Choose Poly Fighter if you want a solo fighting game whose moveset changes from run to run. Choose Rivals of Aether for online, ranked platform-fighter competition and deep training tools. Choose Them’s Fightin’ Herds for a more conventional 2D fighter with four-button combat, character-specific abilities and matchmaking.
Poly Fighter entered Steam Early Access on October 13, 2026, so this comparison reflects its current version rather than a finished 1.0 release.
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The short answer
These games serve three different ideas of what an indie fighting game should be. Poly Fighter is a single-player roguelike: you start with a basic moveset, defeat opponents, take one of their moves, and assemble a new build during each run. Rivals of Aether is built around competitive platform fighting, with online versus play, ranked matches, team modes and unusually detailed practice tools. Them’s Fightin’ Herds follows the traditional 2D-fighter format, adding a strong animal-cartoon identity, four-button combat and online matchmaking.
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The right choice depends less on graphics or character count than on the structure you want to repeat. Ask whether you want solo progression or human opponents, a changing build or a fixed character to master, and platform movement or traditional 2D rounds.
#1 Best Overall
- Small Form Factor Fight Stick featuring an 8-button layout and 8ft. cable
- Great for both Arcade and Fighting Games
- Compact, lightweight and portable design
- Features Classic 8-Button Layout and HORI’s Original Joystick with V-cut Housing
- Officially Licensed by Sony
What Poly Fighter is
A roguelike built around borrowed moves
Poly Fighter is made by Montreal-based HeartLoop Games. Its defining system is simple: begin with a basic moveset, defeat an opponent, learn one of that opponent’s unique moves, and continue with a customized set of attacks. The rivals you face change from run to run, so your available tools and the way you approach a fight are not identical every time.
That structure makes Poly Fighter closer to a run-based action game than to a conventional fighter’s character-select screen. Instead of choosing one complete moveset and practicing the same matchup indefinitely, you make tactical decisions as the run develops. A move that is useful in one sequence of opponents may be less valuable later, while a different combination can create a stronger route through the next league.
Single-player by design
Poly Fighter is currently a single-player game. Its official Steam description emphasizes: “No ranked ladders. No online stress. Just pure, expressive 1v1 combat.” The developer has described it as a roguelike, single-player fighting game whose focus is solo play rather than online competition.
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Runs, leagues and ascension
The current Early Access version includes three leagues and ascension runs. A normal run asks you to adapt as opponents and available moves change. Ascension provides an additional replay path after you understand the basic loop, giving experienced players a reason to continue experimenting with builds rather than treating the campaign as a one-time arcade ladder.
The game lists 16 playable characters in its current Early Access version. Character selection matters, but the run’s move choices are equally important: the character you begin with is only the starting point for the build you finish with.
Simple or motion inputs
Poly Fighter offers a choice between simple inputs and motion inputs. Simple inputs reduce the execution barrier for players who are new to fighting games or who prefer to concentrate on spacing, timing and move selection. Motion inputs are available for players who enjoy the physical execution associated with traditional fighters.
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Rank #2
- Compatible with PlayStation5, PlayStation4, and PC
- Officially licensed Sony peripheral
- Authentic Qanba buttons and lever
- Full control panel, touch pad, Qanba 30-mm B30 buttons, and Qanba OV7 OMRON switch joystick
- 3.5-mm microphone input with mute button control
Early Access expectations
Poly Fighter launched in Steam Early Access on October 13, 2026. HeartLoop Games says it is aiming for version 1.0 before summer 2027, while warning that the schedule can change in response to development and player feedback. Content, balance and systems may therefore change after you start playing.
Buy it now if you are comfortable with an unfinished game and want to help shape a run-based fighter while its systems are evolving. Wait for 1.0 if you want a settled balance model, a complete content package and fewer changes to the way progression works.
How the alternatives differ
Rivals of Aether: choose it for competition and platform movement
Rivals of Aether is an indie platform fighter released on March 28, 2017. Its setting features civilizations associated with Fire, Water, Air and Earth, but its practical distinction is the breadth of its competitive toolkit.
You can play 1v1, 2v2 and free-for-all matches, use online versus and ranked modes, follow a story mode, enter Abyss, or work through its tutorial. Practice includes frame data and hitbox information, giving you direct feedback when you study attacks, timing and matchup interactions.
The movement model is the major adjustment for players coming from traditional 2D fighters. Platform fighters ask you to manage vertical space, recover toward platforms and control the stage differently from a game built around fixed ground-based rounds. Rivals of Aether is therefore a strong fit if you want a competitive game with several multiplayer formats and a serious training environment. It is less suitable if your priority is a solo campaign with permanent run-to-run changes.
Them’s Fightin’ Herds: choose it for traditional 2D combat
Them’s Fightin’ Herds is an indie 2D fighter whose animal cast was designed by Lauren Faust. Its combat system uses three attack buttons plus a character-specific Magic button. That gives each fighter a shared foundation for learning combos while preserving a unique ability that changes how the character plays.
