We can’t sleep on PlayStation 4 whenever we talk about gaming. This Sony product offers some of the best games to get your hands on. As for the genre, it is pretty evident that many people love fighting games as they are easy to adapt to. In these games, you are not supposed to work on challenging strategies to be triumphant. All it asks for you is to master the controller so that you can drop some powerful hits on the opponent.
If we date back to history, PlayStation has come a long way from Tekken for PlayStation 1 in 1995 with not-that-amazing graphics to Tekken 7 making it to the market in 2015 with breathtaking visuals and bone-chilling special abilities for the characters.
That said, there are more than a dozen fighting games available in the market for PS4. Here in this article, we will briefly discuss the best PS4 fighting games. However, before moving on to the list, we will try to jot down the differences between classic fighting games and the new-generation ones.
Classic fighting games vs. New-gen fighting games
As the names of the two suggest, classic fighting games are the ones that used to have a set way of depicting the characters and the gameplay with a limited set of moves and powers. In simple terms, classic games are the ones for which the developers have stopped support, or the game is around half a decade old.
On the contrary, new-generation fighting games are the ones with fresh approaches to the characters, moves, and gameplay. On a personal note, keeping the growth of fighting games in mind, we can say that the expectations are pretty high for future titles from studios like Bandai Namco, NetherRealm, and Capcom. The major highlight is that the classic games also are transitioning into new-generation versions with sequels and new installments.
Without any further ado, let’s take a look at the best PS4 fighting games to please the warrior you’re caging within you.
Mortal Kombat 11
If you are someone who loves brutal moves and bloodbaths, then Mortal Kombat 11 is the answer to your prayers. The game ships with features like custom character variation systems. It allows gamers to customize the fighters’ skin, special abilities, gears, victory cinemas, and much more. Not only this, but the game also has multiple modes to choose from, as per your preferences, which is pretty uncommon in fighting games.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate (PS4) | 3,059 Reviews | $24.49 | Buy on Amazon |
You can even get the MKKollective fighters, and the list includes prodigies like Terminator, Joker (yes, the Batman villain), Rambo, Spawn, etc. As for the graphics, the developers have adopted a full-blown approach to make the game pretty realistic. And the fighters’ finishers and sarcastic end dialogues work as the cherry on the cake.
Developer: NetherRealm Studios
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: April 23, 2019
Street Fighter V
In love with fighting games that pack a retro touch? Go for Street Fighter V with your eyes closed, and you will not see a glimpse of disappointment. The Street Fighter V: Champion Edition is an action-packed offering by Capcom consisting of 40 characters, 200 costumes, and a total of 34 stages.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Street Fighter V Champion Edition - PlayStation 4 | $23.48 | Buy on Amazon |
The combat system of the game is blessed with the V-Skills I and II that delivers a top-notch battle experience. The game also takes care of the entertainment and insight department with the help of cinematic stories based on the characters. Most of the characters in the game are unlockable with the in-game currency that you can get while completing compact missions.
Developer: Capcom and Dimps
Publisher: Capcom
Release Date: February 16, 2016
Soul Caliber VI
Soul Caliber VI is a fighting game by Bandai Namco (pioneers of the genre) that sends a pretty cogent statement to the gaming fraternity. From the visuals to the polished fighting mechanics, there’s a lot for other games in this genre to live up to. Moreover, the visual appeal of Soul Caliber VI is breathtaking, and the characters’ special moves will definitely fascinate you.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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SOULCALIBUR VI: Standard Edition - PlayStation 4 | $15.55 | Buy on Amazon |
Rendered over Unreal Engine, the game offers some of the best visual effects, graphical sequences, and overall gameplay. The newfangled battle mechanics allow you to even perform strategic reversals to kickstart a counterattack. As we come to fighting styles, all the warriors in the game have a unique mastery of deadly weapons, combined with control. The high-speed battles of Soul Caliber VI will surely keep you hooked to your gaming chair.
Developer: Bandai Namco and Dimps
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release Date: October 19, 2018
Tekken 7
Tekken 7 is the latest installment of the 29-year-old Tekken franchise. Another electrifying game by Bandai Namco takes you on a journey where you want to explore all the characters’ powers and capabilities.
If you have been a Tekken fan for a long time, then you will indeed feel proud of the development of Jin Kazama in the game. The game’s central theme revolves around the Mishima clan and what a full-fledged fight looks like between a family; if your family members have unearthly powers and all hate each other, that is.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Tekken 7 PS4 - PlayStation 4 Standard Edition | $20.20 | Buy on Amazon |
It can be said that the game breaks away from the crowd with its unique battle mechanics and easy-to-use controls. Some of the best additions to the seventh installment of Tekken are the Rage Arts and Power Crushes that take the gameplay to the next level.
