Fighting games have a product design problem

3 days ago

Fighting games in 2026 are struggling, with only Street Fighter 6 maintaining relevance.
The genre risks stagnation if other studios mimic SF6's design instead of innovating.
Fighting games currently reach only 1/10th of their potential audience.
Core game mechanics changes have little impact on expanding the audience.
The genre must evolve in other dimensions to grow, such as social features and accessibility.
Fighting games peaked in the early '90s but declined due to competition from other genres.
Modern fighting games lack the social and accessible environment of arcades.
Despite critical acclaim, fighting game revenues have stagnated compared to other genres.
Online play and esports have not significantly expanded the fighting game audience.
The genre needs better product design, including crossplay, functional netcode, and matchmaking.
Fighting games should focus on making players feel like martial arts movie protagonists.
Key narratives and themes include rival schools, the student's journey, and reluctant heroes.
Virtual spaces should replicate arcade social experiences with modern digital features.
Story modes should challenge players to learn game mechanics, not just provide narrative.
Single-player modes should amplify the fighting game experience, not distract from it.
Character customization and dress-up could attract a broader audience.
The genre must compete in the broader gaming market by improving product design.

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