The 30 Best Shooters in History

Shooters. They enthrall, explode, challenge you to the limit, and then elevate you to victory. From the pixelated shootouts of the 90s to today's cinematic battles, the genre has evolved dramatically, yet remains incredibly popular. Let's journey back and celebrate 30 of the greatest shooters that reshaped 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 30 best shooters is a monumental task. Our choices were based on several key factors:

• Industry Influence: These games set benchmarks that developers still emulate today.
• Gameplay and Mechanics: What experience did they offer? How innovative were they for their time?
• Popularity and Legacy: Many of these titles continue to inspire developers.
• Atmosphere: Visuals, style, and the overall feel of the gameplay.

Now, let's delve into the games that made the cut.

Escape from Tarkov

Metascore: TBD
Developer: Battlestate Games
Release Date: July 27, 2017
Download: Official page

A hardcore survival shooter in its purest form, where realism, tactics, and adrenaline converge. Tarkov plunges players into a devastated city where death lurks at every turn – from enemy fire, lack of supplies, or even poor decisions. The core mechanic, the permanent loss of gear upon death, creates intense, high-stakes encounters. This isn't mindless action; it's for those who value true survival, brutal gunfights, and edge-of-your-seat tension.

Ultrakill

Metascore: TBD
Developer: New Blood Interactive
Release Date: September 3, 2020
Download: Steam

Non-stop action defines Ultrakill. This explosive, frenetic, and intensely hardcore shooter draws inspiration from 90s classics, but with modern mechanics and breakneck speed. Demons, blood, and endless ammo create a perpetual state of motion and aggression. A Devil May Cry-esque combo system encourages stylish gameplay, and unique mechanics, such as health restoration through melee kills, make each firefight unforgettable. It's more than just a retro shooter; it's pure gaming bliss for speed, style, and chaos enthusiasts.

Rainbow Six Siege

Metascore: 73
Developer: Ubisoft
Release Date: December 1, 2015
Download: Steam

Rainbow Six Siege transforms the tactical shooter into a tense strategic battle where every mistake can be costly. Ubisoft prioritized strategy, communication, and adaptation over pure reflexes. Diverse operators, each with unique gadgets and roles, allow for constantly evolving tactics. The game's complexity and emphasis on teamwork created a high skill ceiling, making each match a true test of ability and coordination. This elevated Rainbow Six Siege to become one of the most significant and competitive tactical shooters of its time.

Fortnite

Metascore: 78
Developer: Epic Games
Release Date: July 21, 2017
Download: Fortnite

Fortnite transcends the definition of a game; it's a cultural phenomenon. Building mechanics, constant updates, and a distinctive visual style propelled it to become one of history's most popular games, remaining relevant even years after its release. The battle royale mode introduced a novel blend of action and on-the-fly fortification, adding a layer of strategy and agility to gunfights. Continuous updates, brand collaborations, and in-game events have transformed Fortnite into a global gaming platform.

Payday 2

Metascore: 79
Developer: OVERKILL
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Download: Steam

A heist simulator where players become a criminal crew planning and executing daring robberies. From small stores to high-stakes bank heists, each mission demands coordination, tactics, and precision. Players can choose between stealthy approaches or unleashing all-out chaos. The freedom of choice makes each heist unpredictable and thrilling, enhanced by Simon Viklund's intense soundtrack.

Prey (2017)

Metascore: 79
Developer: Arkane Studios
Release Date: May 4, 2017
Download: Steam

Prey is an intellectual challenge set within a dark sci-fi atmosphere. Arkane Studios masterfully blended immersive sim elements, creating a game where every door is a puzzle demanding creativity and unconventional thinking. The vast, detailed space station is a living entity, concealing countless secrets. Prey rewards experimentation and offers freedom in how you approach threats, transforming you into either hunter or hunted.

Duke Nukem 3D

Metascore: 80
Developer: 3D Realms
Release Date: January 29, 1996
Download: Steam

In 1996, Duke Nukem 3D burst onto the scene with its brash, over-the-top style. This wasn't just another shooter; it was a quintessential 90s icon. Duke's brutal, charismatic, and absurd personality, combined with witty one-liners, made it more than just a thrill ride. Its level of interactivity was surprisingly advanced for its time.

