You Won’t Believe Rockstar’s Best Melee Combat Games

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Summary

  • Red Dead Redemption 2 features an impressive and fleshed-out melee combat system.
  • Manhunt 2 offers brutal executions with melee weapons for stealthy players.
  • Bully focuses on melee combat, allowing players to master combos and grapples.

One of the most cherished video game creators worldwide is Rockstar, renowned for its exceptional open-world titles that stand alone in the gaming industry. These games offer players the chance to engage in thrilling journeys teeming with action and brutality.

These games boast engaging battle mechanisms, delighting fans due to the variety of choices they offer during ranged combat. On the other hand, those who prefer a more hands-on approach with their adversaries will appreciate the melee combat found in some top-tier Rockstar productions, though it may take a backseat to the thrilling gunfights that are also available.

8. Red Dead Redemption

Using Melee Attacks Against Others Is Wild And Ineffective, But It Gets The Job Done

Many players find enjoyment in how Red Dead Redemption allows them to engage opponents physically, employing grapple moves and evasive maneuvers to incapacitate their foes. Nevertheless, engaging in melee combat can lead to death during intense gunfights, making it a tactic best reserved for emergency situations.

Regardless of players landing punches to knock foes down, a Hunting Knife is still essential for the final blow. Failing to do so means enemies can rise again for another round of attacks, potentially causing frustration for the player. However, this issue is relatively minor compared to the overall enjoyable melee combat experience in Red Dead Redemption, despite its more confined uses.

7. Grand Theft Auto 5

The Melee Combat Is A Downgrade From The Previous Title But Still Pretty Effective

One standout feature of “Grand Theft Auto 4” was its engaging melee combat system, which unfortunately saw a significant drop in quality in the subsequent game. Regrettably, aside from an early scene where players can pummel Simeon as Michael to teach him a lesson, there’s not much incentive for frequent melee encounters in the game.

It’s a testament to the powerful mechanisms behind Grand Theft Auto 5 that the basic melee combat, though simplified, is enjoyable on its own merit. Players will find pleasure in punching cheeky NPCs and brutally attacking them in Grand Theft Auto 5, even if they need to flee when the police come to apprehend them.

6. Manhunt 2

Fist And Melee Weapons Are Great Means Of Knocking Down And Incapacitating Alert Enemies

Although the atmosphere of Manhunt might surpass that of its sequel, the fighting mechanics are more engaging in Manhunt 2. Players will find joy in stealthily approaching their adversaries and performing gruesome kills, with the level of brutality depending on how long they’ve built up their kill charge.

In this game, if players are discovered by the enemies, then hand-to-hand fighting or using melee weapons becomes an emergency option. It can seem awkward, but this design choice encourages stealth over noisy confrontations, as the characters should try to remain unseen rather than drawing attention.

5. L.A. Noire

Cole Phelps Must Use Hand-to-Hand Combat From Time To Time To Take Out Suspects

In the game L.A. Noire, players venture through 1940s Los Angeles, delving into a series of cases they must solve. Detective Cole Phelps is a captivating figure, tirelessly working to unravel a string of murders, despite resistance from his colleagues within the department.

In this game, the hand-to-hand fights feel fantastic, allowing players to rough up unruly characters when they refuse cooperation. However, Cole has the option to resort to his gun if situations become critical. Yet, there are instances where he must engage in close combat and employ his martial arts to subdue suspects rather than shooting them.

4. Grand Theft Auto 4

Niko Bellic Can Use An Array Of Complex Dodges, Blocks, And Counters In Combat To Turn The Tables

In Grand Theft Auto 4, the series took a significant leap, departing from its 3D universe and offering players an entirely fresh experience within a new game engine. The cityscape of Liberty City is captivating to traverse, as Niko attempts to establish himself and accumulate vast amounts of money during his stay.

It might seem unexpected, but the depth of the hand-to-hand fight scenes is quite impressive. Players can execute combos resulting in vicious backfists and strong overhead kicks. Since the motion capture for melee combat was done by Bas Rutten, a martial arts legend, it’s no wonder these moves appear so powerful.

3. Bully

Jimmy Is Mostly Reliant On His Fists And Melee Weapons

As a gamer immersed in the world of Bully, I find myself controlling a character who’s kept far from firearms. That’s why close-combat plays such a significant role in this game. While there are some ranged weapons to use, Jimmy’s fists are typically more effective in most confrontations.

Players have the ability to perform combo attacks and lock up their enemies, gaining additional techniques either by training at the gym or picking them up from others. Quickly, Jimmy could excel at hand-to-hand fighting, swiftly retaliating against anyone who dares cross his path.

2. Red Dead Redemption 2

The Amount Of Melee Combat Animations Is Pretty Impressive

In the game Red Dead Redemption 2, known for its intense cinematic gun battles, it’s astounding how rich and immersive the fighting sequences are. While many combat moves adapt to the situation, this doesn’t diminish the thrill of a good old-fashioned fistfight when Arthur prepares to throw a punch.

As a gamer, I find myself wielding intricate combinations, dodging enemy onslaughts, retaliating with precise counters, and taking down foes to shatter their defenses. The combat system seems surprisingly layered, yet it’s not the easiest to grasp right away. So, I dive headfirst into brawls, experimenting with its nuances, discovering Arthur’s true potential along the way.

1. The Warriors

An Underrated Beat ‘Em Up That Arguably Boasts The Best Melee Combat Seen In A Rockstar Game

The Warriors stands out as one of the least recognized masterpieces among Rockstar games. It’s unfortunate that not many gamers are familiar with this entertaining beat ’em up, which features arguably the finest melee combat system for players to engage in a Rockstar game.

In this game, you’ll find a variety of attack styles like weak and strong attacks, grapples, throws, and weapon usage. These elements add excitement to the hand-to-hand fighting, creating a well-rounded close-quarter combat system that’s truly immersive. It’s unfortunate that not many have had the chance to enjoy this unique battle experience.

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2025-02-15 17:35