As a seasoned gamer who has witnessed the rise and fall of countless gaming genres over the past few decades, I can confidently say that fighting games have always held a special place in my heart. And let me tell you, these old classics are still delivering the goods well into the 2020s!
Over the years, video games have undergone significant transformations, from early arcade games like Pong on TV screens, right up to the present day. One type of game that has consistently captured the interest of multiple generations is fighting games. In these contests, players command vibrant characters and engage in combat with the aim of reducing their opponent’s health meter to zero.
Even though games like “Bloody Roar” and “Soul Calibur” have gradually declined in popularity over the years, certain classic retro games continue to thrive, with new versions being released approximately every two years. Here’s a glance at some timeless favorites that are still receiving updates all the way into the 2020s.
King of Fighters
Launched: 1994
Latest Version: King of Fighter XV (2022)
Back in the ’90s gaming scene, I was absolutely hooked on one fighting game that still manages to hold its ground today – none other than the legendary King of Fighters. SNK crafted this game as their response to the fighting game frenzy and merged a host of characters from their own titles like Fatal Fury and Art of Fighting into one epic battlefield.
In contrast to many classic fighting games, some people believe that KOF offers a greater variety of unique combos compared to other fighters in the genre. Additionally, its character designs, especially for anime-style fighters, are considered more trendy and stylish.
Guilty Gear
Launched: 1998
Latest Version: Guilty Gear Strive (2021)
Instead of primarily focusing on hand-to-hand combat like most fighting games, Guilty Gear stood out by emphasizing the use of weapons. Created by Daisuke Ishiwatari, this game was a fantasy for anime enthusiasts with its intricately designed characters and diverse array of special weapons.
The company called Arc System Works is responsible for creating the game we’re discussing. Notably, the game’s name, “BlazBlue,” is often seen as a spiritual continuation or successor of another game known as “Guilty Gear.
Tekken
Launched: 1994
Latest Version: Tekken 8 (2024)
As a devoted gaming enthusiast, I’d like to share my perspective: While Virtua Fighter might have been the pioneer in the 3D fighting game realm, it’s Tekken that has managed to maintain its relevance over several decades, a testament to its lasting appeal.
In terms of a more authentic depiction of close-quarter fighting, it’s Tekken that’s particularly renowned for its juggle system, enabling players to send opponents flying and keep them suspended with a series of complex combinations.
Marvel vs. Capcom
First released in 1996 under the title “X-Men vs. Street Fighter”; “Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Superheroes” debuted in 1998.
2017 Release: Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite; 2024 Release: Marvel vs. Capcom Arcade Classics – Fighting Edition
Originating from the core formula of Street Fighter, the Marvel vs. Capcom (MvC) series began with X-Men: Children of the Atom and continued by blending character rosters with those from Street Fighter. Over time, this fusion developed into the vibrant cast that makes up Marvel vs. Capcom.
2017 saw the launch of the last “Infinite” game, but now that the collection has dropped this year, it’s sparked speculation among us fans – could a fresh installment in the mainline Marvel vs Capcom series be on the horizon?
Mortal Kombat
Launched: 1992
Latest Version: Mortal Kombat 1 (2023)
Without a doubt, it’s been Japanese studios leading the way in the realm of fighting games. Yet, among them all, an American gaming series that has solidified its place as video game aristocracy remains one of the most influential franchises today—Mortal Kombat.
Initially conceived as a video game tied to Jean-Claude Van Damme’s Bloodsport film, MK blended the raw brutality of B-movies with the over-the-top kung fu flicks. It captivated players with its vibrant characters and violence that was considered startling (back then) due to its colorful cast and gritty action scenes.
Modern versions of these games have become increasingly violent, yet they’ve also incorporated characters from various other intellectual properties. Remarkably, even Jean-Claude Van Damme made an official appearance in the most recent installment.
Street Fighter
Launched: 1987
Latest Version: Street Fighter 6 (2023)
Often recognized as the pioneer of the contemporary fighting game genre, “Street Fighter” has maintained its significance among gamers since the 1980s, standing tall as a dominant force in the video game industry.
The game, from Ryu’s “Hadouken” move to Chun-Li’s “Spinning Bird Kick,” has generated a huge fanbase and keeps drawing in gamers with its grand tournaments and sophisticated fighting mechanics.
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2024-11-13 01:12