Can’t get enough Street Fighter? Neither can we! Luckily, there are a lot of games out there that take the Street Fighter formula and gameplay and add their own unique charm.
We’ve combed through the Nintendo Switch game library to bring you the ten best retro fighting games that are available right now. So strap on your gloves and get ready to throw some haymakers!
10. The King of Fighters ’98
The fifth of at least 24 games in the series, The King of Fighters ’98 is one of the best and was promoted as a “special edition.” There’s not much extra to the story, but there’s a wealth of added fighters. It features most of the characters from the previous games. For pure fighting pleasure, this title delivers straightforward fun.
9. Samurai Shodown II
Fans raved over the first series entry, and 1994’s Samurai Shodown II is a completely rebuilt sequel — for the better. There are more moves, more responsive control, and improved gameplay. Most of the cast is revamped and new characters were added. The result is brutal fighting with a perfect balance of seriousness and silliness.
8. World Heroes Perfect
The fourth and final entry in the World Heroes series, 1995’s World Heroes Perfect lives up to its title by getting things right. Players can perform weak or strong versions of special moves, giving the game a feel all its own. There are new playable characters and moves, as well as bizarre fighters that make this one special.
7. Yie Ar Kung Fu
Inspired by Bruce Lee’s films, 1984’s Yie Ar Kung Fu holds a special place in the fighting game library. It established the template for one-on-one and modern fighting games, even though it is single-player. That said, it’s not without its oddities. But they’re easy enough to adjust to, yielding a great time once you get into the mindset.
6. Touki Denshou Angel Eyes
Some games earn their notoriety through their uniqueness. 1996’s Touki Denshou Angel Eyes is notable for being one of the first with an all-female cast. Its novel fighting mechanics and distinctive graphics also separate the game from its peers. Its so-called “reverse combo correction” increases damage, allowing combos that instantly kill an opponent.
5. Garou: Mark of the Wolves
The last entry in the Fatal Fury line, 1999’s Garou: Mark of the Wolves tweaked gameplay from prior games in the series. It removed the “Lane” system and introduced the T.O.P. system. It also introduced the “Just Defend” system to stop attacks at the last moment. It’s a must-play for fans of the genre.
4. Waku Waku 7
First released on arcades in 1996, Waku Waku 7 is a fighting game on the rarer side. It’s brimming with personality and a strong sense of humor. It features only 7 fighters with different play styles and they parody well-known characters from other games. Featuring highly stylized visuals, it’s one every fighting game enthusiast has to try.
3. Ninja Master’s
Released in arcades in 1996, Ninja Master’s is the sixth and final fighting game produced by ADK. The game was highly popular. Its feudal Japan setting was well-realized. Players can choose between bare-handed fighting or using a weapon while in the middle of combat. Players compete in a series of best-two-out-of-three matches.
2. Fatal Fury Special
Considered the best title in the Fatal Fury series, 1993’s Fatal Fury Special is an updated version of Fatal Fury 2. The remake made several improvements to gameplay and expanded the roster of available characters to one that’s well-balanced. The refinements made for faster play that’s more enjoyable.
1. The Last Blade 2
The Last Blade and its sequel weren’t the most popular in their day. But major appreciation for these little-known classic fighting games has grown greatly over the years. There’s a nice balance of action and plot in 1998’s The Last Blade 2. Its emphasis on chain combos is rewarding for expert players.
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