Top 30 All-Time Greatest Shooters

Shooters. They enthrall, explode, challenge you to the limit, and then elevate you to victory. From the pixelated battles of the 90s to today's cinematic clashes, the genre has evolved dramatically, yet remains a cornerstone of gaming. Let's journey back and celebrate 30 of the greatest shooters that redefined 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 criteria focused on:

• Industry Influence: Games that set lasting standards.
• Gameplay and Mechanics: The player experience and innovation.
• Popularity and Legacy: Enduring impact and inspiration.
• Atmosphere: Visuals, style, and overall feel.

Now, let's explore 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 epitomizing realism, tactics, and adrenaline. Tarkov plunges players into a ravaged city where death is a constant threat – from enemy fire, resource scarcity, or even poor judgment. The core mechanic of losing all gear upon death creates intense, high-stakes encounters. This isn't mindless action; it's a game for those who crave true survival, brutal combat, and edge-of-your-seat tension.

Ultrakill

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

Unrelenting action defines Ultrakill. This explosive, intensely hardcore shooter draws inspiration from 90s classics, but with modernized mechanics and breakneck speed. Demons, blood, and endless ammo fuel perpetual motion and aggression. A Devil May Cry-esque combo system rewards stylish combat, and unique mechanics, such as health restoration through melee kills, make each encounter unforgettable. This isn't just retro; it's pure gaming bliss for speed and style 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 fatal. Ubisoft prioritized strategy, communication, and adaptability over reflexes. Diverse operators, each with unique gadgets, create constantly evolving tactics. The game's complexity and emphasis on teamwork elevated it to a premier esports title.

Fortnite

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

Fortnite transcends gaming; it's a cultural phenomenon. Building mechanics, constant updates, and a distinctive visual style propelled it to global popularity. The battle royale mode introduced a unique blend of action and on-the-fly construction, demanding tactical prowess and agility. Continuous updates, collaborations, and in-game events have solidified Fortnite's position as a leading interactive entertainment 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, coordination and strategy are paramount. Players can choose between stealth or all-out chaos, making each heist unpredictable and thrilling. Simon Viklund's soundtrack perfectly complements the intense gameplay.

Prey (2017)

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

Prey is a cerebral challenge set within a dark sci-fi atmosphere. Arkane Studios masterfully blended immersive sim elements, creating a game where every decision matters. The sprawling space station is filled with secrets, and players have freedom in how they approach threats. The unique abilities allow for diverse playstyles, rewarding experimentation and unconventional thinking.

Duke Nukem 3D

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

In 1996, Duke Nukem 3D burst onto the scene, loud, brash, and undeniably 90s. Duke's brutal, charismatic personality and witty one-liners were as memorable as the gameplay itself. Its interactive elements were groundbreaking for the time, and it proved that shooters could be both thrilling and entertainingly outrageous.

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 tense gameplay while incorporating modern technology and the Source 2 engine. Enhanced graphics, physics, and redesigned maps offer a refreshed experience while preserving the core essence of Counter-Strike. Teamwork and tactical thinking remain crucial.

DOOM (1993)

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

DOOM is a foundational title, not just for the genre, but for the entire industry. It established the first-person shooter formula, popularized network multiplayer, and remains a potent blend of rage and adrenaline. Its influence on subsequent FPS titles is undeniable.

Bulletstorm

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

Bulletstorm is a wild fusion of insane action, dark humor, and unconventional combat. The "stylish kills" system rewards creativity in eliminating enemies, adding a unique layer to the fast-paced gameplay. The memorable characters and cinematic scenes contribute to a truly unforgettable experience.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus

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

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus revitalized the classic series with a fresh take on shooter mechanics. The visceral and emotional story of resistance against Nazi occupation is as impactful as the intense, dynamic combat. The game masterfully blends old-school shooter elements with a compelling narrative.

Max Payne 3

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

Max Payne 3 is a gritty, dark tale of downfall and redemption. The iconic "bullet time" mechanic enhances the intense gunfights, while the cover system adds realism. Rockstar's signature cinematic style elevates the experience to a true interactive thriller.

Far Cry 3

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

Far Cry 3 is a descent into madness in a tropical paradise turned battleground. The open world offers hunting, exploration, and diverse combat encounters. Players can choose between stealth or explosive action, and the gripping story and vibrant environment create an unforgettable experience.

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. The game masterfully combines intense gunfights with terrifying paranormal phenomena, creating a consistently unsettling atmosphere. The blend of action and horror remains a benchmark for the genre.

DOOM Eternal

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

DOOM Eternal is a relentless and aggressive shooter demanding constant movement and precise combat. The intense, chaotic battles require both reflexes and strategy, creating one of the most demanding and rewarding shooter experiences.

Borderlands 2

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

Borderlands 2 is a chaotic blend of shooter and RPG elements, brimming with dark humor and endless loot. The vast open world, vibrant characters, and countless customizable weapons provide a nearly limitless amount of replayability, making it a standout co-op experience.

Titanfall 2

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

Titanfall 2 delivers fast-paced parkour-infused combat and giant mech battles. The single-player campaign is surprisingly compelling, featuring a memorable story and innovative level design. The game's focus on speed and agility set it apart from other shooters.

Left 4 Dead 2

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

Left 4 Dead 2 is a thrilling co-op experience where four survivors battle endless hordes of zombies. The procedurally generated levels and dynamic AI Director ensure each playthrough is unique and challenging, demanding teamwork and resource management.

Overwatch (2016)

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

Overwatch revolutionized team-based shooters by blending FPS and MOBA elements. The diverse roster of heroes and balanced class system emphasized coordinated teamwork and strategic play, establishing a new standard for the genre.

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. The emphasis on squad-based tactics and class synergy redefined team-based FPS combat.

Crysis

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

Crysis was a graphical leap forward, setting a new standard for visual fidelity in video games. The realistic environments, advanced lighting, and destructible objects created an immersive and breathtaking experience. Its demanding hardware requirements became legendary.

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 distinctive cartoon style. The unique class system and emphasis on team synergy set it apart, and the introduction of a successful cosmetics system further enhanced its appeal and longevity.

Unreal Tournament 2004

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

Unreal Tournament 2004 perfected the arena shooter formula, offering fast-paced combat, diverse maps, and various game modes. The responsive controls and intense action made it a benchmark for the genre.

Quake III Arena

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

Quake III Arena is the purest form of arena shooter, emphasizing speed, reflexes, and accuracy above all else. The fast-paced, intense gameplay and responsive controls continue to make it a classic.

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

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

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare shifted the military shooter genre to modern warfare settings. The cinematic campaign and innovative multiplayer mechanics, including fast-paced combat and balanced maps, redefined online FPS gaming.

GoldenEye 007 (1997)

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

GoldenEye 007 elevated console FPS gaming, setting new standards for controls, level design, and multiplayer. The James Bond setting and blend of action and stealth created a truly iconic 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. The immersive atmosphere and gripping story 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 and atmospheric journey into the depths of Rapture, a fallen underwater city. The rich atmosphere, innovative gameplay, and complex narrative created a truly memorable and thought-provoking experience.

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 compelling espionage plot, and diverse gameplay. The impressive graphics and cinematic style made it a standout title for the Nintendo 64.

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 with the Covenant. The innovative regenerating shield mechanic and compelling sci-fi story established a new standard for the genre.

Each game on this list left its mark on the industry, whether by setting lasting standards or pushing creative boundaries. Their collective influence shaped the shooter genre into what it is today.