5 Best Fighting Games on Nintendo Switch

5 Best Fighting Games on Nintendo Switch

In the vast and ever-expanding realm of video games, fighting games have consistently captivated players with their adrenaline-pumping action, intense competition, and intricate mechanics. The Nintendo Switch, renowned for its portability and versatility, has emerged as a formidable platform for these exhilarating contests. With a diverse roster of fighting games ranging from iconic classics to innovative newcomers, the Switch offers an unparalleled gaming experience for fans of the genre.

One of the most compelling aspects of fighting games on the Switch is their portability. The ability to engage in intense battles on the go, whether during a commute or while traveling, opens up countless opportunities for gaming enthusiasts. Accessibility is further enhanced by the Switch’s detachable Joy-Con controllers, which allow for comfortable and intuitive gameplay, even in handheld mode. The Switch’s portability empowers players to hone their skills, practice combos, and challenge opponents from anywhere, anytime.

Moreover, the Switch’s diverse library of fighting games caters to a wide range of preferences and skill levels. From the timeless gameplay of Street Fighter to the anime-inspired spectacles of BlazBlue and Guilty Gear, the Switch offers a vast array of options to satisfy every fighting game aficionado. Additionally, the Switch’s robust online infrastructure enables players to connect with opponents worldwide, fostering a thriving competitive scene and endless opportunities for online battles. Whether battling against friends or facing off against skilled players from around the globe, the Switch provides a platform for both casual and hardcore fighting game enthusiasts.

The Unbeatable Smash Brothers Ultimate

Smash Brothers Ultimate, released in 2018, is an epic fighting game that has taken the Nintendo Switch by storm. With its massive roster of playable characters, intense battles, and endless replayability, it has become one of the most popular fighting games on the platform.

Unparalleled Roster

The game boasts an unprecedented roster of 89 characters, each with their unique abilities and fighting styles. From beloved Nintendo icons like Mario and Link to third-party favorites like Cloud Strife and Joker, there is a character for every taste. This vast array of characters ensures that every match is a fresh and exciting experience.

Intense Gameplay

Smash Brothers Ultimate features a fast-paced and action-packed combat system that combines traditional fighting game mechanics with platforming elements. Players can utilize a wide variety of moves, from punches and kicks to special abilities and items, to outmaneuver and defeat their opponents. The game’s unique "Final Smash" attacks add an extra layer of excitement and spectacle to the battles.

Endless Replayability

With its vast roster and variety of game modes, Smash Brothers Ultimate offers countless hours of replayability. Players can engage in 1-on-1 or 4-player battles, participate in online tournaments, or simply explore the game’s many single-player challenges. This endless variety keeps players coming back for more.

Additional Features

In addition to its core gameplay, Smash Brothers Ultimate offers a plethora of additional features that enhance the gaming experience:

Feature Description
Adventure Mode: A single-player campaign that follows the characters as they battle through a series of challenges.
Spirits: A collection of character-specific power-ups that can be equipped to enhance abilities.
Custom Stages: A feature that allows players to create and share their own custom-designed stages.
Online Play: Support for local and online multiplayer battles with friends and opponents from around the world.

Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection: Nostalgia-Inducing Throwback

Relive the legendary era of Street Fighter with the 30th Anniversary Collection. This comprehensive package includes five classic Street Fighter games: Street Fighter, Street Fighter II, Street Fighter II: Champion Edition, Street Fighter II: Hyper Fighting, and Street Fighter III: Third Strike. Each game has been meticulously recreated with updated visuals and online play, providing a nostalgic experience that will delight fans and newcomers alike.

Classic Arcade Gameplay Returns

The Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection captures the authentic arcade experience in all its glory. From the iconic character sprites to the mesmerizing pixel art backgrounds, every element has been faithfully restored to evoke the atmosphere of the original arcade cabinets. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, the classic gameplay remains as captivating and challenging as ever.

