With the best 2D fighting games for PC, it’s never just about button mashing—it’s about rhythm, reaction time, and the thrill of mastering a character until every move feels like second nature. From pulling off precise combos to predicting your opponent’s next step, these games live and die by their combat systems. They’ve been the backbone of competitive gaming long before esports became mainstream, and they continue to thrive today.
But narrowing down the best of the best isn’t easy. The 2D fighting genre is stacked with legends—arcade classics, modern masterpieces, and underrated gems that deserve more love. Each of these games brings something unique to the table: flashy visuals, memorable characters, tight mechanics, or communities that keep them alive decades later.
In this list, we’ve gone through the trenches to compile the 30 best 2D fighting games for PC. These aren’t just nostalgia trips—they’re titles that stand strong today, offering thrills for casuals, training grounds for competitive players, and endless fun for anyone who loves a good digital brawl. So whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned vet, these picks will remind you why 2D fighters are still kings of precision and hype.
Street Fighter
Few franchises can claim to have defined an entire genre, but Street Fighter has done it multiple times. Street Fighter V brought the series into the modern era, with gorgeous visuals, a diverse cast of fighters, and mechanics that balance accessibility with depth. Whether you’re a casual player spamming Hadoukens or a competitive veteran pulling off frame-perfect punishes, the game delivers.
One of its strongest points is the commitment to community and esports. Street Fighter V has been a staple in tournaments like EVO, and Capcom’s continued updates added characters, stages, and balance patches that kept the game fresh for years. The mechanics emphasize footsies, spacing, and timing, reminding players why the series has always been a masterclass in fighting fundamentals.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It blends nostalgia with modern polish, ensuring that newcomers and veterans alike can throw down without missing a beat.
Guilty Gear Strive
If fighting games were judged solely on style, Guilty Gear Strive would win instantly. With anime-inspired visuals that look ripped straight from a hand-drawn cartoon, this game is a feast for the eyes. But it’s not just a pretty face—it’s a mechanically deep fighter with unique characters that each feel like learning an entirely new game.
The soundtrack deserves its own mention. Rock and metal riffs fuel every battle, amplifying the energy of matches to ridiculous levels. And thanks to rollback netcode, online play is smooth and competitive—something every fighting game should aspire to. The mix of accessibility for new players and depth for veterans ensures it has a broad appeal.
Why it’s one of the best PC 2D fighters: It’s as beautiful to watch as it is thrilling to play, making it one of the top 2D fighting games for PC right now.
Mortal Kombat 11
When you think of brutal finishers and over-the-top violence, Mortal Kombat is the first name that comes to mind. Mortal Kombat 11 takes that legacy and dials it up to eleven—literally. With some of the most cinematic fatalities in the series’ history, it’s as much a spectacle as it is a competitive fighter.
The gameplay is slower and more deliberate compared to some other 2D fighters, rewarding patience, reads, and punishes. The story mode is a highlight, essentially giving you a Hollywood-style action movie where time travel and absurd character interactions take center stage. And with a roster stacked with both classic fighters and newcomers, it’s packed with variety.
Why it’s a must-play fighting game on PC: It combines the bloody fun of Mortal Kombat with polished mechanics that keep competitive players hooked.
BlazBlue: Central Fiction
BlazBlue may not have the brand recognition of Street Fighter or Mortal Kombat, but among hardcore fighting fans, it’s legendary. Central Fiction represents the series at its absolute peak. With a massive roster, intricate combos, and anime-style storytelling, it’s a dream come true for players who love both depth and flair.
What sets BlazBlue apart is its unique mechanics, like Drive attacks that give each character a distinctive playstyle. The game doesn’t shy away from complexity, but once you put in the time, it rewards you with some of the most satisfying combos in the genre.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It’s a technical, stylish fighter that rewards dedication, offering depth that few games can match.
King of Fighters XV
SNK’s legendary franchise returned in full force with King of Fighters XV. Known for its team-based 3v3 battles, this installment refined the mechanics while staying true to its roots. Characters like Kyo, Iori, and Terry still shine, and the roster is stacked with variety.
The game thrives on fast-paced action and aggressive gameplay. Combos feel fluid, super moves are flashy, and the competitive scene is alive and kicking. Thanks to rollback netcode, online play is reliable, letting players worldwide battle without lag ruining the experience.
Why it’s one of the top 2D fighting games on PC: It’s a celebration of everything that makes KOF iconic—speed, style, and team dynamics.
Skullgirls
Few indie games have broken into the fighting game community like Skullgirls. With its hand-drawn art style and diverse roster of quirky fighters, it instantly stands out. But beyond the visuals, the game is a mechanically rich tag-team fighter that rewards creativity and strategy.
