It’s hard to find a game these days that doesn’t feature some kind of action. Even visual novels might include some action elements to keep things interesting. However, when we talk regarding action games here at Gamereactor, we’re not referring to true RPGs with extensive combat, or point-and-click adventures with explosive cutscenes.
No, we’re talking regarding games with a primary focus on action. A large majority of your time playing these games will involve fighting, running, and possibly dying. We’ve outlined five of the best examples that embody the genre.
5. “Batman: Arkham City”
Any of Rocksteady’s Arkham games might be included here, but Batman: Arkham City stands out as one of the best all-around action games and remains a pinnacle of the genre. A massive map filled with activities, a compelling story with memorable villains, and the signature Arkham combat system all combine to create the best Batman game, if not one of the best games overall.
4. Metroid Prime
We’re all eagerly awaiting the return of Samus Aran in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and now is the perfect time to revisit the 2002 classic, Metroid Prime. A nostalgic entry on our list, Metroid Prime still manages to hold its own (especially thanks to a delightful remaster) with its gunplay, visuals, and more. If you want to understand why so many Nintendo fans have been eager for the series’ return over the years, give this game a try.
3. Ghostrunner
From a slower, older franchise to a new one that never gives you a break, Ghostrunner offers a breathtaking experience for those seeking to combine mobility with the usual combat experience in a more rhythmic action game. Dashing around Damo Tower is incredibly fun, and Ghostrunner serves as a great introduction to the frenetic pace offered in other top action games like Hotline Miami and Ultrakill.
2. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
If you’ve ever listened to The Gamereactor Show or watched one of our gaming gossip episodes, you know that I’m always on the lookout for a game to rival Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. For those who enjoy a challenging yet rewarding experience, look no further. This time, FromSoftware has managed to include a story that is easy to grasp, without the need for hours of research on YouTube.
1. God of War
Kratos’ stories, both old and new, easily make this list. If you enjoy taking down Greek gods and Norsemen, you should definitely give them a try. However, we’re specifically talking regarding the 2018 reboot here. Who knew a story regarding unbridled, murderous rage might be so weighty and profound? Atreus and Kratos’ evolving relationship makes this action game worth playing for anyone who appreciates a good story, and the depth of its gameplay rivals the best of the best.
Which action games do you think should be on the list?
Gamereactor’s Guide to the Best Action Games: 5 Must-Plays
It’s hard to find a game these days that doesn’t have some kind of action. Even your visual novel might have some weird bits and pieces in between just to keep things interesting. However, when we talk regarding action games here at Gamereactor, we’re not talking regarding true RPGs, with tons of combat, or point-and-click adventures with exploding cutscenes.
No, we’re talking regarding an action-focused game. For the vast majority of your time playing these games, you’ll be fighting, sprinting, and possibly dying, so we’ve outlined five options that embody the best of the genre.
5. “Batman: Arkham City”
You can play any of Rocksteady’s Arkham games here, but Batman: Arkham City is one of the great all-around action games and remains the pinnacle of the genre. A massive map filled with things to do, a great story filled with memorable villains, and of course the patented Arkham fighting style, all mixed together to be the best, if not the best Batman game we’ve ever had.
4. Metroid Prime
We’re all looking forward to the return of Samus Aran in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and now is the perfect time to return to the 2002 classic Metroid Prime. A nostalgic entry on our list, Metroid Prime still manages to maintain (especially thanks to a cute remaster) its gunplay, visuals, and more. If you want to understand why so many Nintendo fans have been confused regarding the series’ return over the years, check this out.
3. Ghostrunner
From a slower, older franchise to a new one that never lets you catch a break, Ghostrunner offers a breathtaking experience for those looking to combine mobility with the usual combat experience, a more rhythmic action game. Dashing around Damo Tower is endless fun, and it’s a great introduction to the frenetic pace offered in some other top action games like Hotline Miami and Ultrakill.
2. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
If you’ve ever listened to The Gamereactor Show or seen one of our gaming gossip episodes, you’ll know that I’m always on the lookout for a game to rival Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. For those who like a tough but rewarding time, you can’t do better and this time, FromSoftware has managed to include a story that you can understand without having to spend hours watching informative videos on YouTube.
1. God of War
Kratos’ stories both old and new easily make this list, and if you’re someone who enjoys defeating Greek gods and Norsemen, you should give it a try. However, we’re talking specifically regarding the 2018 reboot here. Who knew a story regarding rampant, murderous depictions of rage might have such weight and depth? Atreus and Kratos’ evolving relationship makes this action game worth playing for anyone who likes a good story, and its depth of gameplay rivals the greats.
Which action games do you think should be on the list?
