Play Art of Fighting / Ryuuko no Ken Online

Throwing slow, heavy punches that actually feel like they hurt—this is the fighter where missing a block means eating a full combo while the screen shakes like an earthquake. Good luck landing Ryo’s fireball without getting jumped on.

Developer: SNK

Genre: Fighting

Released: 1992

File size: 6.3 MB

Game Overview

Art of Fighting (or Ryuuko no Ken, if you prefer the original Japanese title) is one of those old-school arcade fighters that somehow makes getting your butt kicked feel rewarding. The characters move with this exaggerated, almost theatrical style—like they’re in a martial arts movie where every punch leaves a visible dent in the air. You’ll spend the first few matches just figuring out how to pull off special moves without accidentally throwing yourself into a wall.

It’s not as flashy as Street Fighter, but there’s something satisfying about the slower, deliberate combat. You really have to time your blocks and counters, or you’ll eat a fist to the face. And good luck beating Ryo’s fireball spam—took me way too long to figure out the dodge timing.

If you’re into retro fighters with a bit of grit, this one’s a solid pick. Just don’t expect mercy from the AI.