Handheld Fighting Games: Top Ten Greatest, Best, and Superb Handheld Fighting Games of All Time

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Here is the list of the top ten greatest handheld fighting titles of all time as well as the best and superb fighting title to ever hit handheld history.

10. Killer Instinct - Rare/Nintendo [Game Boy]

Killer Instinct was originally released on arcade in 1995 as the first fighting game to take full control of Nintendo's silicon graphics arcade board and was later released as an action fighting blockbuster for the Super NES and Game Boy. The Game Boy version of this popular arcade port feature the same graphic quality of the Super NES and arcade counter-parts, though it is missing many of the extra modes as well as one fan favorite character, Cinder, but that okay because the fighting are what's count and in this fighting edition you get nine of the toughest brawlers to ever hit the fighting arena.

The game features lots of cool stages to fight in as well as unique special moves, killer combos, fatalities, humiliations, and ultra combos for each of the selectable characters and the boss character, Eyedol, can also be selectable via code to satisfy all hardcore fighting fans everywhere. Though the control are a little on the wrong side of thing and since the Game Boy only requires two buttons, there aren't a lot to master but there are still many new tricks that will be learned once player know the right command. With these great features and three modes of play including a multiplayer vs. mode for battling a friend, you'll likely have a good time enjoying this unique fighting edition on the go.

9. Guilty Gear X: Advance Edition - Sammy [Game Boy Advance]

Sammy, the creator of the original Guilty Gear series has brought the original version of their popular Guilty Gear X to the little GBA handheld. Guilty Gear X: Advance Edition includes 14 selectable fighters and features fluid animations, easy to toggle control, all the special moves, super combos, instant kill techniques, team-up attacks, and tag play are fully reincarnated and can be initiate with ease. There are also six different modes of play as well as a two players vs. link battle mode. Extras such as unlockable secret characters, original and alternative version of each character, hidden features, and new color edit option are icing on this glorious 2D fighting free-for-all. Definitely a well unique fighting edition to have on the go.

8. King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood - Atlus/SNK [Game Boy Advance]

Since SNK had depart from the arcade era and now was own by other third party developers, the King of Fighters series of its popular fighting franchise now got bad reputation on other console since the Neo Geo Arcade era is dead to a demise. SNK had team with Sammy to bring the first King of Fighters EX series to the GBA in 2001 and it fails miserably because of the awkward controls and game play as well as the bad strikers system that only let you choose strikers, though, having a very low playable cast of fighters. Now SNK had try it again with Playmore and Atlus in helping to fix things from the first game, in King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood, you get 21 selectable characters from a solid cast of three fighters in one group which organize as a team, SNK Playmore and Atlus also fix the battle system making the game easier for fan to get the hang of and the striker system is now fix, now longer can you had the limit of characters but as a team the first two partners can get backup helps from next waiting partner but once the two previous partners are down and all that's left is the last person, he or she is left alone with no backup. This system is unique that player will need to take it into strategy in able to survive the many battles ahead. Also what's good is that there are more fun new modes to tackle to instead of the old team routine of the original. You get the infamous Team and Single Vs. Mode, the original Story Mode and an Endless or All Survival Mode to test your record. Though SNK is no longer the leading arcade corporation they used to be, they still had skills in the 2D fighting arena for our little handheld.

7. Super Street Fighter II: Turbo Revival - Capcom [Game Boy Advance]

When it comes to bringing old-school 2D fighting to handheld, it always had to be Capcom that makes it possible. Super Street Fighter II: Turbo Revival is an arcade perfect port of an already unique fighting edition that is now released with upgraded graphics and features for the GBA. All the original special attacks, bone crushing combos, and trademark super combos are back in a nice portable package. You'll get all these in every one of the 16 selectable fighters you can choose from and two more with two secret boss characters you can unlock with the Vs. points you earn. There will also be other modes such as a Survival Mode with plenty of game play options, a Bonus Game Practice Mode, a Time Attack Mode, and a Training Mode for practice play as well as a two player VS. Link Mode for fighting against a friend. When it comes to Capcom, thing just never gets old, that's why Super Street Fighter II: Turbo Revival is here to stay and perfect for play on the go anytime.

