The 30 Best Shooters in History

Shooters. They captivate, explode, grind you into the dirt, and then lift you to the top. From the pixel shootouts of the ‘90s to the cinematic battles of today, the genre has undergone multiple evolutions while remaining one of the most popular.

We also recommend checking out our selections of games by other genres:

Today, we’ll look back and remember 30 of the greatest shooters that forever changed the world of video games.

How We Chose the Best Shooters

Choosing the 30 best shooters is no easy task. We focused on several key criteria:

Now let’s break down which games made it into our selection.

Escape from Tarkov

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A hardcore survival shooter in its purest form, where realism, tactics, and adrenaline intertwine into one—this is Tarkov. The game sends players to a devastated city where death lurks around every corner—whether from enemy bullets, lack of supplies, or even a wrong decision.

Tarkov’s main feature is the complete loss of gear after death, making every fight genuinely tense and valuable. There’s no room for mindless action—this is a game for those who value true survival, ruthless shootouts, and nerve-racking tension on the brink of despair.

Ultrakill

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Non-stop action! That’s what Ultrakill is all about. It’s an explosive, insane, and wildly hardcore shooter inspired by the ’90s classics but with modern mechanics and speed pushed to the limit. The game hurls hordes of demons, rivers of blood, and endless ammo at you, prompting perpetual motion and aggression.

A combo system reminiscent of Devil May Cry encourages stylish and spectacular play, and unique mechanics—like restoring health through melee kills—make every firefight unforgettable. This isn’t just a retro shooter—it's the quintessence of pure gaming bliss for those who love speed, style, and chaos. Plus, you can parry your own shotgun blast—what’s not to love?

Rainbow Six Siege

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Rainbow Six Siege turned the tactical shooter into a tense chess match where every mistake can cost your team the victory. Ubisoft put strategy, communication, and adaptation at the forefront rather than just reflexes. The diverse operators, each with unique gadgets and roles, allowed for constantly evolving tactics. A trap on a window? Cameras in the most unexpected places? Or maybe a wall? Anything can suddenly become a point of attack.

The game’s complexity and need for teamwork filtered out casual players, turning each match into a real test of skill and coordination. Thanks to this, Rainbow Six Siege became one of the most significant and esports-worthy tactical shooters of its era.

Fortnite

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Fortnite is not just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Building mechanics, constant updates, and a unique visual style made it one of the most popular games in history—and it’s still relevant, even 8 years after its release.

The battle royale mode offered something entirely new—a mix of action with the ability to build fortifications on the fly. This changed the dynamics of shootouts, requiring more tactics, agility, and shooting skills. Constant updates, collaborations with global brands, in-game events, and concerts have turned Fortnite into more than just a shooter. It’s a gaming platform where worldwide digital events take place.

Payday 2

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A heist simulator where players become part of a criminal team planning and executing daring raids captivated gamers over ten years ago and still hasn’t let go. From small shops to elite banks—every heist demands coordination, tactics, and cold calculation. You can complete a mission quietly by picking locks and disabling cameras, or unleash total chaos with hostages, SWAT assaults, and a hail of bullets.

The game offers freedom of choice, making each robbery unpredictable and tense. All of this is enhanced by Simon Viklund’s brilliant soundtrack, which never lets you relax for a second. Payday 2 is perfect for anyone who wants to feel like a criminal mastermind and go from street robber to legendary mobster.

Prey (2017)

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Prey is a true intellectual challenge wrapped in a dark sci-fi atmosphere. Arkane Studios took the best from the immersive sim genre and created a game where every door is not just a path forward but a puzzle requiring cleverness and unconventional thinking. The massive, intricately detailed space station lives its own life and hides hundreds of secrets.

There’s no standard "go here, shoot this"—instead, Prey gives you freedom to choose how to deal with threats. The game rewards experimentation. And the unique abilities transform you either into the hunter or into the one the station itself wants to destroy. It’s this depth and layered design that made Prey one of the brightest representatives of the genre.

Duke Nukem 3D

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In 1996, Duke Nukem 3D crashed into the video game industry like a rock star into a packed bar—loud, brash, and armed to the teeth. This shooter wasn’t just another entry in the genre; it was a true symbol of the ’90s, infused with the best of that era’s pop culture.

