Best Steam Deck Games – Best 2 player Anime Fighting Games
Published: Wed Oct 16 2024
Table Of Contents
What are the best Steam Deck games in the anime fighting genre?
Check out our previous blog on anime fighting games here!
The Steam Deck has revolutionized portable gaming, bringing a vast library of PC titles to the palm of your hand. Among these, anime fighting games stand out as perfect candidates for on-the-go multiplayer action. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into seven exceptional anime fighting titles that either feature anime-style graphics or are based on popular anime or manga series. The best part? All of them are Steam Deck verified, meaning they are perfect for on-the-go gaming! Expect ratings based on variety of game modes, learning curve, skill ceiling, combat mechanics, and co-op accessibility!
| ✓ Learning Curve | ✓ Skill Ceiling | ✓ Diversity of Game Modes |
| ✓ Combat | ✓ Co-op Accessibility |
Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 4
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- PlayStation 4
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox One
- Xbox Series X/S
- Nintendo Switch
Game Features
- Single Player Story Mode
- Versus Mode
- Online Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer
- Training Mode
Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles brings the popular anime series to life on the Steam Deck, offering a visually stunning and accessible fighting game experience.
Learning Curve
With a 4/5 for its learning curve, Demon Slayer strikes an excellent balance between accessibility and depth. Newcomers to fighting games will find the basic controls intuitive, with special moves and combos easy to execute. The game’s tutorial system effectively introduces core mechanics, allowing players to quickly grasp the fundamentals. This approachability makes it an ideal choice for casual play on the Steam Deck.
Skill Ceiling
The skill ceiling in Demon Slayer earns a 4/5, offering room for growth without becoming overwhelming. While the combo system isn’t as extensive as some hardcore fighting games, mastering character-specific techniques and optimal punishes provides a satisfying challenge. The inclusion of advanced mechanics like parries and surge modes adds depth for players looking to improve their skills, ensuring long-term engagement.
Diversity of Game Modes
Players can immerse themselves in the story mode, which faithfully recreates key moments from the anime’s first season and Mugen Train arc. The versus mode allows for quick matches against AI or local opponents. While the game doesn’t offer as many additional modes as some fighting game staples, the quality of its core offerings compensates for this.
Combat
Combat in Demon Slayer beautifully captures the essence of the anime’s sword-based fighting. Each character feels unique, with movesets that reflect their fighting styles from the series. The inclusion of assist characters adds strategic depth, allowing for creative combo extensions and setups. The fluidity of the combat, combined with the Steam Deck’s responsive controls, creates an immersive and enjoyable fighting experience.
Co-op Accessibility
Co-op accessibility scores a 3/5, offering solid options for local multiplayer on the Steam Deck. The game supports local versus matches out of the box, allowing friends to compete using a single device. However, the lack of a dedicated co-op story mode or tag team options slightly limits its cooperative potential. Despite this, the ease of setting up quick matches makes it a great choice for impromptu gaming sessions on the go.
Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles stands out as an excellent anime fighting game for the Steam Deck. Its combination of stunning visuals, accessible gameplay, and faithful representation of the source material makes it a must-play for fans of the series and fighting game enthusiasts alike.
GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- 4
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available on:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- PlayStation 4
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox One
- Xbox Series X/S
Game Features
- Arcade Mode
- Versus Mode
- Online Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer
- Training Mode
- Extensive Tutorial System
GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- brings the legendary fighting game series to new heights, offering a visually spectacular and mechanically deep experience that shines on the Steam Deck.
Learning Curve
GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- presents a steeper initial challenge compared to some anime fighters. The game’s unique mechanics, such as the Roman Cancel system, require dedication to master. However, the extensive tutorial and mission modes provide excellent resources for learning, making the journey less daunting. The Steam Deck’s portability allows players to practice in short bursts, gradually building their skills over time.
Skill Ceiling
GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- boasts one of the deepest and most rewarding fighting game experiences available. The game’s complex systems, including its unique approach to combos and neutral game, provide endless opportunities for creativity and improvement. High-level play involves intricate decision-making and execution, ensuring that even veteran players will find new strategies to explore on their Steam Deck.
Diversity of Game Modes
GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- offers a robust arcade mode, story mode, versus mode, and online play. The inclusion of a mission mode that teaches advanced techniques adds significant value, especially for players looking to improve their skills during commutes. While the game doesn’t reinvent the wheel in terms of mode variety, each offering is polished and substantial.
