Skullgirls

File:Skullgirls screenshot.png

Skullgirls is a tag team-based fighting game in which players control characters, each with unique attacks and fighting styles, to engage in combat. Players must damage the opponent and completely drain their health, thus knocking them out. A player wins when all opposing characters are knocked out. If time expires before then, the player with the most remaining health is declared the winner. Players may select a single fighter or choose to form a team of two or three.{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/10/27/skullgirls-dev-diary-skullgirls-perfected-pugilism/|date=October 27, 2011|access-date=October 27, 2011|last=Bartholow|first=Peter|website=PlayStation Blog|title=Skullgirls Dev Diary: Skullgirls' Perfected Pugilism|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200601064443/https://blog.playstation.com/2011/10/27/skullgirls-dev-diary-skullgirls-perfected-pugilism/|archive-date=June 1, 2020|url-status=live}} A solo character possesses more health and deals more damage. Larger teams, while weaker, gain the ability to recover health when tagged out and perform "assists", also known as "ensemble attacks", where the on-screen character summons an off-screen teammate to perform a move.{{cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/community/2012/05/05/the-united-front-tag-team-assists-in-skullgirls-and-marvel-vs-capcom-3/|date=May 5, 2012|access-date=July 14, 2023|last=Hoadley|first=Chris|website=VentureBeat|title=The United Front: Tag-team assists in Skullgirls and Marvel vs. Capcom 3|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804225227/https://venturebeat.com/community/2012/05/05/the-united-front-tag-team-assists-in-skullgirls-and-marvel-vs-capcom-3/|archive-date=August 4, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite video game|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore|developer=Future Club|publisher=Autumn Games|platform=Microsoft Windows|level=Tutorials - Chapter 1, Lesson 6: Team Dynamics}} Players can assign custom assists in Skullgirls, further enhancing team customization.{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/skullgirls-preview/|date=March 14, 2011|access-date=March 14, 2011|last=Hinkle|first=David|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls preview: Strong foundation|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110319040829/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/skullgirls-preview/|archive-date=March 19, 2011}}

The gameplay for Skullgirls was modeled after Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes, incorporating the latter's tag team mechanics, assists, and control scheme. The control scheme utilizes six buttons, consisting of light, medium, and hard punches and kicks.{{cite video game|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore|developer=Future Club|publisher=Autumn Games|platform=Microsoft Windows|level=Tutorials - Chapter 1, Lesson 3: Basic Attacks}} These basic attacks can be chained together to form simple combos.{{cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/games/skullgirls-is-almost-the-best-fighting-game-for-beginners/|date=July 13, 2015|access-date=July 14, 2023|last=Vazquez|first=Suriel|website=VentureBeat|title=Skullgirls is (almost) the best fighting game for beginners|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230714104305/https://venturebeat.com/games/skullgirls-is-almost-the-best-fighting-game-for-beginners/|archive-date=July 14, 2023|url-status=live}} Using a combination of button presses and directional inputs, players can also perform "special attacks", which are slightly stronger than normal moves, and "blockbusters", which are cinematic super moves that deal heavy damage and can hit multiple times.{{cite video game|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore|developer=Future Club|publisher=Autumn Games|platform=Microsoft Windows|level=Tutorials - Chapter 1, Lesson 5: Special and Blockbuster Attacks}} Blockbusters require players to build and expend meter, known in-game as "dramatic tension".{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/skullgirls_2nd_encore|date=November 1, 2019|access-date=July 15, 2023|last=Reseigh-Lincoln|first=Dom|website=Nintendo Life|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore Review (Switch eShop)|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191102071844/https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/skullgirls_2nd_encore|archive-date=November 2, 2019|url-status=live}} As the fight progresses, the players' dramatic tension gauge will fill. Up to five bars of dramatic tension can be stored, with more powerful blockbusters requiring more bars of tension to execute. Dramatic tension can also be used to perform other universal techniques, such as "outtakes", which force the opponent to switch characters, and "blockbuster sequels", which allow the player to use multiple blockbusters consecutively.{{cite video game|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore|developer=Future Club|publisher=Autumn Games|platform=Microsoft Windows|level=Tutorials - Chapter 4, Lesson 3: Blockbuster Sequels}}

Skullgirls includes technical features to address system and balance problems common in fighting games, such as "infinite combo" detection and protection against "unblockable attacks".{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/03/01/gdc-skullgirls-a-fighter-for-everyone|date=March 1, 2011|access-date=March 1, 2011|last=Gallegos|first=Anthony|website=IGN|title=GDC: Skullgirls -- A Fighter for Everyone|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106155713/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/03/01/gdc-skullgirls-a-fighter-for-everyone|archive-date=November 6, 2012|url-status=live}} Infinite combos occur when a player is able to create a repeating, inescapable loop of attacks as an exploit. When the game detects an infinite combo through monitoring a player's actions, the opposing player can break free from it by hitting any button. Unblockable attacks occur when a player, for example, uses a low-hitting move and a high-hitting assist at the same time, making it impossible for the opponent to block. The game attempts to remedy the issue by offering a brief grace period after blocking which will guard against other hit types.

Skullgirls has a variety of single-player and multiplayer game modes, including story mode, arcade mode, versus mode, tutorial mode, training mode, and online play.{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/04/06/skullgirls-tag-teams-with-ggpo-to-ko-online-lag|date=April 6, 2011|access-date=April 6, 2011|website=IGN|title=Skullgirls Tag-Teams with GGPO to K.O. Online Lag|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106155707/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/04/06/skullgirls-tag-teams-with-ggpo-to-ko-online-lag|archive-date=November 6, 2012|url-status=live}} The story mode features small, non-canonical vignettes for each playable character, detailing "what if" scenarios playing out across alternate timelines.{{cite web|url=https://blog.playstation.com/2012/02/03/dev-diary-skullgirls-is-a-feature-rich-psn-fighter/|date=February 3, 2012|access-date=July 11, 2023|last=Bartholow|first=Peter|website=PlayStation Blog|title=Dev Diary: Skullgirls is a Feature-Rich PSN Fighter|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200601063256/https://blog.playstation.com/2012/02/03/dev-diary-skullgirls-is-a-feature-rich-psn-fighter/|archive-date=June 1, 2020|url-status=live}} A canonical story mode has been teased, however, with the developers citing the inclusion of downloadable content (DLC) characters from the first season pass as necessary to tell their "true" story.{{cite tweet|user=Skullgirls|number=518893188421926913|date=Oct 5, 2014|title=The Essential Three for canon story mode are Umbrella, Black Dahlia and Marie.|access-date=July 11, 2023|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220808225151/https://twitter.com/Skullgirls/status/518893188421926913|archive-date=August 8, 2022}} The arcade mode lets players fight against waves of AI-controlled opponents before reaching the final boss character, Marie. The tutorials section teaches players the gameplay fundamentals of Skullgirls, in addition to covering concepts underlying the fighting game genre as a whole. Seventeen tutorial courses are available, explaining both basic and advanced topics. The training room gives players the opportunity to practice combos against an AI-controlled dummy, as well as access to advanced data, such as hitboxes.{{cite web|url=https://gamerant.com/best-training-modes-fighting-games/#skullgirls|date=November 18, 2022|access-date=July 14, 2023|last=Heath|first=David|website=Game Rant|title=8 Best Training Modes In Fighting Games|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205113406/https://gamerant.com/best-training-modes-fighting-games/|archive-date=December 5, 2022|url-status=live}} The training room was later updated in Skullgirls Encore to include online functionality, allowing players to practice with friends instead.{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/02/10/skullgirls-encore-launching-on-february-11th/|date=February 10, 2014|access-date=February 11, 2014|last=Bartholow|first=Peter|website=PlayStation Blog|title=Skullgirls Encore Launching on February 11th|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221141152/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/02/10/skullgirls-encore-launching-on-february-11th/|archive-date=February 21, 2014|url-status=live}} Online multiplayer features ranked and unranked matches using the GGPO networking library, providing a smoother online experience.

Skullgirls Encore added "The Typing of the Skullgirls", a mode inspired by The Typing of the Dead.{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/12/22/skullgirls-encore-to-include-the-typing-of-the-skullgirls-encor/|date=December 22, 2013|access-date=February 20, 2014|last=Schulenberg|first=Thomas|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls Encore to include 'The Typing of the Skullgirls Encore'|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224220953/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/12/22/skullgirls-encore-to-include-the-typing-of-the-skullgirls-encor/|archive-date=December 24, 2013}} When enabled, teams automatically generate dramatic tension and all basic attacks deal negligible damage. Blockbusters give timed typing prompts to the player, awarding damage for typing accuracy. Skullgirls 2nd Encore introduced several new game modes, including challenge mode, where players fight against computer opponents under unique battle conditions; trials mode, which tests players' skills by having them perform combos under a button-by-button instructional system; and survival mode, which pits players against endless waves of enemies.{{cite web|url=http://skullgirls.com/2015/04/skullgirls-2nd-encores-new-features/|date=April 29, 2015|access-date=April 29, 2015|last=Bartholow|first=Peter|website=Lab Zero Games|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore's New Features|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150430093059/http://skullgirls.com/2015/04/skullgirls-2nd-encores-new-features/|archive-date=April 30, 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/the-new-features-and-game-modes-of-skullgirls-2nd-encore-outlined/|date=April 30, 2015|access-date=July 14, 2023|last=Priestman|first=Chris|website=Siliconera|title=The New Features And Game Modes Of Skullgirls 2nd Encore Outlined|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924091119/https://www.siliconera.com/the-new-features-and-game-modes-of-skullgirls-2nd-encore-outlined/|archive-date=September 24, 2020|url-status=live}}