Brutal, charismatic, and absurdly self-assured, Duke flung not only rockets at enemies but also biting one-liners filled with sarcasm and irony. Even its interactivity was surprising for the time—by today’s standards, it might bring a nostalgic tear to your eye. Duke Nukem 3D proved that shooters could not only thrill with their dynamism but also entertain, shock, and provoke—and that’s why it remains in players’ hearts as one of the most over-the-top and iconic action games of its time.

Counter-Strike 2

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The official second installment of the legendary esports classic. Valve preserved the original’s tense gameplay while adding modern technology and the new Source 2 engine. But the game stayed true to itself—it’s still the tactical FPS where every step, every bullet, and every second matters. CS2 is not just a continuation of a legendary series but a reimagining of its core gameplay.

Enhanced graphics, advanced physics, and redesigned maps gave players a new experience while preserving the essence of classic Counter-Strike. Teamwork, tactical thinking, and map knowledge remain crucial, but everything feels even more dynamic.

DOOM (1993)

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DOOM is a legend, the foundation not only of a genre but of the entire industry. It didn’t just become a cult game; it established the groundwork for all future FPS titles. DOOM, which has been ported to just about everything imaginable, is pure rage and distilled adrenaline in digital form. id Software gave the world the "run-and-gun" formula that’s still the basis for countless games.

The first DOOM didn’t just revolutionize the genre; it essentially created it, offering a first-person view, powerful weapons, and a bloody demon massacre. It set trends for all future shooters and was the first to popularize network multiplayer. Without DOOM, the industry as we know it simply wouldn’t exist.

Bulletstorm

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Bulletstorm is an explosive combination of insane action, dark humor, and an unconventional approach to combat. Developed by People Can Fly, the game turned the typical concept of shootouts on its head by rewarding not just accuracy but creativity in dispatching enemies.

The main feature is the "stylish kills" system, where players earn points for spectacular ways of eliminating foes. Adding to this is a charismatic storyline filled with rough but genuine humor, memorable characters, and cinematic scenes. Bulletstorm left its mark on the FPS genre as one of the most underrated yet unique shooters, standing out among traditional action titles and offering something truly fresh.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus

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Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus gave a new breath to the legendary series, offering a fresh perspective on classic shooter mechanics. It’s a bloody and incredibly emotional story of resistance that takes the best of old-school shooters. As the battle-hardened B.J. Blazkowicz, players venture into an alternate America under Nazi occupation, sparking a revolution and fighting back against the invaders.

Whether you’re blowing enemies to bits with dual shotguns or using stealth tactics, every encounter is both dynamic and brutal. The cherry on top is the excellent storyline featuring numerous deep characters and shocking moments. That’s why Wolfenstein II delivers not only adrenaline-fueled gameplay but also leaves a lasting impression.

Max Payne 3

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Max Payne 3 is a harsh, dark, and merciless story of downfall and redemption. Max is no longer the bold cop from New York—he’s broken, drunk, and lost. Thus, he plunges into the ruthless world of Brazilian mercenaries, drug cartels, and political conspiracies.

The game feels like a quintessential John Woo action flick. The iconic "bullet time" lets you dive into any firefight, taking out enemies with pinpoint accuracy. A cover system adds realism, and the weapons feel powerful and weighty. Rockstar turned the game into a real interactive thriller where every frame is a work of art.

Far Cry 3

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Far Cry 3 is a true odyssey into madness, where a tropical paradise becomes a battleground for survival. The game world is an open sandbox filled with possibilities: hunting, exploration, taking out enemy outposts, leveling skills, and crafting weapons to become the ultimate killer. Each confrontation with enemies offers a choice: stealth attacks from the shadows or explosive shootouts.

Combined with a gripping story, vibrant environment, and tense gameplay, Far Cry 3 became the benchmark for open-world shooters. It didn’t just set new standards for Ubisoft but defined the formula for their games for the next decade. And you do remember the definition of insanity... right?

F.E.A.R.

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F.E.A.R. is a genuine roller coaster of horror and adrenaline, where flawless action collides with terrifying paranormal phenomena. You play as an operative of a secret unit investigating mysterious events linked to the girl Alma and supernatural forces.

From the very first moments, F.E.A.R. immerses you in an atmosphere of the unknown, where darkness becomes your main enemy and every step tests your nerves. Tense firefights alternate with sudden hallucinations, unsettling visions, and whispers in the dark, keeping you constantly on edge. Even years later, F.E.A.R. remains a standard of blending horror and tactical action, capable of scaring, surprising, and blowing your mind simultaneously.