6. Samurai Shodown! 2 - SNK [Neo Geo Pocket Color]

When the Neo Geo Pocket Color still goes one on one against Nintendo's Game Boy Color at the handheld war era of 1998 through 2000, a lot of fighting games were released from SNK for their portable handheld. Samurai Shodown! 2 was one of their greatest masterpiece from that time and all it really do is feature a great arcade fighting edition by introducing more and more special moves and that is what this game is. This game is based on the Neo Geo version of Samurai Shodown: Warrior's Rage but in a little portable fashion, it contains 12 selectable fighters plus two unlockable secret characters as well as special weapon combos, POW moves, air attacks, and bust and slash features of the console original. The game also feature a two player vs. play mode fun for battling a friend. Though since the Neo Geo Pocket Color didn't sell as good as the Game Boy Color back then, not every fighting fans of the popular series had ever got the chance to play this great and unique Neo Geo arcade handheld reincarnation.

5. King of Fighters: Round 1 & 2 - SNK [Neo Geo Pocket Color]

Like all SNK's King of Fighters titles for the arcade and Neo Geo, these two little arcade fighting editions are based from those editions and bring the best features from those console versions to these unique portable packages. In King of Fighters: Round 1 and/or Round 2, depending on which one you had, features super deform fighters in cute chibi style sprite ready to pack a serious 2D punch in the face of all fighters everywhere, over 14 selectable characters plus two hidden boss characters in each version as well as special moves, super combos, team attacks, and unique striker system that is the trademark of these popular arcade ports. You'll also get a handful of four different modes of play as well as a vs. link mode against a friend either in Single Battle, or Team Battle. These are great titles that really shows their ages and great for handheld fighting fans everywhere.

4. Mortal Kombat II - Midway [Game Boy]

It's almost rare to find a truly great Mortal Kombat fighting masterpiece from Midway for the handheld platform these days since the series had some weak game features and very crappy game play on handheld then its arcade and console counter-parts. Mortal Kombat II for the Game Boy; however, may look like an outdated handheld fighting edition full of craps and choppy graphics, but what other fighting fans don't know is that this is the most rarest and greatest handheld Mortal Kombat fighting edition there is of all the other Mortal Kombat titles so far. It features eight selectable fighters each with their very own special moves, killer combos, fatalities, and babalities. In all, there are only two battle stages and in them there is only one stage with a pit fatality feature, there are also two hidden secret fighters that player can challenge to satisfy their fighting appetite, the control are easy to get used to and every combos as well as special and basic moves are easy to master unlike the many prequels and sequels that came before and after this version which had a big disadvantages with the use of game play and control that made them look like crap. Also if you want competition you can always fight one on one with a friend via link cable, the final boss is also a challenge to beat and the game is so fun that you will want to come back for more.

3. Tekken Advance - Namco [Game Boy Advance]

It's hard to believe that Namco, a third party publisher, can creatively published a good 3D fighting franchise such as Tekken for the Nintendo Game Boy Advance with quality features and game play similar to that of the PlayStation original. Tekken Advance is likely similar to Tekken 3 for the PlayStation, it introduced nine of the series greatest fighters as well as one unlockable boss character with the crammed in features of seven modes of play which includes Arcade, Tag Mode similar to the one in "Tekken Tag Tournament," Team Battle Mode, Time Attack, Survival, and Practice Mode. Namco was also able to crammed in every pack of combos, parry moves, side-steps, and unique juggles to each fighters making this game a complete fighting pleasure. The control are very easy to handle with only four buttons of the GBA and the sounds as well as the graphics are that arcade quality perfect to the console version. You can even go one on one with a friend via link battle for a non-stop combo butt-kicking fun.

2. Samurai Shodown - Takara/SNK [Game Boy]

Like every SNK titles that were released on the Game Boy, Samurai Shodown is a port of the ever popular Neo Geo arcade original. Developed by Takara at the time and published by SNK, Samurai Shodown for Game Boy features chibi super deform fighters and 2D action fighting at its finest, you will also get a lineup of 12 selectable samurai warriors ready to slash and kill as well as three secret bonus characters to be discover. Each character also comes pack with different weapons as well as special moves, POW attacks, and air attacks. The Game Boy version is unique that it had a Story Mode that tells the story of the character you choose which explain their reason for combat in wide cut-scenes anime picture formats. The straw slashing bonus stage is fun and challenging every time and the final boss battle is tough and challenging as well that you'll likely want to master your character more often in able to be success and if that's not enough you can always duel one on one with a friend via link cable in Vs. Mode.

1. Darkstalkers: Chronicles - Capcom [PlayStation Portable]

Capcom had did it again with this Chronicles version of their ever popular Darkstalkers franchise. In Darkstalkers: Chronicles for PSP you will be able to select a character from over 20 of the series greatest fighters in good old 2D fashion. Each fighters will come pack with every special moves, combos, super techniques, counter and guards that made the original a success. There will also be plenty of hidden surprises scattered in the game and a two player wireless link battle is possible via blue-tooth. Online play is also possible and you can take the fun with you anywhere and fight anyone across the globe worldwide.