Counter-Strike 2

Metascore: 82
Developer: Valve
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Download: Steam

The official sequel to the legendary esports classic. Valve retained the original's tense gameplay while incorporating modern technology and the Source 2 engine. It remains a tactical FPS where precision and timing are paramount. Enhanced graphics, advanced physics, and redesigned maps provide a fresh experience while preserving the core essence of Counter-Strike.

DOOM (1993)

Metascore: 82
Developer: id Software
Release Date: December 10, 1993
Download: Steam

DOOM is a legend, a foundational game not only for its genre but for the entire industry. It didn't just become a cult classic; it laid the groundwork for all future FPS titles. The "run-and-gun" formula established in DOOM remains the basis for countless games. DOOM revolutionized the genre, introducing the first-person perspective, powerful weaponry, and intense demon-slaying action.

Bulletstorm

Metascore: 84
Developer: People Can Fly
Release Date: April 7, 2017
Download: Steam

Bulletstorm is an explosive mix of insane action, dark humor, and unconventional combat. It rewards creativity in eliminating enemies, not just accuracy. The "stylish kills" system grants points for spectacular takedowns. A charismatic storyline, memorable characters, and cinematic scenes add to the experience. Bulletstorm stands out as a unique and underrated FPS title.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus

Metascore: 87
Developer: MachineGames
Release Date: October 27, 2017
Download: Steam

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus revitalized the legendary series with a fresh perspective on classic shooter mechanics. It's a visceral and emotional tale of resistance, blending old-school shooter action with a powerful narrative. Whether using stealth or brute force, every encounter is dynamic and brutal.

Max Payne 3

Metascore: 87
Developer: Rockstar Games
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Download: Steam

Max Payne 3 is a gritty, dark, and unforgiving story of downfall and redemption. Max, now broken and disillusioned, finds himself entangled in the brutal world of Brazilian mercenaries and political conspiracies. The game's signature "bullet time" mechanic, combined with a cover system and powerful weaponry, creates a cinematic action experience.

Far Cry 3

Metascore: 88
Developer: Ubisoft
Release Date: November 29, 2012
Download: Steam

Far Cry 3 is a descent into madness where a tropical paradise becomes a battleground for survival. The open world offers hunting, exploration, and combat, allowing players to choose between stealth and explosive action. A gripping story, vibrant environment, and intense gameplay established Far Cry 3 as a benchmark for open-world shooters.

F.E.A.R.

Metascore: 88
Developer: Monolith Productions
Release Date: October 17, 2005
Download: Steam

F.E.A.R. is a thrilling blend of horror and adrenaline-fueled action. Players are an operative investigating paranormal events connected to the mysterious girl Alma. The game masterfully blends intense firefights with unsettling hallucinations and psychological horror, keeping players constantly on edge.

DOOM Eternal

Metascore: 88
Developer: id Software
Release Date: March 20, 2020
Download: Steam

DOOM Eternal is a relentless, fast-paced shooter demanding quick reflexes and aggressive tactics. Constant movement is key to survival in this intense and brutal experience. It's one of the most aggressive shooters ever made, where players become the nightmare of Hell itself.

Borderlands 2

Metascore: 89
Developer: Gearbox Software
Release Date: September 21, 2012
Download: Steam

Borderlands 2 is an explosive mix of shooter and RPG, filled with dark humor and countless weapons. Set on the planet Pandora, players face hordes of enemies, explore a vast open world, and customize their characters extensively. The variety of playstyles and endless loot make it an exceptional co-op experience.

Titanfall 2

Metascore: 89
Developer: Respawn Entertainment
Release Date: October 28, 2016
Download: Steam

Titanfall 2 is a fast-paced shooter featuring parkour, intense gunfights, and giant mechs. The single-player campaign is surprisingly compelling, telling a heartfelt story of friendship. The game emphasizes speed, improvisation, and movement, making it a standout title.

