There are a lot of video games out there and in this era of mobile and home-based gaming, the choices have never been greater. So how do you cut through the noise and find the “Best of” for any chosen topic?
Well, we’re here to help celebrate and shine a spotlight on some of the latest, greatest, and unforgettable games through the years.
For our ongoing series of articles depicting the best video games, our attention this time turns to the best action games of all time. From adrenaline-pumping endeavors to excruciatingly difficult adventure titles, you have a lot of games to whet your appetite.
Of course, if we’ve missed any of your favorites, feel free to comment below and we’ll get them added on!
Devil May Cry 5
Devil May Cry 5 is the latest entry in the Devil May Cry series and one that’s adored by its fanbase. It contains a fast-paced combat system, visually stunning graphics, and intense boss battles. The game also offers an array of combat mechanics for players to tamper with regarding weapons, characters, and intuitive controls.
The graphics are pleasing to look at. Devil May Cry 5 boasts highly detailed locales, realistic character models, and stunning particle effects. From its demon-infested streets to its otherworldly dimensions, each location is well-crafted and compliments the game’s dark tone. The boss encounters are also as thrilling as you expect and require players to carefully plan their attacks if they hope to achieve victory.
With its responsive controls, fun combat, and likable cast, Devil May Cry 5 delivers a satisfying experience for action fanatics.
Max Payne (Series)
The Max Payne series is known for having gritty narratives, great cinematics, and excellent gunplay. The game follows Max, a troubled former police officer who seeks revenge and justice. Max’s journey throughout each game boasts incredible twists, turns, and tragic moments that’ll keep players hooked and invested.
Moreover, Max Payne’s bullet time gameplay feature will excite people. This allows players to slow down time, giving them enhanced reflexes and the ability to perform stylish moves and shots. This mechanic gives players a new level of control and stratification when they’re involved in an intense gunfight.
Coupled with the game’s interactive environments and dark atmosphere, the Max Payne series is a must-play for anyone who adores games with innovative gameplay.
Dark Souls (Series)
The Dark Souls series isn’t for everyone. It’s a series that boasts a high difficulty curve coupled with intricate level design and rich worldbuilding. The game’s unforgiving combat and complex enemy AI demands players to execute precise attacks in conjunction with thoughtful strategies. Every fight will test your skills and patience.
One minor mistake can lead to treacherous consequences. Although this can be annoying to some, others find Dark Souls’s challenges satisfying. The game’s difficulty serves to create a sense of accomplishment when one overcomes them. The series’ “tough but fair” gameplay approach ensures players will remain invested in the game so they can hone their skills.
On top of giving players well-designed worlds to travel through and well-rounded characters to meet or fight, Dark Souls is a great series to play if you’re looking for a challenge.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a great action game with an innovative combat system, a captivating world, and rewarding gameplay mechanics. Like Dark Souls, this title will push players to their breaking points. It encourages them to be creative and approach combative scenarios from a strategic angle.
One of its best aspects lies in its incredible combat system. It introduces different combat mechanics for players to tamper with. From performing death blows to studying enemy patterns, Sekiro’s combat provides players with a sense of mastery and accomplishment when they prevail in battles.
The world is well-crafted and captures the vibes you’d expect and desire from ancient Japan. If you’re looking for a game that allows you to obtain new skills and explore ancient Japanese castles, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is worth checking out.
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is one of the best entries to come out of the Uncharted franchise. It delivers a great blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat sequences to get you excited for future entries. That said, Uncharted 2’s narrative is its shining star, delivering a gripping, cinematic storytelling experience you’ll never forget.
Once again, players control the charismatic Nathan Drake, as he unravels the secrets behind Marco Polo’s lost fleet. The game presents an engaging narrative that seamlessly weaves together action, adventure, and emotional moments. The gameplay is as incredible as its plot. This game delivers satisfying cover-based shooting features and alluring puzzles to solve. The set pieces inserted between these scenarios only add to one’s enjoyment of the game.
