2D fighting games are easily some of the most popular styles of fighting games out there, featuring heavy hitters likeMortal KombatandStreet Fighter. A lot of major fighting game franchises restricting themselves to one plane of movement have been successfully capturing the public’s eye for decades. Most 2-D fighting games feature a staple sizable roster of dozens of characters for players to try out. While some parts of most fighting game rosters stay the same, large portions usually get rotated out depending on how the game’s story is progressing, or whether developers want to try something new.
While iconic mainstays in the genre, such as Jin and Kazuya fromTekkenare from a 3-D fighting game, and Sol Badguy fromGuilty Gearis from the now prevalent hybrid genre, there are tons of iconic 2D fighting game characters out there. The sheer volume of iconic 2-D fighting game characters is incredible, but some clearly stand out, not only within their own franchise but the entire genre.
Kyo was the first major protagonist of theKing of Fightersfranchise. Most fans of the series would love a return to him being in the spotlight. Kyo has a slick design that resonated well with late 90s pop culture. Kyo’s always been a great character, even when he isn’t top-tier, he’s fun to play and has some difficult, yet flashy and slick combos.
Kyo’s relationship with hisarch-rival turned ally Ioriis a highlight of the series, and was particularly well received inKoF 2003.Overall, he served as the perfect 90s fighting game protagonist owing to his amazing design, cool gameplay, and, simply how good theKing of Fightersgames were.
Goku is one of the most recognizable protagonists in any form of media out there. While theDragon Ballseries has had tons of fighting games, the one that took the 2-D genre by storm wasDragon Ball FighterZ.With rollback netcode, tons of DLCs, and developer support, it has turned into a serious competitive fighting game. As the main character of theDragon Ballseries, Goku is obviously the star ofFighterZ.
Not only doesFighterZfeature a multitude of Goku iterations, but most of them are excellent characters and super fun to play. Goku, by virtue of his fame, will always be an iconic character. The fact thatFighterZis one of the best 2-D fighting games out there only adds to his legend.
Chun Li has grown over the last few decades to become one of the most iconic characters in fighting game history. She debuted as the first female character inStreet Fighter.While she’s never really the main protagonist of the video games, she’s always played an important role. A law enforcement officer, with a bone to pick with Bison, she’s always shown to be fiery, loyal, and staunchly against evil. Her entire character arc and her return to both Interpol and street fighting were well received.
Chun Li has a flashy and aggressive playstyle in most games, focused primarily around kicking and sometimes aerial combat. She is always one of the most entertaining characters to watch in a competitive setting, or in simple online multiplayer alike.
Ryu and Ken are essentially the Scorpion and Sub Zero equivalent ofStreet Fighter.Ryu, in particular, has always been the focal point of theStreet Fighterfranchise. Even in games such asStreet Fighter IVwhere he’s not the main character of the game’s story he has one of the best side plots in the game. WhileStreet Fighter 6has been a greatreturn to formfor the franchise, it has also made some fun new additions to Ryu.
Ryu has a simple and heroic design, altered a bit in the latest game. His special moves are eye-catching and fun to use. Ryu is always afan favorite for online play, and, of course, who can forget his legendary Hadouken?
Scorpion is essentially the mascot for theMortal Kombatseries. He has a unique visual appearance, with tons of unique and memorable costumes, and his voice line ‘Get Over Here’ will always be one of the most iconic lines in video games.
Scorpion is an incredible character, be it how his character hasdeveloped from a vengeful specterinto a calm and honorable warrior, his relationship with Sub-Zero, or his tragic backstory. The only reason Scorpion doesn’t top the list over his former rival is that his importance in the story faded in the late 2000s and some of his iterations have been lacking in terms of how viable they are competitively.
As is the case with most fighting game rankings, the ninjas from theMortal Kombatseries stay near the top. Sub Zero, be it Bi-Han or Kuai Liang, is one of the most iconic characters in any game. Sub Zero has starred in every mainlineMortal Kombatgame out there, normally playing an integral role in the game’s story and promotional material as well. Hisnew role inMK1has been a welcome addition as well.
While the Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei has often played second fiddle to Scorpion, it is safe to say the past few games have focused on Sub Zero’s lore. Be it how he has developed the Lin Kuei or the contrast between Bi-Han and Kuai Liang, it is easy to argue that Sub Zero is the most iconic character in 2-D fighting games. This becomes exceedingly apparent when considering how popular Sub Zero gameplay is. He always has one of themost fun-to-use movesetsand is normally viable in every meta. His combination of 50/50s, the patented Ice Klone, and his zoning tools make him an easy choice in most games.