Game Release Date
Street Fighter 1987
Street Fighter II 1991
Street Fighter II: Champion Edition 1992
Street Fighter II: Hyper Fighting 1993
Street Fighter III: Third Strike 1999

Mortal Kombat 11: Visceral and Brutal Combat Experience

Unleashing Unparalleled Fatalities

The Fatality system in Mortal Kombat 11 is a gruesome spectacle, offering a wide array of over-the-top finishing moves that are both visually stunning and bone-chillingly violent. Each character possesses a unique set of Fatalities, some of which are gruesomely realistic while others border on the surreal. With the game’s enhanced graphics and motion capture technology, the Fatalities are rendered with breathtaking detail, showcasing the horrific aftermath of each bone-crushing blow. Players will delight in the visceral and cinematic nature of these iconic finishing moves, as they push the boundaries of violence and leave a lasting impression on both opponents and spectators alike.

Customizable Gore and Violence

Mortal Kombat 11 offers players an unprecedented level of control over the blood and gore depicted during kombat. Through various settings, players can customize the intensity of the violence, from mild to extreme. This customization allows players to tailor the game’s visuals to their individual preferences, ensuring that they can enjoy the visceral thrill of kombat without being overwhelmed by excessive gore. For those who crave a more gruesome spectacle, the game’s “Fatalities on” setting unleashes the full brutality of Mortal Kombat’s finishing moves, complete with dismemberment, decapitation, and other grotesque acts of violence.

Table of Fatality Variations

| Character | Fatality Variation 1 | Fatality Variation 2 |
|—|—|—|
| Scorpion | Get Over Here! | Hellish Onslaught |
| Sub-Zero | Ice Beam | Spine Rip |
| Liu Kang | Dragon Flame | Bicycle Kick |
| Kitana | Fan Throw | Kiss of Death |
| Kung Lao | Razor’s Edge | Hat Trick |

BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle: Cross-Franchise Melee Extravaganza

BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle is the ultimate crossover fighting game, bringing together characters from four different franchises: BlazBlue, Persona 4 Arena, Under Night In-Birth, and RWBY. This unlikely combination results in a diverse roster with a wide range of abilities and playstyles.

One of the most unique aspects of Cross Tag Battle is its tag team system. Each player controls a team of two characters, and can switch between them at any time. This adds a new layer of strategy to the game, as players must learn to coordinate their team’s attacks and abilities.

Cross Tag Battle also features a robust online mode, with ranked matches, lobbies, and tournaments. The game’s netcode is solid, and provides a smooth online experience even for players with high latency.

Cross-Franchise Roster

Series Characters
BlazBlue Ragna the Bloodedge, Jin Kisaragi, Noel Vermillion, Rachel Alucard
Persona 4 Arena Yu Narukami, Yosuke Hanamura, Chie Satonaka, Yukiko Amagi
Under Night In-Birth Hyde Kido, Linne, Gordeau, Mika
RWBY Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, Yang Xiao Long

Dragon Ball FighterZ: Anime-Inspired Precision Fighting

Dragon Ball FighterZ is a visually stunning fighting game that captures the heart-pounding action of the iconic anime series in meticulous detail. With its 3v3 tag-team system, players can assemble their dream team and unleash devastating combos with lightning-fast reflexes and unparalleled precision.

High-Definition Graphics and Fluid Animation

FighterZ boasts stunning graphics that bring the colorful world of Dragon Ball to life. The vibrant characters and detailed environments are rendered in crisp high definition, creating a truly immersive experience. The fluid animation seamlessly transitions between moves, capturing the frenetic energy of the anime’s signature fight sequences.

Accessible Yet Rewarding Gameplay

Despite its impressive depth, FighterZ is remarkably accessible to both casual and hardcore fighting game enthusiasts. Its intuitive controls and customizable difficulty settings allow players of all skill levels to enjoy the game. However, the game’s strategic gameplay encourages players to master advanced techniques and tactics, rewarding them with spectacular victories.

Massive Roster of Iconic Characters

FighterZ features an extensive roster of beloved Dragon Ball characters, from fan favorites like Goku and Vegeta to lesser-known fighters such as Android 21. Each character possesses unique abilities and playstyles, catering to a wide range of preferences.