Its tutorial system is one of the best in the genre, making it welcoming for new players. The combos can get wild, and team customization adds another layer of depth. The community may be smaller compared to giants like Street Fighter, but it’s passionate and supportive.
Why it’s great for PC fighting fans: It proves that indie developers can go toe-to-toe with the big names in creating some of the best 2D fighting games out there.
Dragon Ball FighterZ
If you’ve ever wanted to live out your anime battle fantasies, Dragon Ball FighterZ is the ultimate dream. Developed by Arc System Works, it combines the fast-paced tag-team chaos of Marvel vs. Capcom with the flashy power of Dragon Ball.
The visuals are stunning, perfectly replicating the anime’s look and feel. Battles are explosive, with characters unleashing iconic moves like Goku’s Kamehameha or Vegeta’s Final Flash. It’s easy to pick up but has incredible depth for those who want to master its mechanics.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It’s pure anime hype distilled into a fighting game, and it’s accessible to both casuals and competitive players.
Melty Blood: Type Lumina
The Melty Blood series has always been a cult classic, but Type Lumina brought it into the modern era with style. Built on smooth mechanics and fast-paced gameplay, it’s a game that rewards quick reflexes and sharp reads.
Its anime-inspired roster is unique, with each character offering flashy combos and distinct fighting styles. The game also has rollback netcode, ensuring smooth online play. While the player base isn’t as large as mainstream fighters, it has a dedicated community.
Why it’s great for PC players: It’s one of the most underrated gems in the 2D fighting genre, offering depth and speed in equal measure.
Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite
While it didn’t reach the legendary status of MVC2 or MVC3, Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite still delivers exciting tag-team battles. Combining Marvel superheroes with Capcom legends, the roster may have been controversial, but the gameplay remains solid.
The Infinity Stone system added unique twists to battles, allowing players to customize their strategies. Despite the criticism, fans who gave it a chance found a competitive fighter with flashy combos and endless hype.
Why it’s one of the top PC 2D fighters: It may not be the perfect MVC entry, but it still offers chaotic fun and memorable crossovers.
Injustice 2
From the creators of Mortal Kombat, Injustice 2 brings superheroes into the 2D fighter arena. Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and a host of DC characters duke it out in cinematic battles with spectacular moves.
The gear system allows customization, giving players reasons to grind beyond the fights. Its story mode is surprisingly well-written, offering one of the best narratives in a fighting game. The combat is approachable but has layers of depth for competitive play.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It merges superhero spectacle with refined mechanics, making it both fun and competitive.
Samurai Shodown (2019)
While most 2D fighters emphasize combos and speed, Samurai Shodown slows things down and focuses on precision. Every strike matters, every parry can turn the tide, and matches often feel like tense duels rather than button-mashing chaos.
The 2019 reboot brought SNK’s classic series back with gorgeous visuals and a fighting system that emphasizes mind games. Instead of memorizing endless combo strings, you’re rewarded for patience and reading your opponent. That makes every victory feel earned and every mistake devastating.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It’s perfect for players who prefer thoughtful duels and strategic play over nonstop combo madness.
Under Night In-Birth Exe:Late
With a name that sounds like someone slammed their keyboard, Under Night In-Birth is one of the most exciting anime fighters on PC. Developed by French Bread, it combines accessible mechanics with layers of complexity for competitive depth.
The GRD system—where players fight for control of a resource bar—adds a unique push-and-pull dynamic to matches. The characters are stylish, the combos flashy, and the community surprisingly passionate. It’s one of those hidden gems that grows on you the more you play.
Why it’s a must-try: It’s an underrated gem among PC 2D fighters, offering unique mechanics you won’t find elsewhere.
Killer Instinct (2013)
Rare’s Killer Instinct was legendary in the ’90s, and the 2013 reboot revived it for a new generation. Known for its combo-heavy gameplay and hype announcers yelling “ULTRA COMBO!”, it’s a blast to play.
The roster mixes original characters with guest fighters like Arbiter from Halo and Rash from Battletoads. Each fighter feels distinct, with crazy juggle combos and flashy finishers. The game is also beginner-friendly thanks to combo assist features, while still being rewarding for advanced players.
Why it’s one of the top 2D fighting games for PC: It’s a faithful reboot that captures the spirit of the original while adding modern polish and features.
Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike
Ask any hardcore fighting game fan about the best fighters of all time, and Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike will come up. Released in 1999, it introduced parries—a high-risk, high-reward mechanic that defined competitive play.
The roster is iconic, and the art style holds up even decades later. The legendary Daigo vs. Justin Wong Evo Moment #37 (a perfect parry comeback) cemented its place in esports history. Even today, players still flock to it for its timeless mechanics.
