gamehuntersupdatetipsandtricshub: The Rumble Fish 2 (Nintendo Switch 2 Edition) Review

Back for another round, the fight for survival continues with the Nintendo Switch 2 version of 3goo’s The Rumble Fish 2.

Featuring a new Team Battle Mode, see whether this fighter is a catch with our review.

The Rumble Fish 2 (Nintendo Switch 2 Edition) Review

Originally released by Dimps back in 2005 (now old enough to drink!), The Rumble Fish 2 originally made a name for itself on the Atomiswave with its unique Smooth Model Animation graphics (S.M.A.) and two gauge system.

The dashes, backsteps, and air blocking more commonly found in Arc System Works’ Guilty Gear -Strive- are present and accounted for, giving this title a flow that requires lightning-fast reflexes – lest one gets hit with a multi-hit combo.

There’s also a short-hop through the use of a designated dodge button – those weaned on SNK greats will know this mechanic all too well!

Talking recovery from beatings (let’s hope it doesn’t come to that…), Ukemi moves are present and accounted for in The Rumble Fish 2! There’s also a four-button attack system longtime fighters will no doubt be familiar with when it comes to chaining for massive damage.

Whether one is tossing blows with the larger-than-life Bazoo or taking charge with the electrifying Boyd, The Rumble Fish 2 has personality for days.

When it comes to the aforementioned S.M.A., The Rumble Fish 2 certainly gives this fighter an interesting look that stands out. While far from cutting-edge with 3D backgrounds and 2D characters, (again, going on 21 years here…), it still manages to stand out from other titles to this day.

The Rumble Fish 2 (Nintendo Switch 2) Review - Gamers Heroes

The Rumble Fish 2 also manages to stand out from other fighters with (count ‘em) two gauges – one for offense and one for defense.

Breaking it down, each of these two meters in The Rumble Fish 2 has three bars that players will need to be mindful of.

For those on the offensive, The Rumble Fish 2 allows for Impact Blows and Offensive Arts that provide an edge. There’s also Jolt Attacks that stun players – just the thing for those looking for an edge.

Meanwhile, the defensive bar of The Rumble Fish 2 provides Quick Recovery options alongside an Impact Break that serves as a quasi-parry mechanic – those who grew up on EVO Moment #37 will know all too well!

For those looking to improve their fighting prowess, The Rumble Fish 2 features an Online Versus Mode with Rollback Netcode along with a training mode. While both are standards in the fighting game industry, these inclusions are still welcome nonetheless.

The Rumble Fish 2’s focus on offense and defense, along with its Rollback Netcode and Team Battle Mode, make this a solid fighter for all Nintendo Switch 2 owners.

The Rumble Fish 2 (Nintendo Switch 2 Edition) Review

Reviewed On: Nintendo Switch 2 (A digital code was provided)
Release Date: January 21, 2026
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Developer: 3goo K.K.
Publisher: 3goo

Aggregate Scores: Metacritic / OpenCritic

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