The Best Fighting Games of 2017 By Score On PS4, Xbox One, PC, And Switch

Focusing on intense and riveting face-offs between rival players, fighting games are one of gaming's most celebrated and passionate genres. In addition to new updates for Street Fighter V and Killer Instinct, 2017 saw a number prolific releases from fan-favorite franchises including Tekken 7, Marvel VS Capcom: Infinite, and Injustice 2.

In this gallery, GameSpot is taking a look back at the best fighting games that were released in 2017. While some of these releases are a bit unorthodox in their approach and mechanics, the core experience of intense mano-a-mano action remains intact in each of these games. Here are GameSpot's best reviewed fighting games of 2017.

For more on the best games by score on other big genres, check out our individual features highlighting the best strategy games, best sports games, best action-adventure games, best shooters, and best RPGs. If you want to see our choices for the best games of 2017, check out our Game of the Year 2017 Top 10 List. And make sure to check out all our Best of 2017 features, detailing GameSpot's picks for 2017's best games.

"With AI battles, online and local versus matches, the diverse and ever-changing Multiverse, and an impressive story mode, Injustice 2 offers numerous ways of engaging with its characters and testing your abilities without feeling repetitive. This variety is further bolstered by gear. Despite the needlessly complex economy tied to item management, the value of customization and expression that comes with gear ultimately makes up for it. And with over 25 characters to explore, it's easy to look forward to watching your next character grow while your understanding of the game continues to expand. NetherRealm has delivered a fighting game that can be enjoyed by new players and pros alike in ways that go beyond pure competition. It's a bar that every fighting game should meet, but one that has up until now seemed out of reach." [Read the full review]

-- Peter Brown

"Capcom has understood what caused the stagnation of Marvel Vs. Capcom 3's competitive scene and, to some extent, the issues Street Fighter V currently faces. In response it has created a fighting game focused on individuality and expression, with deep systems that reward studious players but also accommodate casuals. As someone who both plays and watches fighting games, I am excited to see what the future holds for Marvel Vs. Capcom: Infinite." [Read the full review]

-- Tamoor Hussain

"Notwithstanding that ranked matches are currently a crapshoot, Tekken 7 remains an easy game to recommend. Its diverse roster is packed with a wide range of personalities and fighting styles, bolstered by a raucous attitude that begs to be taken seriously while simultaneously mocking its more peculiar whims in the process. Tekken fans will find their next favorite game--one that's the product of decade's worth of refinement. And while some of this depth will be lost or out of reach for newcomers, there's enough fun to be had outside of hardcore competition to keep players from all walks of gaming thoroughly entertained." [Read the full review]

-- Peter Brown

"Arms is a strong, substantial fighting game that takes a while to really hit its stride. Its barrier to entry is unlike anything else in the genre, but it's one worth tackling in order to get at the game's fascinating take on fighting. It may not have the same skill requirement as other fighting games, but the flexibility and fast thinking it requires secures it as one that works on its own terms and opens the genre up to a wider audience." [Read the full review]

-- Kallie Plagge