The Best PS2 Fighting Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
If you owned a Playstation 2, then the titles this list of the best PS2 fighting games of all time will undoubtedly sound quite familiar. In fact, it's safe to say there were probably a few fighting games mentioned on this in your collection. With challenging combos and finishing moves to pull off, fighting games are some of the best multiplayer games you can get your hands on. Franchises like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat made the genre famous, but today there are a plethora of others that are just as fun.
With so many great options to choose from, there was never a shortage of games to play for fans of the genre. Since some games were much better than others, we've decided to rank the best PS2 fighting games of all time. The PS2 console took fighting games to the next level with improved graphics and reaction time, making the gameplay smoother than ever.
This list features the most popular and best-selling fighting games that were ever released for PS2. While many of these games were console exclusive, we're allowing non-exclusives to be a part of the list as well. This list features items like Tekken 5, Guilty Gear XX, and many more. Vote for your favorite video games below.
- 1Mar 30 2003
Featuring an unparalleled roster of 56 characters, Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes revolutionized the fighting game genre upon its release in 2000. Boasting a thrilling three-on-three tag team system that allowed for seamless and complex character combinations, this iconic title truly stood out from its contemporaries. Moreover, the reintroduction of classic characters such as Spider-Man, Wolverine, and Ryu, further elevated its reputation. With its frenetic gameplay, eye-catching graphics, and timeless soundtrack, Marvel vs. Capcom 2 remains a fan favorite nearly two decades after its original debut.
- 22001
When titans clashed in Capcom vs. SNK 2, the resulting game was nothing short of incredible. The sequel to 2000's Capcom vs. SNK, this title expanded upon its predecessor by adding more characters, refining the gameplay, and introducing a unique and customizable "Groove" system that allowed players to choose different fighting styles from both Capcom and SNK universes. With over 40 characters hailing from legendary series such as Street Fighter, The King of Fighters, and Samurai Shodown, this crossover fighting game provided endless hours of entertainment. Its innovative mechanics and deep character roster made it one of the most memorable games of the PS2 era.
- 3Nov 01 2004
Fast-paced and hard-hitting, Tekken 5 blew away fans with its engaging storyline, realistic visuals, and tight-knit gameplay. Building on the success of its predecessors, this fifth installment introduced new characters, interactive stages, and an overhauled fighting system that pushed the boundaries of the 3D fighting genre. Additionally, the inclusion of arcade versions of Tekken, Tekken 2, and Tekken 3 as unlockable extras was a delightful bonus for long-time series enthusiasts. Tekken 5 remains an iconic entry in the long-running franchise, leaving a permanent mark on the fighting game scene.
Fans of the beloved Dragon Ball Z series were ecstatic when Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 hit shelves, as it encompassed everything they loved about the anime - intense battles, thrilling storylines, and an extensive roster of over 150 characters. The game's innovative combat system, which seamlessly combined close-quarter and long-range attacks, was a true standout feature. Furthermore, the destructible environments, day-and-night cycles, and the ability to transform mid-battle, all contributed to the game's authentic and immersive experience. Budokai Tenkaichi 3 stands as the pinnacle of the Dragon Ball Z gaming experience, earning its place as one of the top PS2 fighting games.
- 5Jul 01 2001
Tekken 4 marked a significant turning point for the storied franchise, offering players a fresh and revitalized experience. The introduction of new characters, along with the return of fan favorites, provided a perfect balance for fans old and new. Additionally, Tekken 4 boasted a more strategic gameplay approach by implementing new mechanics such as uneven terrain and interactive environments. This groundbreaking installment laid the foundations for future titles in the series, making it a must-play for any fighting game enthusiast.
- 6Jan 01 2005
As the eleventh entry in the wildly popular King of Fighters series, The King of Fighters XI upped the ante with the addition of new characters, enhanced visuals, and reimagined gameplay mechanics. The innovative "Quick Shift" and "Saving Shift" systems brought an unprecedented level of strategy and depth to the series, allowing players to swap out characters mid-combo or save teammates in dire situations. Not to mention its vast roster of characters from previous entries in the series and other SNK games, The King of Fighters XI remains a standout among 2D fighting games, worthy of any fan’s attention.
