Smash Clones PlayStation

Can you play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on PlayStation? Well, no, you can't. The super-popular platform fighter is a Nintendo-exclusive, meaning you're not going to be pitting Luigi against Mewtwo on your PS5 anytime soon. The game does feature several characters that have appeared in (and are even associated with) PlayStation games — Cloud, Ryu, Bayonetta, Kazuya, and Joker to name a few — but the game remains locked to Nintendo Switch. Fortunately, there's no shortage of wannabe Smash clones on PlayStation systems that might be worth your time.

Below, we've compiled a list of the greatest Smash games (that aren't Smash) on Sony's platforms, so you can start sending opponents flying off-screen and scratch that party brawler itch. Without further ado, let's kick things off with the most obvious one.

PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale

PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale PS3 PS Vita

Sony made a valiant attempt to follow in Super Smash Bros' footsteps with PS All-Stars, but it didn't opt for a simple copy-paste job. Instead of simply aping the gameplay and mechanics of Nintendo's fighter, developer SuperBot Entertainment tried to differentiate. Instead of building heat percentage and causing ring-outs, players would instead deal damage to build up a super meter, and with these supers you could then score a kill. It was an interesting system, and the game was ultimately pretty good fun, though it didn't take off the way Sony probably intended.

The roster of characters leaves a lot to be desired, and it launched feeling a little undercooked. Still, it remains a fun time-waster with friends in local multiplayer. The hybrid stages make for some chaotic backdrops, and the action can be just as frantic as Nintendo's brawler with the right group. The only downside is that it's not available on PS5 or PS4; you'll need to dig out a PS3 or Vita for this one.

Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl

Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl PS5 PS4

This budget platform fighter brings Nicktoons into the Smash formula. Combining characters like SpongeBob, Ren & Stimpy, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this is a game that sticks a little closer to the genre staple. Each fighter has three light, strong, and special attacks, and the objective is to send enemies flying after building up their damage percentage. It's one of the closest games to Smash on this list, although it obviously doesn't have the same presentational prowess.

One major flaw here is the total lack of voice work and recognisable music. Even though this game plays well enough, the fact that characters remain silent at all times is a little off-putting, and you won't be hearing any nostalgic cartoon theme songs either. It might lack some polish, but it comes closer to filling that Smash-shaped gap than you might expect. Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl is available on PS5 and PS4 — it's just released, in fact — so check it out.

Brawlhalla

Brawlhalla PS4

Ubisoft's attempt to break into this particular brand of fighting games is Brawlhalla. It's a free-to-play platform fighter with a mix of original characters and some great guest stars, such as Lara Croft and Rayman. Again, victory requires that you knock opponents out of the arena having built up their damage, meaning it can at times feel very similar to Smash. Different characters and weapons will determine the moveset, so each fighter isn't completely unique, but there's enough variety for you to find a main.

The game also comes with a number of extra modes if you want to try something a little different. Sports-based modes put the emphasis on team play and scoring points rather than getting kills, which serves as a nice alternative. As mentioned, it's free-to-play, so you don't need to pay a penny to play this. It does mean the presentation isn't quite as slick as it is in Nintendo's game, but the action itself is enjoyable and accessible. It's out on PS4, and playable on PS5 via backwards compatibility.

Brawlout

Brawlout PS4

Brawlout an indie platform fighter that also features a mix of new and established characters. Guest stars feature from other independent releases, such as the Drifter from, er, Hyper Light Drifter, The Beheaded from Dead Cells, and Yooka-Laylee. The net result is a pretty unique roster that'll definitely appeal to fans of indies.

The gameplay maybe lacks a bit of an edge and some decent visual feedback, but this is ultimately a decent brawler that sticks to the tried-and-true formula laid down by Smash Bros. It features local and online multiplayer and a handful of modes to try, so there's a good amount to keep you going. Brawlout is available on PS4, and on PS5 via backwards compatibility.

Bounty Battle

Bounty Battle PS4

This is another attempt at an indie spin on the platform fighter, although this one doesn't quite hit the mark. It does feature a number of recognisable indie game characters — moreso than Brawlout, even. Characters like the Penitent One from Blasphemous, Owlboy, Guacamelee's Juan, and many more bolster a decent lineup.

Unfortunately, the game just doesn't really hold up to scrutiny. Poor combat and lacking presentation mean this is easily the weakest game on this list. To be honest, it's only here out of politeness. An attempt was made here, but unfortunately it just doesn't stack up. Still, if you fancy giving it a shot anyway (you masochist), it's available on PS4 and PS5 through backwards compatibility.

Ending on a whimper there, but just scroll back up for happier times. Anyway, that about does it for our list of Smash-like fighters on PlayStation. Which is your favourite? Do you play any of these regularly? Hit up the comments section below and let us know.