The game supports online matchmaking and a Pixel Lobby. Its structure is closer to the traditional fighting-game routine: select a character, learn that character’s normals, specials and combos, then improve through repeated matches. The animal presentation is a major part of its identity, so it is a natural choice if a distinctive cartoon cast matters to you.
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Compared with Poly Fighter, Them’s Fightin’ Herds offers a more conventional combat framework and does not make a changing roguelike moveset the center of progression. Compared with Rivals of Aether, it uses traditional 2D-fighter conventions rather than platform-focused movement.
Rank #3
- Multi-Platform PC Gaming Controller: Working with Switch, PC, Android, and iOS devices via Bluetooth, wired, and wireless dongle connections.
- Hall Effect Joysticks: Delivering enhanced recentering performance for smoother control and superior anti-drift capability. Plus, with anti-friction rings.
- 2-Way Trigger Lock: With trigger stops, gamers can toggle between short and long pull positions. Additionally, gamers can activate hair trigger mode by pressing M+LT/RT (triggers must be in the long pull position).
- 1000Hz Polling Rate: This ensures that your inputs are registered almost instantaneously, minimizing lag and maximizing your performance during competitive play.
- Mechanical Circular D-pad: Designed for quick reactions and accuracy in every direction, this D-pad elevates your gaming experience with superior responsiveness.
Poly Fighter vs. Rivals of Aether vs. Them’s Fightin’ Herds
| Game | Best for | Structure and modes | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Poly Fighter | Solo players who enjoy roguelike experimentation | Single-player 1v1 arcade runs; learn and combine moves from opponents; three leagues; ascension runs; changing rivals and builds | No ranked or online multiplayer; Early Access content and balance can change |
| Rivals of Aether | Competitive platform-fighter players | 1v1, 2v2, free-for-all, online versus, ranked mode, story, Abyss, tutorial, and practice with frame data and hitboxes | Platform-fighter movement and competitive focus may not suit players seeking traditional rounds or solo progression |
| Them’s Fightin’ Herds | Players who want a traditional 2D fighter with a strong visual theme | Four-button combat, combos, character abilities, online matchmaking and Pixel Lobby | Its conventional fighter structure and animal-cartoon presentation will not appeal to every player |
Which game fits your priorities?
Choose Poly Fighter for solo replayability
Poly Fighter is the clearest choice when you want to play alone without turning to a separate arcade mode or artificial challenge list. The changing moveset gives each run a different problem to solve. You are not only asking, “Which character am I using?” You are also asking, “Which move should I keep, what combination covers my weaknesses, and how do I adapt to the next opponent?”
This design suits players who enjoy roguelikes, run-based experimentation and gradual mastery. It also works for fighting-game newcomers who want to learn through a contained solo loop instead of immediately entering online matches.
Choose Rivals of Aether for a competitive community loop
Rivals of Aether is the better fit when the opponent on the other side of the match is the main reason you play. Ranked mode supplies a clear competitive target, while online versus, 2v2 and free-for-all let you vary the social format. The tutorial and practice tools make it easier to turn a loss into a specific training question: Which frame advantage did I miss? Why did that hitbox fail? How should I punish this move?
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteSelect it if you specifically want platform movement. A player who prefers grounded footsies, round-based spacing and a solo progression ladder may find its movement and competitive emphasis less natural than Poly Fighter’s structure.
Choose Them’s Fightin’ Herds for classic 2D fundamentals
Them’s Fightin’ Herds is the middle ground for players who want recognizable fighting-game fundamentals and online matchmaking without moving into a platform-fighter ruleset. The three attack buttons and Magic button create a manageable control layout, while character-specific abilities give each member of the cast a distinct game plan.
It is a good starting point if you want to learn combos, block pressure and matchup habits in a conventional 2D environment. Its visual style is unusually specific, however, so make sure the animal cast and cartoon presentation are part of the appeal rather than a distraction.
Best indie fighting game for beginners
There is no single beginner winner because “beginner” can mean two different things. If you are new to fighting games and want to avoid online pressure, Poly Fighter’s single-player format and simple-input option provide the gentlest first step. You can learn what attacks do, test combinations and build confidence before worrying about a human opponent.
If you want to learn a traditional fighter with the intention of playing online, Them’s Fightin’ Herds offers a clearer conventional route: choose a character, learn the shared button layout, practice combos and use matchmaking when you are ready. Rivals of Aether is the strongest beginner option only when you are specifically interested in platform fighters and want tutorials, frame data and hitboxes available during practice.
Rank #4
- Designed for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC, this officially licensed Fight Stick provides seamless compatibility with your favorite gaming systems. Enjoy flawless PlayStation navigation with the integrated touchpad and a detachable Type-C USB cable for easy portability and durability.
