Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl (v2023.03.04 & ALL DLC)

Cartoon icons collide in a brisk, competition-focused platform fighter that trades story-driven adventure for airborne knockouts and fast reactions. Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl brings together SpongeBob, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Danny Phantom, Invader Zim, Rugrats’ Reptar, and a broad mix of characters spanning several generations of Nickelodeon shows. Its tone is colorful and nostalgic, but the fighting is far more energetic than the licensed-cartoon presentation initially suggests. Matches play out on themed arenas inspired by familiar locations, from Bikini Bottom territory to the Technodrome, with hazards and layouts that can change how every confrontation unfolds.

Combat follows the percentage-and-launch formula popularized by Super Smash Bros.: attacks raise an opponent’s damage, making them easier to send flying beyond the stage boundaries. Every fighter carries distinct normal moves, aerial strikes, special attacks, recoveries, and animations based on their personality, so Leonardo’s disciplined sword range feels very different from SpongeBob’s unpredictable comedy attacks or Zim’s gadget-heavy offense. Responsive movement mechanics, including quick dashes, air mobility, shielding, grabs, and edge pressure, give experienced players room to develop combos and punishes rather than simply mash buttons. Local multiplayer supports up to four players, while online battles let competitive players test their timing against opponents beyond the couch.

What separates it from many crossover brawlers is its willingness to make the roster play like a serious platform fighter instead of a party game with famous faces. The visual presentation is clean and readable, and the compact stages keep matches moving at a rapid pace, though players looking for a large campaign or extensive solo content may find the package lean. Nostalgia carries plenty of appeal, but the real draw is learning a favorite character’s movement, confirms, and recovery options. Fans of Smash-style fighters who want a faster, more stripped-down alternative—especially those with affection for classic Nickelodeon cartoons—find plenty to enjoy, while newcomers can jump in easily before tackling its more demanding competitive tricks.