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 in time and celebrate 30 of the greatest shooters that reshaped video game history.

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 was 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 players? How innovative were they for their time?
• Popularity and Legacy: Many of these titles continue to inspire developers even now.
• 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, Escape from Tarkov blends realism, tactics, and adrenaline. Players navigate a devastated city where death lurks around every corner—from enemy fire, lack of supplies, or even poor decisions. The core mechanic of losing all gear upon death creates intense tension and makes every encounter meaningful. This isn't mindless action; it's a game for those who value true survival, brutal shootouts, and edge-of-your-seat suspense.

Ultrakill

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

Non-stop action defines Ultrakill. This explosive, frenetic, and brutally hardcore shooter draws inspiration from 90s classics but infuses 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 rewards stylish play, and unique mechanics—like health restoration through melee kills—make every encounter unforgettable. This isn't just a retro shooter; it's pure, unadulterated 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 transformed the tactical shooter into a tense strategic battle where every mistake can be costly. Ubisoft prioritized strategy, communication, and adaptability over pure reflexes. Diverse operators, each with unique gadgets and roles, ensure constantly evolving tactics. The game's complexity and emphasis on teamwork resulted in a high skill ceiling, making each match a true test of skill and coordination. This cemented Rainbow Six Siege's place as a leading tactical shooter and esports contender.

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 global popularity, remaining relevant even years after its release. The battle royale mode introduced a novel blend of action and on-the-fly construction, adding a strategic layer to shootouts. Continuous updates, brand collaborations, in-game events, and concerts have transformed Fortnite into a multifaceted gaming platform hosting worldwide digital events.

Payday 2

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

This heist simulator casts players as a criminal crew, planning and executing daring robberies. From small shops to high-stakes bank heists, each mission demands coordination, tactics, and precision. Players can choose between stealthy approaches or all-out chaos, creating unpredictable and tense gameplay. Simon Viklund's exceptional soundtrack enhances the experience, making Payday 2 perfect for aspiring masterminds.

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 combined elements of the immersive sim genre, creating a game where every door presents a puzzle requiring creativity and unconventional solutions. The vast, detailed space station is a living entity, hiding countless secrets. Prey rewards experimentation and offers freedom in how players approach threats, making it a standout immersive sim.

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. More than just a shooter, it was a symbol of 90s pop culture. Duke's brutal, charismatic, and absurd personality, coupled with its surprisingly interactive environment for its time, made it a memorable and iconic action game.

Counter-Strike 2

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

The official sequel to the legendary esports classic, Counter-Strike 2 retains the tense gameplay of its predecessor while leveraging modern technology and the Source 2 engine. Enhanced graphics, advanced physics, and redesigned maps provide a fresh experience while preserving the core essence of classic Counter-Strike. Teamwork, strategy, and map knowledge remain paramount.

DOOM (1993)

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

A foundational title not only for the genre but for the industry itself, DOOM established the groundwork for all future FPS titles. Its "run-and-gun" formula, first-person perspective, powerful weaponry, and bloody demon-slaying action set the standard for countless games to follow. DOOM's impact is undeniable, and it remains a seminal work.

Bulletstorm

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

Bulletstorm is a unique blend of insane action, dark humor, and unconventional combat. It rewards creative enemy takedowns, adding a layer of strategy beyond simple accuracy. The "stylish kills" system, combined with a charismatic narrative and memorable characters, makes Bulletstorm a standout, though 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 take on classic shooter mechanics. The visceral and emotional narrative of resistance against Nazi occupation, combined with dynamic and brutal combat, makes this a memorable experience.

Max Payne 3

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

Max Payne 3 delivers a gritty, dark, and unforgiving tale of downfall and redemption. The iconic "bullet time" mechanic, combined with a cover system and powerful weaponry, creates intense and stylish firefights. Rockstar's cinematic approach elevates the game to a true interactive thriller.

Far Cry 3

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

Far Cry 3 is an odyssey into madness, where a tropical paradise transforms into a battle for survival. The open-world sandbox offers hunting, exploration, base assaults, skill progression, and weapon crafting. Players choose between stealth and explosive combat, creating dynamic gameplay. Its gripping story, vibrant setting, and tense gameplay established it 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. masterfully blends intense action with terrifying paranormal phenomena. The game creates a constant atmosphere of suspense, blending tense firefights with unsettling hallucinations and supernatural elements. It remains a standard for combining horror and tactical action.

DOOM Eternal

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

DOOM Eternal is a relentless, fast-paced shooter demanding constant movement and aggressive play. Every battle is a chaotic dance where stopping means death. It’s an intensely aggressive experience, pushing players to their limits.

Borderlands 2

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

Borderlands 2 is a chaotic blend of shooter and RPG, brimming with dark humor and endless loot. The vast open world, vibrant characters, engaging quests, and extensive customization options make it an incredibly replayable and engaging co-op experience.

Titanfall 2

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

Titanfall 2 is a fast-paced shooter emphasizing parkour, intense firefights, and giant mechs. The single-player campaign is surprisingly impactful, telling a heartfelt story of friendship. The game is a celebration of speed, improvisation, and movement.

Left 4 Dead 2

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

This co-op zombie survival shooter demands teamwork and resource management. The procedurally generated levels and dynamic AI Director ensure every playthrough is unique and challenging.

Overwatch (2016)

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

Overwatch revolutionized team-based shooters, blending FPS and MOBA elements. Its diverse roster of heroes and balanced class system made coordinated teamwork essential for victory.

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 class synergy 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 detailed environments, realistic physics, and advanced lighting were groundbreaking for its time.

Team Fortress 2

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

Team Fortress 2 is a vibrant and chaotic team-based shooter with a unique art style and a deep class system emphasizing teamwork and synergy.

Unreal Tournament 2004

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

Unreal Tournament 2004 perfected the arena shooter formula, emphasizing speed, accuracy, and reflexes in fast-paced, chaotic battles.

Quake III Arena

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

Quake III Arena is the epitome of the arena shooter, focusing on pure, fast-paced combat with responsive controls and intense firefights.

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. Its intense campaign and groundbreaking multiplayer established many now-classic FPS mechanics.

GoldenEye 007 (1997)

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

GoldenEye 007 raised the bar for console FPS games, setting new standards for controls, level design, and multiplayer. Its innovative gameplay and memorable James Bond setting made it a landmark title.

Half-Life

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

Half-Life revolutionized storytelling in FPS games, seamlessly integrating narrative into gameplay and creating a captivating and immersive experience.

BioShock

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

BioShock is a philosophical and atmospheric journey into the underwater city of Rapture, blending intense gameplay with a thought-provoking narrative.

Perfect Dark (2000)

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

Perfect Dark expanded upon the success of GoldenEye 007 with a futuristic setting, a complex plot, and varied gameplay, showcasing impressive graphics and cinematic presentation for its time.

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 a compelling sci-fi narrative, along with innovative mechanics like regenerating shields.

Each of these games left its unique mark on the industry, setting standards, pushing boundaries, and shaping the shooter genre as we know it.