Over the years, playing fighting games on mobile devices has become more than just an easy way to pass the time. With their enhanced graphics, smoother controls, and optimized gameplay, you can now enjoy a more engaging and thrilling experience, wherever or whenever your desire for a fight kicks in. These titles provide a fun and effective way to get your blood pumping and keep your competitive spirit alive.

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With countless fighting gems available on mobile platforms, figuring out which ones are worth playing can be a real challenge. To help you out, we've rounded up a list of the best fighting games on Android and iOS that will keep both beginners and experts alike entertained for hours on end.

7 Swipe Fight!

Swipe Fight! split image of characters fighting each other in different locations

The best fighting games don't always have to be filled with action or tell an intriguing story. Sometimes, a game is more enjoyable when it doesn’t require much time and effort to get into, Swipe Fight! is one of those games. It does a great job of simplifying things, while still offering highly entertaining gameplay.

As the title suggests, it only takes a swipe on your screen to beat your opponents. Utilize eight different swipe combinations to outwit your competition and unlock new locations and rewards as you go. Swipe Fight! is designed to be easy to pick up and play, making it appealing to those of you who simply want to enjoy an effortless, fast-paced, yet exciting fighting experience.

6 Thumb Fighter

Bandage defeats Sparky in a game of thumb of war (from Thumb Fighter)

Thumb Fighter is an easy-to-learn mobile fighting game that pits two players against each other in an epic thumb-on-thumb battle. The wide range of wacky thumb characters makes each fight all the more engaging and amusing to play. You can join tournaments, compete against your friends, or practice with AI.

It has a quick and simple setup that doesn't require special skills or complex controls, resulting in short matches that usually last under a minute. This makes it perfect for short bursts of fun, and easy to jump back into whenever you have a few minutes to spare.

5 Smash Legends

Multiple characters from Smash Legends brawling in the arena

Smash Legends is a fighting game that features 2D animations which beautifully emphasize its fairy tale theme, giving you an enchanting yet action-packed experience. It has both single-player and multiplayer game modes that allow you to engage in battles alongside your friends or compete solo with strangers. Depending on the game mode chosen, you win by either escorting targets to the opponent's base, capturing a contested area, or being the last one standing.

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You can choose from a range of characters based on your favorite fairy tale movies, folklore, and literature, each with unique fighting abilities that make them equally stand out. Customize your characters, level up their stats, and unleash their full potential to become the smash legend in fairytale land.

4 Marvel Contest Of Champions

Marvel Contest Of Champions Spider Man Versus Hulk

Marvel Contest of Champions provides a triple-A gaming experience on your mobile device. The game boasts a huge roster of characters for you to choose from, offering you epic comic-book video game action. Whether you’re a fan of the familiar title or simply enjoy fighting games, there is an exciting mix of game modes to keep everyone entertained.

Battle head-to-head with some of the vilest and most ruthless supervillains and prove your mettle as the strongest superhero in the Marvel universe. Assemble an ultimate team of champions and combine their unique abilities to create an unstoppable power force.

3 Boxing Star

Jin from Boxing Star celebrating his victory and his opponent knocked out in the boxing ring

If you’re a fan of both sports and combat, step into the dangerous world of boxing and face a multitude of ruthless and ambitious opponents who are just as determined to make it as a world-class fighter. You’ll be playing as a low-level boxer, so jab your way through underground fight clubs to higher-level leagues and establish a name in the industry.

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As you progress in the game, you'll be able to unlock better fighting gear, collect skill points, and train your boxer to suit your fighting style. Win as many matches as possible and make your dream of becoming a boxing star a reality.

2 The King Of Fighters Allstar

Kyo Kusanagi fighting a female boss in the streets (The King Of Fighters ALLSTAR)

The King of Fighters Allstar brings back that old-school fighting game style, with a modern twist to render a refreshing experience. It features a fast-paced combat system, but with simple button controls to make it easy to perform combinations and special moves. Build a team of up to three fighters and switch between them when needed during battles.

You’ll be participating in a tournament against the top fighters from around the world. Even legends of the genre, such as Tekken’s Jin Kazama and Street Fighter's Ryu make an appearance. Everyone worthy enough is invited, so prove you deserve your spot in the tournament and fight your way to the top. You can play the game in story mode, face real-time matches, or play co-op alongside other players.

1 Skullgirls: Fighting RPG

Peacock and Valentine facing each other in a match (Skullgirls: Fighting RPG)

If you’re new to the genre, Skullgirls: Fighting RPG is an excellent mobile fighting game to start with. You will learn how to fight like a professional, as well as how to defeat one in the game. From blocking your opponents' attacks to strategically executing special moves at the right time. After just a few practices, you'll be able to get the hang of your play style and take on the many challenges in the game. Build your dream team and defeat the evil Skullgirl before she destroys the streets of New Meridian.

In addition to its pleasant combat system, what makes Skullgirls: Fighting RPG truly stand out is its distinct 2D art style that brings the characters to life. The unique character designs allow each of their personalities to shine through, especially when in action. The combination of aesthetic animations and a compelling plot make Skullgirls one of the most enjoyable and visually satisfying games on the platform.

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