Shooters have always been a thrilling genre in video gaming, evolving from the pixelated battles of the '90s to the cinematic experiences of today. They captivate players with intense action, grind them into the dirt, and then lift them to exhilarating heights. In this article, we'll take a nostalgic journey through 30 of the most influential shooters that have shaped the world of video games.
Table of Contents
- How We Chose the Best Shooters
- Escape from Tarkov
- Ultrakill
- Rainbow Six Siege
- Fortnite
- Payday 2
- Prey (2017)
- Duke Nukem 3D
- Counter-Strike 2
- DOOM (1993)
- Bulletstorm
- Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus
- Max Payne 3
- Far Cry 3
- F.E.A.R.
- DOOM Eternal
- Borderlands 2
- Titanfall 2
- Left 4 Dead 2
- Overwatch (2016)
- Battlefield 2
- Crysis
- Team Fortress 2
- Unreal Tournament 2004
- Quake III Arena
- Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
- GoldenEye 007 (1997)
- Half-Life
- BioShock
- Perfect Dark (2000)
- Halo: Combat Evolved
How We Chose the Best Shooters
Selecting the top 30 shooters was no small feat. We considered several key factors to ensure our list represented the best of the best:
- Influence on the Industry: These games have set benchmarks that continue to guide developers today.
- Gameplay and Mechanics: We looked at the unique experiences and innovations each game brought to players.
- Popularity and Legacy: Many of these titles have left a lasting impact and continue to inspire new generations of gamers and developers.
- Atmosphere: From visuals to style, we considered how each game created its own immersive world.
Now, let's dive into the games that made our list.
Escape from Tarkov
Image: gamerjournalist.com
Metascore: tbd
Developer: Battlestate Games
Release Date: July 27, 2017
Download: Official page
Escape from Tarkov is the epitome of hardcore survival shooting, where realism, tactics, and adrenaline collide. Set in a devastated city, players must navigate a world where death can come from enemy fire, lack of resources, or a single misstep. The game's unique feature is the permanent loss of gear upon death, making every encounter tense and meaningful. This isn't a game for the faint-hearted; it's designed for those who relish survival, intense shootouts, and the thrill of constant danger.
Ultrakill
Image: dreadcentral.com
Metascore: tbd
Developer: New Blood Interactive
Release Date: September 3, 2020
Download: Steam
Ultrakill is all about non-stop action, inspired by '90s classics yet enhanced with modern mechanics and speed. Players face endless waves of demons, rivers of blood, and unlimited ammo, pushing them into perpetual motion and aggression. The game's combo system, similar to Devil May Cry, rewards stylish and spectacular play, while unique mechanics like health restoration through melee kills make every battle memorable. Ultrakill is a retro shooter reimagined for today's gamers, offering pure gaming bliss with its speed, style, and chaos.
Rainbow Six Siege
Image: playstation.com
Metascore: 73
Developer: Ubisoft
Release Date: December 1, 2015
Download: Steam
Rainbow Six Siege transformed the tactical shooter genre into a strategic chess match where every move counts. Ubisoft focused on strategy, communication, and adaptability over pure reflexes. With a diverse roster of operators, each equipped with unique gadgets and roles, the game offers endless tactical possibilities. From setting traps to breaching walls, every element can become a strategic point of attack. Its complexity and emphasis on teamwork have made Siege a staple in the esports scene and a benchmark for tactical shooters.
Fortnite
Image: insider.razer.com
Metascore: 78
Developer: Epic Games
Release Date: July 21, 2017
Download: Fortnite
Fortnite is more than just a game; it's a cultural phenomenon. Its unique building mechanics, constant updates, and distinctive visual style have made it one of the most popular titles in history, still thriving years after its release. The battle royale mode introduced a new dynamic to shootouts, requiring players to combine action with on-the-fly fortification building. Fortnite's ongoing events, collaborations, and in-game concerts have turned it into a platform for global digital experiences, far beyond a mere shooter.
Payday 2
Image: itl.cat
Metascore: 79
Developer: OVERKILL
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Download: Steam
Payday 2 offers a thrilling heist simulation where players become part of a criminal team executing daring raids. From small shops to elite banks, each heist demands coordination, tactics, and strategic thinking. Players can choose stealth, disabling cameras and picking locks, or go all out with hostages and SWAT assaults. The game's freedom of choice and unpredictable nature keep every robbery tense and exciting. Coupled with Simon Viklund's electrifying soundtrack, Payday 2 is perfect for those who dream of becoming criminal masterminds.
