The Top 10 Scrolling Beat ‘Em Ups for Nintendo Switch

1. Final Fight – Capcom (1989)

Found on: Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle

Final Fight, originally conceived as a follow-up to Street Fighter (initially titled Street Fighter 89), remains a cornerstone of the genre. Its high-quality graphics, detailed sprites, and excellent sound design were groundbreaking for its time. The game’s memorable characters and complex gameplay influenced countless scrolling beat ‘em ups that followed, and it’s still a thoroughly enjoyable experience today.

Avoid if: You’re averse to repetitive button mashing, as Final Fight demands a significant degree of dexterity.

Alternatively, you could play: Double Dragon (1987) or Vendetta (1991).

2. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Konami (1989)

Found on: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection

Konami’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was one of the first four-player arcade cabinets, perfectly capturing the spirit of the wildly popular cartoon. Smooth animation, action-packed gameplay, and a fantastic soundtrack combined to create an unforgettable experience. The game faithfully recreated iconic bosses and locations from the cartoon series, appealing to fans of all ages.

Avoid if: You’re not a fan of pizza, the phrase “Cowabunga,” or wise-cracking sensei rats.

Alternatively, you could play: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time (1991) or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge (2022).

3. Zero Team – Seibu Kaihatsu (1993)

Found on: eShop (Arcade Archives)

Released during a period when the scrolling beat ‘em up market was becoming saturated, Zero Team often flew under the radar. However, it’s a hidden gem with engaging gameplay, unique combat mechanics, and detailed, interactive environments. It’s particularly fun in couch co-op, even if accidental friendly fire is a frequent occurrence.

Avoid if: You’re sensitive to potentially disturbing content, as the female character, Spin, has a particularly gruesome death animation.

Alternatively, you could play: Mutation Nation (1992) or The Punisher (1993).

4. Battle Circuit – Capcom (1997)

Found on: Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle

Battle Circuit offers a unique twist on the genre with its deep upgrade system, allowing players to customize their character’s fighting style by purchasing new moves with in-game currency. The game features five playable characters, each with distinct abilities: a cyber human, a rubber man with ice powers, a whip-wielding fashion model, a flying ostrich, and a plant-based monster. This was Capcom’s final arcade beat ‘em up of this type.

Avoid if: You’re afraid of Venus flytraps or vibrant, colorful action.

Alternatively, you could play: Captain Commando (1991) or Metamorphic Force (1993).

5. Sengoku 3 – SNK (2001)

Found on: eShop

Despite its initially unassuming presentation, Sengoku 3 boasts one of the deepest combat systems in the genre. Mastering its attack inputs is rewarding, and the game features great presentation and diverse enemy variety. The branching map and unlockable characters add significant replay value.

Avoid if: You have a strong aversion to 15th and 16th century Japan or ninjas.

Alternatively, you could play: Sengoku (1991) or Sengoku 2 (1993).

6. Mayhem Brawler – Hero Concept (2019)

Found on: eShop or physical

Mayhem Brawler stands out with its modern comic book art style and engaging story, which branches based on player choices. Its freeform combo system demands skill and strategy, offering a challenging experience. The game’s memorable cast of five playable characters – a she-wolf, a he-wolf, a dolphin-like creature, a telekinetic, and a witch – adds to its appeal. It plays similarly to Streets Of Rage 4.

Avoid if: You dislike supernatural themes or women with prominent body hair.

Alternatively, you could play: Raging Justice (2018) or Fight’N Rage (2019).

7. River City Girls – WayForward (2019)

Found on: eShop or physical

River City Girls is a fast-paced beat ‘em up with a sense of humor and a fantastic soundtrack. Its colorful pixelated graphics, manga art style, and light role-playing elements create a surprisingly deep experience. It’s a prime example of how the genre can be evolved and modernized while remaining true to its roots as part of the Kunio-kun series.

Avoid if: You’re not a fan of Japanese schoolgirls who deliver a serious beating.

Alternatively, you could play: River City Ransom (1989) or River City Girls 2 (2022).

8. The TakeOver – Pelikan13 (2020)

Found on: eShop or physical

Currently available for just £2.69 on the Nintendo eShop, The TakeOver is an incredible value for any beat ‘em up fan. Its satisfying combat mechanics and 3D/2D hybrid graphics are impressive, and its clear inspiration from Streets Of Rage is evident, even in its music composed by Yuzo Koshiro.

Alternatively, you could play: Any of the Streets Of Rage games.

9. Streets Of Rage 4 – Dotemu (2020)

Found on: eShop or physical

Streets Of Rage 4 is an excellent blend of classic beat ‘em up gameplay and modern design. It features an outstanding soundtrack (with both original and retro options) and deep, modern combat mechanics. It’s a fitting tribute to the series and sets a new standard for the genre.

Avoid if: You’re afraid of gritty urban environments or boxing kangaroos.

Alternatively, you could play: Streets Of Rage (1991), Streets Of Rage 2 (1992), or Streets Of Rage 3 (1994).

10. Absolum – Dotemu (2025)

Found on: eShop or physical

Absolum is a standout title with its gorgeous art style, excellent soundtrack, and addictive gameplay. Its innovative roguelike permanent progression system is a first for the genre. With four unique playable characters and a constantly changing game world, every playthrough feels fresh.

Avoid if: You’re not a fan of scary cartoon goblins and dwarves.

Alternatively, you could play: Golden Axe (1989) or Knights Of The Round (1992).

Frequently Asked Questions About Beat ‘Em Ups