The Hack and Slash genre is synonymous with intense action, visceral combat and lots of adrenaline. For gamers who appreciate melee combat mechanics and powerful skills, these games are true gems. At its core, Hack and Slash challenges players to face hordes of enemies, often in scenarios full of details and obstacles.

In this genre, the player finds everything from dark medieval environments to fantasy or futuristic science fiction universes, where each blow and combo reveals a visual and technical spectacle. With that in mind, we've put together a list of 10 of the best hack and slash available.

The best Hack and Slash games go beyond a simple combat experience. With captivating plots, charismatic characters and immersive sound and environment design, they capture and hold the player's attention.

In this list, we will explore ten of the best Hack and Slash games that defined the genre and are essential for any action fan. Check out which titles are worth checking out!

God of War

The original God of War trilogy is a landmark in the Hack and Slash genre, following Kratos' journey of revenge against the gods of Olympus. Starting in God of War (2005), Kratos seeks revenge against Ares with the help of the iconic Blades of Chaos, introducing fluid combat and a dark narrative based on Greek mythology. In God of War II (2007), he continues his journey as the new god of war, facing gods and titans in epic battles with improved graphics and mechanics. God of War III (2010) concludes the saga with stunning visuals and even more refined gameplay, where Kratos finally faces Olympus in a series of colossal and cinematic confrontations. This trilogy set the standard for the genre and made Kratos one of the most iconic characters in video games.

Devil May CR Franchise

The Devil May Cry franchise is one of the greatest exponents of the Hack and Slash genre, known for its stylish action and intense combat. The first game, released in 2001, introduced Dante, the demon hunter, with unique abilities and combos, defining the aesthetic and fighting style that marked the series. Devil May Cry 3 (2005) explores Dante's past and deepens combat with new styles and customization, being widely praised as one of the best in the franchise. Devil May Cry 4 (2008) introduces Nero, with his demonic claw and innovative mechanics, expanding the universe significantly. After a controversial reboot with DmC: Devil May Cry (2013), the series returned to its origins in Devil May Cry 5 (2019), bringing together Dante, Nero and the mysterious character V for frantic and visually stunning combat, solidifying the legacy of Devil May Cry as an icon of Hack and Slash games.

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Bayonetta 2

Bayonetta 2, developed by PlatinumGames, features a frenetic pace and stunning visual style. The protagonist Bayonetta uses firearms and magical abilities to defeat enemies and bosses in extravagant settings. The combat system is one of the most refined in the genre, allowing the player to dodge, counterattack and chain together devastating combos with ease. This game is a lesson in how to create a fluid and addictive Hack and Slash.

Asura's Wrath

Asura's Wrath is a unique title within the Hack and Slash genre, mixing intense combat with a cinematic narrative deeply inspired by Hindu and Buddhist mythology. Released in 2012, the game follows Asura, a betrayed and wrath-driven demigod, on an epic journey to take revenge on other gods who deceived him and destroyed his family. The experience is marked by an impactful visual style and mechanics that alternate between real-time combat and anime-style interactive sequences, creating an engaging narrative that is different from most Hack and Slash games. Although the game takes a narrative-focused approach, the combat is visceral and intense, with fights against gigantic enemies and over-the-top action scenes that have become the hallmark of Asura's Wrath, making it a memorable and original choice within the genre.

Darksiders II

The Darksiders series mixes elements of Hack and Slash with RPG and exploration mechanics. In Darksiders II, the player takes on the role of Death, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, on an epic quest to save his brother. The game stands out for its world design and variety of weapons and abilities, creating an immersive and strategic combat experience. It's one of the most underrated titles in the genre, but essential for any Hack and Slash fan.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance brought a unique approach to the genre, combining Hack and Slash style action with an intense narrative. Controlling Raiden, the player uses a high-tech katana to cut practically any object in the scene. The cutting system is extremely precise, allowing players to create unique strategies for each fight. The game stands out for its fast combat and futuristic aesthetics.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow is a modern reimagining of the classic Castlevania franchise, bringing third-person Hack and Slash style combat. In the role of Gabriel Belmont, the player uses the iconic combat cross and a series of skills to face monsters and supernatural creatures. The game balances intense action with a dark atmosphere, making it a striking and immersive experience for fans of the genre.

Dante's Inferno

Inspired by the literary work “The Divine Comedy”, Dante's Inferno takes players on an epic journey through hell. With gameplay inspired by God of War, protagonist Dante faces demons and grotesque creatures in disturbing and detailed environments. The combat is brutal and Dante's godlike powers add an extra layer of depth. It's a unique experience that combines intense action with a dark narrative.

Hades

Hades, developed by Supergiant Games, is a Hack and Slash with roguelike elements. The player controls Zagreus, the son of Hades, in his attempt to escape the Greek underworld. With fast gameplay and a varied skill system, Hades stands out for its interactive narrative and visual design. Each death allows the player to come back stronger, creating a cycle of learning and progression that is extremely rewarding.

Ninja Gaiden II

Ninja Gaiden II is a classic of the Hack and Slash genre, known for its high difficulty and fast combat. Protagonist Ryu Hayabusa faces a series of enemies and bosses in an intense and challenging journey. With an arsenal of varied weapons and agile movements, the player needs quick reflexes and precision to advance. This is one of the games that defined the genre, and its legacy is notable among Hack and Slash fans.