Best Action Games on Steam
Unlike generic lists, our strategy game recommendations use a rigorous analysis of Steam user reviews to identify and feature only the best, community-validated action games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free action games are available at the bottom of the page.
Filters & Lists
H-SNIPER: World War II
H-Sniper: World War II is a dynamic shooting game based on a sniper mechanics and inspired by World War II theme. You are playing as one of a few soldiers left, shooting the enemies from a hidden spot on the battleground.
ULTRAKILL
ULTRAKILL is a fast-paced ultraviolent retro FPS combining the skill-based style scoring from character action games with unadulterated carnage inspired by the best shooters of the '90s. Rip apart your foes with varied destructive weapons and shower in their blood to regain your health.
DEEMO -Reborn-
DEEMO -Reborn- is Rayark's classic game DEEMO, reborn in a whole new way on Steam. The fully 3D immersive journey will intoxicate you with the elegant sounds produced by you on the piano, as well as with the adventures you discover in this fairytale world.
High Entropy: Challenges
Use computers (via GUIs or the command line), unlock doors, crawl through vents, fight enemies head on or find other ways to neutralize or avoid them...
Kandidatos
Fight in the biggest political tournament in Brazil.
Metel - Horror Escape
Metel - Horror Escape is a first-person 3D game in the quest, horror genre. Welcome to the home of an insane maniac hungry for new blood and suffering! You are a victim in his hands. Be careful trying to find a way out. The maniac should not notice your escape attempt.
9-nine-:Episode 3
9-nine-: Episode 3 is the latest chapter in this series of supernatural mystery visual novels with the focus now shifted towards a new heroine, Haruka Kosaka.
Iron Harvest
A classic real-time strategy game with an epic single player campaign, multiplayer & coop, set in the alternate reality of 1920+
Nexomon: Extinction
Nexomon: Extinction is a return to classic monster catching games, with a brand new story, eccentric characters and over 300 unique Nexomon to trap, tame and evolve.
Seek Girl:Fog Ⅰ
"Seek Girl: Fog I" is a strategy adventure game where you will rescue trapped girls in the mysterious fog. The suddenly appearing mist in the Kingdom Forest trapped the girls in it。You are a warrior recruited by the king to rescue the lost girl.
Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey
Survive your evolution in Neogene Africa starting 10 million years ago. Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey is a third-person open world survival game where you Explore, Expand, and Evolve to advance your clan to the next generation in the exciting new adventure from Panache Digital Games.
Love n Dream
《Love n Dream》 is a puzzle game with many kawaii girls. You will be transformed into multiple roles to approach all of our girls. Your job is to unlock their desired, characteristic, favorite, hate by using your skill to solve all the puzzles and understand more about them.
Struggling
Struggling is a physics-based co-op platformer with a twisted spin on teamwork. Control the arms of a squishy abomination and lead it through a deranged world.
Spirits Abyss
Spirits Abyss is a roguelite platformer with destructible terrain. Cast into the Abysm you must explore its diverse depths battling phantasmic meanies and plundering its useful treasures to find a way home... but does something nestle beyond the realmic veil of death?
Control Ultimate Edition
Winner of over 80 awards, Control is a visually stunning third-person action-adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
My Exercise
Let's do sit-ups! Let a chubby boy do his exercise and sink into a dog's body. Maybe animals will come to cheer him up.
Kandagawa Jet Girls
From the creators of SENRAN KAGURA, the future's wettest and wildest new sport is here! Join one of seven teams and race through Tokyo's waterways on futuristic jet machines, using water weapons to blow your opponents back onto dry land!
Bakery Magnate: Beginning
Bakery Magnate is a game with a small plot in which you have to solve economic problems to keep the store afloat. At the same time, you intend to provide for your son, who constantly gets into trouble.
Dread X Collection 2
Explore 12 horror games made in 10 days connected by a meta narrative experience you didn't expect. Step into a world of darkness and discover the secrets you didn't know were right beneath the surface. Find the tapes and unlock the mystery inside the Dread X Collection 2.
New Super Lucky's Tale
Jump, burrow, and tail swipe your way to victory in this love letter to classic 3D platformers!
