Action games are designed to be fast paced, testing players reflexes, coordination and reaction times, whilst providing an adrenaline rush that makes playing even more fun. Usually, involving conflict and survival, you navigate levels or open worlds, often facing enemies or obstacles, resulting in combat or physical challenges to overcome these. The aim is often to collect rewards, defeat bosses and achieve high scores. 

 

However to do this players must develop skills like dodging, attacking, or timing movements precisely to avoid damage, requiring quick thinking and adaptability. Many games reward precision, providing the ability for players to achieve headshots, combo attacks or perfect dodges that add another layer of depth to the gameplay. Furthermore, health and stamina management is often included in action games, decreasing the recklessness of players as they have to be mindful of how to survive during fights or intense moments. Because of this, health kits, armour, or rest points may be provided throughout levels, encouraging exploration and strategic planning. Alongside this, there may also be power-ups or upgrades issued to help strengthen players, for example new abilities, enhanced health, or stronger weapons. 

 

There are many popular sub-genres or variations of the action genre. For example, shooters; these games are purely combat focused, where players use firearms or projectiles to win either solo or as a team, in different game modes. There is also platformers, where the focus is on jumping and avoiding obstacles, with precise timing and movement being key mechanics. Finally, another example is stealth action, which Involves avoiding detection while completing objectives, often requiring patience, strategy, and precise timing.