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After writing for Stinger for nearly 4 years at this point I find myself with one conclusion as to why I love the Action genre so much. It isn't just that they happen to be great singleplayer games, but it is mostly their variety that appeals to me. Let me explain!
Most (note that word, "most") genres tend to not differ too much except in the detailing or in how a game tackles a certain scenario. Action though can be a wildely different game. If you like one, you won't necessarily like another since they are so different.
There's games that are about resourcemanagement, stealth, RPG mechanics, expression through style, efficiency and much more. There's 3d, 2d, 2.5d, mecha, ninja, demonhunters, everything. But the real beauty is that you can flip the script.
I've seen stylish play of God of War and Ninja Gaiden, and efficient play in DMC3. I've seen bow-runs of Demon's Souls and pacifist tackle Doom. Even Death Stranding. There's just something great about these games allowing you such flexibility. And they're all great.
It's why I think it's a shame that most Action players, especially in those large lumped together communities, tend to degrade one title in favour of another. DMC is great, doesn't make NG horrible. GoW isn't great because Uncharted sucks. Devil's Third is fun. DMC2 too.
Stop infighting and just be happy that there's so many great games that offer such fun mechanics that some have been played for nearly 20(!) years in a row and players are still finding new toys. And stop wanting one game to be like the other.
I've been guilty of the above more than my fair share in the past, and I was wrong to do so. It's fine to be critical though, the games aren't flawless nor are the players or makers. But just be happy for once! Such great fun games!
