31 July 2025
When it comes to action games, we all know what we’re signing up for: heart-pounding combat, adrenaline-fueled chases, and the sheer satisfaction of crushing enemies into oblivion. But amidst all that chaos, have you ever stopped to ask yourself, "What am I actually fighting for?" This is where the concept of story steps in—where action is given purpose.
So, is story still important in action games? Or have we reached a point where raw gameplay alone is enough? Let’s dive into this timeless debate and figure out whether plotlines are merely accessories in action games or intrinsic elements that elevate the experience.
A compelling story transforms a game from a simple sequence of battles into an emotional experience. It’s not just about defeating hordes of enemies; it’s about saving a daughter, avenging a fallen comrade, or uncovering deep, dark secrets. Stories make us care about the characters, their struggles, and their victories. Without a story, all those epic boss battles would feel hollow, don’t you think?
Even in action-heavy games like Doom Eternal, there’s still a whisper of a story that keeps everything tied together. Sure, it’s not as emotionally rich as something like The Last of Us, but it gives context to the carnage. You’re not just ripping apart demons for the sake of chaos; you’re humanity’s last hope in a fight against extinction. Doesn’t that sound way cooler?
Take Red Dead Redemption 2, for example. While not a traditional "action-only" game, its high-stakes gunfights are elevated because you care about Arthur Morgan as a person. His journey, filled with heartbreak, redemption, and tragedy, makes the action scenes far more impactful.
The truth is, when we connect with the characters’ stories, every victory feels sweeter and every loss cuts deeper. That emotional connection can’t be replicated by gameplay mechanics alone.
Purpose matters. Even just a simple, overarching goal—like saving the world from invading aliens—can make a game’s action much more engaging. A story acts as the glue that binds all those breathtaking explosions and intense firefights together. Without it, it’s like running on a treadmill: you might be doing a lot, but it feels like you’re going nowhere.
And hey, there’s something to be said for that. Sometimes, you just want to log in, blow off some steam, and not worry about why you’re blowing things up. Games like DOOM (2016), for instance, barely need any plot because the gameplay itself is so satisfying. You’re literally a Doom Slayer, and your job is to slay. Does it really need to be more complicated than that?
This is because multiplayer games prioritize mechanics over narrative. You’re not there to witness a riveting tale; you’re there to outsmart and outshoot your opponents. In this sense, story can sometimes feel like an afterthought.
So yeah, there’s a case to be made that not every action game needs a deep, intricate plot. But for single-player action games or those with a campaign? That’s a whole different ballgame.
Take Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End as an example. The fast-paced action scenes are incredible, but they’re made even better because they’re backed by Nathan Drake’s personal journey of love, loyalty, and adventure. It’s a perfect balance—where you’re engaged in the story just as much as you’re immersed in the gameplay.
And let’s not forget the innovative storytelling of BioShock. The plot there doesn’t just sit on the sidelines—it’s woven into the very world you’re exploring and the decisions you’re making. You’re not just playing the game; you’re living its story.
For example, The Witcher 3 (while more of an RPG than an action game) excels at using side quests to build an intricate narrative world. You could argue that more action-focused games are taking notes. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Horizon Zero Dawn feature immersive stories that don’t get in the way of the action.
It’s exciting to see how developers innovate by blending storytelling and gameplay. It’s proof that story can still thrive in modern action games.
Does this mean every action game needs a Pulitzer-worthy story? Of course not. But even the simplest plot can elevate an action game from “fun” to “legendary.” Because no matter how much we love the explosions and the fight scenes, it’s the stories that stick with us, long after we’ve put the controller down.
So, is story still important in action games? The answer is a resounding yes—because a good story remains the heart that keeps the adrenaline pumping.
Now, whether you’re a fan of storytelling or just there for the sheer gameplay, one thing is clear: the best action games are the ones that find a way to make you feel something. And for that, we’ll always need stories.
all images in this post were generated using AI tools
Category:
Action GamesAuthor:
Tayla Warner