Action 52 vs MaxPlay Classic Games Volume 1
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Action 52 is an unlicensed multicart for the Nintendo Entertainment System released in 1992 by Active Enterprises. The cartridge packs 52 separate titles ranging from shooters to platformers, with The Cheetahmen marketed as the flagship game. Despite its ambitious scope, the compilation is remembered for poor quality, frequent glitches, and its status as one of the worst video games ever made, making it a cult curiosity among retro collectors.
MaxPlay Classic Games Volume 1 bundles ten unofficial remakes of classic arcade titles, delivering a nostalgic experience on the PlayStation 2. The collection includes games like Invaders, Loop the Loop, and Super Power Shot, each offering its own unique twist on classic gameplay. Released in Europe in March 2004, this unlicensed compilation provides single‑player, co‑operative and split‑screen multiplayer modes, covering a range of genres from shooters to platformers. Developed by CodeJunkies and published by Datel, it targets gamers who enjoy retro arcade action with modern twists.
- Huge variety of titles in one cartridge
- Includes the cult‑favorite Cheetahmen
- Authentic NES hardware experience
- Collectible rarity for retro enthusiasts
- Wide variety of ten games in one disc
- Both single‑player and co‑op split‑screen modes
- Rare European‑only release for collectors
- Diverse genre mix keeps gameplay fresh
- Many games are buggy or unplayable
- Poor overall quality and design
- Unlicensed cartridge may cause compatibility issues
- Unlicensed status means no official support
- Limited to PlayStation 2 despite original multi‑platform plans
- Graphics are dated compared to modern titles
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth are cheap retro compilations, but MaxPlay offers a more polished, varied PS2 experience, while Action 52 delivers a larger but notoriously buggy NES collection.
Key differences
- •Platform: MaxPlay runs on PS2; Action 52 on original NES hardware.
- •Game quality: MaxPlay’s ten games are generally playable; Action 52’s many titles are buggy or unplayable.
- •Genre variety: MaxPlay covers shooters, platformers, open‑world; Action 52 adds racing and adventure but with lower overall quality.
- •Multiplayer: MaxPlay supports split‑screen co‑op for two; Action 52 lists multiplayer but no co‑op specifics.
- •Collector appeal: MaxPlay is a rare Europe‑only PS2 release; Action 52 is infamous for its notoriety.
Gameplay & fun factor
MaxPlay’s ten distinct, generally functional games provide consistent fun; Action 52 suffers from many buggy, unplayable titles.
Platform availability
Action 52 runs on original NES hardware, appealing to true NES collectors; MaxPlay requires a PS2.
Price & value
Both priced at $19.99, offering similar cost per title despite differing quality.
Multiplayer / co‑op
MaxPlay explicitly supports split‑screen co‑op for two players; Action 52 only lists generic multiplayer.
Content & replayability
Action 52 contains 52 games versus MaxPlay’s 10, giving more raw content despite lower quality.
Difficulty & accessibility
MaxPlay’s games are rated ESRB E and designed for modern consoles; Action 52’s buggy design raises difficulty.
Graphics & performance
MaxPlay runs on PS2 with more advanced graphics than the 8‑bit NES titles of Action 52.
Choose Action 52 if…
NES collectors seeking the infamous 52‑game cartridge despite quality issues.
Choose MaxPlay Classic Games Volume 1 if…
Retro PS2 fans who want reliable gameplay and co‑op.
Common questions
Do either of these require additional hardware?
MaxPlay runs on a PlayStation 2 console; Action 52 requires an original NES console.
Is there any official support for these games?
Both are unlicensed; MaxPlay has no official support, and Action 52’s unlicensed cartridge may cause compatibility issues.
Which offers more playable content?
MaxPlay’s ten games are generally playable, while Action 52’s 52 games include many buggy or unplayable titles.