The Best First Person Shooter Games of All Time
- 11993
Unlike anything players had experienced before, Doom hit the scene in 1993 and forever changed first-person shooter games. Set in a sci-fi world teeming with demons and monsters, you assume the role of a lone space marine battling to save humanity from the depths of Hell. With its revolutionary graphics, pulsating soundtrack, and intense gameplay, it's no surprise that Doom became an instant classic. The game's dynamic design and terrifying enemies, including the iconic Cyberdemon, set the bar high for future FPS titles.
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- #1 of 25 onList of Space Marine Games
- #17 of 166 onThe Best Video Game Franchises of All Time
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- 22020
Bigger, bolder, and more brutal than its 2016 predecessor, Doom Eternal pushed the envelope even further when it came to demon-slaying action. Returning as the unstoppable Doom Slayer, players had to contend with new foes such as the Marauder and Doom Hunter while traversing diverse environments, from demonic cities to ancient alien worlds. Alongside an expanded arsenal of weapons and abilities, Doom Eternal introduced the adrenaline-pumping "meat hook" traversal system, making navigation as exhilarating as combat itself. The icing on the cake was the new asymmetric multiplayer mode, "Battlemode," where players could either step into the heavy metal boots of the Slayer or team up as a pair of deadly demons.
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- #132 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #15 of 133 onThe Most Popular Action Games Of 2021
- 32016
Reinvigorating the legendary franchise with a modern twist, Doom (2016) delivered a brutally satisfying and fast-paced FPS experience that paid homage to its predecessors while introducing new elements. Assuming the role of the iconic Doom Slayer, players battled relentless hordes of demons across intricately designed environments packed with secrets and easter eggs. The game's visceral combat mechanics, bolstered by an arsenal of powerful weapons like the Super Shotgun, made every encounter a thrilling and intense affair. With the addition of competitive multiplayer modes and the innovative SnapMap level editor, Doom (2016) breathed new life into a franchise that has continually defined and redefined first-person shooters.
More Doom- #86 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #22 of 259 onThe Best PS4 Games Of All Time, Ranked
- #25 of 209 onThe Best Video Game Soundtracks of All Time
Regarded as one of the best entries in the beloved franchise, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 raised the stakes by delivering a gripping narrative alongside addictive multiplayer action. As players fought through exhilarating missions in a desperate bid to halt a global conflict, they encountered iconic characters such as Captain Price and the enigmatic Ghost. The game's groundbreaking features, such as customizable killstreaks and weapon attachments, elevated the competitive online experience to new heights. Modern Warfare 2's polished gameplay and memorable moments cemented its place as a fan-favorite FPS.
Revolutionizing the FPS genre, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare burst onto the scene with its seamless blend of cinematic storytelling and addictive multiplayer mayhem. The single-player campaign, which takes players through a gripping modern war scenario, introduced unforgettable characters like Captain Price while showcasing thrilling set pieces that have yet to be topped. Meanwhile, the game's innovative multiplayer modes and progression system helped lay the foundation for the online juggernaut that Call of Duty would become. Widely revered as a trailblazer within the FPS genre, Modern Warfare stands tall as one of the best games in the series.
As the spiritual successor to Doom, Quake took the first-person shooter genre to new heights with its groundbreaking 3D graphics and intense action. Set in a dark and foreboding Lovecraftian world, players battled monstrous foes and fiendish traps as they fought their way through a series of interconnected dimensions. Quake's introduction of the "Rocket Jump" mechanic revolutionized multiplayer matches, leading to frantic high-speed battles that captured the imagination of gamers worldwide. A true pioneer in its field, Quake laid the groundwork for countless first-person shooters to follow.
- 7Nov 19 1998
It's hard to overstate the impact of Half-Life on the world of gaming, as Valve's groundbreaking title ushered in a new era of storytelling within the FPS genre. Players stepped into the shoes of silent protagonist Gordon Freeman, a scientist caught up in a deadly alien invasion at the Black Mesa research facility. Half-Life's innovative use of scripted sequences and environmental storytelling, combined with its unique arsenal of weapons and memorable enemies, created a deeply immersive experience that resonated with gamers. Often hailed as one of the greatest games of all time, Half-Life's legacy continues to inspire developers and captivate players to this day.
More Half-Life- #32 of 166 onThe Best Video Game Franchises of All Time
- #104 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #45 of 224 onThe Best Classic Video Games, Ranked
- 82004
The highly-anticipated sequel to the groundbreaking Halo: Combat Evolved, Halo 2 expanded upon its predecessor's formula with an engaging narrative, refined gameplay, and groundbreaking multiplayer features. Players once again followed the journey of super-soldier Master Chief and his AI companion, Cortana, as they faced off against the menacing Covenant and terrifying Flood. However, Halo 2 also introduced the Arbiter, a new playable character who offered a fresh perspective on the conflict. With its revolutionary online multiplayer system and an array of memorable maps and game modes, Halo 2 set a new standard for console first-person shooters.
