The 2024 fighting games schedule seems to be eclipsed by2023’sStreet Fighter 6andMortal Kombat 1. However, this year does have some knockouts to be aware of, especiallyTekken 8.
2024 bound releases:
Under Night In-Birth 2
The last chapter of the Hollow Night storylineUnder Night In-Birth 2begins onJanuary 24. With it brings rollback netcode,three new intriguing characters, and intense 2D anime action. Unfortunately, it seems likethere’s no cross-play. However, there are new battle mechanics to figure out, including Creeping Edge and Celestial Vorpal that should spice up the sequel’s gameplay. Those who haven’t played the game may be happy to know there are simple combos in the game that only require taps of one button.
Tekken 8
Publisher Bandai Namco is starting off with a bang withTekken 8onJanuary 26. Each punch, kick, and eye laser looks stunning in Unreal Engine 5. It also introduces new characters such as the stylish French fighterVictorand the coffee-obsessedAzucena.Leo‘s looking stylish too, and will be my main! A new mode called Arcade Quest hopefully keeps us entertained for many hours after we finish the main storyline as well, which has Kazuya and Jin fighting for supremacy. Read more in ourhands-on impressionsfor the game.
MultiVersus
The platform fighterMultiVersusis supposedly making its grand return in 2024. It’s a Warner Bros-themed fighting game that was in open beta in 2023before closing down temporarily. The concept’s so wild that you can have Shaggy turn into a Super Saiyan-like being and pummel The Iron Giant. He definitely doesn’t need a Scooby Snack after that.
The game regularly stills sees discussion to this day, despite the servers getting shut off months ago. There seems to be genuine interest in the title returning. Hopefully, Player First Games can nail the landing and haveMultiVersusbecoming a great free-to-play alternative to theSuper Smash Bros.series. Fingers crossed it can make a comeback in 2024 after taking a break. Wethink it has a bright futureif done right.
Rivals 2
Another platform fighter emerges in 2024: the sequel toRivals of Aether.The 2D pixel-style of the first game is transformed into a 3D glow-up. Thegame’s Steam pagesays it will be part of “the next generation of platform fighters.” The sequel seems to be an improvement with the addition of shields, ledges, grabs, and throws. It also has three new special moves for each character.
At the time of writing,Rivals 2is seeking funding viaKickStarterwith fans more than tripling the initial pledge goal. Thanks to this, we’ll be getting at least nine characters in the initial roster. It’s also going to have rollback netcode from day one.
Die by the Blade
The last 2024 fighting game we know of isDie by the Blade.Pushed back to anEarly 2024 release, this tense 3D fighter makes every strike count. Similar to the intensity of the It brings in a unique blend of samurai and cyberpunk inspirations into one title.
The hook is that your opponent can fall in just one strike. You have to be strategic as you get closer to your foe slowly as each second passes. It’s going to get intense, and I’m here for it.
Possible releases:
Project L
TheLeague of Legendsseries is getting a 2v2 fighting game currently namedProject L. The colorful visuals from Runeterra pop on screen, and the action looks intense. For example, you’ll be usingYasuo’s huge katanafor impressive ground and air combos.
Project Lalso has a neat Duo Play feature that lets you tag in your online friend in battle. I’m not aLeague of Legendsfan, but I can’t wait to get a hold of the action this game has in store for us.
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves
Fatal Furywill be making its return inCity of the Wolves.SNK briefly teased gameplay with anAugust 2023 trailer. However, we know very few details about the title. It does look pretty though. Hopefully it can make an appearance in 2024, and doesn’t get pushed to 2025 or beyond.
A new Dragon Ball Budokai Tenkaichi?
AnewDragon Ball Budokai Tenkaichiwas teased back in March 2023, but very few details have been shared by Bandai Namco at this point in time. Hopefully we hear more in 2024. Let’s make a wish to Shenron for this game to come out soon.
