Best PlayStation action games

The Matrix has 459 action games on file for the PlayStation, released between 1994–2004. 184 of them support multiplayer, including 21 with co-op. They're ranked below by legacy score, so the games that shaped the genre on the PS1 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

#25 MediEvil box art
MediEvil 1998 · Action-Adventure Classic
#28 Driver box art
Driver 2000 · Racing Classic
#31 Worms box art
Worms 1995 · Strategy Classic
#32 Doom box art
Doom 1995 · Shooter Classic Co-op
#44 Alundra box art
Alundra 1997 · Action-Adventure Classic
#54 MDK box art
MDK 1997 · Shooter Classic
#56 Diablo box art
Diablo 1998 · RPG Classic Co-op

More PS1 action games

Action games on other systems

Jaguar action gamesN64 action games32X action gamesSaturn action games3DO action gamesDreamcast action games

Other PS1 genres

PlatformersAction-adventure gamesRPGsAdventure gamesShoot 'em upsShootersBeat 'em upsFighting gamesRacing gamesSports gamesPuzzle gamesStrategy games
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