Why it’s a classic: It’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC if you want to experience fighting game history at its peak.
SoulCalibur VI (2D mechanics option)
Though SoulCalibur is known as a 3D weapon fighter, SoulCalibur VI includes mechanics that allow for 2D-style combat with linear movement. With its massive roster and weapon-based battles, it scratches the itch for players who love duels with swords, spears, and everything in between.
The game includes guest fighters like Geralt from The Witcher, adding crossover appeal. The mechanics reward spacing, timing, and smart use of counters. While not a pure 2D fighter, its option for simplified movement makes it a solid entry for this list.
Why it’s here: It bridges 2D and 3D mechanics, giving PC players a taste of both worlds.
Rivals of Aether
A love letter to Super Smash Bros., Rivals of Aether is a 2D platform fighter built for competitive play. Its pixel art style is charming, but don’t let that fool you—it’s a mechanically deep game where every character has unique elemental abilities.
The stages are varied, the combat is fast-paced, and the community-driven mods have kept it alive with new content. It’s approachable for newcomers but offers enough depth to keep competitive players engaged.
Why it’s one of the best indie 2D fighting games for PC: It takes inspiration from Smash while carving its own identity, making it a must-play for PC fighting fans.
Garou: Mark of the Wolves
Considered by many to be the crown jewel of SNK’s fighters, Garou: Mark of the Wolves is the spiritual successor to Fatal Fury. Released in 1999, it features fluid animation, a balanced roster, and the unique T.O.P. system that gives characters buffs when their health is low.
Its competitive scene has endured for decades, thanks to tight mechanics and a cast that’s both memorable and fun to master. The game remains one of the most respected classics in fighting game history.
Why it’s a must-play on PC: It’s a piece of 2D fighting history that still feels incredible to play today.
Brawlhalla
Ubisoft’s free-to-play brawler takes cues from Super Smash Bros. but puts its own spin on things. With a constantly expanding roster that includes crossover characters like WWE wrestlers and even Shovel Knight, it’s packed with variety.
The gameplay is accessible, making it great for casuals, but the competitive scene is thriving too, with global tournaments and ranked ladders. Its simple controls hide a surprising amount of depth, making it appealing to both newbies and veterans.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It’s free, fun, and supported by a massive community—perfect for anyone looking to jump into the genre.
Fantasy Strike
Designed to be beginner-friendly, Fantasy Strike strips away the complexity of traditional fighters and focuses on fundamentals like spacing, reads, and timing. Each character has a small set of moves, making it approachable while still competitive.
The game has rollback netcode for smooth online play, and its simplicity makes it a great entry point for players who find games like Guilty Gear overwhelming.
Why it stands out: It’s one of the top PC 2D fighters for beginners, offering a fun yet competitive experience without overwhelming mechanics.
Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid
Don’t let the Power Rangers branding fool you—this is a legitimate tag-team fighting game with serious depth. Developed by nWay, it offers fast-paced battles reminiscent of Marvel vs. Capcom.
The roster pulls from decades of Power Rangers history, and the combo system allows for stylish and devastating team attacks. Competitive players have embraced it, and regular updates keep it fresh.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It’s proof that licensed games can surprise you, delivering a polished, competitive fighter that’s as fun as it is nostalgic.
Virtua Fighter 5: Final Showdown (2D-style mechanics)
Although Virtua Fighter is traditionally a 3D series, Virtua Fighter 5: Final Showdown includes simplified movement options that allow for a more 2D-style experience. It’s a highly technical fighter, built around precision, spacing, and punishes.
The roster features martial artists from all over the world, each with unique styles like judo, jeet kune do, and professional wrestling. Matches reward knowledge and execution over flashy combos, making it one of the most skill-driven fighters ever made.
Why it’s here: Even though it straddles the line between 2D and 3D, its fundamentals resonate with fans of classic 2D fighting games for PC.
Darkstalkers Resurrection
Capcom’s Darkstalkers series never reached the fame of Street Fighter, but it carved its own niche with supernatural characters and gothic flair. Darkstalkers Resurrection remasters the cult classics Night Warriors and Darkstalkers 3, giving players updated visuals and online play.
The cast is iconic: Morrigan, Demitri, Felicia, and other horror-inspired fighters bring personality and creativity to every match. The mechanics are fast and fluid, emphasizing aggressive playstyles and flashy special moves.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It’s stylish, spooky, and mechanically sharp—a gem that deserves more love.
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: All-Star Battle R
If you’re a JoJo fan, this is the ultimate crossover between anime hype and fighting mechanics. All-Star Battle R features an absurdly large roster of characters from across the manga’s many arcs, each with their own unique abilities and references to iconic JoJo moments.
