Best Action Games That You Need to Play This Winter

I think it’s really neat to play video games that match the current season. It makes those moments in your life feel even more connected and special.

I’ve always thought it’s interesting how certain games feel perfect for specific times of year – spooky games for Halloween, relaxing ones for Christmas, and sports games during big events like the World Cup. It’s like these moments change how we experience the games, making them feel special and different than playing at any other time.

While not all holidays or times of year are prominently featured in games and other interactive media, that doesn’t stop us from recognizing connections between those themes and real-world celebrations. The variety of both allows for meaningful parallels.

As winter approaches, I’d like to share some exciting game recommendations. This article highlights eight fantastic action games perfect for playing when it’s cold outside.

8. Assassin’s Creed III

A Natural Winter

I’ve never been the biggest Assassin’s Creed fan, honestly, but I have to admit Assassin’s Creed III really blew me away with how realistic the snow looked. It was the first time in the series I genuinely thought, ‘Wow, that actually looks like a snowy environment!’

While the game doesn’t feel like a strong entry in the series, it’s a perfectly enjoyable action game. What really makes it stand out, though, is its beautiful natural environments, which are a refreshing change from the city settings of other games in the franchise.

Honestly, when I’m exploring the levels, just running and moving through the environment feels amazing. It’s so immersive, like you can actually feel the wind. I’ve found myself spending way more time perfecting my parkour skills than actually fighting or trying to be stealthy – it’s just that fun!

Even though I had some doubts about the game, Assassin’s Creed III does a fantastic job of bringing Revolutionary War-era America to life. This immersive setting makes the somewhat clunky fighting and the less-impactful role of the Assassin group easy to overlook, resulting in a genuinely fun experience.

7. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Visiting the Himalayas

Okay, so Uncharted 2: Among Thieves isn’t a perfect game, but it’s definitely good. What really stood out to me was just how amazing and varied the locations were. Seriously, the settings were a huge highlight and totally deserve the praise they get!

The series has consistently featured beautiful and intriguing settings, but the second game truly stands out. Its stunning, icy mountain environment offers a striking contrast to the typical action and creates a uniquely magical atmosphere.

Even though it’s not always snowing, the moments when the world turns white are truly memorable. This is largely thanks to Naughty Dog’s skill in crafting amazing scenes that really showcase the game’s impressive visuals and sound.

While it’s a decent third-person shooter, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves truly shines as an action-adventure game with incredible international settings. It’s a must-play for any gamer.

6. MIO: Memories in Orbit

The Cold of Space

I truly believe that MIO: Memories in Orbit is one of the best Metroidvania games I’ve ever played, and that’s not just because it’s new. Any fan of the genre really shouldn’t miss out on this title.

I’ve always felt a strange connection between winter and games like this one. I think it’s because both have this amazing ability to make you feel cozy and comfortable, even when things are technically a little rough – like a cold winter day or a challenging game!

I’m really getting into MIO: Memories in Orbit! It doesn’t hold your hand much – there aren’t a ton of obvious guides, some areas are tricky to fully check out, and the bosses are genuinely tough. Plus, you’re given a lot of freedom right from the beginning. At first, that might sound like it could be frustrating, but honestly, it all works together brilliantly. What could have been downsides actually make the game even better!

This game truly feels like a daring and exciting adventure, with challenging fights and rewarding discoveries. There’s never a dull moment – something amazing is always happening. Plus, with its icy, space-themed environments, it’s the perfect game to play right now.

5. God of War

Norse Mythology at Its Best

Unlike the intense action of the original Greek God of War games, the first God of War set in Norse mythology offers a truly exceptional story and world – one of the best ever created in big-budget gaming.

While the story is strong, the gameplay isn’t quite as good as previous games in the series. However, it’s still enjoyable enough to make exploring the game’s world a rewarding experience.

Featuring ice axes, a landscape covered in endless snow, and myths rooted in cold and powerful deities, God of War brilliantly captures the essence of winter, and its sequel continues this tradition.

Hearing Mimir tell his stories while sailing feels just like those classic chats around a campfire. It covers everything from lighthearted topics to deep thoughts, which is why it absolutely deserves a place on this list.

4. The Last of Us

An Unforgettable Season

Even though the snowy parts aren’t the longest, The Last of Us features some of the most memorable winter levels in gaming, making it a game you shouldn’t miss.

Changing the main character and going from playing as a powerful, experienced survivor to a weak, inexperienced child dramatically changes how the game feels and plays. This shift in perspective is heightened by a suspenseful and unsettling side story.

Life in The Last of Us is consistently challenging, but this part of the game finally shows you what everyday survival would actually be like. Expect a lot of fear, mistakes, narrow escapes, and constant threats – it’s gritty and realistic, not a heroic adventure.

Despite being a relatively small part of the overall game, the winter section of The Last of Us is a brilliant example of how to portray the season effectively. It’s emotionally powerful and visually stunning, demonstrating the developers’ skill and attention to detail.

3. Max Payne

The Coldest Night in New York

Even though I only discovered Max Payne recently, I was so impressed by it that I have to include it on any recommended list, especially one that suits it so well.

This classic detective story takes place on a bitterly cold New York night, creating a striking atmosphere that goes beyond the plot and deeply affects how players experience the game.

Without the constant snow, darkness, bulky clothes, and deserted streets, Max Payne wouldn’t be the same. The game’s powerful, emotional story would lose its impact, and it would simply be another, less impressive, third-person shooter.

The game’s success isn’t solely due to its story, as it’s considered one of the best in the action genre for good reason. However, the unique setting definitely contributes to what makes Max Payne special – it’s a classic that all action game fans should experience.

2. Metro 2033

A Different Type of Snow

What could be better than a winter game? How about one set in a post-apocalyptic world, where a nuclear disaster has ruined the surface? That’s exactly what Metro 2033 delivers, offering a truly captivating first-person shooter experience.

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Most video games don’t fully immerse you in the protagonist’s experience, but this one goes all-in, letting you truly feel what it’s like to be the quiet character, Artyom.

As a huge fan, what really grabs me about this game is how immersive it is. They’ve thought of everything to make you feel like a ranger struggling to survive after the world ended. From seeing the game’s menus right there in the world, to even your weapons malfunctioning, it all adds up. And it’s not just about the little details, it’s about how it all makes you feel like you’re actually out there on the dangerous surface, trying to survive.

In Metro 2033, snow isn’t beautiful – it’s terrifying. Whenever it starts to fall, your heart pounds, because you know how dangerous it is, just like all the other threats in this world.

This game isn’t exactly relaxing, especially if you’re already feeling stuck indoors. However, if you want a challenging and intense experience that could help you handle real-life emergencies, it’s a great choice.

1. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

The Icy King

When people think of winter games, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is often the first title that comes to mind. It’s a truly iconic game and perfectly captures the feeling of a snowy season.

Skyrim’s stunning, frozen landscapes are a true highlight, offering vast, icy areas filled with interesting places, hidden secrets, and breathtaking views. There’s always something new and exciting to find around every bend.

Even though not everything is covered in snow, the game strongly evokes a Nordic atmosphere. It features a rich story inspired by Norse mythology and beautifully recreates the landscapes, plants, and animals of cold, mountainous areas.

As a huge fan of action games, I truly believe nothing captures the feeling of a harsh winter quite like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Seriously, to create a quest that feels as immersive and realistic as Skyrim’s, you’d have to completely redefine not just action games, but maybe even video games as a whole – it’s on another level!

Adding survival-focused modifications, which improve things like managing food and temperature, can create a truly immersive experience. However, the game is already quite immersive on its own.

2026-02-21 17:41