Are you a fan of fighting games? If so, you’re in luck because I’ve got a list of the best fighting games for the Steam Deck. Whether you’re into intense battles or intricate combos, these games are sure to provide hours of entertainment on this portable gaming platform.
Guilty Gear Strive ($59.99)
Arc System Works’ Guilty Gear Strive has quickly become one of my favorite fighting games in recent years. With its stunning visuals and fluid gameplay, it’s a must-play for any fighting game enthusiast. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it runs seamlessly on the Steam Deck, and the online play works like a charm. Keep an eye out for upcoming updates, including cross-platform play with PC and Playstation.
SoulCalibur VI ($59.99)
Bandai Namco Entertainment’s SoulCalibur VI offers a unique weapon-based combat experience. The game runs exceptionally well on the Steam Deck, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed both online and offline play. Make sure to grab the 2B DLC when you purchase the game for added excitement. Being able to play this fantastic fighter on the go makes it a top choice for any fan of the genre.
The King of Fighters XIV Steam Edition ($59.99)
As a fan of The King of Fighters series, I have a special place in my heart for The King of Fighters XIV. The Steam Edition of this game runs excellently on the Steam Deck and offers a great experience overall. While the netcode may not be perfect, it’s still a joy to play this classic fighter on the go. Keep an eye out for discounts as well, as this game often goes on sale.
Street Fighter V Champion Edition ($29.99)
Street Fighter V had a rocky start, but it has since improved significantly over the years. The PC version, specifically on Steam, offers the best experience, and surprisingly, it runs even better on the Steam Deck. The game loads quickly and offers a vast array of content and enjoyable online play. Plus, the Steam Deck provides a portable way to experience Street Fighter V that you won’t find on the Switch.
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax ($29.99)
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax, originally released on previous-gen consoles, has made its way to Steam, and it’s a treat for fans of the Persona series. While the online experience may not be perfect at the moment, offline play is where this game truly shines. With its fantastic roster of characters and amazing music, it’s a must-play for any Persona fan.
Granblue Fantasy Versus ($19.99)
Granblue Fantasy Versus, from the creators of Guilty Gear, offers stunning visuals and an engaging story mode. While the online experience may not be on par with modern rollback fighters, it’s still a worthwhile experience. Even if you’re not familiar with the Granblue Fantasy universe, this game’s beautiful visuals and brilliant character designs make it worth checking out.
Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate ($59.99)
Mortal Kombat 11 is one of the best fighting games in recent years, and the Steam Deck provides an excellent platform to experience it. Whether you’re playing online or enjoying the single-player content, this game delivers in every aspect. While it’s not officially supported on the Steam Deck, it’s relatively easy to get it up and running smoothly through Proton GE.
BlazBlue Cross Tag Battle Special Edition ($49.99)
If you’re a fan of crossover fighting games, BlazBlue Cross Tag Battle is a must-play. Featuring characters from various franchises, including BlazBlue, Persona 4 Arena, and RWBY, this game offers an exciting and accessible fighting experience. The PC and PS4 versions of the game have been updated with rollback netcode, making for a smooth online play experience. BlazBlue Cross Tag Battle runs flawlessly on the Steam Deck and looks fantastic in handheld mode.
Skullgirls 2nd Encore ($24.99)
Skullgirls 2nd Encore is a fast-paced 2D fighter that may have slipped under the radar for some players. However, it’s a gem that shouldn’t be overlooked, especially on the Steam Deck. While its compatibility with the Steam Deck is unconfirmed, I can personally attest to its flawless performance. With its engaging gameplay and beautiful visuals, this is a fighter that deserves more attention.
Them’s Fightin’ Herds ($14.99)
If you’re looking for a 2D fighter with fluid gameplay and stunning visuals, Them’s Fightin’ Herds is worth a try. Verified by Valve for the Steam Deck, this game runs perfectly both online and offline. With an excellent tutorial and upcoming console versions, this game has a lot of potential. Keep an eye out for crossplay coming later this year.
Bonus Games
In addition to the main list, there are a few bonus games worth mentioning:
- The King of Fighters 98 Ultimate Match Final Edition and The King of Fighters 2002 Unlimited Match offer fantastic versions of classic games that are essential for fighting game fans.
- Mortal Kombat Komplete Edition provides an awesome Mortal Kombat experience on the Steam Deck, although it requires some tweaking to work properly.
Like my JRPG list, I had to omit some games due to compatibility issues or other technical difficulties. But fear not, there is no shortage of exceptional fighting games to choose from on the Steam Deck. You can always purchase these games on Steam and take advantage of their refund policy if they don’t meet your expectations.
So, grab your Steam Deck and get ready to throw down with these incredible fighting games. What are your favorite fighters on Steam? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
[Featured image source: Polygon]
