Top 15 Upcoming Beat 'Em Up Games of 2025

 Top 15 Upcoming Beat 'Em Up Games of 2025

• A. Final Knight

  • Expected Release Window: January 12, 2025 (confirmed Early Access release on PC - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: 2oclocksoft  
  • Publisher: GRAVITY  
  • Gameplay Description: Final Knight presents a unique twist on the classic beat 'em up formula by incorporating party-based mechanics within an arcade-style framework and a retro visual presentation. Instead of controlling a single character, players manage a group of heroes, strategically coordinating their actions to exploit the vulnerabilities of their foes and unleash devastating attacks. The game entered Early Access on Steam in January 2025 , allowing players to jump into the action and provide valuable feedback during its ongoing development. This approach offers a layer of tactical depth not typically found in traditional beat 'em ups.  
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  • Insight: The integration of party-based elements sets Final Knight apart, suggesting a more strategic and potentially complex gameplay experience compared to standard brawlers. The decision to launch in Early Access allows the development team to refine the game based on player input, which can lead to a more polished final product. The retro aesthetic will likely resonate with players who appreciate the visual style of classic arcade games.

• B. Big Helmet Heroes

  • Expected Release Window: February 6, 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: Exalted Studio  
  • Publisher: Dear Villagers (Steam - ), Plug In Digital (Switch - ), Dear Villagers (Xbox - )  
  • Gameplay Description: Big Helmet Heroes offers a vibrant and whimsical take on the 3D beat 'em up genre, featuring a cast of adorable knights navigating through imaginative and surprising worlds. The game emphasizes cooperative gameplay, allowing two players to team up and embark on an epic adventure to rescue a princess. The overwhelmingly positive reception from users on Steam indicates that the game has already found an audience with its charming aesthetic and engaging co-op action.  
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  • Insight: The 3D visuals and the focus on "adorable knights" suggest a more lighthearted and family-friendly approach to the beat 'em up genre. The confirmed early February release across multiple platforms ensures broad accessibility for players looking for some cooperative fun. The positive user reviews on Steam point towards a polished and enjoyable experience.

• C. The Phantom

  • Expected Release Window: March 12, 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC (Steam), PlayStation, Xbox  
  • Developer: Art Of Play Interactive  
  • Publisher: Art Of Play Interactive  
  • Gameplay Description: The Phantom brings the iconic comic book hero, the first costumed hero in comics' history, to the forefront in an arcade-style side-scrolling beat 'em up adventure, where he is joined by his partner Diana Palmer. Players will navigate through 14 to 15 action-packed levels, either solo or in two-player co-op, battling the nefarious Singh Brotherhood, feared pirates threatening The Phantom's legacy. The game features hand-drawn graphics from talented artists and an original storyline considered canon within The Phantom universe. Combat involves hand-to-hand fighting skills and the use of various weapons, with the added ability to call upon The Phantom's loyal animal companions, Fraka the falcon and Devil the wolf, for assistance. A demo was available during Steam Next Fest.  
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  • Insight: Adapting a nearly century-old comic book character for a modern gaming audience showcases the enduring appeal of The Phantom. The confirmed mid-March release across all major platforms makes it widely accessible. The hand-drawn art style and the promise of a canon storyline are likely to appeal to fans of the comic, while the classic beat 'em up gameplay will attract genre enthusiasts.