Prey (2017)
Image: reddit.com
Metascore: 79
Developer: Arkane Studios
Release Date: May 4, 2017
Download: Steam
Prey is an intellectual challenge wrapped in a dark sci-fi atmosphere. Arkane Studios masterfully combined elements of immersive sims to create a game where every door is a puzzle demanding cleverness and unconventional thinking. The intricately detailed space station feels alive, hiding numerous secrets. Instead of straightforward objectives, Prey rewards experimentation and player choice, allowing unique abilities to turn the tables on threats. Its depth and layered design make it a standout in the genre.
Duke Nukem 3D
Image: middleofnowheregaming.com
Metascore: 80
Developer: 3D Realms
Release Date: January 29, 1996
Download: Steam
Duke Nukem 3D burst onto the scene in 1996, embodying the spirit of '90s gaming with its brash attitude and pop culture references. This shooter wasn't just another game; it was a symbol of its time, blending brutal action with sarcastic humor. Duke's interactivity was groundbreaking, and his one-liners added a layer of entertainment to the high-octane gameplay. Duke Nukem 3D proved that shooters could be both thrilling and provocative, cementing its place as an iconic action game.
Counter-Strike 2
Image: ensigame.com
Metascore: 82
Developer: Valve
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Download: Steam
Counter-Strike 2 is the latest installment in the legendary esports series, maintaining the tense gameplay of its predecessors while leveraging modern technology and the new Source 2 engine. It preserves the tactical essence of the original, where every step and bullet matters. Enhanced graphics, advanced physics, and redesigned maps provide a fresh experience while keeping the focus on teamwork, tactical thinking, and map knowledge. CS2 is a reimagining that stays true to its roots.
DOOM (1993)
Image: brainbaking.com
Metascore: 82
Developer: id Software
Release Date: December 10, 1993
Download: Steam
DOOM is not just a game; it's a cornerstone of the gaming industry. It didn't just become a cult classic; it revolutionized the FPS genre. With its first-person perspective, powerful weapons, and relentless demon-slaying action, DOOM set the standard for future shooters. It popularized network multiplayer and its "run-and-gun" formula is still influential today. Without DOOM, the gaming landscape would be unrecognizable.
Bulletstorm
Image: mixed-news.com
Metascore: 84
Developer: People Can Fly
Release Date: April 7, 2017
Download: Steam
Bulletstorm is an explosive mix of action, dark humor, and innovative combat. Developed by People Can Fly, it turns the traditional shootout concept on its head by rewarding creativity in enemy dispatch. The "stylish kills" system encourages players to earn points through spectacular eliminations, while the charismatic storyline and memorable characters add depth. Bulletstorm stands out as an underappreciated yet unique shooter, offering a fresh take on the genre.
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus
Image: switchplayer.net
Metascore: 87
Developer: MachineGames
Release Date: October 27, 2017
Download: Steam
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus breathes new life into the iconic series, blending classic shooter mechanics with a fresh narrative. Set in an alternate America under Nazi occupation, players follow B.J. Blazkowicz in a bloody, emotional tale of resistance. Whether using dual shotguns or stealth tactics, every encounter is dynamic and brutal. The game's compelling storyline and deep characters make it not just an adrenaline rush but a memorable experience.
Max Payne 3
Image: shacknews.com
Metascore: 87
Developer: Rockstar Games
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Download: Steam
Max Payne 3 tells a dark, gritty story of downfall and redemption. Max is no longer the confident cop from New York; he's broken, lost, and battling his demons in the ruthless world of Brazilian mercenaries and drug cartels. The game's "bullet time" mechanic, inspired by John Woo's action films, allows players to slow down time and execute precise shots. Combined with a cover system and weighty weapons, Max Payne 3 delivers an interactive thriller where every frame is a work of art.
