Action game

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Action game is a video game genre that emphasizes physical challenges, including hand–eye coordination and reaction-time. The genre includes a large variety of sub-genres, such as fighting games, beat 'em ups, shooter games, and platform games.

Gameplay

Action games typically involve a combination of physical challenges that test the player's reflexes, accuracy, and timing. These games often feature a protagonist controlled by the player who must navigate through levels, defeat enemies, and overcome obstacles. The gameplay mechanics can vary widely but generally include running, jumping, attacking, and dodging.

Sub-genres

Fighting games

Fighting games focus on close combat between a limited number of characters, in which players must use a variety of attacks and defensive moves to defeat their opponent. Examples include the Street Fighter series and the Mortal Kombat series.

Beat 'em ups

Beat 'em ups, also known as brawlers, involve the player fighting through waves of enemies, often with a focus on melee combat. Notable examples include the Double Dragon series and the Streets of Rage series.

Shooter games

Shooter games are a sub-genre where the primary focus is on shooting enemies. This can be further divided into first-person shooters (FPS) and third-person shooters (TPS). Popular FPS games include the Call of Duty series and the Halo series, while notable TPS games include the Gears of War series.

Platform games

Platform games involve navigating a character through a series of levels, often requiring jumping and climbing to reach different areas. Classic examples include the Super Mario series and the Sonic the Hedgehog series.

History

The action game genre has its roots in the early arcade games of the 1970s and 1980s. Games like Space Invaders and Pac-Man laid the groundwork for the genre by introducing fast-paced gameplay and requiring quick reflexes. The genre evolved significantly with the advent of home consoles, leading to the development of more complex and varied action games.

Notable Titles

• The Legend of Zelda series
• Metroid series
• Devil May Cry series
• God of War series
• Bayonetta series

Related Pages

• Video game
• Fighting game
• Shooter game
• Platform game
• Beat 'em up
• First-person shooter
• Third-person shooter