BEST! SNK vs. Capcom: Match of the Millennium - SNK [Neo Geo Pocket Color]

The best and truly unique fighting edition of all handheld fighting games is this exclusive handheld version of an arcade smash hit. In the Neo Geo Pocket Color version of SNK vs. Capcom: Match of the Millennium, you'll get a choice of playing as the Capcom side of the story or the SNK side of the story in a competition through five multiple modes of play and vs. link battle modes. You will also get to choose from over 24 selectable superstars from both the SNK and Capcom universe each with their own trademark special moves and super combos. The game also crammed in as many multiple mini-games in the game as possible even some that had the enjoyment of Samurai Shodown, Ghosts 'N' Goblins, Ikari Warriors, and Final Fight. Best of all, you can get Dreamcast link support from Capcom's version of Capcom vs. SNK: Millennium Battle 2000.

SUPERB!!!!! Street Fighter Alpha 3 - Capcom [Game Boy Advance]

Wow! It's almost hard to believe but Capcom had actually released an almost console perfect version of the arcade hit original, Street Fighter Alpha 3 for Nintendo's little handheld. Street Fighter Alpha 3 for GBA features super stunning 2D graphics, high quality 2D backgrounds, over five modes of free-for-all play including the fun two against one Dramatic Battle Mode and a two player Vs. link battle mode, there is also a whopping cast of over 31 selectable fighters as well as five secret characters and three of them are GBA exclusives from other Street Fighter series. Each fighters will also get a choice between one of three special SF trademark fighting styles called "-isms" which will determine the way your fighter will play. There will also be a lot of unlockable new features and secret goodies hidden within the games to fully satisfy all 2D Street Fighter fighting fans everywhere. And if that's not enough, two players can also duke it out against a computer control opponent in the Dramatic Battle Mode for a crazy non-stop 2D free-for-all showdown and is also fun to play on the go. Super indeed!

Others:

Here are some of the other handheld fighting titles that didn't make it to the top ten greatest, best, and superb list above. Some are not as good as others but they can still be worth a play to kill off some times on the go, others though, are just craps so be aware of that.

Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors - Atari [Game Boy Advance]

Released in 2004 for the Game Boy Advance, Dragon Ball Z fighting games were never consider to be as tough a fighter as the more popular fighting editions of the arcade but this little fighting package can prove that wrong. Since Atari had made a bad engine to its Dragon Ball Z: Taiketsu fighting predecessor, the second now had a new make over, no longer can player control fighting on the ground, you can now take to the sky at anytime and the screen can scroll and blend even as the character went as far away from the main battle field, the special attacks and super ki blast moves are also fixed and can be perform with ease by simply pressing three attack buttons simultaneously. This handheld Dragon Ball Z fighting title also had plenty of unique extra modes to tackle to and multiplayer vs. modes as well. Also what's unique in this game is that you can play in the game's story mode as any of the popular Dragon Ball Z character that tells the story and events from their points of view and also earn Z points to be used for purchasing items in the Z Store much like in the previous installment of Dragon Ball Z: Taiketsu before it. Though, still not as hardcore as the other fighters out there, this wonderful handheld fighter knows a good fight when it see one and fun for all DBZ fans out there.

Street Fighter Alpha - Capcom [Game Boy Color]

Capcom had always been known to releasing great Street Fighter ports on multiple platforms and this Game Boy Color port is no different. In Street Fighter Alpha for the GBC released in 1999, you get 10 selectable fighters as well as 3 secret brawlers to battle in either Training or Arcade Mode. You'll also be treated to some nice special flashy super combos, special moves, alpha counters, chain combos, linking moves, air juggles, moves cancels, and such that you'll think it's almost a necessity. What's more to this version, you get to battle in great 2D stages which in terms had a similarity to the console version and each character is super deform in its original 2D sprite that will make you realize each familiar faces as you play. The only feature that you will not be expected to get is a great two player vs. multi-play against a friend but the great graphics, game play, and fighters will make up for it if you're a hardcore Street Fighter fan who only crave individual fighting on the go.

Battle Arena Toshinden - Takara [Game Boy]

Released in 1996 for the Game Boy, this little arcade to handheld fighting edition also supports the Super Game Boy for a capabilities feature with upgraded graphics and game play. This game features five play modes and nine selectable characters from the get go, four secret boss characters are also selectable once unlock with either a code or a secret accomplishment. You still had a good variety of special moves, super combos, and weapon attacks as well as cheap ring out moves for a fun good time. Takara also jam in as much fun to the game with a multiplayer vs. mode for a one on one fighting against a pal or a team vs. battle for a friends vs. friends competition.