Not only this, but Tekken 7 also includes a set of guest characters from different franchises like The Walking Dead (the adrenaline gets pumping because it’s Negan Smith this time), Final Fantasy XV, and King of Fighters. We suggest you try Tekken 7 for a phenomenal experience and GET READY FOR THE NEXT BATTLE (if you know, you know).
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release Date: June 2, 2017
Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite
Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite is something that brings a pretty different kind of POV toward your favorite superheroes. All the Avengers fans should assemble and try the game out as it is based on events identical to Marvel Avengers Infinity War Saga. The story goes like this: Ultron Sigma has acquired two Infinity Stones and merged the Marvel and Capcom universes.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Marvel Vs Capcom Infinite (PS4) | $19.85 | Buy on Amazon |
This time, the Avengers are supposed to trust Thanos and acquire the remaining Infinity Stones to take things back to normal. The game also comprises a story mode where the villains and heroes fight together against a god-level threat, Ultron Sigma. Talking about the main evildoer, Ultron Sigma is fanatical about disrupting organic life by inducing a cybernetic virus. So, there are plenty of interesting points to go over in this game. It also helps to know the fighting mechanics in the game are pretty solid!
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Release Date: September 19, 2017
Injustice 2
Are you a fan of DC superheroes and supervillains and want to see them fight? Here’s Injustice 2 for you. The game consists of a plethora of DC characters, and you will be allowed to fight against each one of them throughout the game.
In addition, you will also have the liberty to modify the looks, fighting prowess, and power moves of the characters over multiple game modes. The game’s story focuses on Batman and his wingmen trying to make society stand again. Nonetheless, the caped crusader is supposed to wage war against the people who restored Superman’s rule.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Injustice 2 Legendary Edition (PS4) | 1,609 Reviews | $23.80 | Buy on Amazon |
That’s not all. A major threat makes an entry that can put the existence of Earth on the brink of destruction. This adds another star to the chaos’ shoulder. On a concluding note, the game received a lot of love from DC fans, and you should try it too to see your favorite DC characters like Batman, Joker, Superman, Aquaman, Blue Beetle, and others in action.
Developer: NetherRealm Studios
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: May 11, 2017
UFC 4
Fighting games are not synonymous with mythical characters, extraordinary moves, or breathtaking fighting locations. UFC 4 stands true to the above statement and is one of the best PS4 fighting games as well. You can do two things in the game: make your backyard an arena or get yourself completely engulfed in the story mode.
It also allows you to experience a full-fledged brawl in the UFC Apex and Action Avenue. UFC 4 offers an immersive environment that enables you to shape your fighter’s style in any way, from an underground warrior to an octagon legend.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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UFC 4 (PS4) | $23.71 | Buy on Amazon |
The Blitz Battle mode of the game allows the fighters to compete online against random opponents in a fast-paced match. This EA Sports prodigy is based on Real Player Motion Technology that delivers a seamless experience backed by physical context and positioning.
As of now, the game has 50 fighters, out of which you get to see some of the best ones, like Tony Ferguson, Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and a lot more.
Developer: EA Vancouver
Publisher: EA Sports
Release Date: August 14, 2020
Sifu
Sifu isn’t your typical fighting game. There are no dangerous powerups to use, no extra large bosses to fight (mostly), and the game isn’t about a best-of-three bout. Instead, it’s gritty, challenging, and most importantly, it’ll make you think of yourself as Bruce Lee or Oh Dae-su from Oldboy (2003).
In fact, there’s a neat little easter egg when it comes to one of the early fight scenes as well. However, to know that, you’ll have to play the game.
Sifu is basically a soulslike game, but with martial arts. Here, enemies are tough, often unpredictable, and you’ll have to be on your toes as multiple enemies confront you at the same time.
Moreover, there’s a neat mechanic where every time you die, you respawn, but you’re older by a specific amount of years.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Sifu: Vengeance Edition (PS4) | 379 Reviews | $29.95 | Buy on Amazon |
As a result, the protagonist’s appearance changes; his max health is lower, but he deals much more damage. It’s a beautiful risk-reward system that works perfectly with the gameplay.
If you love the movies of Bruce Lee, or the Ip Man series, you can’t miss out on this gem of a fighting game!
Developer: Sloclap
Publisher: Sloclap and Kepler Interactive
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Dead Or Alive 5: Last Round
Dead Or Alive 5: Last Round can be hailed as a game that did well in the market. The fifth installment of DOA is a complete package of new-gen fighting entertainment. The game has a catalog of 35 characters along with a huge number of customization options.