Online Multiplayer and Dramatic Mode

FighterZ offers robust multiplayer options, allowing players to compete against each other online. The Dramatic Mode adds an extra layer of excitement to online matches, featuring cutscenes and special events that can turn the tide of battle.

Character-Specific Dramatic Finishes

One of FighterZ’s most captivating features is its character-specific Dramatic Finishes. When a player meets certain conditions during a match, they can unleash a cinematic super move that concludes the battle with an unforgettable flourish. These Dramatic Finishes showcase the unique personalities and abilities of each character, adding a touch of narrative flair to the competitive gameplay.

Character Dramatic Finish
Goku Super Kamehameha
Vegeta Galick Gun
Android 21 Absorption and Transformation

Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid: Superheroes Collide in a Digital Arena

Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid is the ultimate fighting game for fans of the iconic TV series. With a roster of over 30 Rangers and Villains from across the franchise’s history, Battle for the Grid offers a wide variety of characters to play as. The game’s combat is fast-paced and action-packed, with simple controls that make it easy to pick up and play. Battle for the Grid also features a variety of online and offline modes, including a story mode that explores the lore of the Power Rangers universe.

Characters

Battle for the Grid features a diverse roster of characters from across the Power Rangers franchise. Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyle, so there’s sure to be a character that suits your playstyle. Some of the most popular characters in the game include:

  • Mighty Morphin Red Ranger
  • Green Ranger
  • Lord Zedd
  • Goldar
  • Tommy Oliver

Combat

The combat in Battle for the Grid is fast-paced and action-packed. The game’s controls are simple to learn, but there’s a lot of depth to the combat system. Players can use a variety of attacks, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves. They can also use their Power Rangers’ unique abilities to gain an advantage in battle.

Online and Offline Modes

Battle for the Grid offers a variety of online and offline modes. The online modes include Ranked Matches, Casual Matches, and Tournaments. The offline modes include Story Mode, Arcade Mode, and Training Mode. Story Mode is a single-player mode that follows the story of the Power Rangers universe. Arcade Mode is a traditional arcade-style mode where players fight through a series of opponents. Training Mode allows players to practice their skills against a computer-controlled opponent.

Story Mode

Battle for the Grid’s Story Mode is a single-player mode that follows the story of the Power Rangers universe. The story mode is divided into three chapters, each of which focuses on a different era of the Power Rangers franchise. In the first chapter, players will play as the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers as they battle Lord Zedd and his forces. In the second chapter, players will play as the Rangers from Power Rangers Zeo as they battle the Machine Empire. In the third chapter, players will play as the Rangers from Power Rangers In Space as they battle Dark Specter and his forces.

Arcade Mode

Arcade Mode is a traditional arcade-style mode where players fight through a series of opponents. The opponents in Arcade Mode are increasingly difficult, so players will need to use all of their skills to defeat them. Arcade Mode is a great way to test your skills and see how far you can progress.

Training Mode

Training Mode is a mode where players can practice their skills against a computer-controlled opponent. Players can use Training Mode to learn new combos, practice their timing, and develop their strategies. Training Mode is a great way to improve your skills and become a better player.

Feature Description
Characters 30+ Rangers and Villains from across the franchise’s history
Combat Fast-paced and action-packed, with simple controls
Online and Offline Modes Ranked Matches, Casual Matches, Tournaments, Story Mode, Arcade Mode, Training Mode
Story Mode A single-player mode that follows the story of the Power Rangers universe
Arcade Mode A traditional arcade-style mode where players fight through a series of opponents
Training Mode A mode where players can practice their skills against a computer-controlled opponent

Skullgirls 2nd Encore: Hand-Drawn Combat with Unique Characters

Skullgirls 2nd Encore is a stunning fighting game that showcases hand-drawn animation and a captivating cast of characters. With its intricate combat system and eye-catching visuals, it’s a must-have for any fighting game enthusiast.

Character Diversity

Skullgirls boasts a diverse roster of 14 characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles. From the agile Filia to the enigmatic Ms. Fortune, there’s a character to suit every player’s preference.