- The Fight Stick is equipped with Cherry Silver switches for fast and precise inputs. 18 fully programmable buttons allow for custom key travel sensitivity and remapping, giving you ultimate control and responsiveness during intense gaming sessions.
- Featuring a vibrant RGB lighting system, this Fight Stick creates an immersive gaming atmosphere. Customizable lighting on the buttons and side panels adds a stylish touch to your setup.
- Switch between 3 saved custom button layouts with just one press. This Fight Stick allows you to create personalized button configurations for different games, ensuring the best setup for your playstyle.
- Includes a memory foam ergonomic wrist rest for long gaming sessions, 2 extra micro switches, and 5 lockable keycaps to disable unused buttons. Perfect for pro gamers seeking comfort and precision with every fight.
Whichever game you choose, start with one character or one run plan rather than trying to understand the entire roster. Focus on movement, a reliable attack, a defensive response and one simple punish. Add complexity after those actions feel automatic.
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Start with the input method you will actually use
Poly Fighter supports both simple and motion inputs, so select the option that matches your goals. Simple inputs are sensible when you are learning the game’s systems or evaluating whether the roguelike loop is fun. Motion inputs make sense when execution practice is part of why you play fighters.
Rivals of Aether and Them’s Fightin’ Herds reward a controller layout that makes movement, attacks and defensive actions easy to reach. The best device is the one that lets you repeat those actions consistently; changing hardware will not replace practice in spacing or decision-making.
Arcade-stick option
HeartLoop Games has said its team used an 8BitDo Arcade Fighting Stick and a leverless controller when visitors tried Poly Fighter with different control options. An arcade stick can be a reasonable physical recommendation if you prefer a lever and large buttons, but verify the exact model, platform compatibility, current availability and price before purchasing. Poly Fighter’s simple-input option means you do not need specialized hardware to play it.
What to expect from a Poly Fighter run
- Begin with the starting moveset. Learn the basic attacks and how your character moves before making build decisions.
- Defeat an opponent and learn a move. The defining reward is access to one of that opponent’s unique moves.
- Swap and upgrade your tools. Shape the moveset around the next fights instead of treating every run as a fixed character test.
- Adapt as rivals change. A successful combination in one run may not be the best answer when the opponent sequence changes.
- Progress through the leagues. The current game includes three leagues, followed by additional ascension runs for continued replay.
The important habit is to evaluate a move by what it adds to the whole build. A powerful attack is not automatically the right choice if it leaves a weakness uncovered or does not fit the way you already approach neutral and defense.
Strengths and compromises at a glance
Poly Fighter strengths
- Solo-first design with no requirement to find online opponents.
- Run-to-run variety created by learning moves from defeated rivals.
- Three leagues and ascension runs for repeated play.
- Simple and motion input options.
- A current roster of 16 playable characters in Early Access.
- A retro 2.5D presentation suited to its arcade-inspired structure.
Poly Fighter compromises
- No ranked ladders or online multiplayer in the current design.
- Early Access means content and balance are not final.
- Players seeking fixed-character mastery may prefer a conventional fighter.
- Players seeking 2v2, free-for-all or a large online ecosystem need another game.
Rivals of Aether strengths
- Multiple competitive formats, including 1v1, 2v2 and free-for-all.
- Online versus and ranked modes.
- Tutorial, practice, frame-data and hitbox tools.
- A clear choice for players who enjoy platform-fighter movement.
Them’s Fightin’ Herds strengths
- Traditional 2D-fighter structure.
- Three attack buttons plus a character-specific Magic button.
- Combo-focused play with individual character abilities.
- Online matchmaking and Pixel Lobby.
- A distinctive animal cast designed by Lauren Faust.
A practical decision checklist
- Do you want to play entirely offline or alone? Pick Poly Fighter.
- Do you want ranked matches, online versus or team play? Pick Rivals of Aether.
- Do you want traditional 2D rounds and a four-button layout? Pick Them’s Fightin’ Herds.
- Do you enjoy roguelike runs and changing builds? Pick Poly Fighter.
- Do you want to master one fixed character over many matches? Start with Them’s Fightin’ Herds or Rivals of Aether, depending on whether you prefer 2D or platform movement.
- Are you new and worried about execution? Poly Fighter’s simple inputs are the least demanding entry point.
- Are training data and hitboxes important to you? Rivals of Aether has the most explicit practice support of the three.
Final recommendation
Poly Fighter is the game to play if your ideal fighter is a replayable solo experiment. Its move-stealing progression gives every run a different shape, and its simple-input option lowers the barrier to entry. The trade-off is decisive: the current game does not provide ranked or online multiplayer, and its Early Access status means the experience is still changing.
Rivals of Aether is the strongest alternative for competitive players who want online and ranked matches, 2v2 or free-for-all, platform movement and detailed training tools. Them’s Fightin’ Herds is the better alternative for a conventional 2D fighter with accessible four-button combat, character-specific abilities, matchmaking and a distinctive animal cast.
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