Best Nintendo 64 fighting games

The Matrix has 27 fighting games on file for the Nintendo 64, released between 1996–2001. 26 of them support multiplayer. They're ranked below by legacy score, so the games that shaped the genre on the N64 come first, with lesser-known picks further down.

Fighting games pit two characters against each other in short one-on-one bouts. Depth comes from learning special moves, combos and each character's strengths.

Typical commitment: quick session (under an hour, or endless arcade fun). Tip: Pick one character and learn their basic special moves before branching out. Fighting games are at their best against a friend at a similar skill level.