Action games are a cornerstone genre in the gaming world, cherished for their compelling gameplay that often involves intense combat, quick reactions, and strategic decision-making under pressure. These titles challenge players' reflexes and problem-solving abilities, making them a favorite pastime for both casual and hardcore gamers. On platforms like Steam, action games boast a massive following, thanks to their wide array of styles and creative design.
What Makes a Great Action Game?
Combat Mechanics
Deep and dynamic combat systems that offer a variety of approaches and satisfying feedback for every action taken. Look for games that introduce new weapons, abilities, or enemies as you progress through the adventure.
Pacing and Adrenaline
A well-managed game flow that balances moments of exploration or narration with intense combat sequences, keeping the player constantly engaged and excited.
Freedom of Movement
Fluid and responsive controls that allow players to move agilely, dodge attacks, and strategically position themselves, which is crucial in fast-paced combat situations.
Discover the Vast World of Action Games
Are you searching for the best action games? Here you'll find a curated collection spanning from fast-paced first-person shooters (FPS) and adrenaline-pumping hack and slash titles, to engaging action RPGs with compelling stories and online multiplayer action games that let you challenge friends or foes worldwide. Whether you prefer tactical action, breathtaking combat, or expansive exploratory adventures, our selection is constantly updated to offer you the most exciting new action titles and must-play classics.
What are the best platformer games for beginners?
If you're looking for beginner-friendly action games that ease you into the genre without overwhelming you, consider starting with titles that offer clear objectives, forgiving mechanics, and gradual difficulty spikes. Games like Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales offer intuitive combat and traversal, allowing you to feel powerful quickly. Horizon Zero Dawn™ Remastered also features accessible combat systems with clear enemy weaknesses and excellent tutorials.
Shared Adventures Await!
Multiplayer platformer games are all about creating unforgettable shared adventures. Experience the thrill of cooperating to overcome tricky obstacles and timing jumps perfectly alongside a buddy in local co-op gems like Cuphead or Rayman® Legends. Or, if you prefer connecting remotely, dive into unique online multiplayer experiences where teamwork is key, such as the delightful cooperative challenges of It Takes Two or the frantic, chaotic races of Party Animals.
Most played action games on Steam
Take a look at the top action games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of June 16th 2025.
1. Counter-Strike 2
For over two decades, Counter-Strike has offered an elite competitive experience, one shaped by millions of players from across the globe. And now the next chapter in the CS story is about to begin. This is Counter-Strike 2. Counter-Strike 2 is a fps, shooter and multiplayer game developed and published by Valve. Released on August 21st 2012 has received 8,815,087 reviews of which 7,642,084 were positive and 1,173,003 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played action game, thanks to its 859,842 peak concurrent players over the last day.
8.6
7,642,084
1,173,003
859,842
players
2. HELLDIVERS™ 2
The Galaxy’s Last Line of Offence. Enlist in the Helldivers and join the fight for freedom across a hostile galaxy in a fast, frantic, and ferocious third-person shooter. HELLDIVERS™ 2 is a online co-op, pve and third-person shooter game developed by Arrowhead Game Studios and published by PlayStation Publishing LLC. Released on February 08th 2024 has received 1,017,635 reviews of which 775,883 were positive and 241,752 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. While seeing 59,219 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among action games based on player count.
7.6
775,883
241,752
59,219
players
3. Crosshair X
Overlay custom crosshairs on every game you play. Choose from thousands of unique crosshairs created by the Crosshair X community or design your own using the designer. Crosshair X is a action, indie and adventure game developed and published by CenterPoint Gaming. Released on August 17th 2020 has received 31,352 reviews of which 29,275 were positive and 2,077 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. While seeing 47,610 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among action games based on player count.
9.2
29,275
2,077
47,610
players
4. Warframe
Awaken as an unstoppable warrior and battle alongside your friends in this story-driven free-to-play online action game Warframe is a free to play, action rpg and looter shooter game developed and published by Digital Extremes. Released on March 25th 2013 has received 626,503 reviews of which 545,393 were positive and 81,110 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 38,150 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played action games.
8.6
545,393
81,110
38,150
players
5. Grand Theft Auto V Enhanced
Experience entertainment blockbusters Grand Theft Auto V and Grand Theft Auto Online — now upgraded for a new generation with stunning visuals, faster loading, 3D audio, and more, plus exclusive content for GTA Online players. Grand Theft Auto V Enhanced is a open world, action and multiplayer game developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games. Released on March 04th 2025 has received 55,881 reviews of which 38,595 were positive and 17,286 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. With 33,933 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played action games.
