The heat of battle arenas, the whistle of sharp blows, the sound of a falling enemy and a triumphant victory – this is what fighting games on PC live for. Each of them is the art of combat, an exciting duel of skills and strategy. In 2024, PC gamers can choose from a huge variety, where there is everything: from legendary classics to stunning new products. Here are the coolest and highest quality options. Both professionals and beginners will find a place in the arena.
New fighting games on PC: what is worth trying in 2024
Every year, developers continue to surprise the world with new and interesting solutions. 2024 was no exception – the projects received several truly impressive releases that have already blown up the eSports arenas. Here are three of the best fresh options that deserve a place in your gaming arsenal:
- Tekken 8, one of the most anticipated releases of 2024, burst onto the scene with powerful Unreal Engine 5 graphics and a new approach to gameplay. Each fight here is a mix of dynamics and strategy, and new heroes like the French capoeira master Victor and the coffee maniac Azucena add uniqueness. The culmination of the family drama between Kazuya and Jin promises incredibly intense fights. The fresh Arcade Quest mode adds an element of exploration, which makes it even more exciting and diverse.
- Street Fighter 6 burst onto the market with new features that changed the traditional formula of the series. In addition to the usual multiplayer mode, the platform offers a full-fledged single-player campaign in which the heroes go on a journey around the world to save their friends. New characters, such as Jamie with his drunken fighting style, bring fresh mechanics that have not been seen in the series before. The second season adds legends M. Bison and Elena, which will undoubtedly please loyal fans.
- Mortal Kombat 1 is not just a new number in a long line of games, but a full-fledged reboot of the entire universe. All characters received previously unknown backstories, and the updated Kameo mechanic allows you to call in auxiliary fighters for a variety of attacks. Of particular interest is the “Invasion” mode, which adds an element of strategy to familiar fights. The battles here have become even more brutal and spectacular, preserving the legendary spirit of the series.
These hits have already taken leading positions and continue to develop the genre, offering both beginners and veterans a completely new gaming experience.
Classics are always in fashion: old fighting games on PC that do not lose popularity
Classics are like good old vinyl. New hits may appear, but true fans always return to retro. Projects that came out many years ago still remain at the top of popularity among fighting games on PC. Here are some “long-livers” that continue to win the hearts of users:
- Mortal Kombat 11 – there is probably no gamer who has not heard of this legend. Despite the fact that the series started more than 30 years ago, its modern versions remain relevant. Crazy combos, brutal fatalities and memorable figures made Mortal Kombat 11 a cult part of the fighting scene.
- Street Fighter V united generations of gamers. Classic fighting mechanics are combined with modern graphic improvements and a deep training system, which allows both beginners and veterans to enjoy dynamic fights.
- Tekken 7 is a separate universe. A unique combat system based on realistic movements and an impressive history of characters make it one of the most important releases among fighting games on PC.
Free Fighting Games on PC: How to Start a Fight Without Spending Extra Money
Free versions can offer just as much action as their paid counterparts. In a world where entertainment is becoming more expensive, there are several great options for those who don’t want to spend money but still want to immerse themselves in the world of virtual battles:
- MultiVersus – offers a unique approach to the genre, combining heroes from the Warner Bros. universe from Batman to Shaggy. After a temporary suspension in 2023, the game returned in 2024 with new improvements, making it a great free alternative for Smash Bros. fans.
- Rivals 2 – a sequel to the popular Rivals of Aether, which debuted in 2024, transfers the original 2D platformer to a new 3D reality. Battles here take place in dynamic arenas, where you can use various elements of the environment to attack. The hero system has received a significant update, including new moves and special attacks.
Paid fighting games on PC: what is worth paying for?
Paid fighting games on PC always mean extra quality, unique features, and developer support. If you want to get the best experience, you should take a closer look at several paid projects.
Guilty Gear Strive — the script is worth paying for, if only because of the stunning graphics and incredible music. A unique character system, each with their own mechanics and abilities, makes any fight truly unique.
Dragon Ball FighterZ — fans of manga and anime will find a real treasure here. Each fight is an epic battle in the best traditions of the series. Unique combos, stunning animation, and fully drawn images make it one of the best paid fighting games on PC.
Fighting games for beginners: how not to get lost in the world of combos and strikes
For beginners, the genre may seem complex and unpredictable. But there are also projects that offer a softer introduction to the topic, allowing you to master the basic mechanics without stress:
- Injustice 2 differs from most in its accessibility for new participants. Convenient controls, excellent tutorials, and a moderate pace of battles make it a great choice for those who are just starting to dive into fighting games on PC.
- Brawlhalla — intuitive controls and easy to learn. Fascinating figures and dynamic battles have attracted a huge audience to it, and even a beginner can feel like a winner after just a couple of battles.
Unusual fighting games on PC: games that stand out from the rest
Some projects stand out with non-standard mechanics that put them in a special place among other representatives of the genre. They give new impressions and offer something more than just a simple fight:
- Skullgirls is a real artistic masterpiece with a unique visual style. Each battle here looks like a living animation, and a deep battle system requires a thoughtful approach.
- BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle is an interesting example that combines characters from different universes and genres. This makes each fight truly unique and exciting.
Conclusion
PC fighting games are a whole universe where every user can find something for themselves. From new projects to time-tested classics, from free-to-play games to premium releases, the choice is huge. Regardless of skill level, these projects offer exciting fights, interesting mechanics and vivid impressions. It’s time to take your place in the arena!