The fighting game landscape is set for an exciting 2026 with new titles and updates that promise to shake things up. As iconic franchises like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8 continue to evolve with fresh content and character additions, new challengers will enter the arena. This year is expected to be a milestone for fighting game enthusiasts, particularly those who are passionate about tag fighting games.
Classic 1v1 and Tag Fighters
Fans of the traditional one-on-one format will be thrilled by the arrival of a new title based on a beloved series and the significant overhaul of a standout game in the current console era. Reports suggest that 2026 will be rich in offerings for both classic and innovative fighting game experiences.
2026 will also offer plenty to those who prefer traditional 1-versus-1 fighting games with the launch of a new game based on a successful franchise and a massive overhaul of one of the best fighting games of the current console generation.
MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls
In collaboration with Arc System Works, Sony Interactive Entertainment and Marvel Games have crafted MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, a spiritual successor to Marvel Vs Capcom. This anime-style fighter features a 4-versus-4 tag system with characters like Captain America and Spider-Man, promising a visually stunning and exhilarating gaming experience.
Invincible VS
Leveraging the popularity of the Amazon Animated Series, Invincible VS is a 3v3 tag-fighter developed by veterans from the Killer Instinct team. Known for its intense violence, the game introduces a battle-fatigue system and destructible environments, promising to capture the essence of the series with its original voice cast.
Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game
Gameplay Group, known for Them’s Fighting Herds, presents Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game. A 1v1 fighter that incorporates a Flow System, it encourages movement-based element bending. With 12 hand-drawn characters, the game offers cross-play and rollback netcode, appealing to both casual and competitive players alike.
2XKO
Initially known as Project L, 2XKO will officially launch with its full Season 1 this January. Set in the League of Legends universe, this free-to-play 2v2 tag-team fighter features in-depth tag mechanisms and a “Duo Play” mode. Supported by a 2026 Competitive Series, 2XKO is poised to become a cornerstone for the fighting game community.
Guilty Gear -Strive- Version 2.0
Not a new release, but a major update, Guilty Gear -Strive- Version 2.0 is expected to deliver a comprehensive overhaul, introducing new gameplay mechanics, characters, and enhanced graphics. This update promises to reinforce its status as the pinnacle of modern anime fighters.
Honorable Mentions
Many other notable games will also make their debut in 2026, including:
- My Hero Academia: All’s Justice (February 6, 2026 – PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S)
- Acts of Blood (Summer 2026 – PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S)
- Combo Devils (TBA – PC)
- Umbral Core (TBA – PC, PlayStation 5)
- Scramble Heart City (TBA – PC)