Video Game Gazette

Action Max Archive

Worlds of Wonder Action Max

Worlds of Wonder (WOW) was famous for their technology related toys such as Laser Tag and Teddy Ruxpin. After saturating the electronic toy market, they decided to expand into the realm of video games. They released the Action Max in 1987.

Action Max is a light gun system that works on technology similar to the contemporary Captain Power Toys. The games themselves are played on a VCR and the Action Max unit is used to shoot at the targets and keep score. This system had one big advantage over then current systems, it could produce video quality games. However, it was not interactive and only played shooting games. Although the lack of interaction was not uncommon for shooters and many other games of the day, these disadvantages proved to be much for the system and sales were not as good as expected.


Worlds of Wonder Action Max light gun
Before its demise six games were released.
Sonic Fury (Which was packed with the system)
.38 Ambush Alley
The Rescue of Pops Ghostly
Hydrosub: 2021
Blue Thunder
Fright Night

Worlds of Wonder Action Max Sonic Fury tape
Worlds of Wonder Action Max Sonic Fury back of box


Worlds of Wonder Action Max 3/4 view
Worlds of Wonder Action Max box
Worlds of Wonder Action Max bock of box