Are you a fan of fighting games? Do you own a Nintendo Switch and want to know which fighting games are worth playing on this popular console? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the best fighting game for Switch. With a wide range of genres and gameplay styles, these games offer something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned fighting game enthusiasts.
The Nintendo Switch has become a haven for fighting game enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of titles that cater to both casual players and seasoned fighters. With its portable nature and versatile controls, the Nintendo Switch provides an ideal platform for engaging in intense battles on the go. Whether you’re a fan of classic franchises like “Street Fighter” and “Mortal Kombat” or looking for unique experiences, the Switch has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top fighting games available on the Nintendo Switch, highlighting their key features, gameplay mechanics, and why they stand out from the competition.
Table of Contents
1. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Overall Best Fighting Game for Switch
No list of the best fighting games for the Nintendo Switch would be complete without mentioning Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. This game is the ultimate crossover event, featuring characters from various game franchises, such as Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, and many more. With its fast-paced gameplay, easy-to-learn controls, and a massive roster of characters, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a must-play for any Switch owner.
The game offers a variety of modes, including a single-player campaign, local multiplayer, and online multiplayer. Whether you prefer to battle it out with friends on the couch or test your skills against players from around the world, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has you covered. The game also receives regular updates, introducing new fighters, stages, and features, ensuring that the fun never ends.
2. Dragon Ball FighterZ
If you’re a fan of the Dragon Ball series, Dragon Ball FighterZ is a game you don’t want to miss. Developed by Arc System Works, the creators of the Guilty Gear series, this 2D fighting game perfectly captures the fast-paced action and intense battles of the Dragon Ball universe. With its beautiful visuals, flashy special moves, and faithful character representations, Dragon Ball FighterZ is a treat for both fans of the series and fighting game enthusiasts.
The game features a diverse roster of characters from the Dragon Ball series, including Goku, Vegeta, Frieza, and many more. Each character has their own unique moves and abilities, allowing for a variety of playstyles. Dragon Ball FighterZ also offers a robust online mode, where you can test your skills against players from around the world and climb the global rankings.
3. Mortal Kombat 11
For those who enjoy a more brutal and gory fighting experience, Mortal Kombat 11 is the game to play. Known for its over-the-top violence and gruesome fatalities, Mortal Kombat 11 delivers bone-crushing action like no other. With its realistic graphics, detailed character models, and cinematic story mode, the game immerses you in the world of Mortal Kombat like never before.
Mortal Kombat 11 features a large roster of iconic characters, including Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden, and many more. Each character has their own unique moves and fatalities, allowing for countless hours of brutal combat. The game also offers various game modes, including a robust online multiplayer mode where you can test your skills against players from around the world.
4. Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection
If you’re a fan of classic fighting games, the Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection is a must-have for your Nintendo Switch. This collection includes nearly every core entry in the Street Fighter series, spanning decades of fighting game history. From the iconic Street Fighter II Turbo to the beloved Street Fighter III: Third Strike, this collection has it all.
The Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection allows you to experience the evolution of the series, from its humble beginnings to the modern era. You can relive the classic arcade experience with friends in local multiplayer or test your skills against players from around the world in online multiplayer. With its extensive collection of games, behind-the-scenes extras, and nostalgic appeal, this collection is a must-play for any fighting game enthusiast.
5. Guilty Gear XX: Accent Core Plus R
For fans of fast-paced anime-style fighting games, Guilty Gear XX: Accent Core Plus R is a must-play on the Nintendo Switch. Known for its flashy visuals, complex mechanics, and hard-hitting combos, Guilty Gear XX offers a unique and exhilarating fighting experience. With its diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique playstyle, the game offers endless possibilities for creative and stylish gameplay.
Guilty Gear XX: Accent Core Plus R features a variety of game modes, including a robust single-player campaign, local multiplayer, and online multiplayer. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, the game offers a tutorial and training mode to help you learn the mechanics and master the game’s intricacies. With its deep gameplay, stunning visuals, and energetic soundtrack, Guilty Gear XX: Accent Core Plus R is a must-play for any fighting game fan.
6. Pokkén Tournament DX
Pokémon fans rejoice! Pokkén Tournament DX brings the world of Pokémon to life in a unique and exciting way. Combining elements of traditional fighting games with the beloved Pokémon franchise, this game offers a fresh and engaging experience for both Pokémon fans and fighting game enthusiasts.
In Pokkén Tournament DX, you can choose from a roster of Pokémon fighters and engage in fast-paced battles in a 3D arena. Each Pokémon has its own unique moves and abilities, allowing for a variety of playstyles. The game offers various game modes, including a single-player campaign, local multiplayer, and online multiplayer. Whether you’re battling it out with friends or testing your skills against players from around the world, Pokkén Tournament DX offers a fun and accessible fighting game experience.
