The fighting genre is largely rooted in retro gaming and arcade-style play, with its typically fast-paced twitch gameplay and multiplayer focus. While this can bring a timeless appeal, these same qualities can also tend to age some titles.
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This is notably the case on Nintendo’s more technically-limitedGameCube, which was home to some fighters whose graphics and gameplay don’t hold up today. Even the unique controller — often well-suited for the genre — isn’t always enough to offset the clunky mechanics, awkward animations, or muddled visuals some of these fighters have.
That’s not to say the console doesn’t offer a solid lineup of fighters; in fact, quite the opposite. But whichGameCube fighting gameshave held strong and best endured the test of time?
10WWE Day Of Reckoning
Wrestling games tend to hold a certain appeal with their intense, white-knuckle combat and competitive nature, even for gamers who aren’t much into the sport at large. And while theDay of ReckoningGameCubeexclusive holds up somewhat on the multiplayer front, its basic campaign and limited wrestler selection make it fall flat by today’s standards.
And this doesn’t even factor in the jagged character models and rather muddled, dull aesthetic.
9Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee
Godzillaremains a timeless icon when it comes to monster movies, though it’s largely a different story when it comes to the prehistoric beast’s showing in games; including this Pipeworks Software fighter. In fairness, this larger-than-life fighter was a surprise hit following its 2002 release on GameCube and Xbox.
It was a joy to take on the role of awesome monsters ranging from Megalon to Anguirus, and even several renditions of the scaly green monster himself. This was supported by mostly solid mechanics and a range of satisfying moves, such as a beam shot and the ability to heave objects at foes.
Still,Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee’s relatively shallow gameplay, clunky animations, and dated polygonal visuals haven’t aged too well.
8TMNT: Mutant Melee
Therenowned turtles-in-a-half-shell have seen countless renditions, including a more serious, action-focused take back in 2003. And while this version might prove a good fit for a fighting game,TMNT: Mutant Meleealso hasn’t held up quite as well as it otherwise might.
Still, as proven by the hype surroundingShredder’s Revenge,Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtleshas taken on a retro charm that only adds to its vast appeal; and there’s plenty in this brawler. And while simple and rough around the edges,TMNT: Mutant Melee’s more cartoony look has allowed it to hold up better even than other more polished and robust fighters.
With four unique modes (including a fairly detailed campaign), a slew of fun moves, and addictive multiplayer, this romp at least deserves a second look.
7Mortal Kombat: Deception
Thestoried, goryMortal Kombatfrom Midway has seen its highs and lowsover the years, with this sixth-gen rendition on GameCube hovering in the middle.Mortal Kombat: Deceptionshakes up the tried-and-true formula by adding unique weapons, amusing instant-death traps, Combo Breakers, and even minigames.
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Added to this are some exciting 1-on-1 brawling gameplay and a whopping 26 characters, which include series staples like the revenant Scorpion and icy Sub-Zero. And thoughDeception’s in-game visuals are a tad lacking to modern eyes, the animations and flashy cutscenes remain flashy and visually impressive for their time.
6Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 2
This esteemed anime franchise has, understandably, translated quite well into fighting games, which modern hits likeDragon Ball FighterZcontinue to prove. Yet, this spiritual predecessor, which dates back to ‘04,holds strong as an overlooked fighteron the Cube, and a natural draw forDragon Ball Zfans.
While critiqued for being a marginal step up fromBudokai 1, this refined sequel entices in its own right, delivering vibrant anime visuals, heart-pumping action, and a combat system that’s varied and intense.
5Bloody Roar: Primal Fury
Hitting the scene as a draw forSmash Bros.and Sony fans alike, this once exclusive soon made its way to Xbox with slightly sleeker visuals. Regardless,Bloody Roar: Primal Furyremains an overlooked hit on the Big N’s machine, and even somewhat holds up visually. This is despite its ‘02 release and its origins on the slightly less potent Cube.
Building on the fan-favorite on PlayStation,Primal Furynails that balance of accessibility and detail, with its fast-paced action and a range of attacks/blocks. The stakes are raised as players fight to fill the crucial Beast Gauge; a satisfying power move that morphs fighters into half-animal beasts.
While not exactly a technical marvel, the game shines with a great presentation, fun arcade-style combat, and solid controls that feel great with the Cube’s fighter-friendly controller.
4SoulCalibur 2
While the thin lineup of third-party games on GC tended to be overlooked, Project Soul and Namco enticed fans with this version of the stellarSoulCalibur2, with sleek visuals and the addition of Link as a playable character.
The game builds on the appealing foundation of its predecessor, bringing new fighters, an in-depth Conquest Mode, and refined, expanded mechanics. While there’s been no shortage of similar romps since its ‘02 release,SoulCalibur 2remains a gold standard in 3D arena fighters.
3Naruto: Clash Of Ninja 2
While the use of cartoony cell-shaded graphics proved divisive in decades past, they’ve often stood the test of the time more than their polygonal counterparts. Such a style can be hit or miss, but in the case of this arena fighter,based on the hitNarutomangaand anime, it fits like a glove.
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Clash of Ninjaand, in particular, its detailed ‘03 sequel still shine with their charming visuals and thrilling combat that sets the stage for some chaotic showdowns. Not only has the aesthetic aged well, but the game’s robust story mode, a diverse roster of 22 characters, and solid mechanics yield a more modern feel.
2Capcom Vs. SNK 2 EO
With gameplay that’s as deep and varied as its convoluted title, this Capcom hit powered its way onto the Cube in epic fashion, pummeling players with loads of fun arcade-style gameplay. This 2D fighter is a celebration of staple IPs of the genre; and an homage to early-’90s fighting games at large.
Ironically, it’sCapcom Vs. SNK 2’s charmingly retro aesthetic that allows the game to hold up more than most of its ilk. It certainly helps that some of the classic sprites have been redrawn for this game, and thus made even sharper.
This thrilling fighter is made all the more accessible with theEOversion on Cube, bringing an “Easy Operation” system with simpler commands and mechanics, as well as bonus characters including Evil Ryu.
1Super Smash Bros. Melee
It speaks volumes thatthis GameCube classicis still a go-to for social gatherings and eSports face-offs, despite flashier, more robust sequels coming out since its ‘01 release. With a range of distinct, recognizable fighters, sharp, responsive mechanics, and endlessly-fun party gameplay,Super Smash Bros. Meleeis still a joy to play today.
On top of this, the vibrant visuals, detailed models, gorgeous backdrops, and orchestral soundtrack bring a delightful presentation to the fray; one that’s hardly aged.
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