6.8
38,595
17,286
33,933
players
6. PAYDAY 2
PAYDAY 2 is an action-packed, four-player co-op shooter that once again lets gamers don the masks of the original PAYDAY crew - Dallas, Hoxton, Wolf and Chains - as they descend on Washington DC for an epic crime spree. PAYDAY 2 is a co-op, action and fps game developed by OVERKILL - a Starbreeze Studio. and published by Starbreeze Publishing AB. Released on August 13th 2013 has received 663,082 reviews of which 594,327 were positive and 68,755 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 23,535 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played action games.
8.9
594,327
68,755
23,535
players
7. Wuthering Waves
Wuthering Waves is a story-rich open-world action RPG with a high degree of freedom. You wake from your slumber as Rover, joined by a vibrant cast of Resonators on a journey to reclaim your lost memories and change the world. Wuthering Waves is a open world, action and anime game developed and published by KURO GAMES. Released on April 28th 2025 has received 14,136 reviews of which 12,739 were positive and 1,397 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. With 16,652 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played action games.
8.8
12,739
1,397
16,652
players
8. Arma Reforger
Experience authentic Cold War combat and join the struggle for the sprawling, mid-Atlantic island of Everon and its smaller, offshore territory, Arland – or take on the role of Game Master and create your very own scenarios for others to enjoy. Arma Reforger is a military, simulation and action game developed and published by Bohemia Interactive. Released on November 16th 2023 has received 30,623 reviews of which 23,326 were positive and 7,297 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.5 out of 10. With 14,005 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played action games.
7.5
23,326
7,297
14,005
players
9. FANTASY LIFE i: The Girl Who Steals Time
Step into this Slow-Life RPG where you can freely switch between 14 unique jobs, so called "Lives," and enjoy a carefree life in a fantasy world. Fish, cook, shape the island to your liking, or team up with friends to battle monsters across the vast world. FANTASY LIFE i: The Girl Who Steals Time is a rpg, action and casual game developed and published by LEVEL5 Inc.. Released on May 21st 2025 has received 7,594 reviews of which 7,019 were positive and 575 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. With 13,073 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played action games.
9.0
7,019
575
13,073
players
10. Counter-Strike: Source
Counter-Strike: Source blends Counter-Strike's award-winning teamplay action with the advanced technology of Source™ technology. Counter-Strike: Source is a shooter, fps and action game developed and published by Valve. Released on November 01st 2004 has received 182,234 reviews of which 175,426 were positive and 6,808 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 12,865 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played action games.
9.5
175,426
6,808
12,865
players
Best deals on action games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of action games available on Steam right now, updated on June 16th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted action games.
1. In Sound Mind
In Sound Mind is an imaginative first-person psychological horror with frenetic puzzles, unique boss fights, and original music by The Living Tombstone. Journey within the inner workings of the one place you can’t seem to escape—your own mind. In Sound Mind is a horror, psychological horror and story rich game developed by We Create Stuff and published by Maximum Entertainment. Released on September 28th 2021 has received 5,812 reviews of which 5,535 were positive and 277 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Featuring a massive 99% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for action category.
9.2
5,535
277
-99%
29.99€
0.52€
2. Prodeus
Prodeus is a first-person shooter of old, re-imagined using modern rendering techniques and technology. Experience the quality you’d expect from a modern AAA game, designed with retro aesthetics and gameplay that invoke the tech-imposed limits of older hardware. Prodeus is a boomer shooter, fps and retro game developed by Bounding Box Software Inc. and published by Humble Games. Released on September 23rd 2022 has received 7,556 reviews of which 7,021 were positive and 535 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 99% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in action games.
9
7,021
535
-99%
24.99€
0.49€
3. Valfaris: Mecha Therion
Therion returns as the hunt for Lord Vroll continues. Pilot an advanced machine of death and destruction in this explosive 2.5D side-scrolling shoot ‘em up, and sequel to the critically acclaimed Valfaris. Strap in and unleash mecha hell! Valfaris: Mecha Therion is a action, shoot 'em up and arcade game developed by Steel Mantis and published by Silver Lining Interactive. Released on November 21st 2023 has received 358 reviews of which 331 were positive and 27 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 99% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in action games.
