The fighting games genre has its roots in the old arcade era. Fighting games never stopped developing with each new console release. Xbox 360 fighting games set a tone for the forthcoming games of this genre. The Xbox 360 fighting games had revolutionary graphics for their time alongside the PS3 counterpart. Microsoft released Xbox 360 17 years ago, but the console still holds up. We will be reviewing the 20 best Xbox 360 games of all time you have to try out!
Are Xbox 360 games still made?
After 10 years of game production, Microsoft decided to shift its focus to the newer Xbox consoles. The games did not stop releasing games after 2015 but a huge decline in game development entailed. The newest game released for Xbox 360 was Just Dance 2019, released in 2018. However, the newest Xbox consoles have backward compatibility. Xbox One and the Xbox Series X can run most of the Xbox 360 games. You can check the detailed compatibility list here.
Can you play Xbox online in 2022?
You can play free-to-play games on the Xbox 360 in multiplayer without spending a dime. The Xbox gold subscription is not mandatory for these games. However, the usage of Xbox Live still requires a payment/subscription to use it. On the other hand, Microsoft is slowly shutting down online servers of some games, such as the fan-favorite servers of Halo.
Is the Xbox 360 still worth buying?
The Xbox 360 price depends on the condition of the console, but still, the prices are very low. If you only want to play some Xbox 360 fighting games or some others, this console might pay off more. However, in the long run, the newer consoles might pay off more because you can play the old and new games on them, for a bigger price though.
Top 20 Xbox 360 fighting games
#20 Dragon Ball Xenoverse
We can’t have a list of Xbox 360 fighting games without Dragon Ball, right? On the surface, Dragon Ball XenoVerse appears to be a fantastic game for fans of anime, fighting games, and role-playing games. Customizing your own character’s armor and move pool is fantastic. However, players find it difficult to enjoy the fighting mechanic when it feels hollow and poorly designed at times. The unusual tale provides a welcome break from the anime’s sagas retelling the story in a new manner. Given how tedious competitive multiplayer can be, most people found cooperative Parallel Quests to be the most enjoyable method to play online. The hardcore fanbase might consider this game a failed Budokai Tenkaichi 3 sequel. However, if you like Dragon Ball and want to try a new fighting game, this game is for you!
#19 Darkstalkers Resurrection
This game contains 2 games in one, Night Warriors: Darkstalkers Revenge and Darkstalkers 3. The originals are old arcade games and this title really “resurrected” these gems. Multiplayer, HD graphics filtering with numerous viewing choices, replay sharing, Spectator Mode, in-game achievements, Challenge/Tutorial Mode, and an un-lockable vault loaded with concept artwork, movies, and more have all been introduced to each game.
#18 UFC Undisputed 3
If you’re looking for realistic Xbox 360 fighting games, UFC Undisputed 3 is the game for you. UFC Undisputed 3 is a mixed martial arts video game developed by Yuke’s and distributed by THQ that features Ultimate Fighting Championship assets and competitors. Many players consider this the finest UFC game ever made. The technique is entertaining and not excessively complicated, yet it still seems authentic. The grappling is intuitive and covers all aspects of the situation. The career mode is engaging, the training mini-games are simple to understand, and improving your fighter’s abilities feels satisfying. This classic might teach modern UFC games a thing or two.
#17 WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010
Another “realistic” Xbox 360 fighting game is WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010. If you’re a millennial or an early Gen Z you must have watched this as a kid. This game offers you the chance to relive your childhood wrestling dream. Play as the iconic John Cena or Undertaker in this brilliant game. In this game, you can also create your custom-made character as you go on your journey and become the WWE Superstar!
#16 Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2
If you’re interested in anime Xbox 360 fighting games, do not skip this title! The tale stays true to the original series, which fans like. The battle mechanics are solid, and each character has their fighting style. Multiplayer combat is also available in the game. Do not underestimate the difficulty of this game. Since the prequel, the cast of characters has grown. Charge your chakra and unleash powerful jutsus on your opponents just like in the anime/manga. This title is packed with a huge load of fun which anyone can enjoy.