For those who love games with great visuals and storytelling, check out Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.
Ninja Gaiden (Series)
Ninja Gaiden is a beloved action series developed by Team Ninja. It contains gruesome violence, captivating storytelling, and intense scenes that will get you pumped to explore all it offers. The series follows Ryu Hayabusa, an agile ninja who engages in many adrenaline-pumping battles against enemy hordes.
The combat is fast-paced and allows players to perform various combos. The combos feel marvelous to perform and fans will adore seeing Ryu execute enemies with them. Each game’s visuals and cinematics get exceedingly better over time. Some scenarios will leave you on the edge of your seat while others will inform you of some riveting points about Ryu’s world.
If you’re after a game that excels at delivering satisfying combat and marvelous graphics, check out Ninja Gaiden.
Vanquish
Vanquish is a phenomenal action game with responsive controls, intense shooting mechanics, and fluid visuals. One of its best aspects lies in Sam Gideon’s, Vanquish’s protagonist’s, Augmented Reaction Suit (ARS). This suit gives Sam superhuman feats, such as boosting, which allows him to slide and move at incredible speeds. This opens the door for vast combo potential.
Furthermore, Vanquish’s visual design is impeccable. The game’s detailed visuals create a striking atmosphere that perfectly complements the fast-paced action. From giant mechs engaging in epic battles to its explosive environments, you’ll be immersed in this game’s stunning world.
On top of providing players with multiple weapons to experiment with, Vanquish is worth adding to your wishlist.
Elden Ring
Elden Ring was a major hit in 2022 and helped FromSoftware reach multiple audiences. This game delivers an alluring fantasy world for players to explore. Its world is brimming with all types of mischievous entities, some small and others large. Like other games developed by this company, this one boasts a high difficulty curve, requiring players to tread its locales carefully.
However, as you advance through the game, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of its fundamentals and the enemy’s attack patterns. This “tough but fair” approach ensures players will obtain a sense of accomplishment after prevailing over a minuscule or major hurdle. The game’s open-world setting is appealing to the eye too. From rich forests to desolate castles, you’ll appreciate the level of detail that went into crafting each of Elden Ring’s locations.
If you’re after a brutal game with an engaging setting. check it out.
Resident Evil 4: Remake
Resident Evil 4: Remake follows the previous Resident Evil remade titles’ footsteps. It gave fans a new way to experience the story with its remade graphics, fabulous gameplay, and familiar storytelling. The game follows Leon Kennedy who is on a mission to save his world’s president’s daughter. He’ll explore many tense environments, each containing creepy enemies for him to defeat.
From possessed villages to grotesque ogre-like beasts, you’ll have your work cut out for you in this game. The remake excels at making things feel easier to navigate through from a control perspective. Furthermore, the enhanced visuals are an added bonus, allowing newcomers to feel more immersed in the events that unfold in the game.
If you happened to enjoy playing the previous remakes Capcom dished out for the series or love zombie-related media, Resident Evil 4’s remake will meet your expectations.
God of War: Ragnarök
God of War: Ragnarök is a follow-up to the 2018 God of War title. This sequel contains incredible fights, and gorgeous visuals, and builds upon the narrative set-up by its predecessor swimmingly.
One of its best aspects stems from its visual design and attention to detail. Santa Monica Studios excelled at making the game look as polished, if not better-looking than the first one. From the snow-capped mountains to the towering mythical creatures, the game’s visuals transport players into a world brimming with beauty and danger.
The narrative is equally fascinating and delves deeper into the complex relationship between Kratos and his son. The game explores themes like family and the consequences behind one’s actions in a nuanced manner.
On top of having incredible action-packed gameplay like the previous entry, God of War: Ragnarök is a must-play.
So, there we have it, our picks for the best action video games through the years!
What do you think of our picks? Do you agree? Are there any notable omissions? Let us know in the comments below!