Combat
The combat in GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- earns a perfect 5/5. Each character in the roster feels distinct, with unique playstyles that cater to various approaches to fighting games. The visual spectacle of the battles, with stunning animations and impactful moves, translates surprisingly well to the Steam Deck’s screen. The game’s emphasis on neutral play and strategic use of meter creates tense, exciting matches that feel rewarding whether played in short bursts or extended sessions.
Co-op Accessibility
GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- focuses more on competitive play rather than cooperative experiences. While local versus matches are easily set up on the Steam Deck, the game lacks dedicated co-op modes. However, the ability to play local matches anywhere makes it a solid choice for impromptu gaming sessions with friends, even if the options are limited.
GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- stands as a pinnacle of the anime fighting game genre on Steam Deck. Its combination of visual flair, deep mechanics, and robust training options make it an excellent choice for players looking for a serious fighting game experience on the go.
NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja STORM 2 3.8
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- PlayStation 3 (original release)
- Xbox 360 (original release)
- Nintendo Switch (as part of a collection)
Game Features
- Story Mode
- Free Battle Mode
- Online Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer
- Collectibles and Unlockables
NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja STORM 2 brings the beloved ninja anime to life on the Steam Deck, offering a nostalgic and accessible fighting game experience.
Learning Curve
Ultimate Ninja STORM 2 proves highly accessible to newcomers. The game’s simplified control scheme, with most actions mapped to single button presses, allows players to perform impressive moves and combos with ease. This approachability makes it an excellent choice for casual play, especially for anime fans who may not be fighting game veterans.
Skill Ceiling
While the game’s mechanics are not as deep as traditional fighting games, mastering character-specific techniques, timing, and resource management provides a moderate challenge. The inclusion of support characters and awakening modes adds layers of strategy, offering room for improvement without becoming overwhelming. This balance makes it suitable for both quick pick-up-and-play sessions and more serious competitive matches.
Diversity of Game Modes
The extensive story mode faithfully recreates key arcs from the Naruto Shippuden anime, providing hours of single-player content perfect for long gaming sessions on the Steam Deck. Free Battle mode allows for quick matches against AI or local opponents, ideal for short bursts of play. The inclusion of online multiplayer, though dated by modern standards, adds to the game’s longevity.
Combat
Combat in Ultimate Ninja STORM 2 faithfully captures the essence of Naruto’s ninja battles. The 3D arena-style fighting allows for dynamic encounters, with characters able to move freely around the battlefield. Special moves and ultimate jutsus are visually spectacular, translating well to the Steam Deck’s screen. While not as technically demanding as traditional 2D fighters, the combat system offers enough depth to keep gameplay exciting and varied.
Co-op Accessibility
Co-op accessibility scores a 3/5, offering solid options for local multiplayer on the Steam Deck. The game supports local versus matches out of the box, allowing friends to compete using a single device. The simplicity of the controls makes it easy for even non-gamers to join in, perfect for impromptu multiplayer sessions. However, the lack of a dedicated co-op story mode slightly limits its cooperative potential.
NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja STORM 2 stands as a solid choice for anime fighting game fans. Its combination of accessible gameplay, extensive story mode, and faithful representation of the Naruto universe makes it an enjoyable experience for both fans of the series and casual fighting game players.
MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 3.6
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox One
Game Features
- Story Mode
- Mission Mode
- Arcade Mode
- Online Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer
- Training Mode
- Customization Options
MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 brings the superhero action of My Hero Academia to life as a 3D arena fighter, offering an accessible and visually spectacular experience.
Learning Curve
With a 4/5 for its learning curve, MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 proves highly accessible to newcomers. The game’s control scheme is intuitive, allowing players to easily perform flashy moves and combos that capture the essence of each hero’s quirk. The tutorial system effectively introduces core mechanics, enabling players to quickly grasp the fundamentals. This approachability makes it an ideal choice for casual play on the Steam Deck, especially for fans of the My Hero Academia series who may not be fighting game veterans.
Skill Ceiling
The skill ceiling in MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 offers more depth than its accessible exterior might suggest. While basic combos are easy to execute, mastering character-specific techniques, optimal punishes, and the strategic use of assist characters provides a satisfying challenge. The inclusion of advanced mechanics like counter attacks and plus ultra moves adds layers of complexity for players looking to improve their skills.
Diversity of Game Modes
MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 offers a story mode that covers key arcs from the anime, allowing players to experience iconic moments on their Steam Deck. The mission mode provides additional challenges and unlockables, adding replay value for solo players. While the arcade and versus modes offer standard fighting game fare, the game doesn’t introduce many innovative modes to set it apart. However, the inclusion of extensive character customization options adds a layer of personalization that fans will appreciate.