Hand-Drawn Animation

The game’s hand-drawn animation is simply stunning, bringing the characters to life with fluid movements and expressive facial animations. It’s a testament to the artistic talent involved in the game’s creation.

Complex Combat System

Skullgirls offers a complex and rewarding combat system that caters to both casual and competitive players. Its combo system is deep and allows for creative and devastating attacks.

Multiple Modes

Skullgirls 2nd Encore offers a variety of modes for different playstyles. Players can test their skills in Versus, Story, Arcade, and Survival modes, or engage in online multiplayer with up to 16 players.

Story Mode

The game’s Story Mode delves into the rich lore of the Skullgirls universe, featuring engaging dialogue and cutscenes that flesh out the characters and their motivations.

Character Customization

Players can customize their characters with unlockable palette swaps and accessories, allowing them to create their own unique appearances on the battlefield.

Additional Content

Skullgirls 2nd Encore includes additional content not found in the original release, such as new characters, stages, and the ability to play as Final Bosses. These additions enhance the game’s replayability and add even more value to the package.

Character Playstyle
Filia Agile and combo-oriented
Ms. Fortune Tricky and unpredictable
Squigly Zoning and defensive
Beowulf Grappler and powerhouse
Cerebella Set-up heavy and versatile

Soulcalibur VI: Legendary Weapons and Epic Battles Reignite

In Soulcalibur VI, legendary weapons and epic battles take center stage as the iconic fighting game franchise returns to its roots. With an updated roster of characters, stunning visuals, and improved gameplay mechanics, Soulcalibur VI delivers an unforgettable fighting experience.

Soulcalibur Returns with a Vengeance

Soulcalibur VI brings back the beloved characters and storylines that have captivated fans for over two decades. From the legendary Siegfried and Nightmare to the enigmatic Ivy and Zasalamel, each character possesses unique fighting styles and backstories.

New and Returning Characters

Alongside the familiar faces, Soulcalibur VI introduces new characters, including Groh, the enigmatic wanderer wielding an ethereal sword, and Azwel, the enigmatic alchemist with the ability to shape-shift.

Stunning Visuals

The game’s visuals are a sight to behold, with detailed character models, vibrant environments, and breathtaking special effects. Every move and attack is rendered in exquisite detail, creating epic clashes that ignite the senses.

Improved Gameplay Mechanics

Soulcalibur VI features an overhauled combat system that combines the best elements of previous games with new innovations. The Soul Charge and Reversal Edge systems add depth and strategy to the gameplay, while the Libra of Souls mode offers a customizable story experience.

A Vast Roster of Fighters

Soulcalibur VI boasts an impressive roster of characters, each with their own distinct abilities and fighting styles. Players can choose from fan favorites like Mitsurugi, Taki, and Kilik, as well as newcomers like Groh and Azwel.

Epic Story Mode

The Libra of Souls mode transports players to a vibrant and expansive world where they create their own custom character and embark on an epic quest. Players must battle their way through hordes of enemies and complete quests to unlock new characters and abilities.

Competitive Gameplay

Soulcalibur VI offers a robust online multiplayer mode where players can test their skills against opponents from around the world. Ranked matches, tournaments, and a variety of game modes provide endless replayability for competitive players.

Features and Modes

Feature Description
Roster of Characters 20+ characters including fan favorites and newcomers
Story Mode Libra of Souls mode with a customizable story
Online Multiplayer Ranked matches, tournaments, and game modes
Gameplay Mechanics Soul Charge, Reversal Edge, and more

Super Smash Bros. Melee: The Classic That Still Packs a Punch

One of the most beloved and enduring fighting games of all time, Super Smash Bros. Melee remains a cornerstone of the Smash Bros. franchise on the Switch. Its iconic characters, fast-paced gameplay, and timeless art style have kept it a favorite among fighting game enthusiasts.

Melee’s roster features a diverse cast of Nintendo icons, including Mario, Link, Pikachu, and Kirby. Each character has unique movesets, playstyles, and strengths, encouraging a wide range of strategies and matchups.

The game’s combat is fast and frenetic, with characters utilizing a variety of attacks, throws, and special abilities. Melee’s movement system allows for fluid and acrobatic maneuvers, adding an extra layer of skill and depth to the gameplay.

