Action 52 vs Triple Action
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.
Triple Action bundles three distinct arcade experiences—Racing Cars, Battle Tanks, and Biplanes—into a single cartridge. Each mode pits two players against each other in fast‑paced, side‑by‑side competition for high scores and quick victories. The game captures the spirit of early 80s arcade action with simple controls, retro graphics, and a focus on head‑to‑head play, making it perfect for quick matches or extended sessions with friends.
- Huge variety of titles in one cartridge
- Includes the cult‑favorite Cheetahmen
- Authentic NES hardware experience
- Collectible rarity for retro enthusiasts
- Three distinct game modes in one cartridge
- Instant split‑screen multiplayer
- Easy to learn, hard to master controls
- Authentic 1980s arcade experience
- Many games are buggy or unplayable
- Poor overall quality and design
- Unlicensed cartridge may cause compatibility issues
- Limited to two players at a time
- No single‑player AI opponents
- Graphics are primitive by modern standards
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View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataTriple Action offers three focused, well‑defined arcade modes with instant split‑screen play, while Action 52 provides a massive but low‑quality 52‑game collection.
Key differences
- •Number of distinct games: 3 vs 52.
- •Gameplay quality: Triple Action’s modes are complete arcade experiences; Action 52’s titles are widely buggy and often unplayable.
- •Multiplayer focus: Triple Action supports simultaneous two‑player split‑screen in every mode; Action 52 only offers single‑player or limited multiplayer per title.
- •Release era and authenticity: Triple Action is a 1981 Mattel Electronics cartridge; Action 52 is a 1991 unlicensed NES cartridge.
- •Price information: Action 52 lists an MSRP of $19.99; Triple Action’s price is not specified.
Gameplay & fun factor
Triple Action delivers three polished arcade modes; Action 52’s games are largely buggy and low quality.
Platform availability
Action 52 runs on original NES hardware; Triple Action is for Mattel Electronics (Intellivision) system.
Price & value
Action 52 has a stated MSRP of $19.99; Triple Action’s price is not specified, making value unclear.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Triple Action offers instant split‑screen two‑player action in all three modes; Action 52’s multiplayer is limited per title.
Content & replayability
Action 52 provides 52 separate titles, giving more raw content despite quality issues.
Difficulty & accessibility
Triple Action uses a simple joystick‑and‑button scheme, easy to learn; Action 52’s varied games have inconsistent controls.
Graphics & performance
Triple Action’s graphics match 1980s arcade standards; Action 52 suffers from poor performance and glitches.
Choose Action 52 if…
Buyers collecting rare NES cartridges or seeking sheer quantity despite low quality.
Choose Triple Action if…
Buyers who want reliable, instant two‑player arcade fun with simple controls.
Common questions
Which cartridge is cheaper?
Action 52 lists an MSRP of $19.99; Triple Action’s price is not provided.
Can I play with a friend right away?
Yes with Triple Action’s split‑screen modes; Action 52 only offers multiplayer in select titles, not instantly.
Is the game quality reliable?
Triple Action’s three games are complete arcade experiences; Action 52 is notorious for buggy, often unplayable games.