How to Choose Your Main Character in Fighting Games

18 February 2025

Alright, let’s face it—picking your main character in a fighting game can be as challenging as deciding what to eat for dinner. There are tons of options, each with its unique flavor, and while some may suit you perfectly, others might leave a bad taste in your mouth. If you're new to the fighting game world or trying to figure out which character should represent you, buckle up—you’re in for an exciting journey. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of selecting your main character (aka your "main") with tips, tricks, and a little bit of personal insight to get you fighting like a pro. Let’s dive in!

Why Your Main Character Matters

First off, why should you even care about having a "main" character? Can’t you just keep switching between fighters and play everyone? Sure, you can do that, but it’s like trying to learn a little of every instrument in an orchestra—you’ll be decent at best, but you might not shine at any single one. When you pick a main, you commit to mastering a specific character's strengths, weaknesses, and playstyle. This gives you a significant edge, especially in competitive matches.

Think of your main as your gaming alter ego. This is the character you vibe with, the one you turn to whether you’re playing online ranked matches or casually beating up your friends on the couch. Trust me, when you find the one, you’ll know it.

Step 1: Know Thyself

Before you even look at the character select screen, take a moment to reflect on your own playstyle. How do you like to play games in general? Are you an aggressive player who loves to stay in your opponent’s face, or are you more of a defensive turtle waiting for the perfect moment to strike? Do you enjoy fast-paced action or methodical strategy? Your preferred style will dictate which characters are worth your time.

Here’s a quick breakdown of playstyles to help you identify where you fit:

1. Rushdown/Offensive – These players love staying aggressive. They want to pressure their opponents and dominate the match with close-range attacks and combos.
2. Zoning/Defensive – If you prefer keeping your opponent at a distance while controlling space with projectiles or long-range attacks, you’re likely a zoner.
3. Grappler – Do you enjoy patiently waiting for an opportunity before landing a devastating throw or high-damage combo? Grappler characters are your best friends.
4. Balanced/All-Rounder – Can’t decide? All-rounder characters give you a mix of offense, defense, and utility. They often have straightforward moves and fewer weaknesses.

Step 2: Take a Tour of the Roster

Fighting games are like buffets—there are so many characters, each with unique quirks and mechanics. Take time to explore a game’s roster. Modern fighting games typically have fighters grouped by archetypes (like rushdown or grappler), which makes the selection process easier.

Spend an hour or two in the practice mode or arcade mode and try out several characters. This “taste test” will help you figure out who feels intuitive to play and who feels like holding chopsticks with the wrong hand.

Step 3: Pay Attention to Character Design

Let’s be honest—first impressions matter. Sometimes you just gravitate toward certain characters because they look cool. Maybe it’s that smug smirk, that crazy weapon, or the flashy costume. It’s okay to pick based on vibes initially. Fighting games are as much about style as they are about skill.

That said, don’t get too caught up in appearances. Just because a character looks awesome doesn’t mean they’ll be easy to play. Case in point: everyone picks Akuma thinking he’s the coolest ever, only to realize his low health pool makes him tough for beginners.

Step 4: Learn About Move Sets and Mechanics

Finding a main isn’t just about personality or playstyle—it’s about mechanics, too. Some characters have simple inputs and straightforward gameplans, ideal for newcomers. Others are more technical and require precise execution and timing; these are better suited for veterans with a deep understanding of the game.

Here’s a tip: If you're a beginner, stick to characters with easy or medium-difficulty move sets. Look for fighters who don't rely too much on complicated combos or complex setups. The simpler things are, the easier it will be for you to focus on learning the game's fundamentals.

Step 5: Watch the Pros

Want more insight? Hop online and watch pro players or streamers who specialize in your fighting game. See how they use different characters and the situations in which they shine. This gives you a better understanding of what your potential main is capable of at higher skill levels.

But remember, what works for pros might not necessarily work for you. They’ve mastered their characters through years of practice. If a character looks fun but seems overwhelming, don’t stress—you can always grow into them.

Step 6: Stick with Your Choice (But Don’t Be Afraid to Switch)

Commitment is key, but it’s also okay to change your main if they don’t click long-term. Think of it like a relationship: sometimes it works out, but other times, you might realize you’re just not “compatible.”

Once you’ve picked a main, try sticking with them for a decent chunk of time—at least a couple of weeks. Learn their moves, figure out how to counter their weaknesses, and practice their combos. If, after some time, they still don’t feel quite right, don’t hesitate to experiment with other characters.

It’s okay to have a “side" or secondary character, too. Having a backup can help when your main struggles against certain matchups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few pitfalls people commonly fall into when choosing their main:

1. Following the Meta Too Closely – Sure, the community might say a certain character is “broken” or top-tier right now, but tier lists change all the time. Instead of chasing the meta, focus on what you enjoy.
2. Ignoring Your Instincts – If a character feels right, don’t second-guess it. Trust your gut!
3. Overthinking Complexity – Yes, technical characters are cool, but there’s no shame in picking a simple character if they suit your style.
4. Switching Too Often – Give yourself time to bond with your main before jumping to the next one. Consistency is key to improvement.

Bonus Tip: Do You Relate to the Character’s Personality?

One of the most underrated aspects of choosing a main is their personality and backstory. Do you connect with their struggles? Do they share traits you admire? For example, some players pick Ryu from Street Fighter because he represents discipline and the quest for self-improvement. Others pick Deadpool in Marvel vs. Capcom because his goofy, chaotic energy matches their own.

Your main should feel like an extension of yourself. When you feel connected to your character, it adds an extra layer of motivation to get better with them.

Conclusion

Choosing your main character in fighting games is both an art and a science. It’s a journey of self-discovery, trial and error, and finding what clicks for you. Whether you’re drawn to their playstyle, their killer moves, or just their cool factor, your main will become your go-to partner in battle.

So, grab your controller, hit the practice mode, and start exploring. Your perfect match is waiting for you—get out there and find them!