7. Them’s Fightin’ Herds
Prepare for a unique fighting game experience with Them’s Fightin’ Herds. This indie gem features a roster of adorable horses, ponies, and other creatures battling it out to become the Champion of the Prairie. With its charming art style, engaging gameplay, and captivating story mode, Them’s Fightin’ Herds offers a fresh and delightful take on the fighting game genre.
Them’s Fightin’ Herds features a diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. The game offers various game modes, including a story mode, arcade mode, and online multiplayer. Whether you’re a fan of fighting games or simply looking for a fun and lighthearted experience, Them’s Fightin’ Herds is a game that shouldn’t be missed.
8. Pocket Rumble
“Pocket Rumble” by Cardboard Robot Games is a retro-inspired fighting game that draws inspiration from the Neo Geo era. With its pixelated visuals and fast-paced gameplay, it has become one of the standout titles on the Nintendo Switch. Despite its simplicity, “Pocket Rumble” offers surprising depth and tight controls, all while using only two buttons for inputs.
In an effort to capture the excitement and action of classic fighting games like “Street Fighter,” “Pocket Rumble” features a unique system where every attack deals the same amount of damage, and characters start with 12 HP. This eliminates the need to memorize complex combos and allows players to focus on strategy and timing. With a diverse cast of characters, a range of modes, and the inclusion of GGPO netcode for lag-free online multiplayer, “Pocket Rumble” delivers an enjoyable fighting experience.
9. Fantasy Strike
For players seeking a fighting game that focuses on strategy rather than complex inputs, “Fantasy Strike” is a standout option. Developed by Sirlin Games, this 2019 fighting game aims to be as simple and easy to understand as possible. “Fantasy Strike” eliminates complicated combos and multiple button inputs, allowing players to execute special abilities with a single click. Set in the fictional world of Fantasy Strike, the game features 12 playable characters with unique abilities and offers both multiplayer and single-player action.
With its emphasis on strategy and accessible controls, “Fantasy Strike” provides a great experience for both experienced gamers and newcomers to the genre. The game also includes an extensive tutorial and a robust AI system, allowing players to learn and improve their skills at their own pace. “Fantasy Strike” is not only a satisfying fighting game but also offers an opportunity for less experienced players to compete alongside more skilled individuals.
10. Arms
Arms is a unique and innovative fighting game that takes advantage of the Nintendo Switch’s motion controls. In this game, you control fighters with extendable arms, delivering punches and dodging attacks in a colorful and vibrant world.
Arms offers a variety of gameplay modes, including a single-player campaign, local multiplayer, and online multiplayer. With its intuitive controls and engaging gameplay, Arms provides a fresh and exciting fighting game experience. Whether you’re playing with friends or challenging yourself in the single-player mode, Arms offers endless fun and excitement.
11. Brawlhalla: A Platform Fighter for Everyone
Developer: Blue Mammoth Games
Publisher: Ubisoft
Genre: Platform Fighter
Release Date: November 6, 2018
One of the standout platform fighters on the Nintendo Switch is “Brawlhalla.” Developed by Blue Mammoth Games and published by Ubisoft, this free-to-play title has gained a strong following on the Switch due to its accessibility and dedicated fanbase. In “Brawlhalla,” players engage in fast-paced battles, aiming to knock opponents off the stage and into a blast zone. With a wide range of modes, including 1v1 matches, chaotic free-for-all contests, and co-op 2v2 rounds, there’s something for everyone.
One of the advantages of “Brawlhalla” is its universal movesets and easy-to-learn control system. Whether you’re an experienced fighter or a newcomer to the genre, the game offers a smooth and intuitive experience. Additionally, “Brawlhalla” features a roster of fighters that can be expanded through special crossover characters from popular series like “Adventure Time,” “Rayman,” and “The Walking Dead.” With its free-to-play model, “Brawlhalla” allows players to jump straight into the action without spending a penny.
12. Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl: Nostalgic Crossover Battles
Developer: Ludosity
Publisher: GameMill Entertainment
Genre: Platform Fighter
Release Date: October 5, 2021
Another platform fighter that has captured the attention of Nintendo Switch players is “Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl.” Developed by Ludosity and published by GameMill Entertainment, this game draws heavy inspiration from Nintendo’s “Super Smash Bros.” series. It brings together beloved characters from various Nickelodeon shows, including “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” “SpongeBob SquarePants,” and “Hey Arnold!”
Despite its kid-friendly appearance, “Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl” offers a surprising level of depth and competitive gameplay. While the controls are designed to be accessible, the game introduces skill-based mechanics like air-dashing, which require time and practice to master. The overall presentation, including voice acting and cut scenes, may not be the game’s strongest suit, but it still showcases promise as a platform fighter.
13. The King of Fighters ’98: A Classic Fighter Returns
Developer: SNK
Genre: Fighting
Release Date: July 23, 2018
SNK’s “The King of Fighters” series has a long history of providing finely balanced gameplay and intriguing story arcs. “The King of Fighters ’98” stands out as one of the best entries in the franchise, bringing together almost every character from the series and refining mechanics introduced in previous titles. While it lacks a story campaign, the game compensates with a vast array of fighters and a fighting gameplay that remains unmatched since its original release in 1998.