Skullgirls takes place in the fictional Canopy Kingdom, a country reminiscent of 1940s post-war United States, which is ruled by the Renoir royal family and plagued by the Medici mafia.{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/09/02/meet-the-skullgirls-the-next-generation-of-psn-fighters/|date=March 3, 2011|access-date=March 3, 2011|last=Bartholow|first=Peter|website=PlayStation Blog|title=Meet the Skullgirls, The Next Generation of PSN Fighters|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111204155109/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/09/02/meet-the-skullgirls-the-next-generation-of-psn-fighters/|archive-date=December 4, 2011|url-status=live}} The kingdom is populated by humans, anthropomorphic animals, giants, and other species. Magical items, creatures, and entities exist that grant their users and hosts various superhuman abilities, such as "Parasites" and "Living Weapons". A large part of the kingdom follows the religion of the Trinity, a trio of extraterrestrial goddesses consisting of Venus, Aeon, and their mysterious Mother.{{cite web|url=https://www.thegamer.com/skullgirls-what-is-skull-heart/|access-date=March 7, 2023|first=Daniel|last=Trock|website=TheGamer|title=Skullgirls: What Is The Skull Heart?|date=June 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621012243/https://www.thegamer.com/skullgirls-what-is-skull-heart/|archive-date=June 21, 2022|url-status=live}} Numerous individuals and organizations seek to obtain the Skull Heart, a sentient artifact with reality-warping powers created by the Trinity. The Skull Heart appears once every seven years and grants a woman a single wish.{{cite web|url=http://skullgirls.com/game/world/|access-date=June 2, 2013|website=Lab Zero Games|title=World « Skullgirls|date=August 31, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110902032826/http://skullgirls.com/game/world/|archive-date=September 2, 2011|url-status=live}} If the woman's wish is impure, she is transformed into an undead monster known as the Skullgirl. The Skullgirl and Skull Heart are devices used by the Trinity to wreak havoc on the world. Humanity has fought against many Skullgirls over the course of history, establishing agencies to build weapons to confront them, the most notable of which is Canopy Kingdom's Anti-Skullgirl Labs, a black-ops research institution spearheaded by the scientist Brain Drain.

During the Grand War, a battle fought between the Canopy Kingdom and two neighboring nations, Queen Nancy Renoir nearly brought the world to ruin when she attempted to use the Skull Heart for the sake of peace. The three countries formed an alliance to bring down the Skullgirl, signing a peace treaty thereafter. Seven years later, a slave girl named Marie Korbel has emerged as the newest Skullgirl and begun to terrorize the Canopy Kingdom to exact revenge against the Medici. The game's story mode follows several fighters and their journeys to confront Marie and claim the Skull Heart. Each fighter has their own motive for seeking the Skull Heart, whether to destroy it or use its power for their own interests.

The Skullgirls roster initially consisted of eight playable characters: Filia, Cerebella, Peacock, Parasoul, Ms. Fortune, Painwheel, Valentine, and Double. Following the conclusion of the game's Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign in 2013, an additional five DLC characters were developed: Squigly,{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/skullgirls-150-000-indiegogo-goal-met-in-less-than-24-hours/|date=February 26, 2013|access-date=February 26, 2013|last=Mallory|first=Jordan|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls' $150,000 Indiegogo goal met in less than 24 hours|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130228171534/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/skullgirls-150-000-indiegogo-goal-met-in-less-than-24-hours/|archive-date=February 28, 2013}} Big Band,{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/3/13/4101572/skullgirls-fundraising-drive-tops-375000-will-add-big-band-to-roster|date=March 13, 2013|access-date=March 26, 2013|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|website=Polygon|title=Skullgirls fundraising drive tops $375,000, will add Big Band to roster|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130317100017/http://www.polygon.com/2013/3/13/4101572/skullgirls-fundraising-drive-tops-375000-will-add-big-band-to-roster|archive-date=March 17, 2013|url-status=live}} Eliza,{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/skullgirls-reveals-third-crowd-funded-dlc-character-eliza/|date=April 28, 2013|access-date=April 29, 2013|last=Conditt|first=Jessica|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls reveals third crowd-funded DLC character, Eliza|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130430023314/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/skullgirls-reveals-third-crowd-funded-dlc-character-eliza/|archive-date=April 30, 2013}} Beowulf,{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/skullgirls-fourth-new-character-is-beowolf/|date=May 17, 2013|access-date=May 17, 2013|last=Mallory|first=Jordan|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls' fourth new character is Beowolf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607181344/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/skullgirls-fourth-new-character-is-beowolf/|archive-date=June 7, 2013}} and Robo-Fortune.{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/skullgirls-drive-ends-at-830k-five-dlc-characters-funded/|date=March 28, 2013|access-date=March 28, 2013|last=Kubba|first=Sinan|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls drive ends at $830K, five DLC characters funded [update]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130401053919/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/skullgirls-drive-ends-at-830k-five-dlc-characters-funded/|archive-date=April 1, 2013}} In 2014, a clone of Filia, named Fukua, was added in a free update.{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2014/4/1/5570154/skullgirls-encores-newest-character-fukua-is-a-clone-with-a-purpose|date=April 1, 2014|access-date=July 2, 2014|last=Corriea|first=Alexa Ray|website=Polygon|title=Skullgirls Encore's newest character Fukua is a clone with a purpose (update)|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140404075811/http://www.polygon.com/2014/4/1/5570154/skullgirls-encores-newest-character-fukua-is-a-clone-with-a-purpose|archive-date=April 4, 2014|url-status=live}} Fukua reuses assets from Filia and was designed as a nod to palette-swapped characters in fighting games. She was originally intended to be a temporary inclusion for April Fools' Day, but was kept in response to fan feedback. From 2021 through 2023, four more playable fighters were released as part of the Season 1 Pass: Annie,{{cite web|url=https://toucharcade.com/2020/10/19/annie-of-the-stars-skullgirls-mobile-2/|date=October 19, 2020|access-date=December 23, 2020|last=Nelson|first=Jared|website=TouchArcade|title=Brand New Playable Character Annie of the Stars Arrives in 'Skullgirls' Mobile Version 4.4 Update|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020162847/https://toucharcade.com/2020/10/19/annie-of-the-stars-skullgirls-mobile-2/|archive-date=October 20, 2020|url-status=live}} Umbrella,{{cite web|url=https://toucharcade.com/2021/05/06/skullgirls-iphone-ipad-android-pc-umbrella/|date=May 6, 2021|access-date=May 7, 2021|last=Nelson|first=Jared|website=TouchArcade|title=Umbrella is Announced as the Next New Playable 'Skullgirls' Character|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210507021155/https://toucharcade.com/2021/05/06/skullgirls-iphone-ipad-android-pc-umbrella/|archive-date=May 7, 2021|url-status=live}} Black Dahlia,{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-black-dahlia-dlc-trailer-umbrella-ceo-hidden-variable/|date=December 5, 2021|access-date=December 5, 2021|last=Moyse|first=Chris|website=Destructoid|title=Black Dahlia is FINALLY making Skullgirls an offer it can't refuse|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205220821/https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-black-dahlia-dlc-trailer-umbrella-ceo-hidden-variable/|archive-date=December 5, 2021|url-status=live}} and Marie.{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/stories/skullgirls-future-looks-bright-as-multiple-seasons-and-dlc-characters-teased-620776.phtml|date=February 24, 2021|access-date=February 24, 2021|last=Moyse|first=Chris|website=Destructoid|title=Skullgirls' future looks bright as multiple seasons and DLC characters teased|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226102719/https://www.destructoid.com/stories/skullgirls-future-looks-bright-as-multiple-seasons-and-dlc-characters-teased-620776.phtml|archive-date=February 26, 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-marie-2nd-encore-reveal-trailer/|date=August 6, 2022|access-date=August 6, 2022|last=Andriessen|first=CJ|website=Destructoid|title=Marie will be playable in Skullgirls 2nd Encore starting next year|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220806083337/https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-marie-2nd-encore-reveal-trailer/|archive-date=August 6, 2022|url-status=live}}

File:Seth Killian and Mike Z - GDC 2011.jpg-organizer Seth Killian in 2011.]]

