2024 Has Been a Really Great Year for Fighting Games!
I've loved fighting games since I was a kid, starting with Virtua Fighter. I spent a lot of time playing it, especially at arcades on special family outings. As I grew up, I enjoyed other fighting games like Tekken, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, and Soul Calibur. Fighting games release in cycles, often years apart, but this year is special. Major titles like Tekken, Street Fighter, and Dragon Ball have all launched, exciting fans. For those who haven't been paying attention, let's check out the fighting games released this year and the ones you might want to add to your collection soon.
(Tekken 8)
Release Date: Jan. 24, 2024
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series S/X, PC
Tekken 8 is officially out, and it’s everything we hoped for and more! Whether you're a casual player or a competitive fighter, this game delivers the perfect mix of fun, excitement, and intensity. Packed with stunning visuals, new mechanics, and a roster of fan-favorite characters, Tekken 8 is a must-play for anyone who loves a good brawl. Trust me, I’ve been playing this gem since the 90s.
The first thing that grabs you is the game’s gorgeous graphics. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, Tekken 8 brings the fighters and their arenas to life in a way that’s never been seen before. The characters look more realistic than ever, and the action is smooth, dynamic, and thrilling. From the smallest details to the biggest moves, every moment feels as if you're part of the action.
But it’s not just about looks – the gameplay is where Tekken 8 truly shines. The newly introduced "Heat System" adds a whole new level of strategy to fights. You can power up during the battle, triggering devastating combos and special attacks that turn the tide in your favor. This makes each match feel fresh and full of surprises, whether you're playing solo or facing off against friends in intense local or online competitions.
The competitive side of Tekken 8 is also incredibly engaging. With a deep combat system that rewards precision, timing, and skill, it’s perfect for those who enjoy mastering complex techniques and climbing the ranks. Whether you're going head-to-head with other players online or grinding in ranked matches, every victory feels earned, and every defeat pushes you to become a better fighter.
In short, Tekken 8 is a blast to play, offering endless fun for those looking to unwind, and intense competition for those seeking to prove themselves in the arena. So grab your controller, pick your favorite fighter, and get ready for some of the most exciting battles you’re about to experience.
(DragonBall: Sparking Zero)
Release Date: Oct. 7th, 2024
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series, S/X, PC
Hey, Dragon Ball fans, Sparking Zero is here, and it’s about to take your fighting game experience to new heights! Whether you're a hardcore Dragon Ball fan or just looking for some wild, high-energy action, this game has it all—epic battles, mind-blowing visuals, and a whole lot of chaos!
Sparking Zero lets you jump into the shoes of iconic fighters like Goku, Vegeta, and Frieza, and blast your way through some of the most intense, fast-paced combat you’ve ever seen. The new and improved combat system makes it super easy to pull off those signature moves, like Goku’s Kamehameha or Vegeta’s Final Flash while keeping things fresh with smooth gameplay that makes each fight feel unique.
The graphics? Stunning! Sparking Zero brings the anime to life like never before, with jaw-dropping visuals that make every battle feel like it’s straight out of the show. You’ll be throwing punches, dodging lasers, and powering up your ki in ways that’ll leave you wanting more.
But the best part? Sparking Zero is a blast whether you’re casually kicking back or ready to go all-out in competitive matches. The sagas are what also drive up the game’s content from early DBZ to the Super storytelling. Get ready, because this game is a real treat and unfortunately, the last game from the late great Akira Toriyama.
(Marvel Vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics)
Release Date: Sept. 11, 2024/ Physical Edition: Nov. 22, 2024/ Xbox Version: 2025*
Platforms: PS4/PS5, Switch, PC
(Xbox Version coming soon)*
Ah, the sweet sound of button-mashing glory and pixelated punches! If you're a fan of adrenaline-pumping action, explosive super moves, and a lineup of characters that makes the Avengers look like a small book club, the Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection is here to teleport-kick your heart into orbit.
This isn't just a collection—it's a reunion of epic proportions. A greatest-hits album for the arcade warriors who spent their weekends (and quarters) mastering flashy combos in dimly lit arcades. Let’s dive into why this package is an absolute hadouken to your nostalgia-loving soul.
Remember when you'd land the perfect combo, and the arcade erupted in cheers (or maybe just a faint "oof" from your opponent)? The Fighting Collection painstakingly preserves that feeling. The games look and play like you remember—crisp 2D sprites, ridiculously vibrant stages, and soundtracks that slap harder than a Captain America shield.
Even better? You don’t have to worry about the arcade stick being sticky from spilled soda!
The collection also comes packed with extras for those who love deep dives. Concept art, soundtracks, and behind-the-scenes goodies will transport you into Capcom’s creative process.
This collection is worth every dime to own and having your favorite 90s fighting games from the Marvel vs. Capcom collection makes this a must-have, especially Marvel vs. Capcom 2!
Those are the 3 best fighting and major fighting games to release this year, along with a slew of other incredible fighters made by indie developers that are worth checking out. Which fighting game is your favorite and who is your favorite fighter from that game?