The 7 Greatest Action Video Games Ever Made: A Data-Driven Analysis

Hi there! As an experienced data analyst and tech professional, I‘ve compiled this definitive, data-driven guide to the 7 best action video games of all time based on an analysis of critical reception, influence, innovation, and replay value. Get ready for a fun, fact-filled tour through action gaming history!

Action games test player reflexes through physical challenges and combat. Fast-paced and thrilling, the genre drives some of gaming‘s biggest franchises like Halo, Super Mario, and SoulCalibur.

But what makes an all-time classic action game? High review scores, groundbreaking innovations that inspire future titles, memorable worlds and characters, and supremely fun, enduring gameplay. I‘ve crunched the numbers on metrics like sales figures and awards won to highlight 7 action games that had the biggest influence.

Let‘s dive in!

#7 Halo: Combat Evolved

Original Platform: Xbox
Release Year: 2001
Units Sold: Over 4 Million
Metacritic Score: 97

This genre-defining FPS delivered flawless shooter action on consoles as Earth‘s war with the alien Covenant raged across mysterious Halo ringworlds.

Regarded as a landmark title in storytelling, multiplayer, and influence, Halo sold millions of Xbox consoles and spawned a cultural phenomenon including books, merch, and a TV series.

Lasting Innovations

Regenerative "shield" health
Vehicles like the iconic Warthog
Open-ended level design over linear
Multiplayer supporting up to 16 players

Billions invested into the Halo franchise underscores its massive impact on console shooters and gaming itself.

#6 Super Mario Odyssey

Original Platform: Nintendo Switch
Release Year: 2017
Units Sold: Over 23 Million
Metacritic Score: 97

Odyssey reinvented Mario with explorable 3D kingdoms and the captivating, creativity-accelerating Cappy possession ability. Vibrant, densely packed worlds rewarded curiosity and platforming skill for hundreds of collectibles.