The art direction is stunning, replicating Araki’s flamboyant style perfectly. The mechanics emphasize flashy combos, special abilities, and the sheer spectacle of JoJo battles. It’s less about tournament-level balance and more about delivering stylish, over-the-top fun.
Why it’s great for PC players: It’s a love letter to JoJo fans that also doubles as one of the most entertaining PC 2D fighters.
Mortal Kombat X
While Mortal Kombat 11 is the most polished modern entry, Mortal Kombat X deserves mention for its speed and brutality. Released in 2015, it featured three fighting variations per character, making the roster feel deeper than ever.
The story is cinematic, the fatalities are outrageous, and the gameplay is faster than MK11—appealing to players who prefer aggressive styles. The guest characters (Predator, Jason Voorhees, Alien) made it one of the most fun crossovers in the series.
Why it’s one of the top 2D fighting games on PC: It’s a darker, bloodier entry that still holds up brilliantly.
Battle Fantasia
A hidden gem from Arc System Works, Battle Fantasia blends RPG-style fantasy with fighting mechanics. The roster is small but charming, with characters like knights, sorcerers, and even a gun-wielding rabbit.
The gameplay is straightforward compared to Guilty Gear, but it has the same anime-inspired flair and accessible mechanics. While not as popular as other fighters, it’s a quirky, underrated title worth checking out.
Why it’s here: It proves that not every fighter needs 50 characters and overwhelming complexity to be fun.
Pocket Bravery
A modern indie fighter inspired by the 2D arcade classics, Pocket Bravery delivers fast-paced gameplay with vibrant pixel art. It embraces the spirit of old-school fighters like Street Fighter Alpha but adds modern mechanics such as advanced cancels and unique character abilities.
Its lightweight requirements make it ideal for PC players on weaker setups, and its design emphasizes competitive play without alienating newcomers.
Why it’s one of the best new 2D fighting games for PC: It captures retro vibes while adding enough freshness to feel modern.
Nitroplus Blasterz: Heroines Infinite Duel
Yes, the name is ridiculous, but the gameplay is anything but. This crossover fighter brings together characters from visual novels and anime, creating a roster that feels chaotic and eclectic.
Matches are flashy, with assist mechanics that let you call in supporting characters mid-fight. It’s a niche title, but for anime fans, it’s a wild ride that delivers fun and chaos in equal measure.
Why it’s a unique pick: It’s a crossover oddity that stands out in the crowded world of PC 2D fighters.
Arcana Heart 3: Love Max!!!!!
Don’t let the over-the-top name fool you—Arcana Heart 3 is a serious fighter with a deep system built around “Arcana” selections. Each character can be paired with an Arcana spirit, drastically changing their moveset and strategy.
The all-female cast is diverse and mechanically distinct, and the vibrant anime visuals make it stand out. With dozens of Arcana combinations, the replay value is massive.
Why it’s one of the best 2D fighting games for PC: It’s a mechanically deep fighter with endless customization and a devoted community.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax
Atlus and Arc System Works teamed up to create this stylish spin-off of Persona 4. It combines fighting mechanics with RPG-inspired flair, letting players control beloved Persona characters like Yu Narukami, Chie, and Teddie.
The combat is fast, flashy, and beginner-friendly, while still offering competitive depth. The presentation is pure Persona, with slick menus, anime cutscenes, and an incredible soundtrack.
Why it’s a must-play: It’s not just fanservice for Persona fans—it’s one of the best anime-style 2D fighting games for PC available.
King of Fighters XIII
If you ask fighting fans about the most beautiful sprite-based fighter ever, King of Fighters XIII often comes up. Its hand-drawn animations are jaw-droppingly detailed, and the gameplay strikes a perfect balance between speed and technicality.
The 3v3 system is as strong as ever, rewarding team synergy and execution-heavy combos. Though KOF XV is newer, many players still consider XIII the peak of the series for its aesthetics and gameplay.
Why it’s a legend: It’s a timeless masterpiece, easily ranking among the best 2D fighting games for PC.
Why 2D Fighting Games Still Matter
In a world dominated by 3D graphics and massive open worlds, 2D fighting games for PC continue to thrive because of their purity. They’re about fundamentals—timing, spacing, and reading your opponent. No amount of visual spectacle can replace the thrill of a perfect parry, a clutch comeback, or landing that one combo you’ve practiced for hours.
These 30 games represent decades of evolution, from arcade cabinets to online ranked ladders. Some focus on accessibility, others on mechanical mastery, but all of them capture what makes fighting games timeless: competition, creativity, and fun. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia of Street Fighter III, the brutality of Mortal Kombat, or the anime hype of Guilty Gear, this list has something for every PC fighter.