Skullgirls was originally conceived as several stray character designs that illustrator Alex "o_8" Ahad had been creating since high school.{{cite web|url=http://blogs.laweekly.com/arts/2011/07/skullgirls_alex_ahad.php|date=July 5, 2011|access-date=July 5, 2011|last=Ohanesian|first=Liz|work=LA Weekly|title=Skullgirls Co-Creator Alex Ahad on the Art Behind the Video Game|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029195919/http://blogs.laweekly.com/arts/2011/07/skullgirls_alex_ahad.php|archive-date=October 29, 2013}} While attending college, Ahad had the hypothetical idea to use the character concepts for a fighting game roster.{{cite web|url=http://www.game-art-hq.com/interview-with-alex-ahad-creative-director-and-creator-of-the-skullgirls-ip/|date=April 4, 2012|access-date=April 4, 2012|website=Game Art HQ|title=Interview with Alex Ahad creative director and creator of the Skullgirls IP|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406195824/http://www.game-art-hq.com/interview-with-alex-ahad-creative-director-and-creator-of-the-skullgirls-ip/|archive-date=April 6, 2012|url-status=live}} The idea would later become a reality when Ahad was introduced to fighting game enthusiast and tournament-goer Mike "Mike Z" Zaimont, who had been working on a fighting game engine during his own spare time. Early work on their new Skullgirls project began in 2008.{{cite web|url=http://www.giantbomb.com/videos/quick-look-ex-skullgirls/2300-3845/|date=March 3, 2011|access-date=March 3, 2011|last=Scanlon|first=Drew|website=Giant Bomb|title=Quick Look EX: Skullgirls|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130908051647/http://www.giantbomb.com/videos/quick-look-ex-skullgirls/2300-3845/|archive-date=September 8, 2013|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://totalplaystation.com/ps3/features/9974/|date=August 15, 2011|access-date=August 15, 2011|last=Green|first=Ryan|website=TotalPlayStation|title=[Interview] Throwing High Punches with Mike Z|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110816120752/http://totalplaystation.com/ps3/features/9974/|archive-date=August 16, 2011}} Engine development and pre-production began in 2009.{{cite web|url=http://skullgirls.com/game/faq/|access-date=July 19, 2013|website=Lab Zero Games|title=FAQ « Skullgirls|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111001184736/http://skullgirls.com/game/faq/|archive-date=October 1, 2011|url-status=live}} Ahad drew the art style and character designs based on a wide variety of his influences and inspirations, such as the works of Mike Mignola and Bruce Timm, Gainax's FLCL, Tex Avery's Red Hot Riding Hood, Capcom's Darkstalkers, and artists George Kamitani and Daisuke Ishiwatari.{{cite web|url=http://skullgirls.com/2011/04/skullgirls-artistic-origins/|date=April 5, 2011|access-date=April 5, 2011|last=Ahad|first=Alex|website=Skullgirls official site|title=Skullgirls' Artistic Origins|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111012061436/http://skullgirls.com/2011/04/skullgirls-artistic-origins/|archive-date=October 12, 2011|url-status=live}} Ahad and Zaimont pitched Skullgirls to several companies, eventually teaming up with recently founded independent developer Reverge Labs in 2010. They later went on to sign with publisher Autumn Games. In April 2011, Reverge Labs licensed OtterUI as its user interface solution for the development of Skullgirls.{{cite web|url=https://www.prlog.org/11460768-reverge-labs-chooses-otterui-for-skullgirls.html|date=April 27, 2011|access-date=February 1, 2021|author=Aonyx Software, LLC.|website=PRLog|title=Reverge Labs Chooses OtterUI for Skullgirls|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230331043456/https://www.prlog.org/11460768-reverge-labs-chooses-otterui-for-skullgirls.html|archive-date=March 31, 2023|url-status=live}} At the Electronic Entertainment Expo 2011, Japanese developer and publisher Konami announced that they would help distribute the game.{{cite web|url=http://revergelabs.com/2011/06/e3-coverage-begins-with-peacock/|date=June 2, 2011|access-date=June 2, 2011|last=Bartholow|first=Peter|website=Reverge Labs|title=E3 Coverage Begins With Peacock!|archive-date=June 6, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606040011/http://revergelabs.com/2011/06/e3-coverage-begins-with-peacock/}}

Following the game's release, the Skullgirls team began teasing future content for the game, including new voice packs, color palettes, and downloadable characters.{{cite web|url=http://www.giantbomb.com/articles/the-little-fighting-game-that-could/1100-4587/|date=February 27, 2013|access-date=February 27, 2013|last=Klepek|first=Patrick|website=Giant Bomb|title=The Little Fighting Game That Could|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130228073645/http://www.giantbomb.com/articles/the-little-fighting-game-that-could/1100-4587/|archive-date=February 28, 2013|url-status=live}} However, shortly thereafter, Autumn Games was hit with a series of lawsuits regarding Def Jam Rapstar, which "gummed up everything related to Autumn's funding."{{cite web|url=http://mashable.com/2013/03/15/skullgirls/|date=March 15, 2013|access-date=March 15, 2013|last=Hockenson|first=Lauren|website=Mashable|title=IndieGoGo Campaign Saves Near-Death Gaming Franchise|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130318030004/http://mashable.com/2013/03/15/skullgirls/|archive-date=March 18, 2013|url-status=live}} The entire Skullgirls development team was laid off by Reverge Labs in June 2012 after Autumn Games and Reverge Labs allowed their contract to expire without agreeing upon a new one.{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/konami-and-autumn-games-sued-for-fraud-over-15-million-def-jam/|date=May 24, 2012|access-date=May 24, 2012|last=Sliwinski|first=Alexander|website=Joystiq|title=Konami and Autumn Games sued for fraud over $15 million Def Jam Rapstar loan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120527032937/http://i.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/konami-and-autumn-games-sued-for-fraud-over-15-million-def-jam|archive-date=May 27, 2012}}{{cite web|url=http://www.xblafans.com/sticks-and-stones-couldnt-break-skullgirls-bones-61880.html|date=January 11, 2013|access-date=January 11, 2013|last=Santangelo|first=Nick|website=XBLA Fans|title=Sticks and stones couldn't break Skullgirls' bones|archive-date=January 15, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130115004505/http://www.xblafans.com/sticks-and-stones-couldnt-break-skullgirls-bones-61880.html}} This prompted the team to reform under a new moniker, Lab Zero Games, to continue work on the PC release and downloadable content.{{cite web|url=http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/20/skullgirls-development-team-forms-new-studio/|date=November 20, 2012|access-date=November 20, 2012|last=Hillier|first=Brenna|website=VG247|title=Skullgirls development team forms new studio|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121127192756/http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/20/skullgirls-development-team-forms-new-studio/|archive-date=November 27, 2012|url-status=live}} Autumn Games, revealed to be in full possession of the IP, claimed it was "fully behind the new studio" and promised to "continue to work with [Lab Zero Games] in the future on all Skullgirls-related endeavors."

From January through February 2013, fighting game website Shoryuken hosted a charity donation drive to determine the final game to be featured in the 2013 Evolution Championship Series' (EVO) tournament lineup, with all proceeds sent to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/first-seven-evo-2013-games-announced-eighth-game-determined-by/|date=January 9, 2013|access-date=July 6, 2023|last=Mallory|first=Jordan|website=Joystiq|title=First seven EVO 2013 games announced, eighth game determined by charity drive|archive-date=January 16, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116163825/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/first-seven-evo-2013-games-announced-eighth-game-determined-by/}} The Skullgirls community raised over {{US$|78,000|link=yes}}, placing second to eventual winner Super Smash Bros. Melee, which raised over $94,000.{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/evo-2013-charity-drive-raises-over-200-000-smash-bros-melee-f/|date=February 1, 2013|access-date=February 1, 2013|last=Mallory|first=Jordan|website=Joystiq|title=EVO 2013 charity drive raises over $200,000, Smash Bros. Melee final game selection|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130204072245/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/evo-2013-charity-drive-raises-over-200-000-smash-bros-melee-f/|archive-date=February 4, 2013}} Although the game did not win, Shoryuken announced that EVO 2013 event organizers would support the Skullgirls side tournament by providing prize money and exhibition support due to their effort in the fundraiser.{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-will-have-an-evo-side-tournament/|date=February 5, 2013|access-date=July 6, 2023|last=Hancock|first=Patrick|website=Destructoid|title=Skullgirls will have an Evo side tournament|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707010508/https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-will-have-an-evo-side-tournament/|archive-date=July 7, 2023|url-status=live}}

Despite Autumn Games' support and desire to expand Skullgirls, their continued litigation prevented the publisher from providing any financial backing. Attempting to pick up where they left off, Lab Zero Games decided to ask its fanbase for help once more, following the success of the EVO 2013 charity drive. In February 2013, Lab Zero Games set up an Indiegogo page for Skullgirls, in an effort to raise $150,000 for the development of the game's first DLC character, Squigly.{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/24/skullgirls-dev-wants-150-000-in-crowdfunding-for-new-character/|date=February 24, 2013|access-date=July 6, 2023|last=Suszek|first=Mike|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls dev wants $150,000 in crowdfunding for new character|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130226022700/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/24/skullgirls-dev-wants-150-000-in-crowdfunding-for-new-character/|archive-date=February 26, 2013}} Contributors received various rewards, including desktop wallpapers, a digital copy of the official soundtrack, and the chance to add a background character to the game, among others.{{cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/skullgirls-to-get-a-new-character-following-record-setting-indiegogo-campaign|date=February 27, 2013|access-date=July 6, 2023|last=Matulef|first=Jeffrey|website=Eurogamer|title=Skullgirls to get a new character following record-setting Indiegogo campaign|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705022219/https://www.eurogamer.net/skullgirls-to-get-a-new-character-following-record-setting-indiegogo-campaign|archive-date=July 5, 2022|url-status=live}} The campaign reached its initial goal in less than 24 hours, while the stretch goal of a second DLC character, Big Band, secured funding in just over 2 weeks. A third DLC character, determined by fan vote, was funded during the final two days, along with a playable robotic version of Ms. Fortune named Robo-Fortune.{{cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2013/3/26/4147760/skullgirls-fundraising-campaign-hits-600000-will-add-third-dlc-fighter|date=March 26, 2013|access-date=July 6, 2023|last=Pitcher|first=Jenna|website=Polygon|title=Skullgirls fundraising campaign hits $600,000, will add third DLC fighter|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130329140815/https://www.polygon.com/2013/3/26/4147760/skullgirls-fundraising-campaign-hits-600000-will-add-third-dlc-fighter|archive-date=March 29, 2013|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/3/28/4156020/fighting-is-magic-gets-skullgirls-engine-skullgirls-campaign-ends|date=March 28, 2013|access-date=March 28, 2013|last=Pitcher|first=Jenna|website=Polygon|title=Fighting is Magic gets Skullgirls engine; Skullgirls campaign ends with five DLC fighters|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130331001850/http://www.polygon.com/2013/3/28/4156020/fighting-is-magic-gets-skullgirls-engine-skullgirls-campaign-ends|archive-date=March 31, 2013|url-status=live}} An additional stretch goal that would provide a free license for the game's engine, Z-Engine, to the developers of Them's Fightin' Herds (at the time called Fighting is Magic) was also funded. Just before the end of the drive, the last stretch goal was met, securing funding for another fan-selected DLC character. The Indiegogo campaign raised nearly $830,000 of its original $150,000 goal. Several alternate character and announcer voice packs were also funded. All downloadable characters and voice packs were free to download on all platforms within the first three months of their release.

