Best Atari 2600 action games

The Matrix has 284 action games on file for the Atari 2600, released between 1977–1990. 142 of them support multiplayer, including 6 with co-op. They're ranked below by legacy score, so the games that shaped the genre on the 2600 come first, with lesser-known picks further down.

Action games test reflexes and nerve. Expect fast enemies, tight controls and stages you clear by reacting quickly and learning enemy patterns.

Typical commitment: an evening or two (roughly 1–6 hours to see it through). Tip: Retro action games are often short but tough. Treat early deaths as practice runs; every attempt teaches you where the next threat comes from.

Just pick one for me

#5 Phoenix box art
Phoenix 1980 · Shoot 'em Up Classic
#7 Combat box art
Combat 1977 · Shoot 'em Up Classic
#10 Amidar box art
Amidar 1981 · Action Classic
#23 Joust box art
Joust Platformer Classic Co-op

More 2600 action games

Action games on other systems

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Other 2600 genres

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