The Fastest-Paced Games With Non-Stop Action

You know, it’s funny, some of my favorite action games aren’t actually super fast-paced. Like, Elden Ring and the newer God of War? The fights are amazing – really brutal and tough – but you’re playing as these big, powerful characters. They’re not exactly zipping around like Sonic; they’re more about deliberate, weighty attacks. It’s a different kind of action, but it’s awesome!

People who crave intense action might be looking for something even faster-paced. Fans of action games will likely enjoy these titles because they keep the focus on quick, close-quarters combat. While most of these games emphasize swordplay or hand-to-hand fighting—since games with guns usually fall into the ‘shooter’ category—we’ve included a few notable exceptions.

Ultrakill

Just Keep Shooting

While most of these games emphasize close-quarters combat, Ultrakill stands out with its incredibly fast pace and polished shooting mechanics, making it a great example of the fast-paced shooter genre. It’s clearly inspired by 90s classics like DOOM, featuring a similar pixel art style, but it’s much more than just a copy. Ultrakill blends elements of bullet hell games like Ikaruga and the combo-focused action of Devil May Cry, particularly through its scoring system.

You’ll need to keep moving constantly to survive, so learning how to use each weapon and ability effectively is essential for every level. It’s challenging, but incredibly satisfying and exciting!

Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner

The Power Of Jehuty

Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner is a fast-paced action game for the PlayStation 2. You play as Dingo, a character on the brink of death who survives thanks to his powerful mech, Jehuty. What sets this game apart from other mech titles is Jehuty’s speed and agility. Players can quickly attack with melee strikes, grab and throw enemies (or even use them as weapons), and utilize objects in the environment, such as beams, to defeat opponents.

In addition to close-combat attacks, players can also use guided lasers to hit enemies. While there are brief periods of flight between fights, the game’s short campaign—lasting only two to three hours—keeps the fast pace going, driven by the main character’s intense quest for revenge.

Attack On Titan (2016)

Cutting Down Colossi

As a huge fan of Attack on Titan, I’m so excited about this game! It’s based on the first season and a bit of the second, and you play as a soldier defending humanity’s last city from these terrifying, giant creatures called Titans. The coolest part is you get to use the same gear the characters do – these awesome 3D maneuver devices, or ODM Gear, with jetpacks and blades, to fight them!

Moving quickly around the battlefield feels fantastic, similar to playing a Spider-Man game, and escaping from a Titan’s grasp or mouth is incredibly thrilling. Although repeatedly zipping around and attacking Titans’ necks can become a bit monotonous, Attack on Titan is still a solid game adaptation that fans of the anime will definitely enjoy.

Muramasa: The Demon Blade

A Ninjavania

Originally released for the Wii and later remastered as Muramasa: Rebirth on the PS Vita, Muramasa: The Demon Blade is a fantastic action game by Vanillaware. Both versions are excellent, and the game features two distinct storylines, one starring Momohime and the other following Kisuke, all delivered with fast-paced action.

Players can choose to play as either character and explore ancient Japan, battling both mystical demons and ninjas using a variety of magically-enhanced blades. The game plays like a Metroidvania, but instead of needing specific tools or upgrades to unlock new areas, players can simply break down obstacles with more powerful swords.

Dead Cells

Speedrun This Roguelike

Dead Cells is a fast-paced 2D roguelike game built with speedrunning in mind. Players can quickly move through levels, and completing areas quickly often unlocks special bonuses.

When I first started playing, some of the best stuff and areas felt totally out of reach. But as I unlocked new weapons and got stronger, I could really start tearing through enemies – slicing them up or jumping over them like I knew what I was doing! Dead Cells isn’t always about going super fast, but the fights are definitely quick. You’re constantly attacking, dodging, and then going back in for the final blow. It’s a really satisfying flow once you get the hang of it.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Your Spines Are Mine

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance is a side story in the Metal Gear universe, focusing on Raiden, a character first seen in Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty. After the events of the fourth game, Raiden has become almost entirely robotic and is now working to take down groups of mercenaries in a conflict area.

This installment is one of the most violent in the series, letting Raiden brutally slice enemies apart and collect their spines to recover health. It’s a huge improvement for the character, especially considering his earlier portrayal. Raiden is incredibly powerful in this fast-paced, over-the-top action game, and that’s exactly what makes it so good.

Hades 2

Nothing Can Hold Her Back

Hades 2 is a fast-action roguelike game, similar in combat speed to Dead Cells. However, unlike Dead Cells, it doesn’t focus on quick playthroughs. Instead, players must clear each room of enemies before progressing.

Before exploring challenging areas, players equip tarot cards and a weapon, and can also gain temporary boosts to enhance their abilities. This critically acclaimed action game is known for its incredibly fast-paced combat, where players use quick attacks, strong magic, and precise dodging to conquer their opponents.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black

Ryu Is Back, In Black

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is an updated version of the classic game, widely considered a highlight of the Ninja Gaiden series. Combat is fast-paced and demanding – even weaker enemies can defeat the main character, Ryu, if players aren’t constantly moving and paying attention.

The game begins with players wielding a katana, but they’ll unlock a variety of other weapons, including a large scythe, tonfas, and a chain with a sickle. While other characters are available, Ryu is the star of the show. The gameplay is fast-paced, seamlessly blending intense combat with challenging maze-like platforming.

Devil May Cry 5

Three Versus Thousands

The Devil May Cry series is known for pioneering a fast-paced, combo-focused style of action games. Devil May Cry 5 continues this tradition, letting players control three different characters, with Nero taking center stage.

Nero is the quickest fighter, equipped with a sword, gun, and a cybernetic arm he uses to quickly close the distance. Dante is slower but packs a more powerful punch, and V prefers to direct his demon companions in battle. Regardless of which character you choose, the game’s exciting and dynamic combat keeps it a step above other titles.

Bayonetta 2

Look At Those Gun Shoes Pop

Even among great action games, Bayonetta 2 stands out. It builds on the legacy of Devil May Cry, acting as a spiritual successor. Players control Bayonetta, who begins with four guns – two held in her hands and two on her feet. While different weapons offer new combo possibilities, Bayonetta herself is a formidable weapon, using her entire body in combat.

Okay, so playing as Bayonetta, you basically chain attacks together to unleash spells with her hair – it’s awesome for trapping angels in these crazy, painful ways. And timing your dodges perfectly triggers Witch Time, which is like bullet time – super helpful! Honestly, Bayonetta’s always been a powerhouse, but this sequel takes it to a whole new level. The action set pieces are insane – one minute you’re battling on top of a jet, the next you’re fighting a giant boss as it climbs a skyscraper. It’s a visual feast, seriously!

2026-02-10 02:38