Over the years, PlayStation has built an impressive library of exclusive titles that have captivated gamers around the world. While there may be a slight lull in groundbreaking releases at this moment, the legacy of Sony’s exclusives spans from the quirky Jumping Flash to today’s cutting-edge offerings, showcasing the brand’s commitment to unique gaming experiences.
Recently, a pattern has emerged, with many first-party PlayStation games leaning towards emotional storytelling and third-person action. It’s apparent that PlayStation favors a certain style. However, the gaming landscape hasn’t always conformed to this mold, as evidenced by an array of titles known for their action-packed gameplay that prioritizes engagement over lengthy narratives.
Here, we explore ten standout games from the PlayStation library that dive straight into the action, eschewing superfluous elements in favor of pure gameplay enjoyment. Each of these titles initially launched as PlayStation exclusives, although some have since made their way to other platforms.
10 The Unfinished Swan
Short, Yet Delightfully Engaging
Although The Unfinished Swan may not immediately scream “action-packed, ”it offers a refreshing gameplay experience. This unique puzzle game wraps up in under three hours, focusing on engaging mechanics rather than extensive storytelling. As players use paint to navigate their journey, they experience a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment without getting bogged down by complex narratives or wait times.
The narrative resembles a bedtime story, imparting context without interrupting the gameplay flow. Most of your time will be spent progressing towards the end of this delightful adventure.
9 Puppeteer
A Playful Theater Adventure
Puppeteer is a beautifully crafted platformer that deserves more recognition. Unfortunately, it’s confined to the PS3, making it somewhat inaccessible to today’s gamers. Drawing inspiration from classics like LittleBigPlanet, it expertly combines whimsical storytelling and action, allowing players to guide Kutaro through vibrant stage performances filled with challenges and excitement.
While it’s not a brief experience, Puppeteer maintains an engaging pace, ensuring you’re in the thick of the action at all times. If you can find a way to play it again, it’s a journey worth taking.
8 Nioh
A True Action Epic
Nioh distinguishes itself in the realm of action games with its fast-paced combat and challenging gameplay. Dubbed a Soulslike title, it requires players to master difficult mechanics while navigating through a richly constructed world filled with formidable foes. Unlike some other entries in the genre, Nioh places a heavier emphasis on action, actively encouraging players to confront challenges head-on.
Although the lore is abundant, the heart of the game lies in its relentless battles against numerous enemies and colossal bosses, ensuring pure adrenaline from start to finish.
7 Severed
An Engaging Vita Experience
Severed remains a testament to the creative potential of the PlayStation Vita. Developed by DrinkBox Studios, this dungeon crawler uniquely utilizes the handheld’s touchscreen capabilities, allowing players to perform swift, intuitive actions through swipe mechanics. The game’s non-stop action keeps players engaged, with enemy encounters enhancing the thrilling gameplay.
For those who wish to relive this experience without a Vita, the game is available on iOS and Switch, albeit without the coveted Platinum trophy.
6 Resogun
A Launch Title That Shines
Launched alongside the PS4, Resogun became an iconic representation of arcade-style gaming on consoles. Despite mixed reviews for other titles at launch, Resogun delivered exhilarating gameplay, where players pilot a spacecraft, dodge projectiles, and rescue civilians in fast-paced action sequences. It’s a pure embodiment of addictive gameplay that prioritizes excitement over narrative fluff.
5 Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Fast-Paced Action and Platforming
While Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart features a charming narrative, the emphasis here is firmly on action and gameplay. Players engage in relentless gunplay mixed with platforming, creating an exhilarating experience that often leaves little room for downtime. Although it offers some exploration, the lack of side content means players can focus solely on the thrilling gameplay throughout.
4 Returnal
A Bullet Hell Experience
Returnal pushed the boundaries of Housemarque’s design philosophy, presenting a Roguelike experience that focuses solely on intense gameplay. The game encourages repeated attempts, rewarding players with adrenaline-pumping action as they fight through waves of alien foes. While it dips occasionally into story elements, the main draw remains in the fast-paced combat, making it a standout title for action enthusiasts.
3 Bloodborne
A Timeless Challenge
Bloodborne encapsulates FromSoftware’s signature approach to gameplay, immersing players in a brutally unforgiving world rife with danger. Characterized by challenging boss battles and hypnotic action sequences, this game exemplifies the “All Killer, No Filler”ethos with minimal distractions. Its emphasis on mastery and persistence sets it apart, establishing itself as a favorite among action game aficionados.
2 Shadow Of The Colossus
A Colossal Experience
Shadow Of The Colossus may feature extensive exploration, but the heart of the game lies in its exhilarating boss encounters. Every ascent to battle against a formidable colossus feels like a build-up to a climactic showdown, offering a unique twist on the classic formula of boss fights. This title truly represents the essence of action-heavy gameplay, providing thrilling moments from start to finish.
1 Astro Bot
A Love Letter to Platforming
Astro Bot stands out as one of the finest platformers ever created, capturing the essence of joy in gaming. Each level is meticulously crafted, ensuring that players encounter enjoyable challenges without any sense of filler. From start to finish, Astro Bot offers a delightful experience that feels like a celebration of what platforming games should be.
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