Combat
Combat in MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 delivers fast-paced and visually impressive battles. The 3D arena format allows for dynamic encounters, with characters able to utilize the environment and move freely around the battlefield. Each character’s quirk is well-represented in their moveset, creating a diverse roster that encourages players to experiment with different fighting styles. The spectacle of the super moves translates surprisingly well to the Steam Deck’s screen, maintaining the excitement of the anime’s action sequences.
Co-op Accessibility
The game supports local versus matches out of the box, allowing friends to compete using a single device. The simplicity of the basic controls makes it easy for even non-gamers to join in, perfect for impromptu multiplayer sessions. However, the lack of a dedicated co-op story mode or tag team options slightly limits its cooperative potential.
MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 stands as an enjoyable anime fighting game experience. Its combination of accessible gameplay, faithful representation of the source material, and visual flair makes it a great choice for fans of My Hero Academia and casual fighting game players alike. While it may not offer the depth of more traditional fighting games, its pick-up-and-play nature and spectacular battles make it well-suited for portable gaming sessions.
Granblue Fantasy: Versus 3.6
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- PlayStation 4
Game Features
- Arcade Mode
- RPG Mode
- Versus Mode
- Online Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer
- Training Mode
Granblue Fantasy: Versus brings the popular mobile RPG to life as a stunning fighting game, offering a unique blend of accessibility and depth.
Learning Curve
With a 4/5 for its learning curve, Granblue Fantasy: Versus shines in its accessibility. The game’s unique “skill button” system allows newcomers to easily perform special moves, making it welcoming for players new to fighting games. At the same time, the option to use traditional inputs provides depth for experienced players. This dual approach to controls makes it an excellent choice for both casual and serious play on the Steam Deck.
Skill Ceiling
While the basic mechanics of the game are easy to grasp, mastering the unique cooldown system, optimal combos, and character-specific strategies provides a satisfying challenge. The inclusion of technical mechanics like spot dodges and cross-overs adds layers of complexity for players looking to improve, ensuring long-term engagement.
Diversity of Game Modes
The standout feature of Granblue Fantasy: Versus is its RPG mode, which offers a unique single-player experience blending fighting game mechanics with RPG elements. Traditional arcade and versus modes provide quick fighting action, while online play extends the game’s longevity. However, the limited number of additional modes keeps it from scoring higher in this category.
Combat
Combat in Granblue Fantasy: Versus strikes a great balance between accessibility and depth. The fighting system emphasizes strong fundamentals and strategic use of special moves, rather than long combo strings. Each character in the diverse roster feels unique, with playstyles that reflect their roles in the original RPG. The visual spectacle of the battles, with stunning animations and impactful moves, translates beautifully to the Steam Deck’s screen, making every match a feast for the eyes.
Co-op Accessibility
Co-op accessibility in Granblue Fantasy: Versus earns a 3/5, offering standard options for local multiplayer on the Steam Deck. The game gives you instant access to local versus matches, allowing for easy setup of casual competitions. The RPG mode, while primarily single-player, does offer some co-op elements that can be enjoyed locally. The simplicity of the basic controls makes it easy for friends to jump in for quick matches, perfect for social gaming on the go.
Granblue Fantasy: Versus stands out as a unique entry in the anime fighting game genre. Its blend of accessibility, RPG elements, and stunning visuals makes it an excellent choice for both fans of the Granblue Fantasy series and newcomers looking for an approachable yet deep fighting game experience.
MELTY BLOOD: TYPE LUMINA 3.4
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox One
Game Features
- Story Mode
- Arcade Mode
- Versus Mode
- Online Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer
- Training Mode
- Replay System
MELTY BLOOD: TYPE LUMINA brings the cult classic fighting game series to modern platforms, offering a fast-paced and technical experience that shines on the Steam Deck.
Learning Curve
With a 5/5 for its learning curve, MELTY BLOOD: TYPE LUMINA stands out for its excellent onboarding process. The game features a comprehensive tutorial system that effectively teaches both basic and advanced mechanics. The inclusion of “Rapid Beat” auto-combos allows newcomers to perform flashy sequences easily, while still leaving room for manual execution. This balance makes it an ideal choice for both fighting game veterans and newcomers looking to dive into the genre.
Skill Ceiling
The skill ceiling in MELTY BLOOD: TYPE LUMINA offers a decent challenge for dedicated players. The game’s air-dash heavy gameplay and unique Moon Drive and Moon Skill systems provide plenty of room for creativity and optimization. While not as overwhelmingly complex as some fighting games, mastering character-specific techniques and optimal combo routes offers a satisfying goal for players looking to improve their skills.