• D. Absolum

  • Expected Release Window: 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PS5, PS4, Switch, PC (via Steam)  
  • Developer: Guard Crush Games and Supamonks  
  • Publisher: Dotemu  
  • Gameplay Description: Absolum is an arcade-inspired beat 'em up set in the original fantasy world of Talamh, a land fractured by a magical cataclysm. Players will engage in fast-paced, side-scrolling action, utilizing spells, counters, upgradable abilities, and a roster of uniquely powerful playable fighters. The game masterfully blends classic beat 'em up mechanics with modern roguelite elements, promising endless replayability through multiple branching paths and unpredictable encounters. The adventure can be undertaken solo or with a friend in local cooperative mode. Adding to the game's allure is a magnificent soundtrack featuring collaborations from acclaimed composers Gareth Coker (Ori, Halo Infinite), Yuka Kitamura (Dark Souls, Elden Ring), and Mick Gordon (DOOM Eternal).  
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  • Insight: The involvement of Guard Crush Games, renowned for their work on Streets of Rage 4, and the publishing expertise of Dotemu signal a high level of quality and understanding of the beat 'em up genre. The fusion of classic gameplay with roguelite elements suggests a deep and replayable experience. The original fantasy setting and the impressive musical talent involved further enhance the anticipation for Absolum.

• E. Marvel Cosmic Invasion

  • Expected Release Window: Holiday 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC  
  • Developer: Dotemu  
  • Publisher: Dotemu  
  • Gameplay Description: Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a retro-style 2D beat 'em up that allows players to take control of iconic Marvel superheroes in a beautifully rendered classic art style. The game supports up to four players in cooperative mode. In each level, players choose two heroes from a roster of 15 playable characters and can seamlessly switch between them to unleash devastating team-up attacks and unique combo moves, tailored to the selected duo. The adventure spans across both Earth and the vast expanse of the galaxy as players confront hordes of bug-like alien invaders and face off against familiar Marvel villains, including the formidable Annihilus and the deadly Task Master.  
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  • Insight: The combination of the beloved Marvel universe with the nostalgic charm of a 2D beat 'em up, developed and published by the genre experts at Dotemu, creates a highly anticipated title. The promise of 15 playable heroes and four-player co-op offers significant replayability and opportunities for exciting team-based action. The inclusion of well-known villains like Annihilus ensures a compelling narrative element for Marvel fans.

• F. Double Dragon Revive

  • Expected Release Window: October 23, 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: YUKE'S  
  • Publisher: Arc System Works  
  • Gameplay Description: Double Dragon Revive reimagines the classic beat 'em up series in a modern 3D side-scrolling format, featuring enhanced combat mechanics and updated visuals. Players will once again step into the roles of the legendary Lee brothers, Billy and Jimmy, as they embark on a perilous mission to rescue Marion from the clutches of the Shadow Warriors. The game promises significant improvements to the combo system, offering more strategic fighting opportunities, and will see the return of iconic and challenging bosses from the series' rich history.  
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  • Insight: As a revival of one of the most influential beat 'em up franchises, Double Dragon Revive holds significant appeal for veteran players. The move to a 3D side-scrolling perspective offers a contemporary feel while staying true to the core gameplay. The involvement of Arc System Works, known for their expertise in fighting games, suggests a focus on delivering a refined and engaging combat experience. The confirmed late October release across a wide range of platforms ensures accessibility for a broad audience.

• G. Detained Too Good for School

  • Expected Release Window: 2025 (likely Early Access initially - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam), PlayStation, Switch, Xbox (as per )  
  • Developer: O.T.K Games  
  • Publisher: Thermite Games  
  • Gameplay Description: Detained Too Good for School offers a unique blend of 2D action RPG elements with the classic beat 'em up structure, all wrapped in a delinquent schoolgirl simulator. Players take on the role of a recently released schoolgirl, navigating the challenges of attending classes, battling gangsters, working part-time jobs, and engaging in various forms of mischief. The narrative is driven by the protagonist's quest for revenge against the individual who killed her brother, seamlessly integrating life simulation aspects with intense beat 'em up combat. The game is expected to initially launch in Early Access on PC.  
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  • Insight: The genre-bending approach of Detained Too Good for School, combining beat 'em up action with RPG and life simulation elements, offers a potentially deep and engaging experience. The school setting and the revenge-driven narrative provide a distinctive backdrop. The planned Early Access release on PC allows the developers to gather community feedback and further refine the game before a full launch.

