Video Game Genres: What are Action-Adventure Games?

The shadows whisper, the world calls, and adventure waits—what will you do? That's the question at the heart of every action-adventure game, a video game genre defined by its powerful blend of combat, exploration, puzzles, and storytelling with you at the center of the action. From Batman: Arkham Series to Assassin's Creed and other trailblazers, action-adventure games show how the right mechanics and storytelling can deliver true entertainment.

What sets action-adventure games apart is their ability to merge multiple playstyles into a seamless, evolving experience. Unlike traditional role playing games (RPG) driven by stat-building or first-person shooters (FPS) reliant on pinpoint reflexes, action-adventure games demand versatility. One moment you're locked in a battle of blades, the next, you're solving a puzzle to unlock an ancient vault.

In this article, we'll dive into the world of action-adventure video games. We'll define the category, explore its key features, and give an overview of the many subgenres of action-adventure games. We'll highlight some of the most iconic titles in the category and what makes them stand out. And to help you jump into the fun, we'll give some tips on the perfect action-adventure gaming setup—from powerful gaming laptops and gaming desktops to specialized keyboards, headsets and other gaming accessories.

Introduction to action-adventure games

Action-adventure video games are a celebration of storytelling, exploration, and adrenaline-packed action. They've long been a favorite among gamers because they don't just offer gameplay; they deliver full visual and mental immersion. Whether you're unraveling ancient mysteries or battling mythical foes in a sprawling open world, these games make you feel like the hero of a story that's uniquely yours.

What makes the genre so appealing is its variety. Action-adventure games offer a mix of high-stakes combat and brain-teasing exploration that players say keeps them coming back.

What are action-adventure games?

At their core, action-adventure video games blend two main elements. First, there's the “action,” characterized by combat and fast-paced gameplay that keeps your reflexes sharp. Then there's the “adventure,” which invites you to explore vibrant worlds, solve puzzles, and engage with the story to push it forward. This hybrid formula makes the action-adventure genre highly flexible and helps explain its popularity.

Action-adventure games stand out for their dynamic narratives. One moment you're in the heat of battle, the next you're deciphering a clue or choosing a path to follow. The genre is known for cinematic presentation, richly detailed worlds, and varied gameplay, making it a favorite with gamers seeking both thrilling “action” and deep “adventure.” Whether linear or open-world, the best action-adventure games make you an active participant in epic, unfolding stories.

Are there different kinds of action-adventure games?

Action-adventure games come in various subgenres, each offering a unique blend of gameplay mechanics and story-based narratives. Here are some of the most common types:

What are open world action-adventure games?

Open world action-adventure games feature vast environments that invite exploration. Rather than having to follow a predefined path, there's freedom to roam, undertake missions, and uncover secrets at your own pace. Games like Marvel's Spider-Man 2, Ghost of Tsushima, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild are iconic examples, offering intricate worlds filled with dynamic challenges.

What are stealth-based action-adventure games?

As the name implies, stealth-based action-adventure games are all about avoiding detection—sneaking past enemies, striking at the perfect moment—and using the environment to outsmart your foes. Popular titles like Assassin's Creed Shadows, the Batman: Arkham series, Dishonored 1 and 2, and Metal Gear Solid blend suspenseful gameplay with bursts of action that fans say reward patience, strategy, and creativity.

What are survival action-adventure games?

Survival action-adventure games challenge players to adapt to harsh environments, conserve resources, and overcome powerful forces. Gamers praise The Last of Us and Tomb Raider (Reboot Series) for their intense survival elements, where every decision could be your last. This sub-genre of video games, more than some others, is known for emotionally charged stories.

What are narrative-driven action-adventure games?

For gamers who like deep storytelling, narrative-driven action-adventure video games focus heavily on character development, and often feature cinematic elements that make them highly immersive and exciting. Examples include God of War (2018), Marvel's Spider-Man 2, the Batman: Arkham series, and Ghost of Tsushima, each of which seek to pull you into the journey as much as the game itself.

What are platformer action-adventure games?