#15 Tekken Tag Tournament 2
We can’t make an Xbox 360 fighting games list without the iconic Tekken franchise. This game is a sequel to the original Tekken Tag Tournament. The Tag Team Tournament franchise gave players to use two characters while playing Tekken for the first time. Tekken Tag Tournament 2 is a fantastic addition to the franchise, with its massive roster, in-depth character creation possibilities, and variety of modes. That is if you can get beyond some of the Tekken universe’s most infuriating and opaque parts.
#14 Virtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown
Virtua Fighter’s greatest greatness, in my opinion, is its simplicity. Rather than opting for a bunch of surface-level systems and button layouts that are adequate but lack depth. Instead of forcing you to master whole new techniques and systems on the learning curve, Virtua Fighter sticks to the fundamentals and allows you gradually better at your basic gameplay. I wish more Xbox 360 fighting games followed this notion of depth above complexity.
#13 Injustice: Gods Among us
At the novice level, Injustice: Gods Among Us is an exciting, unique-feeling fighter, and at the intermediate level, it’s a deeper, more intriguing one. The story mode is a pleasant surprise, but the main draw is the thrill of wielding the godlike abilities of some of comics’ most intimidating characters. The Ultimate Edition on PS4 and PC is the best-looking, most full edition available right now, but there’s little incentive to upgrade if you already own Injustice on Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3, especially if you’ve already purchased the DLC.
#12 Street Fighter X Tekken
Here we have one of the most iconic crossover games. The smoothness of the tag mechanisms and the quick speed of the gameplay propel Street Fighter X Tekken to the top of the Xbox 360 fighting games list. The Gem system is a nice innovation that tries to do something adventurous by introducing some new combat tactics, and the two rosters work nicely together. The burden is on Namco Bandai to offer something better with Tekken X Street Fighter, as Street Fighter X Tekken nails the core combat principles while daring to take a few risks with the concept as we know it.
#11 Garou: Mark of the Wolves
It’s difficult not to suggest Garou: Mark of the Wolves to everyone who likes combat games. With rich, difficult-to-master characters and an overall balanced fighting system that rewards expert, committed players, it’s one of the greatest and most comprehensive fighters from the previous decade. At the end of the day, Garou Mark of Wolves is an intriguing trip down memory lane, but the aesthetics and restricted gameplay prevent it from delivering a genuinely enjoyable experience. It gets outshined by other popular titles such as Blazblue or Mortal Kombat.
#10 Skullgirls
You must have heard about this game in recent years if you’re a fan of Xbox 360 fighting games. Aside from regular gaming consoles this game made a huge name for itself on the android platform as well. Skullgirls’ fundamental gameplay is amazing on many levels, despite its lack of substance. Amazing animation enhances the game’s great foundations, and the roster offers a diverse range of strategies and play styles. For those seeking genuine competitiveness, both local and internet multiplayer modes work well.
#9 SoulCalibur 4
SoulCalibur is an undeniably accomplished brawler, visually gorgeous, and very tight. When it comes to multiplayer gaming, SoulCalibur IV is that unique breed of fighter that can delight both casual and hardcore gamers. Some characteristics, such as tag team combat, wider stages, and the inability to attack the commentator, are much missed by fans. Beautiful visuals, a rich and clever character creation, and amazing gameplay all-around take the game to the next level.
#8 Dead or Alive 4
Even though the modifications to the counter system, blocks, throws, and ground game are a little bothersome at first, Dead or Alive 4 is a step in the right direction for the franchise in the long term. Fighting has become more complex and clever, and while it may not appear so at first, every attack has a response. You can still counter practically everything. Not to forget, your ground game and environmental awareness are significantly improved. The online option in Dead or Alive 4 is also a huge boost, adding a new layer of gameplay to the franchise that should help it take off and breathe fresh life into it. The game is also really amusing.
#7 Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Fate of Two Worlds
We are following up with another amazing crossover game! This time around it is Marvel vs. Capcom. It’s essentially the same ridiculous concept we’ve come to enjoy, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. What’s old is fresh again after a severe roster revision. The game’s balance and richness are incredible, and even the weird characters have their particular charms. It’s easy to lose track of time when experimenting with different team combinations and fight plans. The game looks great, especially when the action is at its most intense. Despite a lack of depth due to the visual style used, some of the effects work and animation are breathtaking.
