, more accessible alternative to Super Smash Bros., Brawlhalla has a large player base, especially in online play.
Virtua Fighter 5: (Sega)
One of the oldest 3D fighters, Virtua Fighter remains a highly technical and skill-based series that still enjoys love from dedicated fans.