In addition to its single-player campaign and arcade modes, Melee shines in its multiplayer gameplay. With support for up to four players on a single Switch, Melee offers endless hours of competitive fun with friends and family.

The game’s graphics, while not the most advanced by today’s standards, retain a charming and nostalgic appeal. The character models and environments are well-detailed, and the vibrant colors and polished animations bring Melee’s world to life.

Subsection 1: Iconic Characters

Melee boasts a roster of 25 iconic Nintendo characters, each with their unique strengths and abilities.

Subsection 2: Fast-Paced Gameplay

Melee’s combat is fast and frenetic, requiring quick reflexes and strategic thinking.

Subsection 3: Fluid Movement System

Characters can perform a wide range of acrobatic maneuvers, adding depth and skill to the gameplay.

Subsection 4: Challenging Single-Player Campaign

Melee features a challenging single-player campaign with a variety of modes and bosses.

Subsection 5: Thrilling Multiplayer Modes

Melee offers endless hours of competitive fun with support for up to four players.

Subsection 6: Nostalgic Graphics

The game’s visuals retain a charming and nostalgic appeal, bringing Melee’s world to life.

Subsection 7: Timeless Appeal

Despite its age, Melee remains a highly played and beloved fighting game.

Subsection 8: Competitive Scene

Melee has a thriving competitive scene, with tournaments and events held worldwide.

Subsection 9: Table of Key Features

Feature Description
Number of Characters 25 iconic Nintendo characters
Multiplayer Support Up to 4 players on a single Switch
Single-Player Campaign Challenging modes and bosses
Nostalgic Graphics Charming and well-detailed visuals
Competitive Scene Thriving tournaments and events worldwide

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Marvel and Capcom Heroes Unite

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 is a crossover fighting game developed by Capcom and released in 2011. It features a roster of over 50 playable characters from the Marvel Comics and Capcom universes, including iconic heroes such as Spider-Man, Wolverine, and Ryu, as well as lesser-known characters like Dormammu and Jill Valentine.

Gameplay

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 is a 2D fighting game played on a three-plane field. Players select a team of three characters and fight against another team of three. The game features a variety of gameplay mechanics, including a simple three-button control scheme, a “Tag Team” system that allows players to switch between characters on the fly, and a “Hyper Combo” system that allows players to unleash powerful special moves.

Characters

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 features a diverse roster of characters from the Marvel and Capcom universes. The roster includes iconic heroes such as Spider-Man, Wolverine, and Ryu, as well as lesser-known characters like Dormammu and Jill Valentine.

Marvel Characters Capcom Characters
Spider-Man Ryu
Wolverine Chun-Li
Dormammu Akuma
Jill Valentine Chris Redfield

Reception

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 was a critical and commercial success. The game received widespread praise for its gameplay, characters, and presentation. It was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 is considered one of the greatest fighting games of all time. It is still played competitively today, and it has inspired a number of other fighting games, including Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite and Street Fighter V.

Best Fighting Games on Switch

The Nintendo Switch is a great console for fighting games, with a wide variety of titles to choose from. Here are a few of the best:

  • Street Fighter II: The World Warrior
  • Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
  • The King of Fighters ’98: Ultimate Match Final Edition
  • Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate
  • BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle

These games offer a variety of fighting styles, from the traditional 2D brawlers of Street Fighter II and The King of Fighters to the more unique gameplay of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle. With so many great options to choose from, there’s sure to be a fighting game on Switch that’s perfect for you.

People Also Ask About Best Fighting Games on Switch

What are the best fighting games for beginners?

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate are both great fighting games for beginners. They have simple controls and easy-to-learn mechanics.

What are the best fighting games for online play?

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate, and Street Fighter V are all great fighting games for online play. They have large player bases and excellent netcode.

What are the best fighting games for local multiplayer?

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, The King of Fighters ’98: Ultimate Match Final Edition, and BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle are all great fighting games for local multiplayer. They have a variety of characters and stages to choose from, and they’re all a lot of fun to play with friends.