#6 The King of Fighters XIII
SNK accomplished the daunting challenge of redeeming a prior unsuccessful attempt at renewing the series with King of Fighters XIII. You can find everything that defines a great fighting game, from a compelling and well-balanced cast to well-thought-out mechanics and eye-catching visuals. XIII is a big upgrade over its predecessor and a true return to form for the series. It has things that will only appeal to devotees, but it is a vast improvement over its predecessor. This game made the fans proud of their beloved franchise.
#5 Persona 4 Arena
Witnessing or participating in a fight in Persona 4 Arena is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It seamlessly blends the majesty and ingenuity of one of the finest role-playing games of all time with the snarling confidence of a one-on-one brawler. This masterpiece left many players wondering game developers never made something like this before. If you enjoy fighting games but have always had an illogical aversion to “anime fighters,” now is the chance to overcome your prejudice. Persona 4 Arena is the real thing. You’ll regret missing it if you don’t.
#4 Blazblue: Calamity Trigger
A lot of Xbox 360 fighting game fans consider Blazblue: Calamity Trigger simply a dream come true. The level of polish and detail in this 2D game is out of the world. Character designs are fantastic, battle mechanics are amazing, and there are even bonus animated sections with chibi versions of the characters discussing the BlazBlue universe. Anime fans enjoy this game a lot because of the anime-ish feeling this game portrays. However, I believe the mechanics are interesting enough to pique the curiosity of anybody who is even vaguely intrigued in the genre.
#3 Street Fighter IV
Street Fighter is an evergreen franchise that was there at the beginning of the gaming era. In this fourth installment, Capcom resurrects the core of the iconic Street Fighter II represented by amazing visuals and online features. Many players regard Street Fighter IV as a new pinnacle in the Xbox 360 fighting games genre. The game has flawless execution, strong gameplay, is addictive as a masterpiece, and is incredibly entertaining. Only a few bland settings and uninspiring music detract from it, not to mention Capcom’s choice to charge for the other outfits.
You may also utilize a portion of your EX power meter charge to leave animations early and chain larger combos together with the new feature. They require some practice and some thumb dexterity to perfect, but once you do, you can perform techniques like dragon-punch stalls right into super attacks or use them to juggle people in mid-air with several blows. As you suffer damage, your vengeance meter fills, but your EX meter fills as you dole it out. Although you carry your EX power over to the following round you must fill the vengeance meter from 0. This is an important risk-versus-reward mechanism.
#2 Mortal Kombat Komplete Edition
Mortal Kombat is one of those titles you must have played regardless of your favorite genre. The game encompasses extreme and gory violence which is a blast to watch unfold. Mortal Kombat is a superb and well-polished introduction into the combat genre. If you don’t like fighting games, this one won’t persuade you otherwise, but if you love picking up the sticks and battling, this is the game for you. Overall, this is an excellent product that well surpasses expectations and is well worth investigating.
A super meter is a new feature in this Mortal Kombat game that allows you a few additional choices throughout a fight. The most noticeable additions are the deadly super combinations known as X-ray moves. They show you a slow-motion X-ray vision of your opponent’s bones and organs being smashed in an overabundance of blood and guts that even the most hardened of sadists would enjoy. Skulls are shattered, spines are snapped, and blades are plunged into eye sockets, all while flying shards of bone and frightening sound effects crunch and splat just perfectly.
#1 BlazBlue: Continuum Shift
You probably expected this one as being on the top of the Xbox 360 fighting games list. Although BlazBlue: Continuum Shift reuses a lot of stuff from Calamity Trigger, it’s still a lot of fun to play and has a lot of new features. New characters, levels, modes, and a compelling plot are just a few of the reasons why BlazBlue fans should invest in this “sequel.” I highly recommend BlazBlue to gamers who have never played it before; it’s a fantastic fighting game that shouldn’t be overlooked.
After its debut in BlazBlue Portable, developers introduced Legion mode introduced to Continuum Shift. In legion mode, players compete in a series of survival-style encounters to take over enemy locations on a battlefield. Players can keep one character from the vanquished team after each successful takeover to use in their army. This option is a lot of fun because it adds a tactical element to the game, however, the maps might have been randomized instead. Currently, each difficulty level has only one map to complete, and those maps are always occupied by the same characters. It’s still entertaining, but the replay value isn’t as high as it might be.
