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Action 52

Action 52

A notorious 52‑game NES cartridge infamous for its buggy shooters and The Cheetahmen.

Our Verdict

Best for

Retro collectors craving a notorious NES multicart

Skip if

Anyone seeking polished, fully playable games

What is Action 52?

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.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

msrp$19.99
developerActive Enterprises
publisherActive Enterprises
age ratingESRB E
multiplayerSingle player, Multiplayer
critic score20/100
release date1991-09-01

Key Features of Action 52

The cartridge contains fifty‑two distinct game programs accessible via an on‑screen menu.
It includes the flagship title The Cheetahmen, an attempt at a franchise similar to TMNT.
All games run on original NES hardware without official licensing.
The unlicensed nature bypasses Nintendo’s lock‑out chip, allowing it to work on most NES consoles.
Genres span shooters, platformers, racing, adventure, arcade and action titles.
Each title is a self‑contained ROM with its own controls and objectives.
The compilation offers a nostalgic glimpse into early 1990s game development practices.
Collectors can experience one of the most infamous releases in video‑game history.

Use Cases for Action 52

1

Retro Gaming Night

Play a chaotic mix of 52 games for a novelty gaming session.

2

Collector Display

Showcase the infamous cartridge as a conversation piece.

3

Game Development Study

Analyze the limitations of unlicensed NES programming.

4

Cheetahmen Fan Experience

Experience the sole flagship title that spawned its own fan lore.

Pros & Cons of Action 52

Pros

  • Huge variety of titles in one cartridge
  • Includes the cult‑favorite Cheetahmen
  • Authentic NES hardware experience
  • Collectible rarity for retro enthusiasts

Cons

  • Many games are buggy or unplayable
  • Poor overall quality and design
  • Unlicensed cartridge may cause compatibility issues

Frequently Asked Questions

How many games are included?

The cartridge contains 52 separate games.

Is it compatible with all NES consoles?

It works on most NES units but some later models may reject unlicensed cartridges.

Can I play it on modern systems?

Original hardware is required; emulated versions exist but are unofficial.

What is the flagship game?

The Cheetahmen is the featured title marketed as the series' hero.

Pricing Overview

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About the Product

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Target AudienceRetro collectors and curiosity seekers

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