When it comes to 2D fighting games, titles like Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter have dominated the genre for years. These games have captivated audiences with their single-plane movement and diverse character rosters that keep evolving with the game's narrative and developers' creativity.
Even though characters like Jin and Kazuya from Tekken belong to a 3-D fighting game, and Sol Badguy from Guilty Gear comes from a hybrid genre, the 2D fighting game landscape is brimming with iconic characters that have left an indelible mark on the genre.
6 Kyo Kusanagi
King of Fighter Fans Are Waiting For The Iconic Hero's Return
Kyo, the original protagonist of the King of Fighters franchise, has garnered a dedicated fan base eagerly awaiting his return. Renowned for his slick design and dynamic gameplay, Kyo has maintained a strong presence in the late 90s pop culture, making him a beloved character in the fighting game community.
5 Goku
The Legendary Super Saiyan Will Always Be The Most Memorable Character In Every Game
Goku, the iconic protagonist of the Dragon Ball series, has left an enduring legacy in the 2-D fighting game realm, particularly in Dragon Ball FighterZ. With a multitude of engaging iterations and exceptional gameplay, Goku's prominence in FighterZ solidifies his status as an unforgettable character.
4 Chun Li
Fans Have Been Mesmerized By Chun Li's Iconic Playstyle For Decades
Chun Li, evolving into one of the most iconic figures in fighting game history, made her debut as the first female character in Street Fighter. Her fiery and aggressive combat style, centered around dynamic kicking and aerial maneuvers, has consistently captivated audiences, whether in competitive or casual settings.
3 Ryu
Ryu Is The Quintessential Fighting Game Protagonist
Ryu, a cornerstone of the Street Fighter franchise, has consistently been a central figure in the series. Renowned for his simple yet heroic design and captivating special moves, Ryu remains a fan favorite for online play, solidifying his status as a quintessential protagonist in the fighting game realm.
2 Scorpion
Fans Are Eager To See What's Next For The Shirai Ryu's Stalwart
Scorpion, the emblematic figure of the Mortal Kombat series, boasts a unique visual appeal, a compelling character arc, and a memorable presence in the gaming world. Despite some iterations lacking competitiveness, Scorpion's evolution from a vengeful specter to an honorable warrior has solidified his legacy in the 2-D fighting game genre.
1 Sub Zero
Bi-Han Is Back And As Morally Gray As Ever
Sub Zero, whether portrayed by Bi-Han or Kuai Liang, remains an iconic presence in the Mortal Kombat series, featuring prominently in the game's narrative and promotional materials. With a compelling storyline and a versatile moveset, Sub Zero's popularity and competitive viability further solidify his position as the most iconic character in the realm of 2-D fighting games.