Diversity of Game Modes
MELTY BLOOD: TYPE LUMINA offers a standard suite of modes including story, arcade, versus, and online play. While these cover the essentials, the game doesn’t introduce many innovative or unique modes to set it apart. However, the depth of the existing modes, particularly the story mode which offers multiple character perspectives, provides substantial content for players.
Combat
Combat in MELTY BLOOD: TYPE LUMINA succeeds in delivering fast-paced and fluid battles. The game’s emphasis on air movement and aggressive offense creates dynamic matches that feel exciting even on the Steam Deck’s smaller screen. Each character in the diverse roster offers unique playstyles and mechanics, ensuring that players can find a fighter that suits their preferences. The visual clarity of moves and effects translates well to portable play, maintaining the intensity of the action.
Co-op Accessibility
Co-op accessibility scores a 4/5, offering robust options for local multiplayer on the Steam Deck. The game supports local versus matches, with an interface that’s easy to navigate on the portable screen. The inclusion of a spectator mode for local play adds a nice touch for group sessions. While there’s no dedicated co-op campaign, the ease of setting up casual matches makes MELTY BLOOD: TYPE LUMINA an excellent choice for impromptu fighting game sessions with friends.
MELTY BLOOD: TYPE LUMINA stands as a solid choice for anime fighting game enthusiasts on the Steam Deck. Its combination of accessible mechanics, deep gameplay, and rich lore from the Type-Moon universe makes it an engaging experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.
One Piece Burning Blood 3.2
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox One
Game Features
- Story Mode
- Mission Mode
- Arcade Mode
- Online Multiplayer
- Local Multiplayer
- Training Mode
- Customization Options
MY HERO ONE’S JUSTICE 2 brings the superhero action of My Hero Academia to life as a 3D arena fighter, offering an accessible and visually spectacular experience.
Learning Curve
With a 3/5 for its learning curve, One Piece Burning Blood strikes a balance between accessibility and complexity. The game’s control scheme is designed to be intuitive, allowing players to easily perform signature moves from the series. The inclusion of support characters and Logia-type transformations adds depth without overwhelming newcomers.
Skill Ceiling
While the game may not have the technical depth of traditional fighting games, mastering character-specific techniques, team compositions, and the timing of support attacks provides room for skill expression. The unique mechanics, such as the Logia guard and awakening transformations, add layers of strategy that reward players who invest time in learning the system.
Diversity of Game Modes
One Piece Burning Blood’s story mode, which focuses on the Marineford arc, provides a narrative-driven experience for fans of the series. The Wanted Versus mode adds a strategic layer to fights by allowing players to build teams and manage resources. While these modes offer engaging content for One Piece enthusiasts, the game lacks the depth and variety of additional modes found in more robust fighting games.
Combat
Combat in One Piece Burning Blood truly captures the spirit of the over-the-top action of the anime series. The game’s 3D arena-style battles allow for dynamic encounters that showcase the diverse abilities of the One Piece cast. Each character feels distinct, with movesets that faithfully recreate their fighting styles from the series. The visual spectacle of special moves and transformations translates well to the Steam Deck’s screen, providing an immersive experience for fans. While the combat system may lack the refinement of more established fighting game franchises, it succeeds in delivering exciting and authentic One Piece battles.
Co-op Accessibility
The game supports local versus matches, allowing friends to engage in pirate duels using a single device. The relatively straightforward controls make it accessible for casual players to join in, ideal for spontaneous gaming sessions. However, the lack of dedicated cooperative modes or tag team options limits its potential for extended co-op play. Despite this, the game’s emphasis on team building in certain modes adds a collaborative element that friends can enjoy together.
One Piece Burning Blood stands as a solid choice for fans of the series looking for a fighting game experience on their Steam Deck. While it may not compete with more technically advanced fighters, its faithful recreation of the One Piece world, characters, and abilities makes it an enjoyable option for both casual play and deeper exploration of its unique systems.
In conclusion, these seven anime fighting games offer a diverse range of experiences on the Steam Deck, catering to different preferences and skill levels. From the technical depth of GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- to the accessible fan service of One Piece Burning Blood, there’s something for every anime and fighting game enthusiast. The portability of the Steam Deck enhances these games, allowing players to enjoy quick matches on the go or dive into deeper story modes during longer sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned fighting game veteran or a casual fan looking to experience your favorite anime in a new way, these titles showcase the versatility and power of the Steam Deck as a platform for anime fighting games.