Genre collection

Action retro games

Explore 793 classic action games from the console and computer eras, organised into a permanent collection URL.

Choose an action game by how you want to play

Action games ask for different kinds of timing. Super C makes you move and aim together; Streets of Rage 2 brings the fight within punching distance. Metal Slug mixes infantry firefights with vehicles, while Donkey Kong concentrates on ladders, hazards and a jump button. Choose a style before choosing a difficulty.

YEAR1990

Famicom

Super Contra / Super C

Action 1–2 Players

For run-and-gun action: aim while moving and keep co-op partners on the same screen.

Gameplay guide →

YEAR1992

Genesis

Streets of Rage 2

Action 1–2 Players

For close-range co-op: learn attack spacing and keep allies out of your swings.

Gameplay guide →

YEAR1996

Arcade

Metal Slug

Action 1-2 Players

For an arcade shooting run: weapon pickups, vehicles and prisoner rescues.

YEAR1983

Famicom

Donkey Kong

Action 1 Player

For short attempts: practise a route around ladders and moving hazards.

Gameplay guide →

Set up the first run

For arcade games, check both coin and Start inputs. For console games, match the controller labels to your keyboard or gamepad. Test movement and one attack in a clear area before trying a longer stage.

A player count of two can mean alternating turns or simultaneous play. Super C and Streets of Rage 2 let partners play together; configure the second controller separately. These picks describe local play on one device.

Turn a retry into useful practice

Choose one short encounter and identify what ended the attempt: a missed jump, poor spacing or an enemy arriving from behind. Keep the same settings while practising that section. If snapshots are supported, test a backup before relying on it for a long run.

Sources and further reading

Game mechanics follow publisher references. Recommendations and practice advice are editorial choices.