King of Fighters 95,' 96,' & 97' - SNK [Game Boy]

SNK's King of Fighters ports of their popular arcade games for the Game Boy are crazy fun. All three titles features great 2D super deform characters, 2D battle stages, four different modes of play including a 2-Players vs. link battle and vs. team battle as well as an Endless Survival Mode. Each game also comes pack with a whopping of over 15 or more selectable characters and bosses as well as secret fighters that will make any arcade and handheld fighting fans drool. These are definitely awesome titles to have on the go or to kill off some times.

Pocket Fighter - Capcom [Wonder Swan]

Yes, it's Pocket Fighter on a handheld with great 2D graphics and game play of the console original. This game includes ten selectable pint-sized chibi characters from Capcom's popular Street Fighter, Darkstalkers, and WarZard series; each fighters comes complete with their arsenals of special attacks, super pocket combos, green flame moves, and pocket counters and player can also jam in with a friends via link play in the Multi Vs. Mode. Too bad this hardcore fighting title was only released on a Japanese handheld and never made it state-side, but for any handheld hardcore fighting fans who are tough enough to import this great handheld fighting edition as well as the Wonder Swan will have a lot of bone crushing fun.

Last Blade - SNK [Neo Geo Pocket Color]

Another great SNK arcade fighting masterpiece for the Neo Geo Pocket Color handheld. Last Blade includes twelve selectable super deform characters each complete with different fighting style, special moves, super combos, POW attacks, counter moves, and air attacks. The game also features 2D quality graphics, fast game play, easy to handle control, four great modes of play to rumble, and two players can duke it out in vs. battle via link cable. Most fun of all, you can link your battle records with Dreamcast support from Last Blade: Wrath of the Samurai.

Real Bout Fatal Fury Special! - SNK [Game Boy]

It's almost a guaranteed pleasure to know that SNK is supporting the Game Boy with more arcade fighting ports to handheld titles than Capcom ever did. Real Bout Fatal Fury Special! for the Game Boy is likely their best edition to come ever. This handheld arcade port features 2D quality graphics and game play, super deform characters each with their own special attacks, super combos, limit breaks, counter attacks, and team attacks. The game also contains 15 selectable fighters and two secret boss characters, and over five modes of play including a two players vs. link battle mode against a friend. Though this hardcore fighting title is not released here in the state yet, handheld hardcore fighting fans can import the Japanese version for a fun free-for-all good time.

Dual Blade - Metro 3D [Game Boy Advance]

Not that Metro 3D wants to get in on bringing the greatest fighters to the GBA but they did it very well that it almost beat other fighting handheld competitors. In Dual Blade, you get the control of 10 selectable characters with two remained hidden, the game features multiple modes of play including a two player vs. match via link cable and each fighter is able to combat with their own trademark weapon, special attacks, and overdrive combos. If you are a die-hard fighting fans and wants a good old fighting game to kill off a few free time, get this title, it's definitely worth it.

Fatal Fury: First Contact! - SNK [Neo Geo Pocket Color]

SNK's arcade fighting ports kept on coming for their powerful handheld. Fatal Fury: First Contact was their greatest success and is a great port of the arcade original title, Real Bout Fatal Fury 2: The Newcomers. This handheld version contains over 14 selectable fighters, two hidden boss characters, over five modes of play, and a link vs. battle mode. It also features the complete package of special moves, super combos, limit breaks, air attacks, and serious counters for each character. The cute anime arts and super deform characters are also an eye candy to watch and the battles are fierce that will leave you craving for more, though it's rare to find this great hardcore title these days, you can import it directly from Japan and have a fun crazy good time.

SNK Gal Fighters - SNK [Neo Geo Pocket Color]

Cuteness and beautiful is what this game had to offer. SNK Gal Fighters is a female version of the King of Fighters title with more super deform characters, high quality 2D graphics, and stunning game play. The game also features over eight of the most sexiest, dominate, and toughest female fighters of any SNK arcade brawlers. You can also play one on one against a friend via link cable and enjoy a fun lasting passion of women crushing combat in the palm of your hands. Though it's Japanese released only, you can import and enjoy it over the long holiday weekends or vacation.