Far Cry 3
Image: gamingbible.com
Metascore: 88
Developer: Ubisoft
Release Date: November 29, 2012
Download: Steam
Far Cry 3 is an odyssey into madness set in a tropical paradise turned battleground. The game's open world is a sandbox of possibilities, from hunting and exploration to taking out enemy outposts and crafting weapons. Each encounter offers choices between stealth and explosive combat, set against a gripping story and vibrant environment. Far Cry 3 set new standards for open-world shooters and defined Ubisoft's formula for years to come.
F.E.A.R.
Image: relyonhorror.com
Metascore: 88
Developer: Monolith Productions
Release Date: October 17, 2005
Download: Steam
F.E.A.R. is a thrilling blend of action and horror, where tactical combat meets paranormal phenomena. Players take on the role of a secret operative investigating eerie events connected to the mysterious Alma. The game's atmosphere is palpable, with darkness and unsettling visions keeping players on edge. F.E.A.R. remains a benchmark for mixing horror with tactical action, delivering an experience that's both terrifying and exhilarating.
DOOM Eternal
Image: nintendo.com
Metascore: 88
Developer: id Software
Release Date: March 20, 2020
Download: Steam
DOOM Eternal takes the legendary franchise to new heights, demanding speed, strategy, and aggression from players. Every battle is a chaotic dance where stopping means death. As one of the most intense and aggressive shooters, players become the ultimate nightmare for Hell's hordes. DOOM Eternal is a true test of reflexes and a testament to the genre's evolution.
Borderlands 2
Image: epicgames.com
Metascore: 89
Developer: Gearbox Software
Release Date: September 21, 2012
Download: Steam
Borderlands 2 is a thrilling mix of shooter and RPG, filled with madness, dark humor, and endless loot. Set on the chaotic planet of Pandora, players face bandits, psychos, and robots in a world teeming with unique weapons and vibrant characters. Gearbox expanded on the original's success, offering a vast open world, engaging quests, and extensive customization. Borderlands 2 is a co-op masterpiece, perfect for endless hours of play.
Titanfall 2
Image: metro.co.uk
Metascore: 89
Developer: Respawn Entertainment
Release Date: October 28, 2016
Download: Steam
Titanfall 2 is all about speed, parkour, and giant mechs, turning battlefields into chaotic yet tactical arenas. Its single-player campaign stands out with a heartfelt story of friendship between a soldier and his Titan. The game's levels are packed with innovative mechanics, offering diverse and memorable experiences. Titanfall 2's legacy lives on, inspiring games like Apex Legends and remaining a beloved shooter among fans.
Left 4 Dead 2
Image: gameplayscassi.com.br
Metascore: 89
Developer: Valve
Release Date: November 17, 2009
Download: Steam
Left 4 Dead 2 is a co-op shooter that captures the essence of surviving a zombie apocalypse. Four players must work together to navigate dynamic, procedurally generated levels, facing relentless undead hordes. The AI Director adjusts the game's pace, forcing players to adapt on the fly. It's not just about shooting zombies; it's about experiencing one of the most intense and gripping co-op horror games ever made.
Overwatch (2016)
Image: reddit.com
Metascore: 91
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Release Date: May 24, 2016
Overwatch revolutionized team-based online shooters by blending FPS and MOBA elements. Developed by Blizzard, it focuses on a diverse roster of heroes and a balanced class system, where victory depends on teamwork as much as individual skill. Continuous support, regular updates, and its esports potential turned Overwatch into a cultural phenomenon and a benchmark for team-based shooters.
Battlefield 2
Image: beztabaka.by
Metascore: 91
Developer: DICE
Release Date: June 21, 2005
Battlefield 2 revolutionized military shooters with its large-scale battles and emphasis on team coordination. Featuring huge maps, intense combat between infantry, vehicles, and aircraft, it offered a true simulation of modern warfare. Squad-based tactics and smart class utilization were key to dominating the battlefield. Battlefield 2 not only transformed its series but also set the stage for future team-based FPS games.
Crysis
Image: archive.org
Metascore: 91
Developer: Crytek
Release Date: November 13, 2007
Download: Steam
Crysis was a technical marvel when it launched in 2007, setting new standards for graphics in video games. Its detailed environments, realistic physics, and advanced lighting pushed the boundaries of what was possible. The game's jungles felt alive, and the phrase "But can it run Crysis?" became synonymous with its demanding hardware requirements. Even today, Crysis remains a benchmark for technical excellence and continues to inspire developers.
