Top 15 'Death Battle's

Let’s talk about Death Battle in 2010, back before people were eating Tide Pods or spoonfuls of cinnamon for views. There was a small company in Dallas, Texas, called ScrewAttack, which provided content for one of the most passionate groups of all: gamers. One such employee, Ben Singer, went from being one of the company’s first interns to a paid staff member, creating shows like Metal Gear Ben, Clip of the Week, and several other series that eventually disappeared when Rooster Teeth acquired the company.

One show, however, rose above them all and has stood the test of time. Ben wanted to explore which fictional characters would win in a fight. Frustrated that nothing existed to answer this question, he created a pilot for a series originally called Who Would Win? It was later renamed Death Battle. The series became so popular that the YouTube channel eventually focused entirely on it. There are currently 201 episodes, and when Rooster Teeth faltered, the Death Battle Kickstarter revival goal was met in just four hours. To celebrate, here is my personal top 15 list of favorite episodes:

15. Rainbow Dash vs. Starscream

This Season 1 episode is often criticized but remains a personal favorite. My connection to Transformers was minimal, but I had watched every episode, special, and movie of MLP. The comedic chemistry between the characters is excellent. Starscream is portrayed as a bit of a joke, while Rainbow Dash shows skill and ingenuity. The fight includes suspenseful moments, such as the final missile chase, ending with a Sonic Rainboom. This episode taught me something important: gender norms are irrelevant, and MLP is awesome.

14. Cloud vs. Link (Remaster)

This rematch introduced Blender animation, replacing SFM, and delivered a visually stunning battle. Cloud hits like a freight train, with clever parries and fakeouts, while Link adapts strategically, showcasing his tactical mind. The climax, featuring the fierce deity slicing the Triforce in half, was cinematic perfection.

13. Aizen vs. Madara

Two of the most iconic villains clash in this magical arms race. The analysis dives into their master plans, while the battle showcases ninjutsu, illusions, and ego-driven combat. The climax features synchronized maniacal laughter, highlighting their shared madness and mutual respect.

12. Mob vs. Tatsumaki

A Season 6 episode that introduced me to Mob. Tatsumaki’s powers are offensive, while Mob’s are defensive, creating an interesting dynamic. The fight escalates as Mob reaches 100% and ???%, showcasing his full psychic power. Color-coded psychic effects—green for Tatsumaki and purple for Mob—make the battle visually clear. The voice acting enhances the spectacle.

11. Ken vs. Terry

Season 3 is underrated, but this fight is a standout. The clean sprite animation, combo variety, and escalating tension make this a memorable episode. Ken gradually tires under Terry’s assault, and the finale, a power dunk from Terry, is spectacular.

10. Mega Man Battle Royale

A surprise five-way fight that impressed many. Each Mega Man received detailed analysis, and the animation balanced all five fighters in a readable, exciting way. Highlights include Geo’s moments and the black hole scene, along with Classic’s attempts to take out X. MegaMania as a soundtrack elevates the chaos.

9. Deadpool vs. Deathstroke

Deadpool and Deathstroke face off in a fight full of chaos and humor. Deadpool teleports and uses katanas, while Deathstroke showcases tactical brilliance. The fight escalates across city streets with unpredictable outcomes. While some criticize this episode for contributing to “Memepool,” Deadpool’s humor here is balanced, and the fight remains engaging.

8. Sabrewulf vs. Jon Talbain

Season 7’s Halloween episode is a bloody spectacle. Jon and Sabrewulf clash in the graveyard, with fiery attacks and brutal combat. The choreography, voice acting, and Blood Moon soundtrack make this episode memorable. Some fans disliked how Sabrewulf was portrayed in the analysis, but the fight itself delivers perfectly.

7. Spongebob vs. Aquaman

One of the funniest analyses in the entire show. Originally intended as a serious battle, research revealed how overwhelmingly powerful Spongebob is compared to Aquaman. The episode embraces this absurdity for comedic effect.

6. Spider-Man vs. Batman

This episode is nostalgic for me. It features two beloved characters and gives them both justice. The analysis is informative and humorous, including lines like “He’s the goddamn Batman” and “...now he’s a radioactive superhero with no friends!” The fight choreography is engaging, and the killing blow is one of the best of Season 1.

5. Solid Snake vs. Sam Fisher

This classic fight sets up a story with tactical strategy, expert animation, and flawless voice acting. The climax is perfectly executed, and the analysis explains how Snake would defeat Sam. Every element of this episode works in harmony.

4. Silver Samurai vs. Shredder

Season 4’s standout episode features incredible animation and reasoning. The fight is tense, as only a few strikes land, making each blow impactful. Shredder’s transformation into Super Shredder delivers one of the bloodiest and most memorable deaths in the series.

3. Venom vs. Crona

A dark, atmospheric battle with fantastic use of abilities. Venom and Crona clash across multiple settings, with memorable moments such as Venom quoting “This is Halloween.” The soundtrack, Madness Envenom, enhances the eerie and intense atmosphere. The voice acting is excellent, and the fight remains one of my favorites.

2. Broly vs. Hulk

Season 7’s finale delivers universe-shattering action. Incredible animation, music, and voice acting complement punches, ki blasts, and dynamic choreography. The headbutt killing blow is legendary, and quotes like “No, the devil!” and “Break the world! Break everything!” make the episode unforgettable.

1. Bowser vs. Eggman

This episode tops the list. It perfectly balances chaos, humor, and action. Both characters utilize their full arsenals, with dynamic animation, creative gags, and spectacular finishing moves. It embodies everything Death Battle does best: imaginative matchups, thrilling choreography, and pure entertainment.

In conclusion, Death Battle has remained relevant for over a decade by combining thorough analysis, inventive matchups, and incredible animation. Whether you enjoy humor, nostalgia, or intense combat, these episodes prove why the series continues to captivate fans worldwide.