Beat Em Up games are one of the most beloved genres in the world of gaming. From arcade classics to modern masterpieces, this genre has stood the test of time with its accessible gameplay and fun multiplayer action. Whether you’re a nostalgic gamer who remembers pumping quarters into the arcade machines or a new player discovering these iconic titles for the first time, the beat em up genre offers something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the greatest beat em up games of all time, exploring the classics, hidden gems, and modern entries that have kept the genre alive and well.
1. What Makes a Beat ‘Em Up Game Great?
At its core, a beat ‘em up game is all about combat. These games typically feature side-scrolling action, where players fight through waves of enemies, using a combination of basic and special moves. The goal? To defeat enemies, advance through levels, and often defeat a boss at the end.
But what truly makes a beat ‘em up great? Here are some of the key factors:
- Smooth Combat Mechanics: Fluid and engaging combat is essential. Games like Streets of Rage 2 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time excel in this area.
- Co-op Experience: Many of the best beat ’em ups allow friends to team up, providing hours of cooperative gameplay.
- Replayability: Great beat ’em ups have the ability to keep players coming back with engaging levels, high difficulty, and unlockable content.
- Soundtrack & Design: The best games in the genre feature memorable soundtracks and distinct visual styles that stay in your mind long after you’ve finished playing.
2. Classic Legends — Retro Beat ‘Em Up Masterpieces
The beat ‘em up genre reached its peak in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. These classics not only defined the genre but also set standards for action games that are still relevant today.
Streets of Rage 2
Released: 1992
Platform: Sega Genesis
Why It’s Great: Often regarded as the definitive beat em up game, Streets of Rage 2 featured tight combat mechanics, an iconic soundtrack, and multiple playable characters. Its co-op mode made it a must-have for any arcade lover. It defined the genre and set the bar for all games that followed.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time
Released: 1991
Platform: Arcade (later ported to SNES)
Why It’s Great: This game brought together the fun of the Ninja Turtles with smooth arcade brawler mechanics. Its time travel theme gave it a unique edge, taking players through different periods of history in search of Shredder. The cooperative mode made it one of the best multiplayer games of its time.
Double Dragon II: The Revenge
Released: 1988
Platform: Arcade, NES
Why It’s Great: A pioneer of the genre, Double Dragon II refined the gameplay seen in its predecessor. It was the first to introduce fluid combo attacks and cooperative multiplayer, becoming an inspiration for future beat em up games.
3. Hidden Gems & Underrated Classics
While the big names in the genre get most of the attention, there are plenty of hidden gems that deserve recognition. These titles may not have reached the same level of fame, but their influence and innovation have left a lasting mark on gaming.
Golden Axe
Released: 1989
Platform: Arcade, Sega Genesis
Why It’s Great: Golden Axe brought fantasy elements into the beat ‘em up genre, offering a unique twist. Players could ride dragons and use magic spells as they fought through hordes of enemies in a medieval setting.
Knights of the Round
Released: 1991
Platform: Arcade
Why It’s Great: This underrated classic is set in the Arthurian legend and combines RPG elements with traditional beat ‘em up mechanics. The game’s character progression and boss battles make it a standout from the arcade era.
4. Modern Beat ‘Em Ups — A New Era of Brawling
The beat ‘em up genre didn’t die out with the ‘90s. In fact, it has experienced a resurgence in recent years thanks to modern releases that stay true to the classic formula while introducing new mechanics and technologies.
Streets of Rage 4
Released: 2020
Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Why It’s Great: Streets of Rage 4 is a modern revival of the iconic series. It combines classic gameplay with updated visuals and new characters, making it a perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh content.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
Released: 2022
Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Why It’s Great: A return to the roots of the TMNT arcade games, Shredder’s Revenge offers fast-paced brawling and multiplayer action with colorful pixel art that evokes memories of the original arcade hit.
Absolum
Released: 2025
Platform: PC
Why It’s Great: A fresh take on the genre, Absolum blends beat ‘em up mechanics with roguelike elements. Players can explore procedurally generated levels, adding a level of unpredictability to the traditional formula.
5. Choosing the Best Beat ‘Em Up Game for You
With so many great beat em up games out there, choosing the right one depends on what you’re looking for. Here are a few tips to help you decide:
- Single Player vs Co-op: If you prefer playing alone, games like Streets of Rage 2 or Double Dragon might be your best bet. For a cooperative experience, look to Shredder’s Revenge or Golden Axe.
- Story vs Action: Some games like Knights of the Round feature a more detailed narrative, while others, like Streets of Rage 4, focus on action and combat.
- Challenge: Games like Absolum or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time offer varying levels of difficulty, making them suitable for players seeking a challenge.
6. Conclusion
The beat em up genre has come a long way since its arcade days, but it remains just as fun and impactful as ever. Whether you’re looking to relive the classics or dive into modern revivals, there’s no shortage of great games to play. From the iconic Streets of Rage 2 to newer entries like Shredder’s Revenge, the beat ‘em up genre is alive and well.
What’s your favorite beat ‘em up game? Let us know in the comments!