Action Games Collection
As the most fundamental video game genre, action games prioritize physical challenges, fast reflexes, and hand-eye coordination. From arcade classics like Double Dragon to modern masterpieces like Devil May Cry, these games deliver intense adrenaline rushes through combat, evasion, and precision timing.
Core Subgenres
- Beat 'em ups: Final Fight (Arcade) and Streets of Rage (Genesis) defined side-scrolling brawlers- Run-and-gun: Contra III (SNES) and Gunstar Heroes (Genesis) perfected shooting mechanics
- Character action: Bayonetta (PlayStation) evolved complex combo systems
- Arena fighters: Smash TV (SNES) pioneered multidirectional shooting
Hardware Showcases
- NES: Ninja Gaiden's fluid animations- SNES: Super Castlevania IV's Mode 7 effects
- PlayStation: Metal Gear Solid's cinematic action
- Handhelds: Advance Wars (GBA) proved strategy could be action-packed
Why They Captivate
Pure gameplay focus creates immediate thrills and skill-based progression that transcends language barriers.🎮All Action Retro Games
1985
ActionThe Legend of Kage is a classic action game developed by Taito. Players control a ninja named Kage who must rescue a kidnapped princess from evil forces. The game features side-scrolling combat with throwing stars and sword attacks across four distinct seasons.
1984
ActionA classic arcade-style action game where players control Charlie the clown through six circus acts, including lion jumping, tightrope walking, and trapeze swinging.
1985
ActionAn arcade-style action game where players control chef Peter Pepper who must assemble giant burgers while avoiding food enemies like Mr. Hot Dog and Mr. Egg.
1993
ActionRoboCop Versus The Terminator is a 1993 action game crossing over two iconic sci-fi franchises. Based on the Dark Horse Comics storyline, players control RoboCop through side-scrolling levels battling Terminators in a dystopian Detroit. The NES version features unique weapons, destructible environments, and faithful representations of both franchises' characters.
1989
ActionNorth & South is a unique strategy/action game based on the American Civil War, where players control either Union or Confederate forces across three gameplay modes: strategic map movement, real-time battles, and train robberies.
1986
ActionBalloon Fight is an action game where players control a character with balloons attached to their back, flying through stages while avoiding enemies and popping their balloons. Features single-player and versus modes with simple but addictive gameplay.
1988
ActionSpy vs Spy is a action-strategy game based on the MAD Magazine comic strip. Players take on the role of either the black or white spy, setting traps and collecting items to outwit their opponent in a comical battle of wits.
1989
ActionThe Uncanny X-Men is an action game based on the popular Marvel Comics superhero team. Released in 1989 for the NES, players control Cyclops, Wolverine, Colossus, Nightcrawler, Storm, and Iceman as they battle through various levels to rescue their captured teammates from the villainous White Queen.

















