The best melee experiences I ever had were in a little known MP game called War of the Vikings. While similar mechanically to other pc medieval combat games, two features made it feel better than any other: lunging and special moves. Lunges and quicksteps made the footsie battle much more natural and dynamic than the stiff one speed affair you see in basically every other game and the special power moves each class could execute made for the most satisfying kills ever; they were so crunchy and visceral. Taking on and beating multiple enemies at once through superior skill and daring was so very satisfying in that game. Runner up Mordhau for being the best tuned of the more traditional medieval fighters. Good fun.
For unarmed combat, gotta give it to the Fight Night and Virtua Fighter series. Can't wait for 6!