Team Fortress 2
Image: gamedeveloper.com
Metascore: 92
Developer: Valve
Release Date: October 10, 2007
Download: Steam
Team Fortress 2 is a celebration of tactics, chaos, and individuality. Valve transformed team-based firefights with its unique cartoon style, frenetic battles, and a class system where synergy is crucial. The game's cosmetics system was groundbreaking, allowing players to personalize their characters and turning TF2 into a cultural phenomenon. Even without major updates, it continues to thrive and inspire players.
Unreal Tournament 2004
Image: portforward.com
Metascore: 93
Developer: Epic Games
Release Date: March 16, 2004
Download: Steam
Unreal Tournament 2004 is the quintessential arena shooter, where speed, accuracy, and reflexes are paramount. Epic Games refined the formula to perfection, adding new maps, modes, and vehicles. The game's fast-paced action, acrobatic jumps, and intense combat made it a standard for arena shooters. Even today, it's remembered as one of the most adrenaline-pumping FPS titles.
Quake III Arena
Image: reddit.com
Metascore: 93
Developer: id Software
Release Date: December 5, 1999
Download: Steam
Quake III Arena is the essence of arena shooters, focusing solely on speed, reflexes, and aim. With no plot, just pure combat, players navigate arenas, collecting power-ups and engaging in frenzied battles. Its responsive controls and competitive nature have kept it relevant, making it one of the most dynamic and technically polished shooters in history.
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
Image: mehm.net
Metascore: 94
Developer: Infinity Ward
Release Date: November 12, 2007
Download: Steam
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare revolutionized military shooters by shifting to modern tactical operations. Its cinematic campaign delivered thrilling missions and unexpected twists, while the multiplayer set new standards with fast-paced action, balanced maps, and realistic combat. Modern Warfare shaped the future of online FPS for a generation.
GoldenEye 007 (1997)
Image: cnet.com
Metascore: 96
Developer: Rare
Release Date: August 23, 1997
GoldenEye 007 proved that consoles could excel at FPS games. At a time when the genre was dominated by PCs, Rare set new standards for controls, level design, and multiplayer. Inspired by the James Bond film, it balanced dynamic shootouts with stealth, offering varied missions. Many still remember it fondly, a testament to its impact on console gaming.
Half-Life
Image: youtube.com
Metascore: 96
Developer: Valve
Release Date: November 19, 1998
Download: Steam
Half-Life revolutionized storytelling in FPS games, introducing Gordon Freeman and immersing players in his narrative. Valve integrated the story into gameplay without traditional cutscenes, creating an intense atmosphere with tense music and dim lighting. Half-Life became a cult classic, setting the standard for narrative-driven shooters.
BioShock
Image: inverse.com
Metascore: 96
Developer: 2K Games
Release Date: August 21, 2007
Download: Steam
BioShock is a journey into philosophy and morality, set in the dark underwater city of Rapture. Its rich atmosphere, innovative gameplay, and complex narrative made it more than a game; it's a work of art. BioShock set new standards for story-driven FPS, exploring themes of freedom and control.
Perfect Dark (2000)
Image: altarofgaming.com
Metascore: 97
Developer: Rare
Release Date: May 22, 2000
Perfect Dark expanded on the success of GoldenEye 007, moving to a futuristic setting with a deep plot about espionage and alien conspiracies. As Agent Joanna Dark, players engage in varied missions from stealth to large-scale shootouts. Its impressive graphics and cinematic style made it a standout on the Nintendo 64, eagerly awaited for a revival by fans.
Halo: Combat Evolved
Image: wallpapercat.com
Metascore: 97
Developer: Bungie
Release Date: November 15, 2001
Download: Steam
Halo: Combat Evolved transformed console shooters, creating one of gaming's most iconic universes. Master Chief's battle against the Covenant captured imaginations, offering a riveting sci-fi story and innovative gameplay. Its regenerating shield mechanic became a standard, showing that console shooters could be tactical, deep, and epic.
Each of these games has left an indelible mark on the shooter genre. Some set standards that lasted for decades, while others were groundbreaking experiments. Without them, the world of shooters would be vastly different.
