Over the years, what defines a game as the “action” category has gotten more ambiguous than ever, as many games now include aspects of multiple core genres. However, one thing remains certain – games in this category give the player a polished, exciting experience. So, what is this list all about? This isn’t a Top 10 Action Games of All Time list or a Top 10 Action Games of a Generation list. Instead, we’re tackling this one from the angle of what’s important, what’s incredible, and what’s fantastic right now. As in today. This week. This month. So when you don’t see a Dark Souls game on this list, that’s why even though I’d recommend a fresh playthrough of Dark Souls 3 every day. This ever-shifting list aims to capture the highlights of the now and what we think you’d love to be playing this very moment. Presented in no particular order, this list keeps it fresh. Let’s dive in!
Bayonetta 3
From a pure combat standpoint, Bayonetta’s third outing proves to be her strongest. The witch’s new Demon Masquerade and Demon Slave mechanics improve an already fantastic combat system with a slew of wildly entertaining weapons and abilities. Whether you’re slinging a giant yo-yo, conjuring a demonic train, or annihilating foes apart with a dragon-infused cannon, we couldn’t get enough of the game’s offensive variety. It also feels great summoning giant demons to end long combo strings with a powerful exclamation point. The Viola and Jeanne sections may be weaker, but when the spotlight shines on Bayonetta, she proves once again that few series can outshine her on the battlefield. | Our Review
Elden Ring
What can we say about From Software’s latest that hasn’t already been said? A seemingly perfect evolution of the Soulsborne formula, Elden Ring instills its punishing combat with a newfound and unparalleled level of freedom. Shield parries, blade slashes, swooping arrows, and magical shockwaves erupt in wondrous flurries of multicolored sparks while spirit summons, weapon arts, and multiplayer companions amplify the chaos. Horseback battles also up the ante; well-timed double jumps make avoiding ax swings or incoming infernos feel appropriately cinematic. And we’d be remiss not to mention the various entities that call The Lands Between home. From the elderly but swift-footed, Margit, the Fell Omen to crimson-haired Malenia, Blade of Miquella, Elden Ring has no shortage of unforgettable encounters. | Our Review
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut
Ghost of Tsushima impressed on many levels during its initial 2020 release, letting players explore breathtaking scenery while participating in riveting combat. Little touches like the Kurosawa mode that transforms the game into a black-and-white vision that one might remember from films like Seven Samurai make all the difference here, as you can tell that a deft and practiced hand went into the creation of every element that makes up the whole of Ghost.
The director’s cut is easily the best way to play Ghost today and comes with the new Iki island expansion that gives players plenty of more content to engage with. A director’s commentary is adds significant depth for players that want to learn more about the game’s creation, the real-life events that inspired it, the setting, and so much more. Since its release, Ghost has also received other major updates, including a massive multiplayer experience that you can take on with friends. | Our Review
God of War Ragnarök
Kratos and Atreus’ second outing may not be markedly different from their last when it comes to action, but that doesn’t make it any less of a fun adrenaline romp. Fine tweaks and new tricks (especially for Atreus) add fun wrinkles to the brutal action. Toppling the deadliest creatures and deities Norse mythology has to offer remains a thrill, and that barrage of bloodshed is wrapped around an engaging narrative brought to life by powerful performances. From its hot start to its epic conclusion, God of War Ragnarök is the total package. | Our Review