Mighty Morphin: Power Rangers - Bandai [Game Gear]

Bandai, the company that is responsible for creating the same Mighty Morphin: Power Rangers toys and merchandise also had a time to shine with this handheld title of a great 2D fighting game. Mighty Morphin: Power Rangers for the Sega Game Gear includes 12 selectable characters from the popular T.V. show, ten battle stages, and five modes of play. It also features a great 2D battle system, fun mini bonus game, and an unlockable pack of goodies. The control may cause a little problem at first but can later be fix by the amazing game play and two players vs. matches. For any 2D handheld hardcore fighting fans of this caliber may be for a real treat to have with this handheld port of a great title.

King of Fighters Extreme - SNK/Nokia [N-Gage]

Not much is interesting about this upcoming N-Gage port of SNK's greatest 2D brawler. Developed by SNK Playmore and published by Nokia, King of Fighters Extreme is a direct port of the GBA original title, King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood. In this N-Gage version, you get the 20 original brawlers, a vs. battle mode is via blue-tooth wireless, and an online score session support, you'll also get to unlock some pretty nifty extras such as an Endless Survival Mode and Time Attack Mode but overall that's all it introduced. You'll still going to have a lot of fun playing with the unique fighters each with their own special moves, super combos, and counter attacks but if you already own a GBA, go get the more stunning Kof:EX2 game which had more fighters and game play quality instead of wasting big bucks buying an N-Gage just to play this lame port. Also N-Gage owner who already own the damn cell phone portable game system will also need to try this title for it is the only fighting edition it had.

King of Fighters EX: Neo Blood - Sammy/SNK [Game Boy Advance]

SNK and Sammy had team up to bring this arcade original brawler to the GBA in 2D perfect quality. The game features Neo Geo quality graphics, five modes of play including two player vs. link battle. It also contains 18 selectable characters, two secret boss characters, and ten strikers to settle the score, but overall the game play is lame, and the control isn't that comfortable to get used to, but for any 2D handheld fighting fans who crave a truly good fighting experience will have to look elsewhere but for any Kof fans who need this for their collection will be right at home here.

Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliances - Midway [Game Boy Advance]

As good as the console version turn out to be, Midway had being good to port over the handheld version of their console perfect Mortal Kombat fighting edition to the little handheld. Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliances for GBA introduced twelve kombatants each with some unique special moves, different fighting styles, weapon moves, killer combos, and fatalities. The game also features some unique blend of 3D style arenas with all the visuals of the console version, though some turn out to be more then Mode 7 messes and paint job then a good design battle ground, the overall environment is big and had the feeling of a 3D game then what Tekken Advance turn out. You'll also get five modes of play including a vs. link battle mode and a Survival Mode for a good fighting appetite. And like all Mortal Kombat games before it, this little fighter also comes jam pack with a truck load of secrets for you to unlock in the "Krypt" such as secret boss characters, palette swap costumes, interesting artworks, unlockable arenas, and much more. Though if you just want to pick this up for a fight, you are definitely right at home here; nonetheless, you may not have the full experience like what the other hardcore fighting edition offers.

Mortal Kombat: Tournament Edition - Midway [Game Boy Advance]

Like the previous installment of Midway's Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliances, Mortal Kombat: Tournament Edition for GBA is an upgraded sequel to the original game with a truck load of new characters, secrets, combos, fatalities, modes of play, and 3D fighting goodness. The same fun you get from Deadly Alliances also applied to this version of upgrades and still pack a good fight but like before it still lack a truly hardcore fighting experience for all handheld fighting fans everywhere.

X-Men: Mutant Academy - Activision [Game Boy Color]

X-Men fighting games come very rare in the handheld platform and this little 16-Bit 2D brawler is no exception. Published by Activision and released for the Game Boy Color in 1998, X-Men: Mutant Academy for the GBC introduced six brawlers and two secret characters from the X-Men universe each with their very own special attacks, mutant force, super combos, and counter attacks. The game also features three enjoyable modes of play including a Story Mode that expanded the story of each X-Men mutants. You'll also going to be happy to enjoy this title one on one against a friend via link cable to prove who is the strongest of all the mutant brawlers out there.

Street Fighter II - Capcom [Game Boy]

Capcom had try to port this awesome Street Fighter II title to Nintendo's achieving little handheld for a fun free-for-all fighting on the go but it lack a great solid lineup of fighters. Street Fighter II on the Game Boy was actually based on the arcade version of Super Street Fighter II but was limited to only nine selectable fighters, in this game you had the control of six world warriors and three of the original boss characters each comes complete with all their trademark special moves and hard knock combos. There are also three modes of play in this version including a Survival Mode as well as a fun VS. Link Battle Mode for player to brawl one on one against a friend. You can also take this on the go anywhere and pick out a fight anytime you want.