8.5
331
27
-99%
24.50€
0.45€
4. Dreamscaper
By night, delve deep into your subconscious and discover powerful artifacts to conquer your nightmares. By day, explore the city of Redhaven and build relationships to unlock the power of your dreams. DREAM. DIE. WAKE. REPEAT. Dreamscaper is a action roguelike, rogue-lite and action game developed by Afterburner Studios and published by Maple Whispering Limited and indie.io. Released on August 05th 2021 has received 3,028 reviews of which 2,670 were positive and 358 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for action games.
8.5
2,670
358
-99%
22.99€
0.44€
5. Dandy Ace
Dandy Ace is an over the top action game that follows this fabulous magician seeking to combine and use his magical cards, fighting and looting his way to defeat the Green-Eyed Illusionist and free himself from a cursed mirror. Dandy Ace is a action, indie and rogue-lite game developed by Mad Mimic and published by NEOWIZ. Released on March 25th 2021 has received 1,222 reviews of which 1,079 were positive and 143 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for action games.
8.4
1,079
143
-99%
16.79€
0.25€
6. Beyond a Steel Sky
From multi-award winning Revolution comes ‘Beyond a Steel Sky’, a groundbreaking 3D adventure thriller, set in an AI-driven future. Subvert the world, hack the systems and solve dark conspiracies to uncover the devastating truth. Beyond a Steel Sky is a adventure, point & click and cyberpunk game developed and published by Revolution Software Ltd. Released on July 16th 2020 has received 1,470 reviews of which 1,293 were positive and 177 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for action games.
8.4
1,293
177
-99%
29.99€
0.54€
7. Slash It 2
Slash It 2 is a 2D colorful arcade game. The goal is to press letters, numbers and type words in the right time and direction. Slash It 2 is a casual, indie and action game developed by EGAMER and published by SA Industry. Released on January 24th 2017 has received 1,256 reviews of which 1,104 were positive and 152 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for action games.
8.4
1,104
152
-99%
39.99€
0.45€
8. T.E.C. 3001
Run, Rush, Haste, Burst Speed has never been pushed this far. Jump, Charge, Dodge, Slide You just slipped and got crushed! You can’t handle T.E.C 3001 yet… Try again until speed holds no secrets for you. T.E.C. 3001 is a indie, racing and action game developed by Phoenix Game Studio and published by BulkyPix. Released on April 11th 2014 has received 393 reviews of which 352 were positive and 41 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.3 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for action games.
8.3
352
41
-99%
92.00€
0.92€
9. Strange Brigade
Embark on an exotic journey into danger in this rip-roaring 1930s third person adventure for 1-4 players! Encounter pulse-pounding action, treacherous traps and tales of derring-do! Strange Brigade is a action, adventure and co-op game developed and published by Rebellion. Released on August 27th 2018 has received 10,728 reviews of which 9,034 were positive and 1,694 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for action games.
8.2
9,034
1,694
-99%
49.99€
0.82€
10. Cube Runner
Cube Runner is a 3d action platformer that's simple to learn, exciting to play, and deep enough to challenge even the greatest gamers. Cube Runner is a casual, indie and action game developed by EGAMER and published by SA Industry. Released on December 13th 2016 has received 1,148 reviews of which 966 were positive and 182 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for action games.
8.0
966
182
-99%
39.99€
0.44€
Free action games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play action games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on June 16th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play action games.
1. Counter-Strike 2
For over two decades, Counter-Strike has offered an elite competitive experience, one shaped by millions of players from across the globe. And now the next chapter in the CS story is about to begin. This is Counter-Strike 2. Counter-Strike 2 is a fps, shooter and multiplayer game developed and published by Valve. Released on August 21st 2012 has received 8,815,087 reviews of which 7,642,084 were positive and 1,173,003 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 859,842 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free action games on Steam.
8.6
7,642,084
1,173,003
859,842
players
2. Warframe
Awaken as an unstoppable warrior and battle alongside your friends in this story-driven free-to-play online action game Warframe is a free to play, action rpg and looter shooter game developed and published by Digital Extremes. Released on March 25th 2013 has received 626,503 reviews of which 545,393 were positive and 81,110 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 38,150, this action game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free action games on Steam.
