The world of fighting games has seen its fair share of iconic franchises, with the likes of Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, Tekken, and Killer Instinct dominating the scene for decades. However, beyond these household names lie dormant gems – forgotten fighting game franchises that once held promise and captivated audiences but have since faded into obscurity. In this exploration, we shine a spotlight on some of these overlooked titles, including the legendary Killer Instinct, that deserve a second chance.

Killer Instinct:

Known for its intense combo system and memorable characters, Killer Instinct became a staple in arcades and on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in the ’90s. The franchise experienced a revival in 2013 with a new installment on the Xbox One, but updates have been sporadic. Fans eagerly anticipate the return of the series with its unique combo-centric gameplay and diverse cast of fighters.

Darkstalkers:

With its unique roster of supernatural characters and captivating art style, Darkstalkers emerged as a cult favorite in the ’90s. Despite its critical acclaim, the franchise has been dormant for years. Fans eagerly await a revival, hoping to see the resurrection of characters like Morrigan and Felicia in a modern gaming landscape.

Bloody Roar:

Combining anthropomorphic characters with a unique “Beast Mode” mechanic, Bloody Roar gained a loyal following during its active years. Unfortunately, the series fell silent after Bloody Roar 4 in 2003. With advancements in technology, a reboot or sequel could showcase the potential of transforming fighters in today’s gaming landscape.

Rival Schools:

Rival Schools, a Capcom creation, featured a diverse cast of high school students engaged in martial arts combat. The last installment, Project Justice, was released in 2000. Given the popularity of school-based settings in contemporary media, a modern reimagining of Rival Schools could resonate with both nostalgic fans and a new generation of players.

Bushido Blade:

Unlike traditional fighting games, Bushido Blade emphasized realistic swordplay and one-hit kills. The franchise, known for its depth and innovative mechanics, has been dormant since the late ’90s. A new Bushido Blade installment, leveraging today’s technology, could deliver a unique and intense sword-fighting experience.

While Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, Tekken, and Killer Instinct continue to hold a special place in the hearts of fighting game enthusiasts, there’s a rich history of franchises that have been unjustly relegated to the sidelines. These dormant gems, including Killer Instinct, have the potential to offer unique gameplay experiences and captivate audiences once again. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, perhaps it’s time for developers to revisit these forgotten titles, breathe new life into them, and let a new generation of gamers experience the thrill they once provided.