7 Video Games That Revolutionize Combat Mechanics

Video games often captivate through their ability to make battles feel thrilling and unique. Some titles go beyond the norm, crafting combat systems that stand out for their creativity and depth, transforming every fight into something special.

I’ve played and studied countless games, and a handful shine for their bold combat designs. Below, I explore seven titles that redefine how players engage in battle, each bringing a fresh and exciting approach.

Sifu (2022)

‘Sifu’ delivers a martial arts masterpiece centered on kung fu, where every move feels deliberate and impactful. Its aging mechanic is the heart of the system—dying ages your character, reducing health but boosting attack power, forcing you to adapt.

You master precise dodges, blocks, and counters, using environmental objects like bottles or chairs for creative takedowns. The steep challenge rewards dedication, turning you into a fluid, cinematic fighter.

Devil May Cry 5 (2019)

‘Devil May Cry 5’ thrives on its stylish, high-octane combat, offering three characters with distinct fighting styles. Dante mixes weapons for dazzling combos, Nero uses swappable prosthetic arms with unique abilities, and V commands summoned creatures for strategic attacks.

The game encourages endless creativity, letting you chain moves in spectacular ways. Battles feel like a performance, demanding both skill and flair to dominate foes.

Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023)

‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ redefines turn-based combat with its tactical depth and environmental interactivity. You can push enemies off ledges, set traps ablaze, or use class-specific abilities like turning into a bear to crush opponents.

With twelve classes and numerous subclasses, every fight feels like a strategic puzzle. The freedom to experiment ensures battles stay varied and engaging, keeping you immersed.

Ghost of Tsushima (2020)

‘Ghost of Tsushima’ crafts a samurai epic with combat that’s both graceful and intense. You switch between four stances to counter specific enemy types, pairing swordplay with tools like sticky bombs or archery for tactical variety.

Perfect parries and well-timed dodges trigger cinematic strikes, making every duel feel epic. The system’s focus on precision captures the spirit of a warrior’s honor.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 (2024)

‘Dragon’s Dogma 2’ offers a dynamic combat system tied to ten unique vocations, from spell-slinging sorcerers to nimble archers. You can climb towering monsters to target weak spots or unleash massive area-of-effect spells.

The open world amplifies the chaos, with battles erupting spontaneously. This open-ended approach makes every encounter a thrilling, unpredictable adventure.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance (2018)

‘Kingdom Come: Deliverance’ brings realistic medieval combat to life with a system that mimics authentic swordplay. Directional attacks and precise blocks require careful timing and stamina management, making every strike feel heavy and meaningful.

Early fights are tough, but practice transforms you into a skilled duelist. The focus on realism makes victories feel hard-earned and deeply satisfying.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019)

‘Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice’ delivers a relentless combat system built around posture and precision. Instead of just depleting health, you break an enemy’s stance through aggressive attacks and perfect parries, leading to dramatic deathblows.

Stealth, grappling hooks, and prosthetic tools add layers of strategy. The rhythmic intensity of its swordplay demands focus, making every clash feel like a high-stakes dance.

Which game’s combat system excites you most, or is there another title with a bold fighting style I overlooked? Share your picks in the comments!