Play Super Variable Geo (Japan) Online

Super Variable Geo is one of those SNES fighters that slipped under the radar outside Japan, which is a shame because it’s got this weird, infectious energy. You pick from a roster of anime-style female fighters—each with exaggerated special moves that feel straight out of a Saturday morning cartoon—and the controls are tighter than you’d expect. I remember thinking it’d be another clunky niche fighter, but landing combos actually feels satisfying, like a stripped-down Street Fighter with more flair.

The pixel art pops with bright colors, and the characters have these ridiculous win animations that never get old. There’s a girl who literally flexes her biceps so hard her sleeves explode. The music’s pure early ‘90s synth, all cheery and chaotic, like someone remixed a workout tape. It’s not the deepest fighter out there, but it’s got way more charm than most imports from that era. If you dig weird retro brawlers, this one’s worth tracking down.