Samurai Shodown - Takara/SNK [Game Gear]

SNK's arcade to console license deal wasn't a good deal at all, not only did they license a poor developer like Takara to port their arcade quality titles to home consoles and handhelds back in the 16-Bit days but they did not show any signs of supports to any home console versions released besides their own titles on the Neo Geo Arcade Entertainment System. That's why the Sega Game Gear version of Samurai Shodown which was also developed by Takara, got a wrong start on the wrong side of the arena. Samurai Shodown on the Sega Game Gear includes nine of the series most popular characters and one unlockable boss character in their 16-Bit pitiful style sprites which are loaded with their very own special moves, weapon attacks, killer combos, and taunts for player to enjoy. The game also features threes modes of play which aren't that much enjoyable such as a Countdown Mode and a Training Mode and since this game didn't had a two player Vs. link battle mode, players who crave for a competition will have to look else where instead of this lame down version of a fight, and unlike the Game Boy version, this version also lack the straw slashing bonus game which is supposed to be the fun extra in this game. Though Takara did put this edition on store shelves to compete against the Game Boy version of the same name, though more handheld fighting fans choose the Game Boy edition over this one because of the cute anime look, a more impressive Story Mode, a two-player free-for-all battle mode, fun slashing game play, and a huge solid lineup of selectable characters, but since it's more of SNK's fault then Takara, this old 2D handheld weapon fighting edition can still be worth a try just for a few rounds of single sword slashing goodness.

Samurai Shodown 3 - Takara/SNK [Game Boy]

This SNK handheld fighting edition was never officially released in nor outside of Japan since Takara never actually mark this title off of SNK's old company released list. Samurai Shodown 3 for Game Boy includes 15 selectable anime super deform warriors as well as two secret boss characters of the arcade original each pack with their own special attacks, weapon combos, weapon break, guard cancel, counter attacks, and gruesome instant death techniques. It also features 2D quality graphics, five modes of play including a two players vs. link battle mode, a Time Attack Mode, and Gallery Options that you can unlock for view. Though this hardcore weapon fighting edition never saw the lights of days on store shelves everywhere, 2D handheld fighting fans won't expect to find this title around for a very long time.

Primal Rage - Time Warner Interactive Inc./Midway [Game Boy, Game Gear]

Developed by Time Warner Interactive Inc. at the time, Primal Rage for both the Nintendo Game Boy and Sega Game Gear are just the same version with different features. Both versions let you choose from one of six selectable beasts with their own rage moves, killer combos, and fatalities and features two modes of play including an Arcade Mode and a Training Mode to train your beast. Both versions also includes a two players link vs. battle mode but likely since these versions aren't as popular as those console counter-parts, they are just mere craps. The only feature that are different to separate these two versions apart is that the Game Boy version feature your beast in stunning clean monochrome graphics and the Game Gear version feature the whole game in full color. Though handheld fighting fans would be much please to play the Game Gear version which looks better, other more hardcore fighting veterans would simply prefer the more fun and challenging console versions instead since Primal Rage aren't perfect for a handheld anyways.

Shaq Fu - Electronic Arts [Game Boy, Game Gear]

Yes, it's Shaq Fu, like the title name this game is about a black nigger dude with the skill of hoops fighting against a group of weirdos in costumes or Halloween gown with a lame mission to rescue a little rascal from this mummy guy whose is suppose to be evil and return the little dude to his sensei before his hoop game starts. Man the storyline is almost as suck as the game. Shaq Fu on the Game Boy and Game Gear, let you control the main character among the other six weirdos or should I say characters and fight until you beat the boss which is the mummy guy I refer to earlier. In this game, the fighting engine is awkward, the control almost seem too lame to get the use of and there are no unique unlockable characters or hidden goodies lurking in the game anywhere although there is a two-players vs. mode in there with the negative game play, it's not that fun nor enjoyable to play against anyone anyways. There aren't any interesting features or stuff to be found in the game because all you have to do is be Shaq or as one of the six weirdos in the other mode and fight against the other remaining weirdos until you beat the game or you could play Shaq in Story Mode and try to beat the weirdos to find a sorry ass ending conclusion. Oh I almost forgot, this game also has some lame special attacks and weak combos that are definitely so-so to execute so don't expect to even bother trying to master this sorry ass excuse of a fighter since no hardcore fighting fans could ever appreciate such a pathetic name for a pathetic fighting game anyways.

