2021 has been an exciting year for action game lovers as there were more than 100+ releases on both PC and Console platforms collectively. The genre saw a flux of several new games as well as old returning franchise titles like Metroid Dread. So, without wasting time, let's look at some of the best action games of 2021 that need to be on your wishlist.
It Takes Two
It Takes Two is a superb game with an emotional storyline and engaging gameplay mechanics. The story is about a couple who are about to divorce each other. But due to a spell, they are magically turned into wooden dolls. How they return to their original human body ultimately forms the remaining crux of the story. The gameplay is filled with small puzzles that need to be solved with action-packed, precise movements. Also, the universe keeps on changing with each new chapter and never feels repetitive in any instance.
Deathloop
Deathloop is one of those games that combines the essence of FPS shooter with character abilities into fun gameplay level design. We have already seen such titles in the past from Arkane Studios like the Dishonored series and Darkness. What separates Deathloop from such games is the unique array of guns and the time-based mechanics. You get to play as Colt, who is stuck on an island in a time loop and has to kill all the eight visionaries to end it. The missions are non-linear and you can approach any visionary at any point in time to complete the storyline.
Related: Best Strategy Games of 2021
Kena: Bridge of Spirits
PlayStation had several exclusive releases this year, but one game that stood out from the rest is Kena: Bridge of Spirits. The storyline revolves around Kena, a spirit guide who helps lost souls move to their next life. The game is one of the most beautiful titles on the entire list, as it is evident that developers Ember Labs were originally an animation studio before transitioning into game development. Apart from its Pixar-style graphics, the game has superb fighting mechanics and RPG elements most similarly found in the Zelda series.
Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread was in development for more than 15 years, and its release has been a great relief for fans of the series. The story of Dread is set after the events of Metroid Fusion released in 2002. Similar to previous titles in the series, Dread is filled with platforming action, boss fights, and clever puzzles. The game also leans much towards the stealth side that was absent in previous games, with heart-pumping chase sequences throughout. Also, the game looks and runs smoothly on a Switch and utilizes the raw power of the gadget to its maximum potential.
Related: Best Kids Games of 2021
Resident Evil Village
Resident Evil Village is the eighth installment in the long-running series. The game is set after the events of Resident Evil 7. You again get to play as Ethan Winters, who is now in search of his kidnapped toddler. From the get-go, the game returns to the survival horror roots of classic Resident Evil titles, albeit in the first person. Ammo is limited and every move you make decides your fate in the haunted village. If you are a fan of action-based zombie games, you would love Resident Evil Village.
Honorable Mention
- Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart
- Far Cry 6
- Marvel's Guardian of the Galaxy
- Hitman 3
- Monster Hunter Rise
For more on such Lists, check out Best Upcoming Xbox Series X Games in 2022 on Pro Game Guides.
Vignesh Raja started playing video games at age five and immediately fell in love with them. Though his adventure begins with story-based games like Total Overdose and Prince of Persia, he soon gravitated toward competitive FPS and simulation games. That passion led him to play multiple Esports titles like FIFA, Paladins, and Apex Legends on a semi-professional level since high school. Nowadays, he shares his competitive knowledge by coaching upcoming BR teams and writing guides for Valorant, BitLife, and Roblox.