• H. Toxic Crusaders

  • Expected Release Window: Q2 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam, Epic Games Store), PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch  
  • Developer: Retroware  
  • Publisher: Retroware  
  • Gameplay Description: Toxic Crusaders is a new beat 'em up title based on the hilariously over-the-top animated series of the same name, itself a spin-off of the cult classic Troma film, The Toxic Avenger. This game has generated significant excitement among fans of the beat 'em up genre. The developers have stated their commitment to delivering a high-quality experience for both digital and physical releases. Players can anticipate classic side-scrolling beat 'em up action featuring the mutated superhero Toxie and his team of equally grotesque yet heroic allies as they battle the forces of evil in their uniquely absurd and environmentally conscious style.  
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  • Insight: Tapping into the nostalgia of a beloved and unconventional animated series, Toxic Crusaders promises a potentially humorous and action-packed beat 'em up experience. The confirmed second-quarter 2025 release across a wide array of platforms ensures broad accessibility. The developer's emphasis on quality for both digital and physical editions suggests a dedication to satisfying fans of the franchise.

• I. Beatdown City Survivors

  • Expected Release Window: 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: NuChallenger  
  • Publisher: NuChallenger  
  • Gameplay Description: Beatdown City Survivors offers a unique blend of the beat 'em up genre with roguelite and survivor mechanics, all set within an immersive sandbox environment inspired by 1980s dystopian sci-fi cinema. Players find themselves in a decaying city where survival hinges on causing chaos. Gameplay involves engaging in melee combat, starting fires, recruiting other survivors to join the fight, crafting powerful combo weapons, and strategically utilizing environmental elements to overcome enemies.  
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  • Insight: The fusion of beat 'em up action with roguelite and survivor elements in a sandbox setting suggests a highly replayable and unpredictable experience. The dystopian sci-fi theme and the emphasis on player-driven chaos offer a distinctive flavor within the genre. The confirmed 2025 release on PC (Steam) makes it one to watch for players seeking a novel take on the beat 'em up formula.

• J. Button Man (Styrax Studios)

  • Expected Release Window: 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: Styrax Studios Inc.  
  • Publisher: Styrax Studios Inc.  
  • Gameplay Description: Button Man is a side-scrolling adventure game set in a fictional Nova Scotia during the Prohibition era. Players assume the role of a long-time henchman to the local bootlegging kingpin. Following the boss's assassination, the player must embark on a quest to find the killer and protect the town from emerging threats. The gameplay uniquely blends classic point-and-click adventure mechanics with tactical beat 'em up combat against various adversaries. Notably, the game offers players choices that can allow them to avoid combat encounters entirely, emphasizing exploration, branching dialogues, and puzzle-solving. The game features a distinctive comic book-inspired art style reminiscent of the 1920s and 30s.  
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  • Insight: The intriguing combination of adventure and beat 'em up gameplay within a Prohibition-era setting makes Button Man a standout title. The choice to potentially avoid combat adds a layer of strategic decision-making not typically found in the genre. The comic book art style and the narrative focus on mystery and intrigue further enhance its unique appeal.

• K. Acts of Blood

  • Expected Release Window: Q2 2025 (suggested - ), although Steam lists it as "To be announced" ()  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: Exxel Team  
  • Publisher: Exxel Team  
  • Gameplay Description: Acts of Blood shifts the perspective to third-person for a brutal and visceral beat 'em up experience set in the dystopian city of Bandung, Indonesia. Players control Hendra, a law student turned vigilante seeking revenge after his family is murdered. The gameplay emphasizes fast-paced and dynamic combat, incorporating melee attacks, firearms, and strategic movement as players navigate linear levels against hordes of enemies and challenging bosses. A playable demo was released in late 2024.  
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  • Insight: The third-person perspective offers a fresh take on the beat 'em up genre, emphasizing a more direct and visceral combat experience. The Indonesian setting and the revenge-driven narrative provide a unique backdrop. While the exact release date in 2025 is still to be confirmed on Steam, the availability of a demo suggests that the game is nearing completion.