In November 2013, Lab Zero Games announced that Autumn Games had severed ties with Konami, citing Konami's unresponsiveness as a major hurdle to the release of further console patches.{{cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/skullgirls-patches-in-the-clear-after-co-publishers-terminate-relationship|date=November 7, 2013|access-date=July 6, 2023|last=Yin-Poole|first=Wesley|website=Eurogamer|title=Skullgirls patches in the clear after co-publishers terminate relationship|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221130011529/https://www.eurogamer.net/skullgirls-patches-in-the-clear-after-co-publishers-terminate-relationship|archive-date=November 30, 2022|url-status=live}} Following the dissolution of the partnership, Konami requested the removal of Skullgirls from the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade by the end of 2013.{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/12/09/konami-requests-removal-of-skullgirls-from-psn-xbla|date=December 9, 2013|access-date=December 21, 2013|last=Mahardy|first=Mike|website=IGN|title=Konami Requests Removal of Skullgirls from PSN, XBLA|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131210112343/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/12/09/konami-requests-removal-of-skullgirls-from-psn-xbla|archive-date=December 10, 2013|url-status=live}} In response, Lab Zero Games announced in December 2013 that Skullgirls would be re-released on consoles as Skullgirls Encore, a new build including up-to-date changes and additions, in January 2014.{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/12/18/skullgirls-encore-re-release-announced|date=December 17, 2013|access-date=December 21, 2013|last=O'Brien|first=Lucy|website=IGN|title=Skullgirls Encore Re-Release Announced|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131218133956/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/12/18/skullgirls-encore-re-release-announced|archive-date=December 18, 2013|url-status=live}} Encore marked the transition of the console versions to its new publishers, Marvelous and CyberFront, and coincided with the console release of Squigly.{{cite web|url=http://labzerogames.com/skullgirls-encore-and-you/|date=December 17, 2013|access-date=December 21, 2013|website=Lab Zero Games|title=Skullgirls Encore And You|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113100625/http://labzerogames.com/skullgirls-encore-and-you/|archive-date=January 13, 2015|url-status=live}} While Encore was released as a title update for the Xbox 360 version, the PlayStation 3 version required owners to re-download the game at no cost; leaderboard rankings, save data, and trophies were not carried over. The PC version was later patched to reflect the new title.

In June 2020, multiple allegations of misconduct were made against lead designer and programmer Mike Zaimont.{{cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/workers-leave-skullgirls-developer-over-studio-head-s-b-1844830307|date=August 24, 2020|access-date=August 25, 2020|last=Walker|first=Ian|website=Kotaku|title=Workers Leave Skullgirls Developer Over Studio Head's Behavior|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200825044532/https://kotaku.com/workers-leave-skullgirls-developer-over-studio-head-s-b-1844830307|archive-date=August 25, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/skullgirls-indivisible-devs-leave-studio-due-to-di/1100-6481346/|date=August 24, 2020|access-date=August 25, 2020|last=Ramée|first=Jordan|website=GameSpot|title=Skullgirls/Indivisible Devs Leave Studio Due To Director's Harassment|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200828084330/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/skullgirls-indivisible-devs-leave-studio-due-to-di/1100-6481346/|archive-date=August 28, 2020|url-status=live}} Two individuals claimed that Zaimont had made inappropriate sexual comments towards them, which triggered an internal investigation of Zaimont's behavior within Lab Zero Games. A decision was reached by Lab Zero Games' board to request Zaimont's resignation. According to senior art producer Brian Jun, Zaimont refused to resign unless a series of demands were met, which Jun deemed "unrealistically high and potentially illegal". Zaimont's demands were rejected by the board. In response, Zaimont disbanded the board and assumed sole ownership of Lab Zero Games. Senior animator Jonathan "Persona" Kim claimed that Zaimont delivered an ultimatum wherein he gave all unsatisfied employees until the end of August to leave the company. By late August, Kim, Jun, and lead animator Mariel Cartwright resigned from Lab Zero Games and individually issued statements denouncing Zaimont's actions.

Within a day of the series of resignations, Hidden Variable Studios and Autumn Games severed their ties with Mike Zaimont and Lab Zero Games in a joint statement.{{cite web|url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/119950/skullgirls-ip-holder-cuts-ties-with-lab-zero-games|date=August 24, 2020|access-date=August 25, 2020|last=Mejio|first=Ozzie|website=Shacknews|title=Skullgirls IP holder cuts ties with Lab Zero Games|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922123952/https://www.shacknews.com/article/119950/skullgirls-ip-holder-cuts-ties-with-lab-zero-games|archive-date=September 22, 2020|url-status=live}} In the statement, both parties expressed intent to work with the employees who resigned from Lab Zero Games on the continued development of Skullgirls. Shortly after the resignations, Zaimont retaliated by firing the rest of the staff, leaving him the sole employee and owner of Lab Zero Games.{{cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/skullgirls-developer-lays-off-everyone-who-hadnt-alread-1844948877|date=September 3, 2020|access-date=September 5, 2020|last=Walker|first=Ian|website=Kotaku|title=Skullgirls Developer Lays Off Everyone Who Hadn't Already Quit|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904003309/https://kotaku.com/skullgirls-developer-lays-off-everyone-who-hadnt-alread-1844948877|archive-date=September 4, 2020|url-status=live}} Cartwright raised money for the staff, who had been fired without severance, by selling her sketchbooks. Additional inappropriate interactions with the community came to light after the resignations.{{cite web|url=https://www.fanbyte.com/features/lab-zero-workers-skullgirls-players-detail-studio-owners-toxic-behavior/|date=September 4, 2020|access-date=September 5, 2020|last=R. M.|website=Fanbyte|title=Lab Zero Workers, Skullgirls Players Detail Studio Owner's Toxic Behavior|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200905131001/https://www.fanbyte.com/features/lab-zero-workers-skullgirls-players-detail-studio-owners-toxic-behavior/|archive-date=September 5, 2020|url-status=live}} Several former Lab Zero Games members, including Cartwright and Kim, then went on to establish a new cooperatively-structured independent game studio called Future Club.{{cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/former-skullgirls-developers-establish-new-co-op-game-s-1845124906|date=September 21, 2020|access-date=September 23, 2020|last=Walker|first=Ian|website=Kotaku|title=Former Skullgirls Developers Establish New Co-Op Game Studio|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923001138/https://kotaku.com/former-skullgirls-developers-establish-new-co-op-game-s-1845124906|archive-date=September 23, 2020|url-status=live}}

In February 2021, Autumn Games revealed the development of the Season 1 Pass, which included four DLC characters, a digital artbook, and an updated soundtrack. The publisher also teased the possibility of a fifth DLC fighter, along with other free content, depending on the success of the season pass. In March 2021, Future Club formally announced their collaboration with Hidden Variable Studios in developing 2nd Encore{{'}}s DLC content.{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/stories/skullgirls-confirms-future-club-is-involved-with-new-content-creation-621648.phtml|date=March 4, 2021|access-date=March 7, 2021|last=Moyse|first=Chris|website=Destructoid|title=Skullgirls confirms Future Club is involved with new content creation|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304091945/https://www.destructoid.com/stories/skullgirls-confirms-future-club-is-involved-with-new-content-creation-621648.phtml|archive-date=March 4, 2021|url-status=live}}

In April 2021, lead animator Mariel Cartwright and CEO Francesca Esquenazi sued Lab Zero for Mike Zaimont's wrongful termination.{{cite web|url=https://patch.com/california/los-angeles/former-game-company-board-members-sue-designer-harassment|title=Former Game Company Board Members Sue Designer For Harassment|date=April 4, 2021 }} In May 2021, Lab Zero countersued, stating that Cartwright and Esquenzai were out to intentionally destroy Lab Zero and Zaimont's image, causing the company to break up so they could start a competing business and poach Lab Zero employees. The countersuit also claims that Cartwright and Esquenzai were the ones who talked about sex and related topics with Zaimont, and then publicly mischaracterized it as harassment. Cartwright and Esquenzai motioned to dismiss the countersuit, but the Los Angeles Superior Court Judge denied the motion in May 2022, and allowed the countersuit to proceed.{{cite web|url=https://www.brookeandjeffrey.com/alternate/amp/2022-02-28-judge-says-shes-inclined-to-not-pare-claims-in-lab-zero-countersuit/|title=Judge Says She's Inclined To Not Pare Claims In Lab Zero Countersuit}}