Left 4 Dead 2

Metascore: 89
Developer: Valve
Release Date: November 17, 2009
Download: Steam

Left 4 Dead 2 is a co-op shooter where four survivors battle hordes of zombies. Cooperation, resource management, and adaptability are crucial for survival. The AI Director dynamically adjusts the difficulty, creating a tense and unpredictable experience.

Overwatch (2016)

Metascore: 91
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Release Date: May 24, 2016

Overwatch revolutionized team-based online shooters, blending FPS and MOBA elements. Victory depends on both individual skill and coordinated teamwork. A diverse roster of heroes and a balanced class system made it a cultural phenomenon.

Battlefield 2

Metascore: 91
Developer: DICE
Release Date: June 21, 2005

Battlefield 2 expanded the scale of military shooters, featuring massive maps and intense battles involving infantry, vehicles, and aircraft. Teamwork and strategic use of classes were key to success.

Crysis

Metascore: 91
Developer: Crytek
Release Date: November 13, 2007
Download: Steam

Crysis was a technological marvel, setting a new standard for graphics in video games. Its realistic visuals, advanced physics, and detailed environments were groundbreaking for its time. The phrase "But can it run Crysis?" became synonymous with its demanding hardware requirements.

Team Fortress 2

Metascore: 92
Developer: Valve
Release Date: October 10, 2007
Download: Steam

Team Fortress 2 is a celebration of tactical gameplay and vibrant character design. Valve's unique cartoon style, frenetic battles, and well-designed class system created a highly replayable and enduring title.

Unreal Tournament 2004

Metascore: 93
Developer: Epic Games
Release Date: March 16, 2004
Download: Steam

Unreal Tournament 2004 is a quintessential arena shooter where speed, precision, and reflexes are paramount. Fast-paced combat, acrobatic movements, and a variety of weapons created a highly competitive and exciting experience.

Quake III Arena

Metascore: 93
Developer: id Software
Release Date: December 5, 1999
Download: Steam

Quake III Arena is the epitome of arena shooters, focusing on pure, fast-paced combat. Responsive controls and intense firefights make it a highly competitive and enduring title.

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

Metascore: 94
Developer: Infinity Ward
Release Date: November 12, 2007
Download: Steam

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare revolutionized military shooters by shifting the setting to modern warfare. The campaign offered an intense, cinematic experience, while the multiplayer mode established many now-classic mechanics.

GoldenEye 007 (1997)

Metascore: 96
Developer: Rare
Release Date: August 23, 1997

GoldenEye 007 proved that consoles could be a viable platform for FPS games. Its innovative controls, level design, and multiplayer mode set new standards for console shooters.

Half-Life

Metascore: 96
Developer: Valve
Release Date: November 19, 1998
Download: Steam

Half-Life revolutionized storytelling in FPS games. Its seamless integration of narrative and gameplay, immersive atmosphere, and memorable protagonist, Gordon Freeman, set a new benchmark for narrative-driven shooters.

BioShock

Metascore: 96
Developer: 2K Games
Release Date: August 21, 2007
Download: Steam

BioShock is a philosophical journey into the depths of a decaying underwater city. Its atmospheric setting, innovative gameplay, and complex narrative established it as a true work of art in the FPS genre.

Perfect Dark (2000)

Metascore: 97
Developer: Rare
Release Date: May 22, 2000

Perfect Dark expanded upon the success of GoldenEye 007, featuring a futuristic setting, a compelling espionage plot, and varied gameplay.

Halo: Combat Evolved

Metascore: 97
Developer: Bungie
Release Date: November 15, 2001
Download: Steam

Halo: Combat Evolved redefined console shooters, introducing the iconic Master Chief and the epic conflict between humanity and the Covenant. Its innovative regenerating shield mechanic and compelling sci-fi story established it as a landmark title.

Each of these games left its unique mark on the industry. Some set standards for decades, while others were bold experiments. One thing is certain: without them, the shooter genre would be unrecognizable.