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The franchise has also introduced new stages in the game – Azuchi, The Crimson, Fireworks, and The Danger Zone. DOA 5 also features cinematic movies for the characters; however, they fail to leave an impact as compared to other games on the list. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a solid fighting game that’s not on the beaten path, give DOA 5 a try!
Developer: Team Ninja
Publisher: Koei Tecmo
Release Date: February 17, 2015
Guilty Gear Xrd: REV 2
Guilty Gear Xrd: REV 2 is pretty different from other options available on this list of the best PS4 fighting games. The game has anime-inspired visuals and some of the best characters with massive power levels. You get to see 25 reckless fighters donning the best attire, with expertise in different fighting styles. The storyline of the game focuses on giving a sneak peek into the life of the fighters.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Guilty Gear Xrd REV 2 - PlayStation 4 | $27.01 | Buy on Amazon |
The fighters possess new fighting techniques not seen in previous games of this nature, which makes the game more worthwhile. To give you a better idea of the visual style, the game graphics look pretty similar to what we saw in the Tekken: Bloodline anime. Guilty Gear Xrd: REV 2 also puts forward two new characters – Answer and Baiken.
Developer: Arc System Works
Publisher: Arc System Works
Release Date: December 16, 2014
The King of Fighters XV
The King of Fighters XV is a full-fledged brawl between the best of the best characters taking part in the colossal-level martial arts tournament. The story is based on the after-events of the entry of Verse, a mysterious being who played a major role in the destruction of the KOF arena.
The latest chapter of KOF started in 2016 when the self-announced First Champion, Antonov, sent a message to the masses that he was hosting the upcoming KOF tournament. The fighters are divided into multiple teams like the Sacred Treasures, Fatal Fury, Team K’, Team Sacred Treasures, Team Rival, Team Art of Fighting, Team Awakened Orochi, and more.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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The King of Fighters XV - PlayStation 4 | $47.50 | Buy on Amazon |
The game is beautiful in terms of graphics, and you get to see some mesmerizing attacks and combos from each of the fighters. The Japanese-inspired touch to the game makes it more of a paradise for people looking for anime-style fighting games.
Developer: SNK
Publisher: Koch Media
Release Date: February 17, 2022
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3
The third installment of the Marvel vs. Capcom series, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, gives you chills with characters and a storyline that has never been witnessed before. The game puts forward three-on-three tag team bouts coupled with a sturdy backstory, due to which it made it to our list of best PS4 fighting games despite being rather antiquated.
It incorporates multiple different modes, including the likes of Versus, Arcade, Mission, and Training. The storyline of the game is focused on Dr. Doom and Albert Wesker. The two are in cohorts, trying to convoke villains from different universes to establish a rule in their respective universes.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Ultimate Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 - Playstation 4 | 87 Reviews | $114.50 | Buy on Amazon |
Nonetheless, while doing the same, they unintentionally invite Galactus, the game’s main villain and a powerful Marvel character, into play who can eradicate both worlds. Following these events, the heroes from both universes are supposed to put an end to the danger before incurring any kind of major destruction.
The game graphics are pretty unique, considering how old the game actually is. It has an old-school impact with a dialogue box for the characters at some points (comic book readers are going to love it). All in all, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 is the best fit for gamers who want to get hit by nostalgia.
Developers: Capcom
Publishers: Capcom
Release Date: December 3, 2016
Dead or Alive 6
The DOA franchise has tried its best to make the sixth part uber cool to compete with the likes of Tekken 7, MK 11, and others. You can get Dead or Alive 6 going with any of the 31 characters in the lineup. This time, the franchise has unveiled the Break Gauge, which gets fueled up with every attack successful attack landed or taken. Once the meter is filled, you can use it to hit Break Blows in the game. These Break Blows are reminiscent of the Critical Blow that’s so common in games of this nature.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Dead or Alive 6 - PlayStation 4 | $47.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Developers have also integrated new stages with the Danger Zone in the game to enhance the users’ experience. We can say that the game is an assemblage of heavy-duty attacks, finely carved characters, and elements like Rumble Danger and Mass Destruction that play a significant role in gripping the user.
Developer: Team Ninja
Publisher: Koei Tecmo Games
Launch date: March 1, 2019
On a concluding note
The suggestions mentioned above are some of the best fighting game titles available in the market as of now. From Tekken 7 to UFC 4, these games are nothing less than bliss for people who prefer fighting games. To end this with a good piece of news, the next installment of Tekken and Street Fighter is pretty close to release – yes, we are talking about Tekken 8 and Street Fighter VI. In fact, Street Fighter VI has already been released and has done exceptionally well, both critically and commercially.
If you prefer your games with a bit more narrative than the average fighting game, then you can check out some story-driven games on PS4!