In January 2025, Hidden Variable ended their partnership with Autumn Games and filed a lawsuit against them alleging unpaid fees of roughly $1.2 million for work done on Skullgirls Mobile since November 2024. Autumn Games responded by claiming they have "taken over" development of the game and will continue to support it with new features, such as Guilds. {{cite web|url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/hidden-variable-sues-skullgirls-publisher-autumn-games-for-12m-in-unpaid-payments/|title=Hidden Variable sues Skullgirls publisher Autumn Games for $1.2m in unpaid payments}}

{{Infobox album

| name = Skullgirls Original Soundtrack

| type = Soundtrack

| artist = Various artists

| cover =

| alt =

| released = {{Start date|2012|4|24}}

| recorded =

| venue =

| studio =

| genre = Video game soundtrack

| length = {{Duration|m=71|s=46}}

| label =

| producer =

| prev_title =

| prev_year =

| next_title =

| next_year =

}}

The Skullgirls Original Soundtrack consists of 28 original compositions. The album features music by Michiru Yamane, Vincent Diamante, Blaine McGurty, and Brenton Kossak.{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/04/20/michiru-yamane-scoring-skullgirls-dark-deco-soundtrack|date=April 20, 2011|access-date=April 20, 2011|website=IGN|title=Michiru Yamane Scoring Skullgirls' Dark Deco Soundtrack|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924180323/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/04/20/michiru-yamane-scoring-skullgirls-dark-deco-soundtrack|archive-date=September 24, 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012-04-25-skullgirls-comes-to-euro-psn-may-2-original-soundtrack-availabl.html|date=April 25, 2012|access-date=July 6, 2023|last=Fletcher|first=JC|website=Engadget|title=Skullgirls comes to Euro PSN May 2, original soundtrack available online|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707032617/https://www.engadget.com/2012-04-25-skullgirls-comes-to-euro-psn-may-2-original-soundtrack-availabl.html|archive-date=July 7, 2023|url-status=live}} Yamane's involvement was announced by Reverge Labs in April 2011, marking the first time a Japanese composer had anchored the soundtrack for an American-developed game. According to Reverge Labs CEO Richard Wyckoff, the developers sought out Yamane because "[they] knew her mixture of haunting gothic themes, jazz and rock would lend itself perfectly to Skullgirls{{'}} 'Dark Deco' style." When Reverge Labs requested Yamane to write "jazzy" music, she "played a bit with the rhythm and different sounds to try and heighten the impact and almost primal nature of the unique graphics."{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/castlevanias-michiru-yamane-making-the-jazzy-sounds-of-skullg/|date=April 21, 2011|access-date=April 21, 2011|last=Fletcher|first=JC|website=Joystiq|title=Castlevania's Michiru Yamane making the 'jazzy' sounds of Skullgirls|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110422101909/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/castlevanias-michiru-yamane-making-the-jazzy-sounds-of-skullg/|archive-date=April 22, 2011}} The soundtrack was released on April 21, 2012, on iTunes.{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/note-worthy-002-fez-ridge-racer-silent-hill-and-more/|date=May 15, 2012|access-date=March 31, 2023|last=Napolitano|first=Jayson|website=Destructoid|title=Note Worthy 002: Fez, Ridge Racer, Silent Hill, and more|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202012120/https://www.destructoid.com/note-worthy-002-fez-ridge-racer-silent-hill-and-more/|archive-date=December 2, 2021|url-status=live}}

Skullgirls was released on the PlayStation Network in North America on April 10, 2012, and worldwide through the Xbox Live Arcade on April 11, 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012-04-07-skullgirls-hits-psn-april-10.html|date=April 7, 2012|access-date=July 6, 2023|last=Mallory|first=Jordan|website=Engadget|title=Skullgirls hits PSN on April 10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029151407/https://www.engadget.com/2012-04-07-skullgirls-hits-psn-april-10.html|archive-date=October 29, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/skullgirls-release-date-set-april/|date=April 2, 2012|access-date=April 2, 2012|last=Bradford|first=Matt|website=GamesRadar|title=Skullgirls release date set for April|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140306111911/http://www.gamesradar.com/skullgirls-release-date-set-april/|archive-date=March 6, 2014|url-status=live}} Europe and Australia later received the PlayStation Network version on May 2, 2012. The Microsoft Windows version was released by Marvelous on August 22, 2013.{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/07/12/skullgirls-pc-debut-scheduled-for-august-22/|date=July 12, 2013|access-date=July 12, 2013|last=Mallory|first=Jordan|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls PC debut scheduled for August 22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130713130300/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/07/12/skullgirls-pc-debut-scheduled-for-august-22/|archive-date=July 13, 2013}}{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/skullgirls-boppin-to-pc-digital-distribution-platforms-later-th/|date=May 2, 2012|access-date=March 26, 2013|last=Hinkle|first=David|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls boppin' to PC digital distribution later this year|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120514164627/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/skullgirls-boppin-to-pc-digital-distribution-platforms-later-th/|archive-date=May 14, 2012}} The game was also published in Japan by CyberFront and brought to Japanese arcades through the NESiCAxLive digital distribution system by developer M2.{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2013/02/05/skullgirls-is-coming-to-japan-thanks-to-japans-djmax-publisher/|date=February 5, 2013|access-date=February 5, 2013|last=Yip|first=Spencer|website=Siliconera|title=Skullgirls Is Coming To Japan Thanks To Japan's DJMax Publisher|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130207124522/http://www.siliconera.com/2013/02/05/skullgirls-is-coming-to-japan-thanks-to-japans-djmax-publisher/|archive-date=February 7, 2013|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://mtwo.co.jp/en/blog/2013/05/23/nesicalive-distribution-130523/|date=May 23, 2013|access-date=July 7, 2023|author=M2 Co., Ltd.|website=M2|title=M2 Presents Spellunker and Skullgirls in Arcades with NESiCAxLive|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160405083736/https://mtwo.co.jp/en/blog/2013/05/23/nesicalive-distribution-130523/|archive-date=April 5, 2016|url-status=live}}

Skullgirls Encore launched on the PlayStation Network in North America on February 11, 2014, and Europe on March 19, 2014.{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/09/skullgirls-encore-to-return-to-playstation-network|date=February 8, 2014|access-date=February 11, 2014|last=Williams|first=Katie|website=IGN|title=Skullgirls Encore to Return to PlayStation Network|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140209070441/http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/09/skullgirls-encore-to-return-to-playstation-network|archive-date=February 9, 2014|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://blog.playstation.com/archive/2014/03/19/new-playstation-store-infamous-final-fantasy-metal-gear-towerfall/|date=March 19, 2014|access-date=July 7, 2023|last=Ashraf|first=Jawad|website=PlayStation Blog|title=New on PlayStation Store: inFAMOUS! Final Fantasy! Metal Gear! Towerfall!|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112025221/https://blog.playstation.com/archive/2014/03/19/new-playstation-store-infamous-final-fantasy-metal-gear-towerfall/|archive-date=November 12, 2020}} The Xbox Live Arcade version of Skullgirls received an update for Encore on April 22, 2014.{{cite web|url=http://shoryuken.com/2014/04/22/skullgirls-encore-update-rolling-out-for-xbox-360/|date=April 22, 2014|access-date=April 25, 2014|last=Walker|first=Ian|website=Shoryuken|title=Skullgirls Encore Update Rolling Out for Xbox 360|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140426235256/http://shoryuken.com/2014/04/22/skullgirls-encore-update-rolling-out-for-xbox-360/|archive-date=April 26, 2014}} On July 10, 2014, Lab Zero Games announced that Skullgirls Encore would be released on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita sometime in 2014.{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/07/10/skullgirls-encore-coming-to-ps4-and-ps-vita-in-2014/|date=July 10, 2014|access-date=July 12, 2014|last=Bartholow|first=Peter|website=PlayStation Blog|title=Skullgirls Encore Coming to PS4 and PS Vita in 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714133103/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/07/10/skullgirls-encore-coming-to-ps4-and-ps-vita-in-2014/|archive-date=July 14, 2014|url-status=live}} This port, later titled Skullgirls 2nd Encore, would eventually be delayed until 2015.{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2015/04/15/beowulf-comes-to-skullgirls-encore-on-april-17th/|date=April 15, 2015|access-date=April 20, 2015|last=Bartholow|first=Peter|website=PlayStation Blog|title=Beowulf Comes to Skullgirls Encore on April 17th|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150427111039/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2015/04/15/beowulf-comes-to-skullgirls-encore-on-april-17th/|archive-date=April 27, 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/10/01/skullgirls-encore-delayed-on-ps4-ps-vita|date=October 1, 2014|access-date=April 29, 2015|last=Blake|first=Vikki|website=IGN|title=Skullgirls Encore Delayed on PS4, PS Vita|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141003115158/http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/10/01/skullgirls-encore-delayed-on-ps4-ps-vita|archive-date=October 3, 2014|url-status=live}} 2nd Encore was released for PlayStation 4 in North America on July 7, 2015, and Europe on July 23, 2015.{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/07/01/skullgirls-2nd-encore-release-dates-announced-for-ps4-ps-vita|date=July 1, 2015|access-date=July 1, 2015|last=Pitcher|first=Jenna|website=IGN|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore Release Dates Announced For PS4, PS Vita|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150701173816/http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/07/01/skullgirls-2nd-encore-release-dates-announced-for-ps4-ps-vita|archive-date=July 1, 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-2nd-encore-out-today-on-ps4-soon-on-vita-295497.phtml|date=July 7, 2015|access-date=July 8, 2015|last=Hansen|first=Steven|website=Destructoid|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore out today on PS4, soon on Vita|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710032753/http://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-2nd-encore-out-today-on-ps4-soon-on-vita-295497.phtml|archive-date=July 10, 2015|url-status=live}} The PlayStation Vita version was released in North America on April 5, 2016, and Europe on April 14, 2016.{{cite web|url=https://blog.playstation.com/archive/2016/04/12/new-on-playstation-store-this-week-dark-souls-iii-ratchet-clank-doom-open-beta|title=New on PlayStation Store this week: Dark Souls III, Ratchet & Clank, Doom open beta|date=April 12, 2016|website=Blog.playStation.com|access-date=April 4, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124160145/https://blog.playstation.com/archive/2016/04/12/new-on-playstation-store-this-week-dark-souls-iii-ratchet-clank-doom-open-beta/|archive-date=November 24, 2020|url-status=live}} 2nd Encore was also published for both platforms in Japan by Arc System Works on April 14, 2016.{{cite web|url=http://shoryuken.com/2015/08/06/arc-system-works-publishing-skullgirls-2nd-encore-in-japan/|date=August 6, 2015|access-date=June 24, 2017|last=Walker|first=Ian|website=Shoryuken|title=Arc System Works Publishing Skullgirls 2nd Encore in Japan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150808223802/http://shoryuken.com/2015/08/06/arc-system-works-publishing-skullgirls-2nd-encore-in-japan/|archive-date=August 8, 2015}} In North America, Hidden Variable Studios and Limited Run Games produced a limited physical edition of 2nd Encore, which included a disc-based copy of the game, a slip cover, a full-color instruction manual, and a special selection soundtrack.{{cite web|url=http://gematsu.com/2016/10/skullgirls-2nd-encore-limited-run-physical-edition-announced|date=October 29, 2016|access-date=October 30, 2016|last=Romano|first=Sal|website=Gematsu|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore limited run physical edition announced|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161030141607/http://gematsu.com/2016/10/skullgirls-2nd-encore-limited-run-physical-edition-announced|archive-date=October 30, 2016|url-status=live}}

