The Fighting Game Community (FGC) has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years. The releases of Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8 revitalized the genre, while Riot Games’ 2XKO started to gain traction through public playtests.
With 2025 just around the corner, the excitement for new and updated fighting games has reached a fever pitch. Here are the top seven most anticipated fighting games and DLCs of 2025.
1. Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves
Release Date: April 2025
Arguably the most awaited fighting game of the year, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves marks a triumphant return for SNK’s beloved series. A direct sequel to 1999’s Garou: Mark of the Wolves, the game offers a fresh take on the franchise while retaining its core identity.
City of the Wolves introduces the REV meter, allowing players to cancel special moves into other specials for more aggressive and creative combos. Fan-favorite mechanics like Just Defend and the T.O.P./S.P.G. system also return, making the gameplay both nostalgic and innovative.
The roster includes iconic characters such as Rock Howard, B. Jenet, and Hotaru, alongside newcomers like Preecha and Vox Reaper. With breathtaking visuals and polished mechanics, City of the Wolves is set to dominate tournaments and captivate casual players alike.
2. Capcom Fighting Collection 2
Release Date: TBD 2025
Following the success of its predecessor, Capcom’s second fighting collection brings together some of its most cherished classics. The collection features Capcom vs. SNK 1 & 2, Power Stone 1 & 2, Plasma Sword, Street Fighter Alpha 3 Upper, and the cult hit Project Justice.
All games in the bundle will receive modern enhancements, including rollback netcode and comprehensive training modes, ensuring a seamless online experience. Though a specific release date is yet to be announced, this collection is sure to excite longtime fans and newcomers eager to explore these iconic titles.
3. Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O.
Release Date: January 28, 2025
After nearly two decades, SEGA’s Virtua Fighter series is making a comeback. To bridge the gap until a new installment, SEGA AM2 is releasing Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O., a PC port of the acclaimed Ultimate Showdown version.
This edition includes all previous DLC, enhanced graphics, and the ability to play as the series’ iconic final boss, Dural. For both seasoned players and newcomers, R.E.V.O. offers the perfect opportunity to dive into one of the most influential fighting franchises of all time.
4. Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
Release Date: Late 2025
Arc System Works, renowned for its visually stunning anime fighters, is developing Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact, a 3v3 fighting game inspired by Dragon Ball FighterZ and Marvel vs. Capcom.
This adaptation of the beloved manga features a robust roster, including fan favorites like Gon, Kurapika, and Hisoka. Combining fast-paced combat with deep mechanics, Nen x Impact promises to deliver a thrilling experience for fans of the series and competitive players alike.
5. King of Fighters XIII Global Match
Release Date: TBD 2025 (Steam Version)
Widely regarded as one of the finest entries in the franchise, King of Fighters XIII returns with a Global Match edition for PC. This version, already released on PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch, includes rollback netcode for smooth online play and all previously released DLC.
Celebrated for its intricate combos and stunning 2D art style, KoF XIII is a must-play for both diehard fans and newcomers eager to experience one of the best fighting games ever created.
6. Street Fighter 6: Season 2 Finale and Season 3 Kickoff
Release Dates: Q1 and Q2 2025
Capcom’s flagship fighter continues to dominate the scene with new content. Mai Shiranui, the iconic SNK character, will join the roster in early 2025 as part of Season 2. Following Mai, Elena will conclude the season with her graceful yet deadly moveset.
Season 3 is expected to kick off in mid-2025, likely introducing a new roster of characters and fresh cosmetics. With consistent updates and expansions, Street Fighter 6 remains a cornerstone of the FGC.
7. Tekken 8: Season 2
Release Date: 2025
As Tekken 8 wraps up its first season of content, fans eagerly anticipate what’s next. While details about Season 2 remain scarce, Bandai Namco has teased significant additions, including new fighters and potentially expanded single-player content.
Building on its robust mechanics and engaging story mode, Tekken 8 continues to refine its formula, ensuring it stays at the forefront of competitive and casual play.
Conclusion
2025 promises to be another thrilling year for fighting game enthusiasts. From long-awaited sequels like Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves to groundbreaking adaptations like Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact, there’s something for everyone. With updates to beloved franchises and re-releases of iconic classics, the future of the FGC looks brighter than ever.
Clive Rosfield Joins Tekken 8: What You Need to Know About His Arrival