DOOM Eternal

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The sequel to the legendary franchise that made the shooter fast, predatory, and merciless. DOOM Eternal is a real test of players’ reflexes, strategy, and aggression. Here, it’s not just recommended to move—movement is essential for survival.

Every battle is a precise but chaotic dance where stopping is equivalent to death. It’s one of the most intense and aggressive shooters in history, where you don’t just fight the hordes of Hell—you become their worst nightmare.

Borderlands 2

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Borderlands 2 is an explosive blend of shooter and RPG, infused with madness, dark humor, and mountains of loot. On the planet Pandora, boredom doesn’t exist: hordes of bandits, psychos, and robots, thousands of guns with unique properties, charismatic allies, and one of the best villains in video game history.

Gearbox didn’t just create a sequel; they took everything fans loved about the first game and multiplied it by ten: a huge open world, vibrant characters, engaging quests, and boundless customization options. The variety of playstyles, constant challenges, and a solid sense of progression make Borderlands 2 one of the best co-op games, one you can sink hundreds of hours into.

Titanfall 2

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There’s no boring corridor running in Titanfall 2—only parkour, lightning-fast shootouts, and giant mechs turning the battlefield into a chaotic yet surprisingly tactical arena. But the real standout is the single-player campaign, unexpectedly powerful for a multiplayer-focused shooter. The story of the friendship between an ordinary soldier and his loyal Titan is heartfelt, emotional, and memorable, while the levels are diverse and packed with original mechanics.

Titanfall 2 is a game about speed, improvisation, and the sheer joy of movement, one that could have reigned over the genre if not for unfortunate marketing and strong competition in its release year. Even so, its legacy lives on—players still call it one of the best shooters, and its ideas inspired many subsequent games, including Apex Legends.

Left 4 Dead 2

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This co-op shooter about surviving a zombie apocalypse once again proved that Valve only makes awesome shooters. Four survivors versus countless undead hordes—there’s no time to rest. Players must work together, cover each other, and conserve resources, or the infected will tear them apart in seconds.

Every level is a dynamic, procedurally generated bloodbath where the AI Director adjusts the game’s pace, throwing new threats at you and forcing on-the-fly adaptation. You’re not just shooting zombies—you’re living through one of the most intense and gripping co-op horror experiences in gaming history.

Overwatch (2016)

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Overwatch was a revolution in team-based online shooters, offering players more than mere gunfights. Developed by Blizzard, it combined FPS and MOBA elements, creating a unique gaming experience where victory depends not only on accuracy but on well-coordinated teamwork. Its focus is on a diverse roster of heroes and a perfectly balanced class system.

Thanks to continuous developer support, regular updates, and esports potential, Overwatch became not just a game but a cultural phenomenon, setting standards for team-based shooters for years to come.

Battlefield 2

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Battlefield 2 was a revolution in the military shooter genre, taking the scale of battles to a new level. Huge maps, intense fights between infantry, vehicles, and aircraft, and, most importantly, team coordination turned the game into a true simulation of modern warfare.

It was the first installment in the series where squad-based tactical interaction became key, and smart use of classes let you dominate the battlefield. This shooter not only changed the series but also laid the foundation for team-based FPS titles for years to come, inspiring dozens of subsequent projects.

Crysis

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In 2007, Crysis was a technical breakthrough that forever changed our perception of graphics in video games. This shooter set a new visual standard with its incredible environmental detail, realistic physics, and advanced lighting. The jungles felt alive, the water looked real, and the destruction of buildings and objects added unprecedented interactivity.

The phrase "But can it run Crysis?" became a symbol of its unmatched hardware requirements, underscoring the CryEngine’s revolutionary nature. Even years later, Crysis remains the benchmark of technical perfection, and its mechanics and visuals continue to inspire developers today.

Team Fortress 2

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Team Fortress 2 is more than just a shooter; it’s a celebration of tactics, chaos, and vibrant individuality. Valve took the concept of team-based firefights and turned it into something new, adding a unique cartoon style, frenetic battles, and a brilliant class system. Unlike traditional FPS games, hitting your target isn’t the only thing that matters—team synergy plays a crucial role. Every squad is a complex mechanism where each class fulfills a specific function.

Later, Valve introduced one of the first successful cosmetics systems, giving players the chance to personalize their characters. This not only became a monetization model but also turned Team Fortress 2 into a cultural phenomenon that, even without major updates, continues to thrive and inspire players years later.

