Top 10 Best Hack and Slash Games Ever
#10: “Heavenly Sword” (2007)
If you’re looking to enjoy some classic hack and slash gameplay, then “Heavenly Sword” should definitely be on your list. Praised for its sophisticated visuals, acting and dialogue worthy of an action film, players are treated to an amazing experience as they follow warrior goddess Nariko in her journey to defeat the evil King Bohan. An exceptional villain brought to life by the talented Andy Serkis. The game also benefits from a great combat system that takes every fight, regardless if it's against one foe or many, to never before seen levels. Whether she is hacking and slashing her foes to pieces or single handedly blowing up armies, Nariko definitely leaves her mark as one of the greatest video game heroines.
#9: “Lollipop Chainsaw” (2012)
Lollipop Chainsaw: Everything You Should Know
While she may not be Harley Quinn, Juliet Starling, voiced by the one and only Tara Strong, is just as deadly, especially if her enemy happens to be one of the undead. As far as hack and slashers go, there’s plenty of excitement to be had as players use the game’s chainsaw-centric combat style to cut down hordes of zombies, often with hilariously gruesome results. With plenty of comedic moments to balance out the gory zombie battles, the creative and satirical world of “Lollipop Chainsaw” offers a unique take on the zombie survival experience. Especially when you factor in the brutally epic boss battles. With a remake announced for 2023, there’s no time like the present to get hooked on the bizarre world of “Lollipop Chainsaw.”
#8: “Strider” (2014)
Considered one of Capcom’s first greatest hits, the original “Strider” received critical acclaim thanks to its innovative gameplay, hi-definition graphics, diverse music, as well as its impressive background and sprite designs. “Strider’s” gameplay was so popular that it’s even been cited as a major influence behind some of the most popular video game franchises. Its 2014 reboot also proved successful and was praised for staying true to its arcade roots, with its gameplay giving modern players a worthwhile throwback experience. The game took full advantage of its updated visuals, basing Hiryu’s appearance on his time in the “Marvel vs. Capcom” franchise. Regardless if you are a fan of the original or the reboot, there is plenty of fun to be had with this fan favorite hack and slash platformer!
#7: “Darksiders II” (2012)
Darksiders II: Everything You Should Know
Playing as Death has never been more entertaining. Expanding on its already impressive predecessor, the gameplay for “Darksiders II” features several improvements in terms of its narrative, soundtrack, visuals, as well as a more open world experience. One of the biggest new additions is that players can customize and upgrade the Horseman Death by unlocking new abilities or equipping him with special armor and weapons. One feature that would have made this great game even better is if players could switch between Horsemen, like in the spin-off prequel “Darksiders Genesis”. Nevertheless, “Darksiders II” provides players with a fun, otherworldly experience as they face off against hordes of powerful monsters and unleash their inner reaper.
#6: “Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance” (2013)
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The only thing cooler than playing as a sword-wielding samurai, is playing as a cyborg with a blade that can cut through anything. Setting itself apart from previous games in the “Metal Gear” franchise, “Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance” became a commercial success and received major praise from critics for its fast-paced action, boss fights, soundtrack, as well as cutscenes. However, the game’s biggest highlight was its cutting system that allowed players to slice through not just enemies, but their surrounding environment as well. Overall, if you're a fan of “Metal Gear” games or just appreciate exceptional sword-based combat, then you definitely can’t go wrong with this game.
#5: “Ninja Gaiden” (2004)
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If you’re a gamer looking for a ninja game that is both violent and challenging, then this classic Tecmo title is right up your alley. Regarded as one of the best ninja games ever developed, “Ninja Gaiden” received major acclaim for its highly responsive control system, first rate presentation, impressive level designs, as well as its infamous difficulty. In 2005, the developers released an improved version of the game called “Ninja Gaiden Black.” Among its many new additions was the incredibly difficult Master Ninja mode, and the novice level Ninja Dog mode, which made it easier for less experienced players to enjoy the game.
#4: “Bayonetta 2” (2014)
Why Bayonetta 2 is the Best Hack and Slash Game Ever
Following its debut in 2009, “Bayonetta” took the gaming community by storm thanks to its impressive combat system, presentation, as well as extraordinary boss fights. When “Bayonetta 2” debuted five years later, it took all the best elements of the first game and made them even better. With elements such as its stunning graphics, detailed level designs, stylish presentation, as well as a new online co-op feature, “Bayonetta 2” leaves its mark as the best game in the franchise and one of the greatest action video games overall. Whether you prefer shooting down the angels of Paradiso or tearing apart the demons of Inferno, there’s virtually no end to the joy that comes with playing as everyone’s favorite Umbra Witch.
#3: “God of War III” (2010)
Top 10 Hack and Slash Video Games
The “God of War” franchise is no stranger to epic and violent battles. In the first game alone, Kratos' thirst for vengeance led to a god’s brutal demise. In “God of War III” Kratos’ vendetta against the gods reaches apocalyptic levels. Effectively marking the end of an era, the third game takes the best parts of the franchise, and makes them bigger and better. The boss fights alone were among some of the most creative and brutal in the franchise. The only other subsequent title in the franchise that came close to rivaling the impact of “God of War III” was 2018’s “God of War”, which began the franchise’s second era and introduced revolutionary new gameplay and a side of Kratos we had never seen before.
#2: “Nier: Automata” (2017)
With over seven million copies shipped across the globe, the team responsible for creating this virtual masterpiece certainly outdid themselves. Receiving near perfect scores from critics across all platforms, “Nier: Automata” draws in players with its beautiful visuals, captivating open-word gameplay, multiple endings, as well as an unforgettable narrative. However, what makes this game truly amazing is its soundtrack. The recipient of several awards, the soundtrack for “NieR: Automata” is equal parts beautiful, emotional, harmonious, as well as compelling, with each song possessing its own unique “voice” that varies depending on the player's location and actions. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“No More Heroes 2: Desperate Struggle” (2010)
Features Plenty of Quirky Humor, Pop Culture References & a Fun Combat System
“Castlevania: Lords of Shadow” (2010)
Currently Holds the Title for Best Selling Castlevania Game
“Dante's Inferno” (2010)
Devil May Cry: Dante's Origin
Made Quite an Impact With Its Creative & Graphic Depiction of Hell
#1: “Devil May Cry 5” (2019)
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The “Devil May Cry” franchise has come a long way since the release of their first successful title in 2001. The series is filled with fantastic games, but for this list we’ll have to go with the excellent “Devil May Cry 5.” The game received rave reviews across all platforms as critics praised its narrative, visuals and combat system. The latter was especially popular thanks to the game’s three playable characters, Dante, Nero and the mysterious V, with each character bringing a little variety thanks to their respective abilities and fighting styles. With its overall success as the franchise’s best selling title, “Devil May Cry 5” has certainly left its mark as one of the best games of its generation.
