Recommended Free Tools
If you want a platform fighter beyond Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, start with Brawlhalla for free-to-play access, cross-play and local or online matches. On PC, Rivals of Aether II offers both online and shared-screen PvP. For a crossover built around familiar licensed characters, consider Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2.
These are platform-fighter alternatives, not interchangeable versions of Smash. The right pick depends on where you play, whether you want local or online matches, and whether you prefer original or licensed characters.
![Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61bkI3XqQ7L._SL160_.jpg)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Best games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate at a glance
| Game | Why consider it | Platforms verified | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brawlhalla | Free-to-play, with cross-play and local and online play. | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android, according to Ubisoft and Steam. | It has its own weapon-based roster and mechanics rather than reproducing Smash’s format. Ubisoft describes cross-play across PC, console and mobile; Steam lists online and local matches for up to eight players. Ubisoft · Steam |
| Rivals of Aether II | A PC platform fighter with online and shared-screen PvP. | Steam/PC verified. | The cited listing does not establish console availability. Steam |
| Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 | A crossover featuring licensed Nickelodeon characters, with broad console and PC coverage. | Windows PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One and Xbox Series, according to ESRB. | Nintendo’s UK page identifies a Switch game-card edition; that physical-format detail applies to Switch, not the other platforms. ESRB · Nintendo UK |
Which game should you choose?
Choose Brawlhalla for free entry and cross-play
Brawlhalla is the clearest starting point if you want to try a platform fighter without an upfront game purchase. Ubisoft describes cross-play across PC, consoles and mobile, while Steam lists both online and local play for up to eight players. Its weapon-based approach gives it a distinct feel, so expect a different roster and set of mechanics from Smash.
Choose Rivals of Aether II for PC shared-screen or online matches
Rivals of Aether II is the supported pick here for a PC player who wants both online PvP and shared- or split-screen PvP. Steam calls it a next-generation platform fighter and lists those modes. The available listing supports a Steam/PC recommendation; it does not confirm a console version.
#1 Best Overall
- New stages and fighters are joined by the combined rosters of every past Super Smash Bros. Game
- Challenge others anytime, anywhere, whether you're on the couch or on the go
- Play any way you want—locally, online, in TV mode, Tabletop mode, Handheld mode, or even with GameCube Controllers
- Fight faster and smarter with new and returning techniques, like the perfect shield and directional air dodge
- Face off in 2-4 player battles, or play against the computer
Choose Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 for licensed characters
If the crossover appeal of recognizable characters matters most, Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 is the option to consider. ESRB lists versions for Windows PC, PS4 and PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One and Xbox Series. Nintendo’s UK store page lists a Switch game-card edition, a physical option specifically for that platform.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How these games differ from Smash
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a large benchmark, not a promise that another game offers the same scale or content. TechRadar’s March 2026 fighting-game guide reports 89 fighters for Ultimate. That is a dated secondary-source figure, not a verified current count from Nintendo. TechRadar
Rather than treating any alternative as a direct replacement, compare the practical differences:
Quick Recap
Best Value
![Nintendo Super Smash Bros. Ultimate + Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Fighter Pass Bundle - [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/516jRPfTrLL._SL160_.jpg)
- New stages and fighters are joined by the combined rosters of every past Super Smash Bros. game
- Play any way you want—locally, online, in TV mode, Tabletop mode, Handheld mode, or even with GameCube Controllers
- Fight faster and smarter with new and returning techniques, like the perfect shield and directional air dodge
Rank #4
- International Version. ESRB rated. This game is tied to the USA region and any DLC content is available on the USA regional Nintendo eShop. Works on all systems worldwide. (Middle East / Southeast Asia -- Official Nintendo Product).
- New stages and fighters are joined by the combined rosters of every past Super Smash Bros. game
- Challenge others anytime, anywhere, whether you're on the couch or on the go
- Play any way you want—locally, online, in TV mode, Tabletop mode, Handheld mode, or even with GameCube Controllers
- Fight faster and smarter with new and returning techniques, like the perfect shield and directional air dodge
Rank #3
- Platforms and cross-play: Brawlhalla has the broadest documented cross-play reach among these choices. The Rivals of Aether II listing cited here is for Steam/PC; Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 has a listed PC and console footprint.
- Cost of entry: Brawlhalla is free-to-play. The cited sources do not establish prices for the other games, and regional pricing can change.
- Local versus online play: Steam explicitly lists both for Brawlhalla and online plus shared/split-screen PvP for Rivals of Aether II. The cited Nickelodeon sources establish platforms and Switch physical format, not multiplayer mode details.
- Character identity: Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 is the licensed-character crossover here; Brawlhalla and Rivals of Aether II have their own distinct rosters and mechanics.
What to check before you buy or install
- Confirm the exact platform: a game available on PC is not automatically available on every console, and the cited Rivals of Aether II listing only verifies Steam/PC.
- If you plan to play with someone on another device, check that cross-play covers both platforms. Ubisoft describes Brawlhalla cross-play across PC, consoles and mobile; do not assume the same for the other titles.
- For couch play, check the store listing for the specific game and platform you intend to use. The listed Brawlhalla and Rivals of Aether II modes establish local/shared-screen options; they do not establish a required controller model.
- For a physical copy, the confirmed format here is the Nintendo Switch game card for Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2. Availability and edition can depend on region and retailer.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
