If you want a platform fighter like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, start with Brawlhalla for free-to-play cross-play, Rivals of Aether II for a PC game with online and shared-screen matches, or Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 for a licensed cast across PC and major consoles. Each offers a different reason to play; none should be treated as a one-for-one replacement for Smash.
Which Smash-like game fits your setup?
| Game | Best fit | Platforms verified | Play modes or format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brawlhalla | Free-to-play entry and cross-play | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android | Steam lists online and local play for up to eight players |
| Rivals of Aether II | PC players seeking online and shared-screen PvP | Steam/PC listing verified | Online PvP and shared/split-screen PvP |
| Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 | Players who want familiar Nickelodeon characters | Windows PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series | Nintendo lists a Switch game-card edition |
The platform and mode details come from Ubisoft’s Brawlhalla page, the Brawlhalla Steam listing, the Rivals of Aether II Steam listing, the ESRB listing for Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2, and Nintendo’s UK Switch page. Regional availability and store listings can differ.
![Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61bkI3XqQ7L._SL160_.jpg)
Best free-to-play option: Brawlhalla
Ubisoft describes Brawlhalla as a free-to-play platform fighter with cross-play across PC, consoles, and mobile. Its Steam listing identifies PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, iOS, and Android availability, and lists online or local matches for up to eight players.
That combination makes it the easiest starting point if your group owns different devices or you want to try a platform fighter without an upfront purchase. Its weapon-based roster and mechanics give it its own identity, so it is better understood as an alternative in the same genre than as a Smash clone.
The Tool Desk
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- 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
Best documented PC pick: Rivals of Aether II
Rivals of Aether II is a PC recommendation for players who want both online competition and couch multiplayer. The Steam listing calls it a next-generation platform fighter and specifies online PvP as well as shared/split-screen PvP.
The verified platform evidence here is its Steam listing; it does not establish a console release. If console play is essential, check the current store for your platform before buying rather than assuming the PC listing applies elsewhere.
Best licensed crossover: Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2
Choose Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 if recognizable Nickelodeon characters are part of the appeal. The ESRB platform listing includes Windows PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series. Nintendo’s UK page identifies a Switch game-card edition; that physical-format detail applies to Switch, not the other platforms.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How close are these games to Smash?
They share the broad platform-fighter format, but the available evidence does not establish that any matches Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in roster size or overall content. TechRadar’s March 2026 fighting-game guide reports 89 fighters for Ultimate. That is a dated secondary-source figure, not a claim that the alternatives have comparable rosters.
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For a useful choice, weigh the differences that matter to your group: which systems you own, whether you need cross-play, whether local or online matches are the priority, and whether you prefer original characters or a licensed cast. There is no evidence here to support a universal ranking by quality, player population, or competitive depth.
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
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.
