Fighting Force for PlayStation — a classic beat ’em up review

Fighting Force is a fast-paced beat ’em up action game for PlayStation, developed by Core Design and published by Eidos Interactive. It’s the kind of game where the goal is simple: keep moving forward, dish out punches to crowds of enemies, pick up weapons, and cause real street-level mayhem across a variety of locations.

Story

The game takes place in a modern мегаполис that quickly spirals into chaos and crime. A team of fighters bands together to stop the criminal wave and deal with whoever is behind the unrest. The story is delivered through a sequence of missions, where street brawls alternate with clear-outs and showdowns in the city’s most dangerous districts.

Gameplay and combat

Fighting Force’s biggest strength is its simple but addictive gameplay:

• melee combat, punch strings, and combos

• the ability to use the environment (items, objects—anything you can get your hands on)

• four characters with different stats and fighting styles

• a constant pace: fight → push forward → new enemy waves

The game rewards aggression and crowd control: knock enemies down at the right time, don’t let yourself get surrounded, and manage your spacing smartly.

Levels and atmosphere

Despite PS1-era limitations, the levels are fairly varied: city streets, indoor areas, industrial zones, and other arenas where enemy density and tactics change. Visually, the game leans into a “street action movie” vibe—dark, tense, and unapologetically old-school console.

Two-player co-op

A major plus is the co-op mode, which lets you play through the story with a friend. It’s noticeably more fun in co-op: you can split roles (one clears crowds, the other finishes off the “tanky” enemies), cover each other, and tear through stages faster.

Why Fighting Force is still remembered

People love Fighting Force for its simple fun formula: pick a character—and go smash everything. It’s a solid classic for anyone nostalgic for PS1, into beat ’em ups, and who values co-op play.

Mini FAQ

Is it a fighting game?
No—this is a beat ’em up: you move through levels and fight crowds.

How many characters are there?
Four, each with different styles and stats.

Is there a two-player mode?
Yes, co-op is one of the key features.