Beat 'em up games
A classic arcade action genre where you punch your way through groups of enemies as you move along.
What is the beat 'em up genre?
The beat 'em up was born in the arcades of the 1980s, and the formula is still the same today: Your character moves from left to right down a street or corridor, groups of enemies enter the screen and the way forward does not open until you clear them all. Melee combat, a simple but satisfying sense of impact and, usually, two-player local co-op are the backbone of the genre.
After spending a long time in a nostalgic corner, the genre has come back in recent years. Modern releases keep the old rhythm while bringing the genre up to date with deeper combos, better art and online co-op.
What defines it?
Levels flow from left to right, and you have to clear an area to move on.
Enemies come in groups, not one at a time.
There are only a few moves, but every one of them feels strong.
Playing side by side has been the genre's most natural form since the day it was born.
Landmark games
Well-known examples often used to explain the genre. For the list on our site, see the games section below.
At a glance
Beat 'em up games (3)
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a beat 'em up and a fighting game?
In a fighting game you face a single opponent in a fixed arena, and competition is the point. In a beat 'em up you clear crowds that come at you as you move forward, and the game is usually played against the computer.
Is a beat 'em up the same as a brawler?
Yes. Brawler is another common English name for the genre, especially for side-scrolling games.