Mortal Kombat - Midway [Game Gear]

Like the Genesis console version of Midway's Mortal Kombat, the Game Gear version is unique that it kept the feature of the arcade intact. Mortal Kombat for the Game Gear includes six selectable characters just like the Game Boy version except that instead of leaving out Johnny Cage like the Game Boy, this version left out Kano in bringing Johnny Cage. Each fighters also had their unique special attacks and fatalities but like the Game Boy version, the control in this game is difficult to pull off especially when trying to execute special attacks and fatalities that even the most handheld hardcore fighting fans can't handle due to the fact that there is a two players vs. mode available. And since this game is in color, there is a secret code that let you input to activate the blood feature from the arcade. Although there's blood, the action will still play slow and weak that will even made other handheld hardcore fighting fans put down the control for a long time.

Mortal Kombat Trilogy - Midway/Tiger Corps. [Game.com]

Which Mortal Kombat handheld title out there is the only fighting game that is good enough to include a whopping number of selectable characters and an impressive game play? Well in fact, it's definitely not this title, Mortal Kombat Trilogy for the Tiger Game.com is just a lame port fighting title from Midway and Tiger Corps. that used the console name to lure gamers into buying the lamest handheld on the market. It only includes twelve selectable characters which aren't that interesting although each had their own personal looks and feel as well as trademark special moves, killer combos, and fatalities. The game also features lame black and white 2D graphics and only three battle zones to fight in. The control on the other hands is awkward and almost an impossible feat to execute, you can't even throw Scorpion's harpoon for a distance. Just bad even if it does include a two player vs. mode in this game, with a lame game that had a shortage of characters and awkward control like this doesn't even worth playing a good one on one vs. match.

Fighters Megamix - Sega/Tiger Corps. [Game.com]

Finally a handheld 3D fighting game to play on the go, well sorta but a lame one at the moment. Fighters Megamix is just a lame port of the Sega Saturn original fighting title of the same name. The only difference is, this game is nothing like the Sega Saturn version, instead it features eight Mode 7 style monochrome backgrounds and eight virtual fighters as well as four secret characters to compete in any of the available four playable modes. All selectable kombatants also come packs with their hard hitting combos and chain juggles but all are difficult to initiate since the control is that awkward. For a fighting game that also includes a two player vs. link mode, you can almost beg for a match against a friend, the only problem is he or she doesn't want to take the challenge since they don't want to take the pain of having to use the awkward control just to beat the hell out of you. Not worth the money to buy nor the right title to play on the go.

Virtua Fighter Remix - Sega [Game Gear]

Sega is very thoughtful to have released this title for their Sega Game Gear handheld. This fighting title is a unique and great choice because as a handheld fighting game it includes eight ready to rumble fighters in eight 3D style environments and come pack with all their complete hard hitting combos and counter attacks. It also features the unique game play that which mimic the arcade version of Sega's earlier Virtua Fighter title. There are four modes of play and a two players vs. link mode that will allowed two players to fight it out at home or on the road.

Dragon Ball Z: Taiketsu - Atari [Game Boy Advance]

Like all console DBZ fighting titles before it, the Dragon Ball Z series had never being popular with its fighting games and it looks like this DBZ fighting title from Atari is following the same fate. Dragon Ball Z: Taiketsu includes 15 selectable characters, though five are available from the start, each warriors will come pack with their own trademark special attacks, ki blast techniques, and hard hitting combos. The game will also features an unlockable point earning system that will let you use the points you earn in Story Mode to purchase items in the Z Store. The game also includes five modes of play which aren't that much fun to enjoy if you are not that familiar with the series. With the lame fighting system and non-accurate control, you won't be able to get a fun start with this title. Though you can try a quick two players vs. match but that's all and nothing hardcore.

Mortal Kombat 4 - Midway [Game Boy Color]

Ah, I like to point out that Mortal Kombat 4 for the Game Boy Color is a unique fighting title with the most easy to use control ever, though, I will also point out that this game lack a two player vs. mode and had a very bad graphics quality fill with nasty glitches and lame backdrops. The game also include eight selectable fighters and one unlockable character with a small batch of secret codes to complete this fighting package. For any die-hard Mortal Kombat player who wants to play a truly great Mortal Kombat handheld brawler on the go, this is a perfect hit but to anyone who is craving for a challenge should look elsewhere.