The name sounds odd, but you surely know some platform action-adventure games, where you move across a landscape and navigate new obstacles at each level. Classic platformers like Super Mario Bros. feature side-scrolling hazards, while today's best platformers (Prince of Persia, Shovel Knight, and Celeste add more fluid movements, intricate level designs, and challenging puzzles—plus all the running and jumping.

What are metroidvania action-adventure games?

Metroidvania games blend exploration and progression. Players unlock new abilities as they go—opening inaccessible areas, uncovering secrets, and discovering hidden paths. They're built with intricate worlds and offer rewarding discoveries. Examples include Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Metroid, and Dead Cells (note how the genre name is a mashup of two of these titles).

What are hack-and-slash action-adventure games?

Hack-and-slash games focus on fast-paced combat, emphasizing stylish attacks and fluid combo moves. Players take on waves of enemies, honing their skills and upgrading their abilities. Fans of games like Devil May Cry, Bayonetta, and Nioh report enjoying adrenaline-filled play and dynamic visuals, with precise game controls.

What are sci-fi/fantasy action-adventure games?

These video games transport players to imaginative settings, whether futuristic or mythical, blending action with rich lore and exploration. Titles like Horizon Zero Dawn, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, and Cyberpunk 2077 immerse players in otherworldly environments where they face unique challenges and riveting stories. Sci-fi/fantasy titles are designed to ignite the imagination and deliver engaging game mechanics.

How are action-adventure games different from other kinds of video games?

Action-adventure video games stand out by combining storytelling, exploration, and sometimes combat into a cohesive and immersive virtual experience. Unlike genres that focus on a narrower elements—for instance, RPGs with deep character customization or FPS games prioritizing precise aiming abilities—action-adventure games balance multiple play styles. This variety keeps players engaged, offering a mix of high stakes action and thought-provoking exploration.

More than some other genres, action-adventure games emphasize narrative depth and dynamic gameplay. You can absorb yourself in rich, cinematic stories at the same time you're solving puzzles or battling foes across expanding worlds. This blend helps action-adventure titles offer something for everyone, whether it's exciting quests and battles or meaningful connections to the game world and characters.

Do I need a specific laptop or accessories to play action-adventure games?

Action-adventure games are some of the most immersive experiences in gaming, demanding both powerful hardware and the right accessories to fully enjoy their rich worlds, fast-paced combat, and movie-like storytelling. Unlike strategy games, which typically have more modest system requirements, action-adventure titles tend to be more graphically demanding.

What are the computer requirements for action-adventure games?

Most of today's action-adventure games feature expansive open worlds and detailed environments driven by complex physics and computer calculations—meaning they require a strong CPU and graphics to run efficiently. While some games can be played on mid-range PCs, high-end gaming desktops or gaming laptops with dedicated graphics cards (GPUs) are recommended for the best experience.

But what kind of gaming system do YOU need? Here's our advice to avoid buying more (or less) PC power than you need: Start by visiting the website for your favorite action-adventure game to check the recommended—not just minimum—system requirements. They'll tell you what's needed for the smoothest gameplay (versus just “acceptable”). To give you a sense of what's typical, here are recommended specs from two popular action-adventure titles at the time this article was written:

*Recommended requirements will change over time. Always check the game maker's website

What accessories do you need for action-adventure games?

Your desktop PC or laptop forms the backbone of your gaming experience, but having the right accessories can elevate your immersion in these richly detailed worlds. It might even make you more competitive.

Here's a simple list of the most-used gaming accessories for action-adventure players. And note that even if you use a laptop, some accessories that are typically associated with desktop PCs, like external monitors, may still help enhance your gaming experience.

• Gaming mouse: A high-DPI gaming mouse offers superior precision when aiming is important, like in games with hybrid combat or ranged mechanics. Some mice even feature extra buttons especially for gamers.
• Gaming headset: Detailed soundscapes are a staple of action-adventure games. A quality headset can help you hear teammates better, and surround sound models can help you pick up on subtle audio cues, like enemy footsteps.
• High refresh-rate monitor: Vibrant visuals are part of the magic. A monitor with a high refresh rate (144Hz or higher) and excellent color accuracy ensures every detail, from sweeping landscapes to fast-paced action, feels fluid and lifelike.
• Mechanical keyboard: If you prefer the precision offered by a keyboard, opt for a mechanical model with customizable key bindings. Many gamers find them to be better at registering their rapid reactions during combat and other action.
• Gaming chair and desk: Comfort is key during extended gaming marathons. An ergonomic gaming chair and a desk designed for proper posture and cable management allow you to focus entirely on the adventure.