More Halo 2- #48 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #73 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- #10 of 63 onThe Best Video Game Sequels
- 92004
When it comes to sequels that genuinely surpass their predecessors, Half-Life 2 stands head and shoulders above the rest. Valve's follow-up to their seminal 1998 hit brought Gordon Freeman and his iconic crowbar into the dystopian future of City 17, under the oppressive rule of the sinister Combine. The game's innovative use of physics-based puzzles and combat, alongside unforgettable set pieces and characters like Alyx Vance and Dog, made Half-Life 2 a true masterpiece. Furthermore, the game's groundbreaking storytelling and world-building left a lasting impression on players and developers alike.
More Half-Life 2- #54 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #79 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- #6 of 63 onThe Best Video Game Sequels
- 10Nov 15 2001
Few games can boast as much influence on the FPS genre as Halo: Combat Evolved, which single-handedly revolutionized console shooters and introduced the gaming world to Master Chief and the sci-fi universe of Halo. The epic campaign took players across the mysterious ringworld, battling against the alien forces of the Covenant and the ravenous Flood. With its groundbreaking twin-stick controls and emphasis on vehicle combat, Halo: Combat Evolved delivered a fresh and engaging gameplay experience that would go on to define a generation of shooters. It's no exaggeration to say that without Halo, the landscape of first-person shooters might look very different today.
More Halo: Combat Evolved- #18 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #45 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- #8 of 209 onThe Best Video Game Soundtracks of All Time
- 11Aug 23 1997
No conversation about iconic first-person shooters would be complete without GoldenEye 007, the game that redefined console shooters when it launched on the Nintendo 64. Based on the James Bond film of the same name, players stepped into the shoes of the suave superspy for one of his most memorable adventures, featuring incredible set pieces and a compelling narrative. However, GoldenEye's real claim to fame was its revolutionary split-screen multiplayer mode, which provided countless hours of nail-biting gunfights among friends. Its influence can still be felt today, as GoldenEye 007 helped pave the way for future console shooters like Halo: Combat Evolved.
More GoldenEye 007- #4 of 225 onThe Best Nintendo 64 Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #20 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #16 of 157 onThe Best Nintendo Games, Ranked
- 12
As the successor to the original Counter-Strike, Source brought the series' iconic tactical gameplay into the modern era with updated visuals and refined mechanics. Players continued the battle between terrorists and counter-terrorists, with tense shootouts and strategic decision-making taking center stage. While perhaps overshadowed by its more recent sibling, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Source remains a beloved entry in the long-running franchise, offering a classic and engaging FPS experience that fans continue to enjoy today.
- 13
Stepping away from the Capital Wasteland of Fallout 3, Fallout: New Vegas transported players to a post-apocalyptic vision of the Mojave Desert, complete with lawless frontier towns and the glitzy neon lights of the titular city. As the enigmatic Courier, players navigated a complex web of political intrigue and deadly factions vying for control of the region. With its engaging storyline, sprawling open-world, and host of colorful characters, Fallout: New Vegas delivered an unforgettable first-person shooter experience that still resonates with fans today.
- 14Sep 25 2007
With high expectations following the success of its predecessors, Halo 3 managed to deliver a satisfying conclusion to Master Chief's original trilogy while pushing the boundaries of the Xbox 360 hardware. The epic campaign took players to Earth and beyond in a desperate bid to stop the Covenant and Flood once and for all. Additionally, Halo 3 introduced lasting innovations in the form of Forge Mode, a custom map editor, and the fan-favorite Theater Mode, which allowed players to capture and share their most impressive moments. With a slew of new weapons, maps, and gameplay adjustments, Halo 3 remains a pinnacle of the franchise and a must-play for FPS fans.
More Halo 3- #29 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #70 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- #63 of 209 onThe Best Video Game Soundtracks of All Time
- 15Nov 09 2010
When Treyarch took the reins on Call of Duty: Black Ops, they delivered an engaging and gripping campaign that delved into the shadowy world of espionage during the Cold War. As Alex Mason, players found themselves tangled in a web of intrigue, facing off against familiar foes and diving deep into their character's tormented psyche. The game also bolstered Call of Duty's multiplayer offerings with numerous new weapons, maps, and game modes, including the introduction of the now-famous "Nuketown" map. Finally, the addictive Zombies mode made a triumphant return, challenging players to fend off hordes of undead Nazis while unraveling a twisted conspiratorial narrative.