8.6
545,393
81,110
38,150
players
3. Wuthering Waves
Wuthering Waves is a story-rich open-world action RPG with a high degree of freedom. You wake from your slumber as Rover, joined by a vibrant cast of Resonators on a journey to reclaim your lost memories and change the world. Wuthering Waves is a open world, action and anime game developed and published by KURO GAMES. Released on April 28th 2025 has received 14,136 reviews of which 12,739 were positive and 1,397 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 16,652, this action game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free action games on Steam.
8.8
12,739
1,397
16,652
players
4. Splitgate 2
Splitgate 2 is the only free-to-play shooter with portals, delivering next-level gunplay, fluid movement, and a constantly evolving experience, featuring a new Battle Royale where you can portal between unique worlds. Welcome to the future of sport. Splitgate 2 is a shooter, free to play and multiplayer game developed and published by 1047 Games. Released on May 22nd 2025 has received 14,530 reviews of which 8,990 were positive and 5,540 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.1 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 12,522 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #4 position in the best free action games on Steam.
6.1
8,990
5,540
12,522
players
5. World of Warships
Immerse yourself in thrilling naval battles and assemble an armada of over 600 ships from the first half of the 20th century — from stealthy destroyers to gigantic battleships. Change the look of your ship, choose upgrades to suit your play style, and go into battle with other players! World of Warships is a free to play, naval combat and action game developed and published by Wargaming Group Limited. Released on November 15th 2017 has received 146,552 reviews of which 112,887 were positive and 33,665 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 4,646 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #5 position in the best free action games on Steam.
7.6
112,887
33,665
4,646
players
6. Blood Strike
Gather your friends and dive into the action-packed Battle Royale, Squad Fight, or Hot Zone like there's no tomorrow! Blood Strike offers a wide range of playable Strikers, each with a unique active and passive ability letting you deploy drones, shield walls and everything in between. Blood Strike is a action, free to play and shooter game developed and published by NetEase Games. Released on March 13th 2025 has received 8,401 reviews of which 6,701 were positive and 1,700 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 4,354 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #6 position in the best free action games on Steam.
7.8
6,701
1,700
4,354
players
7. FragPunk
FragPunk is a thrilling 5v5 hero shooter where Shard Cards allow you to break the rules of combat and ensure that no two rounds are ever the same. Get ready to unleash your skills! FragPunk is a fps, free to play and hero shooter game developed and published by Bad Guitar Studio. Released on March 06th 2025 has received 39,631 reviews of which 29,120 were positive and 10,511 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 4,219 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #7 position in the best free action games on Steam.
7.3
29,120
10,511
4,219
players
8. Crosshair V2
Crosshair V2 is a crosshair overlay technology that improves aim, response time, and hip fire accuracy for gamers. Choose from a variety of sizes, shapes, and neon colors to find the crosshair that gives you the greatest advantage in your favorite game. Crosshair V2 is a utilities, shooter and action game developed and published by CenterPoint Gaming. Released on January 26th 2023 has received 8,440 reviews of which 7,594 were positive and 846 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 3,857 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #8 position in the best free action games on Steam.
8.7
7,594
846
3,857
players
9. World of Tanks Blitz
Tanks, not war: jump into a free-to-play MMO action shooter with over 400 tanks. Enjoy stunning graphics and intuitive touch controls. Engage in 7vs7 battles, strategize with your team to conquer diverse maps. Customize tanks, unlock upgrades, and dive into adrenaline-pumping action on mobile and PC World of Tanks Blitz is a tanks, free to play and shooter game developed and published by Wargaming Group Limited. Released on November 09th 2016 has received 148,161 reviews of which 116,407 were positive and 31,754 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 3,453 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #9 position in the best free action games on Steam.
7.8
116,407
31,754
3,453
players
10. World of Tanks
Jump into the free-to-play team-based shooter with an ever-expanding roster of historical vehicles, stunning graphics, spectacular locales, and orchestral scores. Show your mastery and face other players in thrilling PvP clashes. A unique mix of strategy and action awaits! World of Tanks is a tanks, free to play and action game developed and published by Wargaming Group Limited. Released on April 28th 2021 has received 87,836 reviews of which 72,570 were positive and 15,266 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 3,218 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #10 position in the best free action games on Steam.
8.2
72,570
15,266
3,218
players