The fighting game scene may appear niche, but it’s thriving more than ever. Iconic franchises like Street Fighter, Tekken, and Guilty Gear keep delivering fresh content and balance updates, indicating that CAPCOM, Bandai Namco, and Arc System Works have no immediate need to launch new titles. Yet, the few releases in 2025 have made a significant impact, offering something for both new players and long-time fans.
The Return of Fatal Fury
After a long hiatus, SNK’s Fatal Fury series makes a triumphant comeback with Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. This title brings back the beloved two-plane combat along with new mechanics like the Rev system, enhancing combat strategy and combo possibilities. Featuring a rich single-player mode and a roster filled with both classic and new characters, the game is hailed as the best fighting game of 2025.
2XKO: A New Contender
Riot’s long-awaited fighting game, now called 2XKO, finally allows players to experience its tag-team action. Currently in early access for PC, **the game features the iconic League of Legends cast and an accessible yet deep combat system**. With a console release slated for next year, 2026 might be Riot’s year in the fighting game arena.
Absolum’s Unique Take
Absolum, from the creators of Streets of Rage 4, merges beat ’em up action with roguelike elements and procedurally generated stages. This creates a fresh twist on a classic genre, offering great replayability and depth. Despite its current content limitations, upcoming updates promise to expand its offerings, making it one of 2025’s standout fighting games.