In May 2013, when Lab Zero Games was asked on their official Twitter account about a potential release for Nintendo's Wii U console, the developer replied that while it was possible, it "[wasn't] looking likely", citing the console's low sales and not having an established "digital presence" at the time.{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/5/13/4326486/skullgirls-wii-u-possible|date=May 13, 2013|access-date=December 13, 2014|last=Tach|first=Dave|website=Polygon|title=Skullgirls for Wii U 'isn't looking likely' without increased console sales, dev says|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606215452/http://www.polygon.com/2013/5/13/4326486/skullgirls-wii-u-possible|archive-date=June 6, 2013|url-status=live}} During Anime Expo in July 2018, Lab Zero Games confirmed that a port of 2nd Encore was in development for its successor, the Nintendo Switch.{{cite web|url=https://variety.com/2018/gaming/news/skullgirls-coming-nintendo-switch-1202866603/|date=July 6, 2018|access-date=March 31, 2023|last=Lanier|first=Liz|website=Variety|title='Skullgirls 2nd Encore' Coming to Switch|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706160038/https://variety.com/2018/gaming/news/skullgirls-coming-nintendo-switch-1202866603/|archive-date=July 6, 2018|url-status=live}} The Nintendo Switch release would include all content, and be available both physically and digitally.{{cite web|url=https://www.vgr.com/skullgirls-2nd-encore-pre-order/|date=February 24, 2019|access-date=March 4, 2019|last=Lopez|first=Ule|website=VGR|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore Pre-Orders now Available for Nintendo Switch|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306111321/https://www.vgr.com/skullgirls-2nd-encore-pre-order/|archive-date=March 6, 2019|url-status=live}} In February 2019, an Xbox One port was announced, which was planned for release alongside the Nintendo Switch version, courtesy of Skybound Games.{{cite web|url=https://www.skybound.com/games/skullgirls/skullgirls-limited-edition-pre-order|access-date=March 31, 2023|website=Skybound Games|title=SKULLGIRLS 2ND ENCORE COMING TO SWITCH, PRE-ORDER THE LIMITED EDITION TODAY!|date=February 20, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329124229/https://www.skybound.com/games/skullgirls/skullgirls-limited-edition-pre-order|archive-date=March 29, 2019|url-status=live}} The game was released for the Nintendo Switch on October 22, 2019; however, the Xbox One version was postponed indefinitely "due to unforeseen development and production challenges".{{cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2019/10/skullgirls-2nd-encore-for-xbox-one-postponed-indefinitely|date=October 17, 2019|access-date=March 31, 2023|last=Romano|first=Sal|website=Gematsu|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore for Xbox One "postponed indefinitely"|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018214321/https://www.gematsu.com/2019/10/skullgirls-2nd-encore-for-xbox-one-postponed-indefinitely|archive-date=October 18, 2019|url-status=live}} In May 2022, the Xbox One port was revealed to be in development again, along with versions for the Xbox Series X and Series S.{{cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2022/05/skullgirls-2nd-encore-coming-to-xbox-series-and-xbox-one-in-2022-dlc-character-black-dahlia-alpha-gameplay-trailer|date=May 25, 2022|access-date=May 25, 2022|last=Romano|first=Sal|website=Gematsu|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore coming to Xbox Series and Xbox One in 2022, DLC character Black Dahlia alpha gameplay trailer|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220525065805/https://www.gematsu.com/2022/05/skullgirls-2nd-encore-coming-to-xbox-series-and-xbox-one-in-2022-dlc-character-black-dahlia-alpha-gameplay-trailer|archive-date=May 25, 2022|url-status=live}} The ports had a targeted release window of 2022, but were eventually pushed back to 2023.{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-2nd-encore-roadmap-marie-black-dahlia-xbox-switch-exclusive-art/|date=December 17, 2022|access-date=February 21, 2023|last=Moyse|first=Chris|website=Destructoid|title=Exclusive: Black Dahlia and Marie lead Skullgirls 2nd Encore into an exciting 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230325154823/https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-2nd-encore-roadmap-marie-black-dahlia-xbox-switch-exclusive-art/|archive-date=March 25, 2023|url-status=live}}

The free-to-play spin-off for Android and iOS, titled Skullgirls Mobile, was released on May 25, 2017, in North America, South America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2017/05/09/skullgirls-mobile-debuts-may-25-2017/|date=May 9, 2017|access-date=May 9, 2017|first=Lada|last=Jenni|website=Siliconera|title=Skullgirls Mobile Debuts On May 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921043116/https://www.siliconera.com/skullgirls-mobile-debuts-may-25-2017/|archive-date=September 21, 2020|url-status=live}} It was developed by Hidden Variable Studios and published by Line Corporation, creators of the Line communications app. The mobile version of Skullgirls incorporates role-playing-like progression, customization, and deck-building mechanics.{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/7/2/12089182/skullgirls-ios-android-mobile|date=July 2, 2016|access-date=July 2, 2016|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|website=Polygon|title=Skullgirls is coming to Android and iOS|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160703034743/http://www.polygon.com/2016/7/2/12089182/skullgirls-ios-android-mobile|archive-date=July 3, 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-brings-an-rpg-twist-to-ios-and-android-372777.phtml|date=July 2, 2016|access-date=July 2, 2016|last=Holmes|first=Jonathan|website=Destructoid|title=Skullgirls brings an RPG twist to iOS and Android|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210724150655/https://www.destructoid.com/skullgirls-brings-an-rpg-twist-to-ios-and-android/|archive-date=July 24, 2021|url-status=live}} Eventually, Line Corporation decided to part ways with the project, with Autumn Games taking over publishing duties.{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2018-01-19-skullgirls-relaunches-mobile-developer-ditches-publisher.html|title='Skullgirls' relaunches on mobile as developer ditches publisher|first=Rob|last=LeFebvre|website=Engadget|date=January 19, 2018|access-date=May 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031162229/https://www.engadget.com/2018-01-19-skullgirls-relaunches-mobile-developer-ditches-publisher.html|archive-date=October 31, 2020|url-status=live}} As such, the old version of the game, preemptively renamed LINE Skullgirls, was removed from all storefronts on January 15, 2018. A new version, designated Skullgirls 2.0 by the developer, was released on January 18, 2018, and allowed existing players to carry over their progress. As a result of the move, Hidden Variable Studios promised more transparency over the game's microtransactions, namely in its gacha rates, as well as more consistent release of new content. Currently, Skullgirls Mobile is supported alongside 2nd Encore, and shares many of its updates.{{cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2021/12/skullgirls-2nd-encore-dlc-character-black-dahlia-announced-umbrella-launches-in-early-2022|title=Skullgirls 2nd Encore DLC character Black Dahlia announced; Umbrella launches in early 2022|website=Gematsu|date=December 5, 2021|access-date=May 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205232914/https://www.gematsu.com/2021/12/skullgirls-2nd-encore-dlc-character-black-dahlia-announced-umbrella-launches-in-early-2022|archive-date=December 5, 2021|url-status=live}}

At the 2019 Anime Expo, a webcomic series published by Webtoon was announced.{{cite web|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/2019/07/20/skullgirls-is-getting-a-webcomic-series|date=July 20, 2019|access-date=July 20, 2019|last=Vazquez|first=Suriel|website=Gameinformer|title=Skullgirls Is Getting A Webcomic Series|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721235829/https://www.gameinformer.com/2019/07/20/skullgirls-is-getting-a-webcomic-series|archive-date=July 21, 2019|url-status=live}} The webcomic, written by Mike Exner III and illustrated by Wiirdo/Pasteldot and Artist Black/Suzi Blake, began publishing weekly on November 19, 2022.{{cite web|last=Mr Toffee|date=November 12, 2022|title=Skullgirls Gets Webtoon Series This November|url=https://www.kakuchopurei.com/2022/11/skullgirls-gets-webtoon-series-this-november/|access-date=November 13, 2022|website=Kakuchopurei|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401011020/https://www.kakuchopurei.com/2022/11/skullgirls-gets-webtoon-series-this-november/|archive-date=April 1, 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Destito|first=Deanna|date=December 12, 2022|title=A Year of Free Comics: SKULLGIRLS comes to life on Webtoons|url=https://www.comicsbeat.com/a-year-of-free-comics-skullgirls-comes-to-life-on-webtoons/|access-date=March 7, 2023|website=Comics Beat|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221212231601/https://www.comicsbeat.com/a-year-of-free-comics-skullgirls-comes-to-life-on-webtoons/|archive-date=December 12, 2022|url-status=live}} and finished February 2, 2024 with 26 episodes divided into 1 season.

