But seriously, explain to me where the depth in gameplay is. Perhaps I missed something.
Is there a multi scoring mechanic? Nope. No multipliers, not bonus score for not getting hit or successive attacking.
Multi-branching paths? Nope, most of these games are A-to-B.
Smart AI? Fuck no. Most enemies are "move-to-player, attack, get killed". Some *might* try to get behind you.
Heck off screen attacks seem to be a viable method in most of these games! I love attacking off-screen at unseen enemies. :/
Unlocking moves and combos? Advancing your move-set? Nope. Same 3-hit combos over and over ad nuaseum. Oh maybe a area effect attack that does one hit, and knocks down your enemies BUT takes your fucking health away.
Ground game? Very rarely. The Combatibes was probably the best game for attacking prone enemies. You could pick me up by the head or legs, or get on top of them and pound their heads or smash them into the floor.
Next would probably The Punisher? But still, most games it's knock a guy down, he's invincible till he gets back up. LAME.
The formula for brawlers is pretty straightforward. Attack, avoid, try to maintain health for as long as you can. That's it really. Maybe throw some hidden health items in there for something interesting to do your second time playing.