Hey there, fighting game fanatics! Are you looking for the best online fighting games to play on your PC? Well, look no further! We've compiled a list of the most thrilling, action-packed, and competitive fighting games that you can enjoy right from the comfort of your own home. Get ready to unleash your inner warrior and dominate the online arena!

Why Online Fighting Games Rock

Before we dive into the list, let's talk about why online fighting games are so awesome. Forget button-mashing against predictable AI – online matches pit you against real opponents with their own unique strategies and playstyles. This adds a whole new level of challenge and excitement to the game. You'll need to adapt, learn, and constantly improve your skills to climb the ranks and become a true fighting game master.

Online fighting games also offer a fantastic sense of community. You can connect with other players from around the world, share tips and tricks, and even form rivalries! The thrill of victory is even sweeter when you know you've outsmarted and outplayed a human opponent. Plus, many online fighting games have active tournaments and events, giving you the chance to showcase your skills and win prizes.

The Contenders: Our Top Picks

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the best online fighting games currently available for PC:

Street Fighter V: Champion Edition

Street Fighter V: Champion Edition is a classic for a reason. This game is a cornerstone of the fighting game community, and for good reason. It boasts a diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique movesets and playstyles. Whether you prefer the shoto style of Ryu and Ken, the grappling prowess of Zangief, or the technical wizardry of Dhalsim, there's a character for everyone.

Street Fighter V has undergone several updates and expansions since its initial release, adding new characters, stages, and gameplay mechanics. The Champion Edition includes all of the content from previous versions, making it the definitive Street Fighter V experience. The online matchmaking is generally solid, and there's a thriving community of players to compete against, from casual newcomers to seasoned veterans. The depth of the gameplay is incredible, rewarding players who take the time to learn the nuances of each character and master their combos. It's easy to pick up, but difficult to master, making it a perennial favorite among fighting game enthusiasts.

To truly excel in Street Fighter V, consider focusing on: mastering anti-air techniques to shut down your opponent's jump-ins, perfecting your execution of critical combos, and studying frame data to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each move. Watching pro players and analyzing their strategies can also be incredibly helpful. And remember, practice makes perfect! The more time you spend in the training mode, the better you'll become at reacting to your opponent's attacks and executing your own game plan.

Tekken 7

Tekken 7 is another heavyweight in the fighting game world, known for its 3D movement and brutal combos. Unlike 2D fighters like Street Fighter, Tekken 7 allows you to sidestep and circle your opponent, adding a whole new dimension to the gameplay. The character roster is just as diverse as Street Fighter's, featuring a mix of martial arts masters, animalistic fighters, and even a few guest characters from other franchises.

Tekken 7's online netcode has been praised for its stability and low latency, making it a great choice for online play. The game also features a robust ranked mode, allowing you to test your skills against players of similar skill levels. The learning curve can be a bit steep for newcomers, but the satisfaction of landing a perfectly timed combo is well worth the effort. The rage art system adds an exciting comeback mechanic, giving players a chance to turn the tide of battle even when they're on the brink of defeat.

If you want to get good at Tekken 7, focus on learning the movement system and how to effectively sidestep your opponent's attacks. Understanding frame data is also crucial for maximizing your combo potential. Experiment with different characters to find one that suits your playstyle, and don't be afraid to watch replays of your matches to identify areas for improvement. The Tekken community is also very active, so you can find plenty of resources and tutorials online.

Mortal Kombat 11

Mortal Kombat 11 is famous for its gruesome fatalities and over-the-top violence. If you're looking for a fighting game with a darker edge, Mortal Kombat 11 is definitely worth checking out. The game features a story-driven campaign, a customizable character system, and a wide range of online modes.

Mortal Kombat 11's online netcode is generally good, but it can be a bit more sensitive to lag than Street Fighter V or Tekken 7. However, the game's unique Krushing Blow system adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay. Krushing Blows are special moves that trigger when certain conditions are met, dealing massive damage and potentially changing the course of the match. The Fatal Blow mechanic is similar to Tekken 7's Rage Arts, giving players a chance to unleash a devastating attack when they're low on health.

To dominate in Mortal Kombat 11, learn the timing and spacing of your character's moves, and master the art of punishing your opponent's mistakes. Understanding frame data is also important, as it will help you identify opportunities to interrupt your opponent's attacks. The Kustom Variation system allows you to create unique loadouts for each character, so experiment with different abilities and find a combination that suits your playstyle.

Guilty Gear Strive

Guilty Gear Strive is a visually stunning fighting game with a rock and roll soundtrack and a unique gameplay system. Known for its anime aesthetic and fast-paced action. This game features a smaller character roster than some of the other games on this list, but each character is incredibly unique and well-designed.

Guilty Gear Strive's online netcode is considered by many to be the best in the business. The game uses a rollback system, which helps to minimize lag and create a smooth online experience. The Roman Cancel system allows you to cancel the animation of your moves, opening up new combo possibilities and adding a layer of creativity to the gameplay.

To get good at Guilty Gear Strive, focus on learning the Roman Cancel system and how to use it to extend your combos. Understanding the game's unique mechanics, such as the Gatling Combo system and the Psych Burst, is also crucial. The game's tutorial mode is one of the best in the genre, so be sure to check it out if you're new to the series. The Guilty Gear community is also very active and welcoming, so don't be afraid to ask for help.

Honorable Mentions

While the games listed above are our top picks, there are plenty of other great online fighting games for PC. Here are a few honorable mentions:

• Killer Instinct: A free-to-play fighting game with a unique combo system.
• BlazBlue: Centralfiction: Another anime fighter with a complex story and deep gameplay.
• Under Night In-Birth Exe:Late[cl-r]: A stylish and technical fighter with a dedicated community.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – our list of the best online fighting games for PC! Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a complete newbie, there's a game out there for you. So, grab your fight stick, fire up your PC, and get ready to rumble! Remember to have fun, practice hard, and always respect your opponents. Good luck, and may the best fighter win!