The 90s were a golden age for fighting games, with a plethora of iconic titles that shaped and redefined the genre. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 fighting games of the 90s, highlighting the reasons why they continue to be loved and revered by fans to this day.
- Street Fighter II (Arcade, Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis)
Released in 1991, Street Fighter II is often regarded as one of the most influential fighting games of all time. With its precise gameplay, charismatic characters, and iconic soundtrack, Street Fighter II laid the groundwork for the genre and inspired countless other fighting games.
- Mortal Kombat II (Arcade, Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis)
Following the success of the original, Mortal Kombat II was released in 1993 and solidified the franchise as one of the most popular in the genre. With its digitized graphics, brutal fatalities, and an expanded variety of characters, Mortal Kombat II took violence in gaming to new heights and captivated players worldwide.
- Tekken 3 (Arcade, PlayStation)
Released in 1997, Tekken 3 is often considered the pinnacle of the Tekken series. With stunning graphics for its time, a vast array of characters, and a deep and complex combat system, Tekken 3 elevated 3D fighting games to new heights and is still widely played in eSports competitions today.
- Super Smash Bros. (Nintendo 64)
While a bit different from traditional fighting games, Super Smash Bros., released in 1999 for the Nintendo 64, won over fans with its unique gameplay and fun approach. By mixing characters from various Nintendo franchises and platforming elements, Super Smash Bros. created an unparalleled multiplayer fighting experience.
- King of Fighters ’98 (Arcade, Neo Geo)
Considered by many as the pinnacle of the King of Fighters series, King of Fighters ’98, released in 1998, boasted a huge roster of characters and refined the series’ combat mechanics. With its vibrant graphics and strategic gameplay, King of Fighters ’98 remains one of the most celebrated fighting games by genre fans.
- Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes (Arcade, PlayStation)
Released in 1998, Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes was a milestone in crossover fighting game history. With an impressive roster of characters from both Marvel and Capcom, along with spectacular combos and special attacks, the game captivated fans from both universes and set a new standard for crossover fighting games.
- Samurai Shodown II (Arcade, Neo Geo)
With its release in 1994, Samurai Shodown II refined what made its predecessor so special. With a weapon-based fighting system, stunning graphics, and charismatic characters, Samurai Shodown II is often praised for its depth and unique atmosphere.
- Virtua Fighter 2 (Arcade, Sega Saturn)
Released in 1994, Virtua Fighter 2 was one of the first 3D fighting games to gain prominence. With its revolutionary polygonal graphics and realistic fighting mechanics, Virtua Fighter 2 set a new standard for 3D fighting games and influenced numerous other franchises in the genre.
- Darkstalkers: The Night Warriors (Arcade, PlayStation)
Released in 1994, Darkstalkers: The Night Warriors is known for its gothic aesthetic and monstrous characters. With fast-paced, frenetic gameplay and spectacular combos, the game stood out in a crowded market of fighting games and continues to be loved for its originality and unique style.
- Killer Instinct (Arcade, Super Nintendo)
Released in 1994, Killer Instinct impressed players with its pre-rendered graphics and outrageous combos. With a diverse roster of characters and a deep combat system, the game captivated fans and is remembered as one of the best fighting games of the 90s.
These 10 fighting games from the 90s represent the pinnacle of the genre, each leaving its mark on gaming history. With their innovative gameplay, memorable characters, and lasting impact, these games continue to be cherished by players of all ages and are remembered as true classics of the genre.