{{Video game reviews

| title =

| MC = PS3: 82/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/skullgirls/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3 |title=Skullgirls for PlayStation 3 Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=April 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221017211851/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/skullgirls|archive-date=October 17, 2022|url-status=live}}
X360: 78/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/skullgirls/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360 |title=Skullgirls for Xbox 360 Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=April 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221020025307/https://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox-360/skullgirls|archive-date=October 20, 2022|url-status=live}}
PC: 83/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/skullgirls/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |title=Skullgirls for PC Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=Aug 22, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221017215624/https://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/skullgirls|archive-date=October 17, 2022|url-status=live}}
PS4: 82/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/skullgirls-2nd-encore/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4 |title=Skullgirls: 2nd Encore for PlayStation 4 Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=December 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211120023800/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-4/skullgirls-2nd-encore|archive-date=November 20, 2021|url-status=live}}
VITA: 76/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/skullgirls-2nd-encore/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-vita |title=Skullgirls: 2nd Encore for PlayStation Vita Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=December 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230316041907/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-vita/skullgirls-2nd-encore|archive-date=March 16, 2023|url-status=live}}
NS: 80/100{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/skullgirls-2nd-encore/critic-reviews/?platform=nintendo-switch |title=Skullgirls: 2nd Encore for Switch Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=November 16, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612210551/https://www.metacritic.com/game/switch/skullgirls-2nd-encore|archive-date=June 12, 2022|url-status=live}}

| 1UP = B+{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/reviews/skullgirls-review-fluid-competitive-fighter|date=April 12, 2012|access-date=April 12, 2012|last=Crisan|first=Neidel|website=1UP|title=Skullgirls Review: Fluid, Competitive, and Full of Over-the-Top Fanservice|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120508133849/http://www.1up.com/reviews/skullgirls-review-fluid-competitive-fighter|archive-date=May 8, 2012}}

| EuroG = 7/10{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-04-20-skullgirls-review|date=April 20, 2012|access-date=April 20, 2012|last=Parkin|first=Simon|website=Eurogamer|title=Skullgirls Review|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120422171842/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-04-20-skullgirls-review|archive-date=April 22, 2012|url-status=live}}

|G4 = 4/5{{cite web|url=http://www.g4tv.com/games/xbox-360/65045/skullgirls/review/|date=April 13, 2012|access-date=April 13, 2012|last=Maniago|first=Daniel|website=G4|title=Skullgirls Review for Xbox 360|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103195304/http://www.g4tv.com/games/xbox-360/65045/skullgirls/review/|archive-date=November 3, 2012}}

| GI = 8/10{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/skullgirls/b/xbox360/archive/2012/04/09/review.aspx|date=April 9, 2012|access-date=April 9, 2012|last=Ryckert|first=Dan|magazine=Game Informer|title=Skullgirls Review: Fighting For Everyone|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120411200511/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/skullgirls/b/xbox360/archive/2012/04/09/review.aspx|archive-date=April 11, 2012|url-status=live}}

| GRadar = {{rating|4|5}}{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/skullgirls-review/|date=April 13, 2012|access-date=April 13, 2012|last=Learned|first=John|website=GamesRadar|title=Skullgirls Review|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120526002043/https://www.gamesradar.com/skullgirls-review/|archive-date=May 26, 2012|url-status=live}}

| GSpot = 8/10{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/skullgirls/reviews/skullgirls-review-6371316/|date=April 11, 2012|access-date=April 11, 2012|last=McGee|first=Maxwell|website=GameSpot|title=Skullgirls Review|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120413095827/http://www.gamespot.com/skullgirls/reviews/skullgirls-review-6371316/|archive-date=April 13, 2012|url-status=live}}

| GT = 8.3/10{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/reviews/cann6y/skullgirls-review|date=April 10, 2012|access-date=April 10, 2012|website=GameTrailers|title=Skullgirls Review|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120818124547/http://www.gametrailers.com/reviews/cann6y/skullgirls-review|archive-date=August 18, 2012}}

| IGN = 8.5/10{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/04/09/skullgirls-review|date=April 9, 2012|access-date=April 9, 2012|last=Clements|first=Ryan|website=IGN|title=Skullgirls Review|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120917025116/http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/04/09/skullgirls-review|archive-date=September 17, 2012|url-status=live}}

| Joystiq = {{rating|3|5}}{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/skullgirls-review/#review|date=April 13, 2012|access-date=April 13, 2012|last=Mallory|first=Jordan|website=Joystiq|title=Skullgirls review: Close, but no cigar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414115305/http://i.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/skullgirls-review/|archive-date=April 14, 2012}}

}}

Skullgirls received "generally positive" reviews, according to video game review aggregator Metacritic.

Several reviewers praised the presentation and animation. Ryan Clements of IGN praised the graphics, claiming that the game created "some of the best hand-drawn character sprites ever used in gaming." Clements also gave the game an Editor's Choice award. John Learned of GamesRadar also praised the art style, stating that the art deco design gave playable characters and backgrounds added flair. However, some reviewers criticized the art style and overtly sexualized all-female cast, including accusations of sexism.{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-12-07-skullgirls-sexism-complaints-are-misplaced-and-shallow-chivalry|date=December 7, 2011|access-date=December 7, 2011|last=Yin-Poole|first=Wesley|website=Eurogamer|title=Skullgirls sexism complaints are "misplaced and shallow chivalry"|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107113125/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-12-07-skullgirls-sexism-complaints-are-misplaced-and-shallow-chivalry|archive-date=January 7, 2012|url-status=live}} Dan Ryckert of Game Informer stated that while Skullgirls was beautifully animated, some animations were "juvenile and unnecessary". Ryckert expressed disappointment with the artistic focus on "anatomy and fetishistic outfits."

Reviewers also praised the gameplay and system mechanics. Maxwell McGee of GameSpot credited the ability to adjust team sizes, adding that the trade-off between strength and versatility helped to accommodate a wider skill range of players. Neidel Crisan of 1UP praised the tutorial system for teaching beginner players about the fundamentals of the fighting game genre. Daniel Maniago of G4 complimented the custom assists, anti-infinite system, and online play, praising Reverge Labs for utilizing feedback from the fighting game community during development.

Skullgirls received its share of criticism. IGN's Ryan Clements criticized the small selection of gameplay modes, missing character move lists, and overly aggressive AI. GameTrailers criticized the limited roster size, stating that the tag-based battling felt underdeveloped as a result. Simon Parkin of Eurogamer pointed out the lack of online features, such as a spectator mode, replays, and endless lobbies. Jordan Mallory of Joystiq reprimanded the game for its "goofy and immature" premise, sexualized art style, and unoriginal character movesets. Mallory concluded that the series would have been better off spending another year in development.

Skullgirls received Best Fighting Game nominations from IGN, 1UP, and the Official E3 Game Critics Awards.{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/06/07/e3-2011-best-of-e3-awards|date=June 6, 2011|access-date=June 6, 2011|website=IGN|title=E3 2011: Best of E3 Awards|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121202053924/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/06/07/e3-2011-best-of-e3-awards|archive-date=December 2, 2012|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/features/best-of-e3?pager.offset=1|date=June 10, 2011|access-date=June 10, 2011|website=1UP|title=1UP's Best Games of E3 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722034822/http://www.1up.com/features/best-of-e3?pager.offset=1|archive-date=July 22, 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://gamecriticsawards.com/2011nominees.html|date=June 19, 2011|access-date=June 19, 2011|website=Game Critics Awards|title=Game Critics Awards Best of E3 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120422022854/http://gamecriticsawards.com/2011nominees.html|archive-date=April 22, 2012|url-status=live}} The game was nominated for 2012 Best Animated Video Game at the 40th Annual Annie Awards.{{cite magazine|url=http://insidemovies.ew.com/2012/12/03/annie-awards-nominees/|date=December 3, 2012|access-date=December 3, 2012|last=Busis|first=Hillary|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|title=2012 Annie Award nominees, honoring the best in animation, announced|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121203221707/http://insidemovies.ew.com/2012/12/03/annie-awards-nominees/|archive-date=December 3, 2012}} Skullgirls was also recognized in the 2013 Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition for the most frames of animation per character, reaching 11,515 total frames for its initial eight characters and averaging 1,439 frames per fighter.{{cite web|url=http://blog.mysanantonio.com/geekspeak/2013/01/thumbing-through-the-guinness-world-records-2013-gamers-edition/|date=January 11, 2013|access-date=July 2, 2014|last=Guzman|first=René A.|website=My San Antonio|title=Thumbing through the 'Guinness World Records 2013 Gamer's Edition'|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116234126/http://blog.mysanantonio.com/geekspeak/2013/01/thumbing-through-the-guinness-world-records-2013-gamers-edition/|archive-date=January 16, 2013}} In 2017, Skullgirls 2nd Encore was listed in Game Informer's list of "The 10 Most Underrated Games Of This Generation".{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2017/02/17/the-ten-most-underrated-games-of-this-generation.aspx|date=February 19, 2017|access-date=February 19, 2017|last=Leendertsen|first=Jordan|magazine=Game Informer|title=The 10 Most Underrated Games Of This Generation|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170218182203/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2017/02/17/the-ten-most-underrated-games-of-this-generation.aspx|archive-date=February 18, 2017|url-status=live}}