• L. SPARKHUNT

  • Expected Release Window: 2025 (likely - ), although Steam lists it as "To be announced" ()  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: Oleksandr Zapisochnyi  
  • Publisher: Oleksandr Zapisochnyi  
  • Gameplay Description: SPARKHUNT aims to recapture the spirit of classic 90s beat 'em ups with a modern 2.5D visual style and a complex combat system. Built using Unreal Engine 5, the game promises smooth and fluid animations and movement. Despite the Steam store page not yet listing a specific release date, mentions in various online discussions suggest a potential launch in 2025. A playable demo has been available on Steam, allowing players to experience its blend of retro inspiration and modern technology.  
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  • Insight: SPARKHUNT's commitment to a complex combat system within a classic 2.5D framework could appeal to hardcore beat 'em up fans seeking depth and challenge. The use of Unreal Engine 5 suggests a visually impressive experience. While the release date is still pending confirmation on Steam, the availability of a demo and consistent mentions in upcoming game lists indicate a likely 2025 launch.

• M. Fallen City Brawl

  • Expected Release Window: 2025 (confirmed - ), although Steam lists it as "Coming soon" ()  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam), PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S  
  • Developer: Fallen City Studio  
  • Publisher: Eastasiasoft Limited  
  • Gameplay Description: Fallen City Brawl is a hard-hitting beat 'em up presented in a distinct pixel art style reminiscent of classic arcade titles. The game unfolds within the criminal underworld of Fallen City, where four unlikely strangers must band together to survive and reclaim the streets from the clutches of rival gangs. These heroes are accompanied in their brutal quest by a ferocious wolf companion. The publisher's official website explicitly lists the game for a 2025 release.  
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  • Insight: Fallen City Brawl's classic pixel art style and focus on hard-hitting action will likely appeal to fans of retro beat 'em ups. The multi-platform release ensures accessibility for a wide audience. The inclusion of a wolf companion adds a unique element to the gameplay. Despite the "Coming soon" status on Steam, the publisher's confirmation of a 2025 release suggests that its launch is imminent.

• N. ARMED DECOBOT

  • Expected Release Window: 2025 (confirmed - )  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: Boghog  
  • Publisher: Boghog  
  • Gameplay Description: ARMED DECOBOT offers a highly unique genre fusion, combining the core mechanics of an arcade beat 'em up with the intense, projectile-dodging action of a bullet hell shooter. Players pilot an armed and significantly modified Cleaning Unit through a fractured and corrupt floating city suspended above a war zone. The primary objective is to locate and retrieve the player's stolen work van before their business faces ruin. The game features options for both shared-screen and split-screen cooperative gameplay.  
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  • Insight: The innovative blend of beat 'em up and bullet hell mechanics in ARMED DECOBOT promises a challenging and potentially chaotic experience. The quirky premise of controlling a weaponized cleaning unit and the unusual floating city setting add to its distinctiveness. The confirmed 2025 release on PC (Steam) makes it a compelling option for players seeking a fresh and unconventional take on the genre.

• O. Streets of Chaos (Bonfa Games)

  • Expected Release Window: Likely 2025 (suggested - ), although Steam lists it as "Coming soon" ()  
  • Confirmed Platforms: PC (Steam)  
  • Developer: Bonfa Games  
  • Publisher: Bonfa Games  
  • Gameplay Description: Streets of Chaos from Bonfa Games appears to be a more traditional indie-developed beat 'em up experience, focusing on delivering varied combat and featuring a roster of three distinct playable characters. The developer has provided updates indicating ongoing refinement of the combat system and further development of the game's initial levels. While the game's Steam page currently lists its release as "Coming soon" , developer commentary suggests a potential launch window in the latter half of 2025.  
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  • Insight: Streets of Chaos appears to be a passion project aiming to deliver a solid, classic-style beat 'em up experience from an independent developer. The direct communication from the developer regarding the game's progress and anticipated release in 2025 is a positive sign for fans of the genre who appreciate transparency and dedication from smaller teams.