If you're on a budget, start with a mid-range gaming laptop or desktop that allows for future upgrades (ask customer support before buying). Many action-adventure games scale well across different hardware levels. As a general tip, prioritize SSD and GPU performance for fast game loading times and deeper visual immersion.

Action-adventure games in 2025: What's popular?

The action-adventure genre is thriving, delivering more unforgettable worlds and intense action. Here are some of the must-play action-adventure video games that are making waves (or still making waves) in 2025:

• Marvel's Spider-Man 2

  A superhero action-adventure game developed by Insomniac Games, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 lets players control both Peter Parker and Miles Morales as they battle familiar foes like Venom. Fans of web-slinging praise the game's virtual New York City, the polished game mechanics, and deep storytelling, with some calling it one of the best superhero games of recent years.

• Assassin's Creed Shadows

  Ubisoft's latest open-world stealth-action game, Assassin's Creed Shadows, takes players to feudal Japan. Featuring a dual-protagonist system, the game introduces new mechanics like stealth influenced by weather conditions and expanded slaying techniques. Still, exploration remains central, with historically detailed environments and strategic combat.

• God of War Ragnarök

  A narrative-driven action-adventure game from Santa Monica Studio, God of War Ragnarök continues Kratos and Atreus' journey through Norse mythology. Most reviewers consider it a standout title in modern gaming, with players praising the gripping story, dynamic combat, and strong character development. It blends intense combat with a deeply emotional father-son relationship.

• Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut

  An open-world samurai adventure from Sucker Punch Productions, Ghost of Tsushima follows Jin Sakai's quest to defend his homeland against Mongol invaders. The Director's Cut is credited for enhanced visuals and performance, along with expansions like the Iki Island storyline. Players focus on katana-based duels, stealth, and exploration across a vast, scenic world.

• Batman: Arkham Knight

  Batman: Arkham Knight, the latest entry in the series, lets you control various members of the Bat-family while navigating Gotham City. From Rocksteady Studios, this iteration introduced co-op gameplay, a more interactive world, and branching storylines that evolve based on player choices. Online reviews applauded the expansive virtual city and ability to embody different heroes.

• The Midnight Walk

  This 2025 game's stop-motion art style and eerie atmosphere quickly captured gamers' imaginations. You guide The Burnt One and their lantern companion through perilous, handcrafted clay environments filled with mystery and danger. It's an “indie” title crafted by Klaus Lyngeled and Olov Redmalm that one fan calling "hauntingly beautiful."

• Elden Ring: Nightreign

  Another 2025 release is Nightreign, a multiplayer spin-off of Elden Ring, also by FromSoftware. By blending co-op roguelike elements, battle royale-style encounters, and the series' signature punishing game mechanics, the new title has carved out its own place in the Soulslike sub-genre of action-adventure games.

Action-adventure games in 2025 continue to push boundaries, blending dynamic gameplay, engaging narratives, and immersive worlds for players to explore.

Conclusion

Action-adventure games are a hybrid genre that combines the fast-paced challenges of action games with the narrative depth and exploration of adventure titles. Gamers appreciate the genre for its mix of emotional engagement and variety of storylines. Whether navigating large open environments, solving puzzles, or progressing through character-driven stories, action-adventure games are popular because they combine action-filled gameplay with deep immersion in virtual worlds.

Action-adventure games don't just tell stories—they invite you to step into them, one decision at a time. And to support the fun, you need reliable computer hardware. Systems with capable processors and strong graphics performance help ensure smooth in-game action, and the right accessories can make it even more enjoyable. Fortunately, Lenovo offers a range of devices that gamers love—including gaming laptops, gaming desktops, and gaming accessories like high-resolution displays and gaming headsets. The next move is yours.