Mortal Kombat 3 - Williams/Midway [Game Boy, Game Gear]

How many crappy Mortal Kombat titles did Midway bring to the handheld platform? Well for the most about six or so of them, it doesn't matter but Mortal Kombat 3 for both Nintendo Game Boy and Sega Game Gear should be the two titles that fans should stay away from. The two versions include nine selectable characters although one is unlockable, he is just a weakling anyways. Each fighters also had his or her own special moves and fatalities but with the slow and awkward control these titles are almost unplayable and deserve to be thrown away even if they included a two player vs. link mode. There are a few good unlockable secrets but none are rewarding and can be a waste of time. Just avoid these two titles and if you can when you see other play these titles just laugh at them and told them they look like crap just like they are with the game.

Mortal Kombat II - Midway [Game Gear]

It's highly believe that Mortal Kombat II for the Game Gear is a better fighting title then the other Mortal Kombat games before it. In Mortal Kombat II for the Game Gear, you get eight selectable fighters, each with their complete special attacks and fatalities. In all there are two battle stages and in them one actually had a stage fatality feature. But even if this game had the same lineup and features as the Game Boy, its control are hard to handle with the strictly awkward Game Gear D-Pad, and like the first title it feature the game in full color complete with blood effects; however, though with the bad control you will need to practice with the D-Pad a little longer before getting the used of the fight even if you decide to go one on one in two players vs. matches.

Mortal Kombat - Midway [Game Boy]

The first Mortal Kombat title for the Game Boy is actually quite fun and also quite lame as well. The fun part, you get to choose from one of six selectable characters and even the unlockable boss character, Goro. Each fighter comes pack in with their own special attack and fatalities but with no blood effects even for Goro. The lame part, the control is almost a difficult feat, since the game is so slow you won't be able to perform most of the fighter's special attacks and fatalities. At least you can fight one on one with a friend and play fun with Goro for a great free for all matches. Man if the control is fix, Goro can be that damn good to control as well but at least it's fun to choose him via a code. Get this title for Goro and a great two player experience, but beside that just leave it alone in the dusk.

Mortal Kombat Advance - Virtucraft/Midway [Game Boy Advance]

Mortal Kombat is now in GBA gaming goodness, well it's not exactly like we thought it would be. Mortal Kombat Advance is nothing more than a crappy port of Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3. It includes all 23 selectable fighters from the Super NES and Genesis original but somehow didn't include all the fatalities, there are only one fatality and one friendship for each characters and there are only a few battle stages. The control in this game is so awkward and lame that you might want to throw it in the dusk. Overall the graphics and music are stunning but nothing spectacular at the moment. A quick two players vs. matches is okay but not all that fun or rewarding and with all these lack of features such as no vs. kombat kodes, easy combo initiator, more enjoyable modes, and game play options, this game can be nothing more than a giant piece of crap so just try to avoid it at all cost even if it sells for a buck or less.

Published by Anime Boy

Anime Boy loves playing RPG, action adventure, racing, fighting and shooting games. He also had a habit of collecting Japanese manga and anime for a living starting from the old school Astro Boy to the new g...  View profile

  • The superb fighting title is Street Fighter Alpha 3.
  • Beside MKII, MK: Deadly Alliance and MK:Tournament Edition, almost every handheld MK games sucks.
  • Handheld fighting are better than arcade because you can play them on the go.
An updated Street Fighter Alpha 3 title were released for the PSP which is more superior than the current GBA edition but since this list was gather before that title, it wasn't included here.

Samurai Shodown for the Game Boy actually had more selectable characters and storylines for each as well as better musical scores, these are big plus over the console versions which tend to have fewer characters and doesn't had any storylines about each of them.

Of all the Dragon Ball Z handheld fighting games, only Supersonic Warriors can be play in two different ways by land or air and special attacks can easily be executed with ease.

Tekken Advance is the first Tekken fighting game to be released on a handheld and the first ever Tekken game to be officially released on a Nintendo platform outside of Sony's PlayStation brand. A late PSP released of "Tekken: Dark Resurrection" is a better edition but plays similiar to the recently released Tekken 5 for PS2.

Players can actually link play between both GBA versions of MK: Deadly Alliance and MK: Tournament Edition and by doing so will unlock an exclusive hidden character in MK: Tournament Edition who was not available in the console versions of MK: Deadly Alliance.

Samurai Shodown 3 for the Game Boy was released only in Japan but in limited quantity and later disappeared from the media. Fans considered this handheld edition as the lost SNK handheld fighting game because nobody ever known it existed. No roms or cartridges are found for the game, only a few images, and some special codes about the game exist but no reviews or informations about the game are available and the folks at ebay doesn't seem to sell this either. If this game existed, how come nobody ever played it before?

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  • Sean Ross8/25/2011

    very good and well developed article Anime Boy.

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