“The King of Fighters ’98” offers a diverse roster of characters, allowing for exciting match-ups and intense battles. The game introduced the Advanced and Extra modes, adding depth and complexity to the gameplay. With the availability of the original Neo Geo titles on the Nintendo Switch, “The King of Fighters ’98” is a must-play for fans of classic 2D fighters.
14. SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy: A Unique and Quirky Fighter
Developer: SNK
Genre: Fighting
Release Date: September 7, 2018
“SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy” offers a distinctive fighting experience that stands out from the crowd. Developed by SNK, this modern fighting game features tag-team battles and a unique story where the fighters find themselves in a mysterious mansion, transformed into women. While the game includes characters from previous SNK games, it presents a fresh take on the genre with its fast-paced gameplay and chaotic tag-team combat.
The game’s focus on fast-paced gameplay and tag-team mechanics provides an exhilarating experience for fans of the fighting genre. However, it is worth noting that “SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy” may not be suitable for younger players due to graphic violence and sexualized imagery. Nevertheless, for fans of the genre who enjoy intense gameplay and the excitement of tag-team combat, this game is worth checking out.
15. Guilty Gear 20th Anniversary Edition: A Testament to 2D Fighters
Developer: Arc System Works
Genre: Fighting
Release Date: May 16, 2019
Arc System Works is renowned for its library of impressive fighting games, and “Guilty Gear 20th Anniversary Edition” is no exception. This collection for the Nintendo Switch includes the original “Guilty Gear” game from 1998, as well as “Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus R,” an updated version of “Guilty Gear XX” that features balance updates, additional content, and refined gameplay mechanics.
With two games bundled together, “Guilty Gear 20th Anniversary Edition” offers players a remarkable value. “Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus R” is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the series, with its deep gameplay and balanced roster of fighters. Although the game may not match the visual and audio quality of modern titles, it remains a testament to the history of fighting games and is a must-play for aficionados of the genre.
16. Skullgirls 2nd Encore: A Fighting Game with Style
Developer: Lab Zero Games
Genre: Fighting
Release Date: October 22, 2019
“Skullgirls 2nd Encore” may have been around for some time, but it continues to receive updates and deliver an exceptional fighting experience. Developed by Lab Zero Games, this 2D fighting game features tag-team battles and character assists, creating a fast-paced and dynamic gameplay experience. With a roster of 18 fighters and various gameplay modes, “Skullgirls 2nd Encore” offers ample content for players to explore.
In addition to the standard modes found in fighting games, “Skullgirls 2nd Encore” includes unique modes like Typing of the Skullgirls, survival mode, and trial mode. These modes provide players with different challenges and objectives, adding depth and variety to the gameplay. With its focused gameplay, distinctive visual style, and continuous content updates, “Skullgirls 2nd Encore” remains a must-play title for fighting game enthusiasts.
17. Nidhogg 2: Fencing Meets Intense Battles
Developer: Messhof
Genre: Fighting
Release Date: November 28, 2017
For a unique take on fighting games, “Nidhogg 2” offers an exhilarating experience centered around fencing battles. Developed by Messhof, this indie game pits players against each other in intense one-on-one duels on multi-sectioned arenas. The objective is not to kill the opponent, but rather to reach their side of the stage by continuously defeating them and forcing them to respawn further back.
“Nidhogg 2” builds upon the foundation of its predecessor with updated visuals and new weapons, levels, and items. The game’s distinctive art style, fast-paced gameplay, and brilliant soundtrack create an engaging and intense atmosphere. With its focus on local multiplayer, “Nidhogg 2” serves as an excellent party game, providing hours of competitive fun for friends and family.
Conclusion: A Fighting Game Paradise on the Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch has established itself as a platform that caters to fighting game enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of titles to suit every taste. From the accessible and free-to-play “Brawlhalla” to the nostalgia-inducing “Street Fighter: 30th Anniversary Collection,” the Switch has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of competitive play or simply enjoy casual bouts with friends, the Nintendo Switch provides a versatile and portable platform for engaging in thrilling battles. With its robust library of fighting games, the Nintendo Switch is truly a paradise for fighting game enthusiasts. So grab your Joy-Con and get ready for epic showdowns in the world of Nintendo Switch fighting games!
The Nintendo Switch offers a fantastic selection of fighting games for gamers of all skill levels and preferences. From the fast-paced action of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate to the brutal battles of Mortal Kombat 11, there’s something for everyone on this popular console. Whether you’re a fan of classic fighters, anime-style brawlers, or unique indie titles, the Nintendo Switch has you covered. So grab your Joy-Con controllers, choose your fighter, and get ready to duke it out in the best fighting games for the Nintendo Switch!