Finding Your Next Obsession, Action games are the adrenaline junkies of the gaming world, delivering fast-paced thrills, heart-pounding challenges, and immersive experiences that keep you glued to the screen. Whether you’re dodging bullets in a shooter, slashing through enemies in a hack-and-slash, or exploring vast open worlds, action games offer something for everyone. But with so many titles out there, how do you pick the one that’ll spark your next gaming obsession? This guide, written in a conversational tone for gamers of all levels—especially beginners and casual players—will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing your next action game.
Why Action Games?
Action games are all about immediacy and excitement. They demand quick reflexes, strategic thinking, and sometimes a knack for storytelling. From the cinematic spectacle of God of War to the frenetic chaos of DOOM Eternal, these games pull you into their worlds with stunning visuals, gripping narratives, and satisfying gameplay loops. For beginners, they’re a great entry point into gaming because they’re intuitive yet offer depth as you improve. For seasoned players, they provide endless challenges and replayability.
Key Factors to Consider
1. Gameplay Style
Action games come in many flavors, so think about what kind of experience you’re craving:
First-Person Shooters (FPS): Games like Call of Duty or Cyberpunk 2077 put you in the driver’s seat with immersive, first-person perspectives. Perfect if you love intense combat and precision aiming.
Third-Person Action-Adventure: Titles like The Last of Us or Assassin’s Creed blend exploration, storytelling, and combat. These are great for players who want a mix of narrative and action.
Hack-and-Slash: Think Devil May Cry or Bayonetta. These games focus on stylish, combo-heavy combat and are ideal for players who enjoy mastering complex mechanics.
Platformers: Games like Hollow Knight or Celeste combine action with precise movement, appealing to those who love a challenge with a side of exploration.
Ask yourself: Do you want to mow down enemies with a minigun or explore a richly detailed world? Your answer will narrow down your options.
2. Difficulty Level
Action games range from forgiving to downright punishing. If you’re new to gaming, start with titles that ease you in, like Spider-Man: Miles Morales, which offers adjustable difficulty settings. If you’re a veteran craving a challenge, try Elden Ring or Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, known for their steep learning curves. Check reviews or watch gameplay videos to gauge a game’s difficulty before diving in.
3. Story and Setting
Some action games prioritize story, while others focus purely on gameplay. If you love deep narratives, games like Red Dead Redemption 2 or Horizon Forbidden West deliver cinematic experiences with rich characters and worlds. If story takes a backseat for you, fast-paced titles like DOOM or Just Cause 4 emphasize chaos and fun over plot. Consider whether you want a game that feels like an interactive movie or one that’s all about the action.
4. Platform and Accessibility
What do you game on? PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, or even mobile? Most action games are available on multiple platforms, but some are exclusive—like God of War on PlayStation or Halo on Xbox. Also, check system requirements if you’re on PC to ensure your rig can handle the game. For beginners, consoles like the Switch offer user-friendly interfaces and portable gaming with titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
5. Multiplayer vs. Single-Player
Do you want to play solo or with friends? Single-player games like Ghost of Tsushima offer focused, story-driven experiences. Multiplayer games like Apex Legends or Destiny 2 let you team up or compete online, adding social fun but requiring a stable internet connection. If you’re new, single-player games might be less intimidating to start with.
6. Budget and Value
Action games vary in price, from free-to-play titles like Warframe to premium games costing $60 or more. Consider your budget and look for sales on platforms like Steam, PlayStation Store, or Xbox Game Pass, which offers a subscription model with access to tons of action games. Also, think about replayability—games with robust endgame content or new game+ modes, like Borderlands 3, give you more bang for your buck.
Tips for Beginners
Start Simple: Pick games with tutorials or forgiving mechanics, like Uncharted 4 or Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.
Experiment: Try different genres within action games to discover what clicks.
Join Communities: Platforms like Reddit or Discord have gaming communities where you can ask for recommendations or tips.
Watch Gameplay: YouTube and Twitch are great for previewing games to see if they match your vibe.
Our Top Picks for 2025
To get you started, here are a few action games that stand out in 2025:
Star Wars Outlaws: A sprawling open-world adventure with stealth, combat, and a gripping sci-fi story.
Marvel’s Wolverine: A gritty, action-packed title with visceral combat (PlayStation exclusive).
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2: Perfect for fans of intense, cooperative multiplayer action.
Metroid Dread: A 2D action-platformer with tight controls and a haunting atmosphere (Switch exclusive).
FAQs
Q: What’s the best action game for someone new to gaming?
A: Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a great choice. It has intuitive controls, adjustable difficulty, and a compelling story that’s easy to follow.
Q: Are action games suitable for kids?
A: Some are, but check the ESRB or PEGI rating. Games like Super Mario Odyssey are kid-friendly, while titles like DOOM Eternal are for mature audiences due to violence.
Q: Can I play action games on a budget PC?
A: Yes! Games like Hollow Knight or Hades are lightweight and run well on modest hardware. Check system requirements before buying.
Q: How do I know if I’ll like a game’s story?
A: Watch trailers or read reviews on sites like IGN or Metacritic. Story-driven games like The Last of Us Part II are praised for their narratives.
Q: Are free action games worth playing?
A: Absolutely! Free-to-play games like Warframe or Genshin Impact offer high-quality action, though some include microtransactions. Read player reviews to ensure they’re fair.
Choosing your next action game is all about knowing your preferences and exploring the vast options available. Whether you’re swinging through New York as Spider-Man or battling demons in DOOM, there’s a game out there ready to become your next obsession. So grab your controller, dive in, and let the adventure begin!