Mortal Kombat 1

One title I'm particularly excited about is Mortal Kombat 1. Growing up playing Mortal Kombat games has given me a strong appreciation for this franchise. The transition from Mortal Kombat 11 to Mortal Kombat 1 is nothing short of groundbreaking. Beyond my personal attachment to the series, this game is poised to be among the best fighting games of 2023 due to its cutting-edge mechanics, gameplay, and, of course, its iconic fatalities.

Initially, fans speculated that NetherRealm Studios would develop Injustice 3 or explore a new direction altogether. However, during a Warner Bros financial briefing, they unveiled plans for a new Mortal Kombat game, with its launch date anticipated for Q4 2023. While details are still scarce, there is speculation that the game might explore a timeline where Fire God Liu Kang mentors the Great Kung Lao against Goro, predating the events of the original Mortal Kombat. This opens the door for familiar foes like Onaga from Mortal Kombat: Deception to reemerge as formidable adversaries.

Fighting Games of 2023 - Dive into the exciting world of upcoming fighting games, with a focus on Mortal Kombat 1, Street Fighter 6, and more!

Street Fighter 6

After a rocky start with Street Fighter 5, Capcom is determined to ensure that Street Fighter 6 makes a significant impact. The Street Fighter 6 demo has already demonstrated why it’s one of the standout titles of 2023. The game offers simplified controls and a Party Mode for casual players, while also providing seasoned gamers with traditional setups and online features, all wrapped in a vibrant new visual style and soundtrack.

Beloved characters like Chun Li and Guile return, alongside fresh additions like Jamie, an expert in kung fu, Kimberly, a creative ninja, and Marisa, a powerhouse with Greco-Roman roots. Although the core roster is set, additional characters are expected as downloadable content, including fan-favorites from Street Fighter 5. The official release is scheduled for June 2, 2023, and anticipation is building.

Tekken 8

Despite its late reveal in 2022, Bandai-Namco is gearing up to release the latest installment of Tekken in 2023. This next-gen title will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, introducing a host of new features that distinguish it from its predecessor, Tekken 7. The “Heat” mechanics will enhance player capabilities, attack chains, and speed, encouraging a more aggressive play style.

Players will have the option to trigger super combo-like Heat Smashes and utilize Rage Arts or send opponents into danger zones for additional damage. Notably, several fan-favorite characters will return, including Jun Kazama, making her first canonical appearance since Tekken 2.

King of Fighters XV Season 2

In a surprising twist, characters in the new season will function as single-entry fighters rather than team-based, introducing a fresh dynamic. They will be joined by intriguing new friends, including Sylvie Paula Paula from KOF 14, sporting a fresh gothic look, and Najd, an Arabian vigilante. Additionally, KOF ’96 boss Goenitz will be available as a free upgrade, following the previous year’s Omega Rugal release. The excitement is palpable as two more new characters are slated for release in the upcoming seasons.

Final Fury

Kluge Interactive, known for their work on Synth Riders, aims to redefine the fighting game experience with Final Fury. Various studios have attempted to bring fighters into the first-person realm, but Final Fury will expand upon this concept, featuring free-roaming 3D arenas for players to engage in combat with gesture-based special moves. It will also include familiar controls like life bars and super meters while offering a unique approach to executing combos.