The PlayStation 3 era was a golden age for fighting games, with numerous iconic titles that still hold up today. From classics like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat to innovative newcomers like Tekken and Soulcalibur, the PS3 had an incredible lineup of fighting games that catered to all kinds of players. Here, we'll count down the top 10 PS3 fighting games of all time, exploring their unique features, gameplay mechanics, and what made them so beloved by fans.
10. BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger
Developed by Arc System Works, BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger was a 2D fighting game that shook the genre with its unique gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals. The game boasted an impressive roster of 12 playable characters, each with their own distinct fighting style and abilities. BlazBlue's gameplay focused on complex combos, strategic use of "Drive" abilities, and an innovative "Guard Libra" system that encouraged players to experiment with different defensive strategies.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Unique gameplay mechanics that challenged the traditional fighting game formula
- Stunning 2D visuals and a memorable soundtrack
- Deep characters with intricate move sets and strategies
9. Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe
Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe was a fascinating crossover fighting game that brought together two of the most iconic franchises in the world: Mortal Kombat and DC Comics. Developed by Midway Games, the title boasted an impressive roster of 22 playable characters, including legendary fighters like Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, alongside MK staples like Scorpion and Sub-Zero.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Innovative "Konquest" mode that combined fighting with platforming and exploration
- A roster that perfectly blended the worlds of Mortal Kombat and DC Comics
- Classic Mortal Kombat gameplay with an added twist of DC characters
8. Virtua Fighter 5
Developed by Sega AM2, Virtua Fighter 5 was a 3D fighting game that refined the Virtua Fighter formula with impressive results. The game boasted an incredible 17 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting style and strategies. Virtua Fighter 5's gameplay focused on precision and strategy, with a strong emphasis on punishing opponents for their mistakes.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Deep gameplay mechanics that rewarded strategy and practice
- Stunning 3D visuals and impressive character models
- A robust single-player mode with a variety of challenges and mini-games
7. Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition
Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition was an updated version of the critically acclaimed Super Street Fighter IV, developed by Capcom. This iteration added four new playable characters, including the likes of Yun, Yang, and Evil Ryu. The game retained its impressive gameplay mechanics, including focus attacks, ultra combos, and a wide range of special moves.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Tight gameplay mechanics that refined the Street Fighter formula
- A massive roster of 39 playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers
- A robust online mode with ranked matches and replay sharing
6. Tekken 6
Developed by Namco Bandai Games, Tekken 6 was a 3D fighting game that continued the legendary Tekken series with impressive results. The game boasted an incredible 40 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting style and strategies. Tekken 6's gameplay focused on complex combos, strategy, and environmental interactions.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Deep gameplay mechanics that rewarded strategy and practice
- Stunning 3D visuals and impressive character models
- A massive roster of playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers
5. Soulcalibur IV
Soulcalibur IV was a 3D fighting game developed by Project Soul, a division of Namco Bandai Games. The game boasted an impressive roster of 32 playable characters, including some guest stars from the Star Wars universe. Soulcalibur IV's gameplay focused on strategy, environmental interactions, and a unique "Soul Gauge" system.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Innovative gameplay mechanics, including the "Soul Gauge" system
- A massive roster of playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers
- Stunning 3D visuals and impressive character models
4. Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds
Developed by Capcom, Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds was a 2D fighting game that brought together the iconic Marvel and Capcom universes. The game boasted an impressive roster of 36 playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers. Marvel vs. Capcom 3's gameplay focused on fast-paced action, complex combos, and strategic use of "X-Factor" abilities.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Innovative gameplay mechanics, including the "X-Factor" system
- A massive roster of playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers
- Stunning 2D visuals and an epic soundtrack
3. Street Fighter IV
Developed by Capcom, Street Fighter IV was a 2D fighting game that revitalized the iconic Street Fighter series. The game boasted an impressive roster of 25 playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers. Street Fighter IV's gameplay focused on precise timing, strategy, and the innovative "Focus Attack" system.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Tight gameplay mechanics that refined the Street Fighter formula
- A massive roster of playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers
- Stunning 2D visuals and an epic soundtrack
2. Mortal Kombat
Developed by NetherRealm Studios, Mortal Kombat was a 2D fighting game that rebooted the iconic Mortal Kombat series. The game boasted an impressive roster of 27 playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers. Mortal Kombat's gameplay focused on brutal combos, strategic use of "X-Ray" moves, and an innovative "Konquest" mode.
Why it's a top 10 contender:
- Innovative gameplay mechanics, including the "X-Ray" system
- A massive roster of playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers
- Stunning 2D visuals and an epic soundtrack
1. Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition (Update)
As an updated version of Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition, this iteration added five new playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers. The game retained its impressive gameplay mechanics, including focus attacks, ultra combos, and a wide range of special moves.
Why it's the top contender:
- Tight gameplay mechanics that refined the Street Fighter formula
- A massive roster of 44 playable characters, including some fan-favorite newcomers
- Robust online mode with ranked matches and replay sharing
In conclusion, these 10 fighting games represent the best of the best on the PlayStation 3, each offering unique gameplay mechanics, innovative features, and a wealth of content for fans to enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of fighting games, there's something for everyone on this list.
What is the most popular fighting game of all time?
+According to various polls and sales figures, Street Fighter II is often considered the most popular fighting game of all time.
What is the difference between 2D and 3D fighting games?
+2D fighting games typically feature side-scrolling gameplay, where characters move left and right, while 3D fighting games feature characters that can move freely in three dimensions.
What is the most iconic fighting game franchise of all time?
+According to various polls and fan opinions, the Mortal Kombat franchise is often considered the most iconic fighting game franchise of all time.