Unreal Tournament 2004

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The quintessential arena shooter, where speed, accuracy, and reflexes are everything. Using the mechanics of its predecessors, Epic Games refined the formula to perfection, adding new maps, modes, and vehicles that brought fresh excitement to the classic gameplay.

This was a game where seconds decided the outcome: lightning-fast dashes, acrobatic jumps, deadly mid-air duels, and a hail of bullets turning the arena into a chaotic battlefield. Back then, Unreal Tournament 2004 became the standard against which all future arena shooters were measured, and it remains one of the fastest, most adrenaline-pumping FPS titles in history.

Quake III Arena

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Quake III Arena is the distilled essence of arena shooters, where speed, reflexes, and aim mean everything. There’s no plot or frills—just you, your weapons, and the frenzied pace of battle. Players zip around arenas, collecting armor, health packs, and powerful guns while rockets, railgun slugs, and plasma shots fill the air.

Controls are so responsive that you feel like you’re one with the movement. Every firefight tests reaction time, accuracy, and the ability to predict your opponent’s actions. The game still hasn’t lost its relevance, retaining its status as one of the most dynamic, competitive, and technically polished shooters in history.

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare 

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Modern Warfare was a true revolution in the military shooter genre, replacing the familiar World War II settings with modern tactical operations. The campaign is an intense, cinematic action experience with iconic missions, each delivering thrills, adrenaline, and unexpected plot twists that draw you in completely.

However, the real breakthrough was the multiplayer. The mechanics now considered classics were established in Modern Warfare. Fast-paced shootouts, perfectly balanced maps, and a realistic combat feel shaped the face of online FPS for an entire generation.

GoldenEye 007 (1997)

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GoldenEye 007 proved that consoles could be an excellent platform for FPS. At a time when the genre was firmly tied to PCs, Rare created a game that set new standards for controls, level design, and multiplayer in future console shooters.

It offered an exciting narrative inspired by the iconic James Bond film, balancing dynamic shootouts with stealth, making the missions more varied. Many Nintendo 64 owners still recall this title with warmth and nostalgia.

Half-Life

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It’s not just a shooter but a revolution in storytelling that changed how we perceive FPS. Valve introduced Gordon Freeman—a scientist thrust into a cataclysmic event—and allowed players to fully immerse themselves in his story.

Half-Life did away with traditional cutscenes, weaving the narrative seamlessly into gameplay. The atmosphere was truly captivating: tense music, dim lighting, and an ever-present sense of danger created an intensity that lasted until the very end. Thanks to these elements, the game became a cult classic and remains the gold standard for narrative-driven FPS.

BioShock

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BioShock is a virtual journey into the depths of philosophy and morality. It transports players to the dark, atmospheric underwater city of Rapture—a utopia created for great minds but turned into a nightmare. Every location tells its own story, and the environment is filled with details that bring this fallen society’s tragedy to life.

Thanks to its rich atmosphere, innovative gameplay, and complex narrative, BioShock became more than just a game—it’s a true work of art that set new standards for story-driven FPS.

Perfect Dark (2000)

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Perfect Dark was the spiritual successor to GoldenEye 007, but it didn’t just match its predecessor’s success—it greatly expanded upon it. The developers at Rare moved the setting to a futuristic world, adding a deeply woven plot about espionage, alien conspiracies, and technological intrigue.

The main character is Agent Joanna Dark, whose missions range from stealthy infiltration to large-scale shootouts, making the gameplay incredibly varied. Its impressive graphics for the time, abundance of visual effects, and cinematic style made it one of the most remarkable titles on the Nintendo 64. And fans have been eagerly waiting for the series’ return for years now.

Halo: Combat Evolved

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Halo: Combat Evolved is the game that forever changed the console shooter genre and laid the foundation for one of gaming’s most iconic universes. The main character, Master Chief, instantly became a legend, and humanity’s conflict with the mysterious Covenant turned into an epic that captured gamers’ imaginations for decades.

Halo: CE offered a riveting sci-fi story, unforgettable level design, and the innovative regenerating shield mechanic instead of traditional health packs, which went on to become a standard in shooters. The game showed that console shooters could be not only fast-paced and cinematic but also tactical, deep, and truly epic.

Each of these games influenced the industry in its own way. Some set standards for decades, while others became unique experiments. One thing is certain: without them, the shooter genre would be completely different.

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