Skullgirls sold over 50,000 copies across both platforms within ten days,{{cite web|url=http://www.vg247.com/2012/04/27/skullgirls-sales-top-50000-in-ten-days/|date=April 27, 2012|access-date=April 27, 2012|last=Hillier|first=Brenna|website=VG247|title=Skullgirls sales top 50,000 in ten days|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120430053900/http://www.vg247.com/2012/04/27/skullgirls-sales-top-50000-in-ten-days/|archive-date=April 30, 2012|url-status=live}} becoming the highest selling game on the Xbox Live Arcade upon its release{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/revergelabs/status/190886577084448768|date=April 13, 2012|access-date=April 13, 2012|website=Reverge Labs|title=Twitter / revergelabs|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131143416/https://twitter.com/revergelabs/status/190886577084448768|archive-date=January 31, 2016|url-status=live}} and third best-selling title on PlayStation Network for April 2012.{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/05/15/april-2012-psn-top-sellers-i-am-alive-survives-the-competition/|date=May 15, 2012|access-date=May 15, 2012|last=Haro|first=Morgan|website=PlayStation Blog|title=April 2012 PSN Top Sellers: I Am Alive Survives The Competition|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120518103227/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/05/15/april-2012-psn-top-sellers-i-am-alive-survives-the-competition/|archive-date=May 18, 2012|url-status=live}} The game saw a similar performance in Japan, climbing to the top of PSN's list of best-selling downloadable PlayStation 3 titles within a week.{{cite web|url=http://shoryuken.com/2013/02/21/skullgirls-currently-the-1-downloadable-playstation-3-title-in-japan/|date=February 21, 2013|access-date=February 21, 2013|last=D'Argenio|first=Angelo|website=Shoryuken|title=Skullgirls Currently the #1 Downloadable PlayStation 3 Title in Japan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130224044842/http://shoryuken.com/2013/02/21/skullgirls-currently-the-1-downloadable-playstation-3-title-in-japan/|archive-date=February 24, 2013}} According to Peter Bartholow, CEO of Lab Zero Games, Skullgirls met Japanese publisher CyberFront's lifetime sales expectations in the first two weeks of release.{{cite web|url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/03/08/you-saved-skullgirls-lab-zeros-indiegogo-gamble/|date=March 8, 2013|access-date=March 8, 2013|last=Hillier|first=Brenna|website=VG247|title=You saved Skullgirls: Lab Zero's Indiegogo gamble|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130311155656/http://www.vg247.com/2013/03/08/you-saved-skullgirls-lab-zeros-indiegogo-gamble/|archive-date=March 11, 2013|url-status=live}} The PS4 version entered the Japanese charts at #17.{{cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2016/04/media-create-sales-41116-41716|last=Romano|first=Sal|title=Media Create Sales: 4/11/16 – 4/17/16|website=Gematsu|date=April 20, 2016|access-date=March 31, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420182024/https://www.gematsu.com/2016/04/media-create-sales-41116-41716|archive-date=April 20, 2016|url-status=live}} On September 4, 2017, Zaimont announced that Skullgirls had sold one million copies on Steam.{{cite web|url=http://shoryuken.com/2017/09/04/indie-fighting-game-titan-skullgirls-achieves-one-million-copies-sold-on-steam/|date=September 4, 2017|access-date=September 5, 2017|last=Lanier|first=Corey|website=Shoryuken|title=Indie fighting game titan Skullgirls achieves one million copies sold on Steam|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170905140455/http://shoryuken.com/2017/09/04/indie-fighting-game-titan-skullgirls-achieves-one-million-copies-sold-on-steam/|archive-date=September 5, 2017}}

In 2020, after the Evolution Championship Series announced its shift to an online-only format in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Skullgirls 2nd Encore was revealed as an inclusion in its main lineup of games, owing to its use of rollback netcode.{{cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/5/14/21258675/evo-2020-online-dates-smash-bros-ultimate-lineup|date=May 14, 2020|access-date=March 30, 2023|last=McWhertor|first=Mike|website=Polygon|title=Evo 2020 is going online, dropping Smash Bros. Ultimate from lineup|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200520160914/https://www.polygon.com/2020/5/14/21258675/evo-2020-online-dates-smash-bros-ultimate-lineup|archive-date=May 20, 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2020/05/how-a-rejected-my-little-pony-game-helped-save-a-historic-tournament/|date=May 14, 2020|access-date=March 30, 2023|last=Lawson|first=Aurich|website=Ars Technica|title=How a rejected My Little Pony game helped save a historic tournament|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200515072655/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2020/05/how-a-rejected-my-little-pony-game-helped-save-a-historic-tournament/|archive-date=May 15, 2020|url-status=live}} The entire event was eventually cancelled after EVO CEO Joey Cuellar was placed on administrative leave following sexual misconduct allegations.{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/evo-2020-online-has-been-cancelled/1100-6479302/|date=July 6, 2020|access-date=March 30, 2023|last=O'Connor|first=James|website=GameSpot|title=EVO 2020 Online Has Been Cancelled|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200704072801/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/evo-2020-online-has-been-cancelled/1100-6479302/|archive-date=July 4, 2020|url-status=live}} Skullgirls ultimately made its debut as a main lineup game at EVO 2022, over a decade after its original release.{{cite web|last=Steiner|first=Dustin|title=Evo 2022 lineup revealed: Melty Blood, Skullgirls joins SFV, Guilty Gear Strive, more |url=https://esports.gg/news/fgc/every-game-evo-2022-sfv-melty-blood-skullgirls/|website=Esports.gg|access-date=August 29, 2022|date=March 8, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220309030516/https://esports.gg/news/fgc/every-game-evo-2022-sfv-melty-blood-skullgirls/|archive-date=March 9, 2022|url-status=live}}

In June 2023, the game was review bombed on Steam after a patch was released which focused on altering elements deemed insensitive or exploitative by Hidden Variable Studios, Future Club, and Autumn Games, with negative fan reviews proclaiming the alterations as a form of censorship.{{cite web|last=Kennedy|first=Victoria|title=Skullgirls update changes content developer felt was in "poor taste"|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/skullgirls-update-changes-content-developer-felt-was-in-poor-taste|website=Eurogamer|access-date=July 2, 2023|date=June 28, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230628124805/https://www.eurogamer.net/skullgirls-update-changes-content-developer-felt-was-in-poor-taste|archive-date=June 28, 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Wilde|first=Tyler|title=Skullgirls bombarded by negative Steam reviews after devs alter old artwork they felt was in 'poor taste'|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/skullgirls-bombarded-by-negative-steam-reviews-after-devs-alter-old-artwork-they-felt-was-in-poor-taste/|website=PC Gamer|access-date=June 30, 2023|date=June 27, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230627224547/https://www.pcgamer.com/skullgirls-bombarded-by-negative-steam-reviews-after-devs-alter-old-artwork-they-felt-was-in-poor-taste/|archive-date=June 27, 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Kara|title=Skullgirls has received a cosmetic update and fans are displeased|url=https://www.techradar.com/gaming/skullgirls-has-received-a-cosmetic-update-and-fans-are-displeased|website=TechRadar|access-date=July 2, 2023|date=June 27, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230627124806/https://www.techradar.com/gaming/skullgirls-has-received-a-cosmetic-update-and-fans-are-displeased|archive-date=June 27, 2023|url-status=live}} These changes included, among other things, the removal of allusions to real world hate groups and upskirt shots of teenage fighters, toning down depictions of racial violence in the story, and deleting several illustrations from the guest art gallery. According to game director Charley Price, the updates were made to reflect the "values and broad vision for Skullgirls moving forward."

;Notes

{{Notelist}}

;Footnotes

{{Reflist|30em}}

• {{Official website|http://www.skullgirls.com}}
• {{IMDb title|tt2357337}}

{{Webtoon (platform)}}

Category:2D fighting games

Category:2012 video games

Category:Crowdfunded video games

Category:CyberFront games

Category:Fighting games

Category:Indie games

Category:Indiegogo projects

Category:Konami games

Category:Skybound Games games

Category:Marvelous (company) games

Category:Linux games

Category:MacOS games

Category:Multiplayer and single-player video games

Category:NESiCAxLive games

Category:Nintendo Switch games

Category:PlayStation 3 games

Category:PlayStation 4 games

Category:PlayStation Network games

Category:PlayStation Vita games

Category:Tag team video games

Category:Video games about ninja

Category:Video games adapted into comics

Category:Video games developed in the United States

Category:Video games scored by Michiru Yamane

Category:Video games with cross-platform play

Category:2022 webtoon debuts

Category:Windows games

Category:Xbox 360 Live Arcade games

Category:Xbox One games

Category:Xbox Series X and Series S games

Category:2020s webtoons