The popularity of multiplayer fighting games is touching the sky in 2025. Players today love fast-paced battles, colorful characters, and fun gameplay. One of the most famous titles in this niche is Super Smash Bros. Ultimately, if you are a fan of this game or want to build a game like it, then you are at the right place.
In this article, you will explore the best alternatives to Super Smash Bros in 2025 and learn how to develop a similar game. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.
Super Smash Bros is a fighting game. It is created by Nintendo. It features a wide roster of characters from different gaming universes, including Mario, Link, Pikachu, and more. Players fight on unique stages with items, power-ups, and fun mechanics that set the game apart.
Why Are Games Like Super Smash Bros So Popular?
Super Smash Bros is so popular because it offers standout features like:
Multiplayer brawls with friends
Iconic characters from different game universes
Easy-to-learn, hard-to-master gameplay
Fun graphics and intense action
Other games that are similar to Super Smash Bros have followed this formula with their own twist, creating a new wave of brawler and platform fighting games.
When you are searching for “How to develop a game like Super Smash Bros,” you must know the best games that are similar to it but have unique offerings on tap. Here’s the list:
1. Multiversus
Multiversus is a free-to-play platform fighting game and a strong Smash Bros alternative that features characters from Warner Bros franchises like Batman, Bugs Bunny, and Shaggy. The game focuses on 2v2 team battles, offers voice acting, and supports cross-play.
Similarity: Platform fighting with fast-paced action
Unique Feature: Includes popular WB characters and team-based mechanics
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
2. Brawlhalla
Brawlhalla is a free fighting game with simple controls and smooth gameplay. It features a wide range of original and crossover characters. You can play online or locally, and it supports cross-platform play. It’s great for casual and competitive players looking for a Smash-style experience.
Similarity: 2D platform fighter with multiplayer brawls
Unique Feature: 100% free with frequent character crossovers (WWE, TMNT, etc.)
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS
3. Rivals of Aether
Rivals of Aether is an indie fighting game known for its competitive gameplay and elemental characters. It doesn’t rely on blocking, making timing and positioning very important. The game has gained popularity in the esports space and offers both solo and multiplayer modes.
Similarity: Platform-based combat with character abilities
Unique Feature: Element-themed characters and competitive depth
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
4. Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2
This fighting game brings together popular Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob, Aang, and Garfield. It improves on its predecessor with better graphics, smoother animations, and a full campaign mode. The gameplay feels close to Smash but appeals more to fans of cartoons and nostalgia.
Similarity: Platform fighting with recognizable characters
Unique Feature: Full campaign and characters from Nickelodeon shows
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
5. Fraymakers
Fraymakers is a crossover indie brawler featuring pixel-art characters from games like Octodad and Downwell. The game supports mods and custom content, making it a favorite among creative players. Although still in early access, it shows promise as a highly customizable Smash alternative.
Similarity: 2D platform brawler with diverse fighters
Unique Feature: Full modding support and indie crossover roster
Platforms: PC, Mac (more platforms expected)
6. Slap City
Slap City is a fun and quirky platform fighter created by indie developers. It features cartoonish characters, responsive controls, and silly humor. Though it looks simple, it offers surprising depth for serious players and casual fun for beginners, similar to early versions of Smash.
Similarity: Fast, Smash-like combat with a light-hearted tone
Unique Feature: Unique characters with humor and an indie art style
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch
7. PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale
This title features Sony’s most iconic characters like Kratos, Nathan Drake, and Parappa. Though it didn’t gain as much fame as Smash, it introduced its own mechanics with super attacks and team modes. A good choice for those wanting Sony-exclusive action.
Similarity: Multiplayer battles with famous game characters
Unique Feature: Super attack system and Sony-exclusive roster
Development Cost to Build a Game Like Super Smash Bros
The cost to develop a game like Super Smash Bros is around $10,000 to $80,000+, depending on game type, complexities, platform selection, and features. Here is the cost as per game type:
Type of Game
Estimated Cost (USD)
Basic 2D Brawler
$10,000 ~ $20,000
Mid-level Platform Fighter
$20,000 ~ $50,000
Advanced 3D Fighting Game
$50,000 ~ $80,000+
Factors affecting cost:
Number of characters
Animation and graphics quality
Multiplayer setup and cross-play
Voiceovers and sound effects
Backend server infrastructure
Tech Stack to Develop a Game Like Super Smash Bros
Component
Technology
Game Engine
Unity, Unreal Engine
Programming Language
C#, C++, JavaScript
Multiplayer
Photon, Mirror, PlayFab, AWS GameLift
Graphics & Design
Blender, Spine, Adobe Illustrator
Platform Support
Android, iOS, Windows, PlayStation, Xbox
I recommend Unity for 2D/3D brawler games due to its flexibility and cost-efficiency.
Final Words
Games like Super Smash Bros are fun-filled and competitive. They are socially engaging too, which is a plus point. If you want to try something new but similar to Super Smash Bros or plan to develop a game like Super Smash Bros, then now is the perfect time to tap into this trend.
If you are ready to build your own game or want to learn more about the process, the best game development agency is waiting for you to help you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What makes Super Smash Bros so popular?
Ans. Super Smash Bros is popular because it brings famous characters from many game franchises into one action-packed fighting game. It is easy for beginners to enjoy. The fast-paced gameplay with fun multiplayer modes keeps the user coming back
Q2. How do you develop a multiplayer brawler like Super Smash Bros?
Ans. To develop a multiplayer brawler like Super Smash Bros, you need a game developer experienced in character design, animation, and real-time multiplayer coding.
Q3. How long does it take to develop a game like Super Smash Bros?
Ans. It takes 8 to 15+ months to build a similar game. The timeframe depends on the number of characters, game modes, animation complexity, and multiplayer setup.
Q4. Will we see more games like Super Smash Bros in the future?
Ans. Yes, many studios are working on games inspired by Super Smash Bros. The demand for multiplayer brawlers is growing, and more games are being released
Q5. What makes a game a platform fighter like Super Smash Bros?
Ans. A platform fighter is a fighting game where players battle on multi-level stages and try to knock opponents off the screen instead of draining a health bar. These games focus on jumping, dodging, and precise movement.
Q6. Can I develop a Super Smash Bros-style game for mobile devices?
Ans. Yes, you can develop a Super Smash Bros-style game for mobile. Using lightweight engines like Unity, you can create touch-friendly controls, online play, and simplified graphics.
Q7. How do I balance characters in a Super Smash Bros-style game?
Ans. To balance characters, make sure no single fighter is too strong or too weak. Give each one unique strengths and weaknesses. Use player feedback, testing, and data tracking to adjust damage, speed, and abilities.
Nitin Garg is a seasoned tech entrepreneur and the visionary founder of BR Softech, a globally recognized leader in game development. With over 13 years of industry experience, he has been instrumental in transforming BR Softech into a powerhouse of innovation, offering cutting-edge solutions in Video Games, Blockchain Games, NFT Game Development, and card games like Poker, Rummy, and Teen Patti.
Nitin’s deep expertise in emerging technologies, combined with a sharp business acumen, has helped position BR Softech as a trusted name in the international gaming arena. Under his leadership, BR Softech has built a global clientele of 3,000+ satisfied customers and scaled a dedicated in-house team of 180+ skilled professionals.