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- #19 of 498 onSony PlayStation 3 Games: List of PS3 Console Games
- #89 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- 16Oct 10 1994
Following up on the monumental success of the original Doom, Doom II took the basic formula of its predecessor and expanded on it in almost every way. The game's story continued the harrowing journey of the Doom Marine, now facing off against the forces of Hell as they invaded Earth. Boasting even more intricate level designs, new powerful weapons like the Super Shotgun, and an array of terrifying new enemies - including the fearsome Arch-vile - Doom II provided a meaty challenge for fans eager to jump back into the demon-slaying fray. Today, Doom II remains a beloved entry in the series and a testament to the enduring appeal of its brutal, fast-paced action.
- #5 of 25 onList of Space Marine Games
- #77 of 227 onThe Best Classic Video Games
- #225 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- 17Mar 23 2004
As the first entry in the now-acclaimed series, Far Cry established the blueprint for open-world first-person shooters with its lush tropical setting and emphasis on emergent gameplay. Players took on the role of Jack Carver, a former Special Forces operative who found himself stranded on a mysterious island filled with mercenaries and genetically-altered creatures. Far Cry's innovative AI and dynamic gameplay ensured that every encounter felt fresh and unpredictable, providing players with endless strategic options. Its impact on the FPS genre cannot be understated, as Far Cry laid the groundwork for numerous sequels and imitators alike.
More Far Cry- #42 of 166 onThe Best Video Game Franchises of All Time
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- 18Nov 12 2012
Taking the successful formula of its predecessor and pushing it to new heights, Call of Duty: Black Ops II featured a nonlinear narrative that spanned multiple decades, offering players choices that directly impacted the story's outcome. The game's futuristic setting introduced a wealth of new weapons and gadgets, which carried over into its popular multiplayer and Zombies modes. With its innovative "Pick 10" system, Black Ops II gave players unprecedented customization options as they battled it out across a variety of memorable maps. By building upon the strengths of the first Black Ops and adding its own unique twists, Black Ops II has cemented its place among the best first-person shooters.
- #182 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
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- 192009
Building on the runaway success of the original game, Left 4 Dead 2 ramped up the undead action with new characters, environments, weapons, and terrifying zombie variants. Set in the Deep South, players joined forces as a new group of survivors working against all odds to reach safe zones and fend off wave after wave of ravenous zombies. The game's dynamic AI Director ensured that no two playthroughs were quite the same, creating tension and uncertainty with each session. Left 4 Dead 2's emphasis on teamwork and replayability, combined with its exhilarating gameplay and horror elements, makes it an essential title for any FPS fan.
More Left 4 Dead 2- #98 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #196 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- #17 of 63 onThe Best Video Game Sequels
- 202007
Blending gripping first-person shooter action with strong RPG elements and an unforgettable narrative, BioShock emerged as a true classic that defied genre conventions. Set in the underwater city of Rapture, players explored the eerie, art deco-inspired halls while battling mutated citizens and uncovering the city's dark secrets. The game's innovative "Plasmids" allowed for the manipulation of the environment and creative approaches to combat, adding depth to an already tense experience. With its haunting atmosphere, political intrigue, and unique mechanics, BioShock remains a must-play for anyone with even a passing interest in first-person shooters.
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- #8 of 498 onSony PlayStation 3 Games: List of PS3 Console Games
- #21 of 166 onThe Best Video Game Franchises of All Time
- 21Nov 29 2012
Few open-world shooters can match the sheer thrill of exploration and discovery that Far Cry 3 provides. Players found themselves stranded on a beautiful yet dangerous tropical island, home to fanatical pirates and deadly wildlife. As protagonist Jason Brody, you had to adapt and overcome the challenges of this hostile environment, developing new skills and uncovering hidden secrets along the way. With a memorable cast of characters, including the infamous and psychotic Vaas Montenegro, Far Cry 3's engrossing narrative and addictive gameplay ensure its place as one of the greatest first-person shooters of all time.
More Far Cry 3- #74 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #55 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- #47 of 165 onVideo Games That Should Be Movies
- 222011
When Battlefield 3 arrived on the scene, it set a new standard for large-scale multiplayer combat, with its sprawling maps and unprecedented destruction capabilities courtesy of the Frostbite engine. Players could indulge in all-out warfare as infantry, pilots, or tank commanders, working together in squads to achieve objectives and conquer the battlefield. The game's single-player campaign, while perhaps not as memorable as some of its contemporaries, still delivered plenty of intense moments and breathtaking set pieces. Ultimately, Battlefield 3's focus on teamwork and realistic combat mechanics made it stand out among the crowded FPS market.
- 232011
While not a traditional first-person shooter, Portal 2's unique blend of puzzle-solving and precision shooting made it a standout title in the genre. As test subject Chell, players wielded the Aperture Science Handheld Portal Device, creating portals to navigate the treacherous testing chambers of the sinister Aperture Laboratories. The game's engaging narrative, witty dialogue, and complex puzzles captivated players, while the introduction of a cooperative mode added even more depth to the experience. Heralded as one of the most inventive and entertaining games of its time, Portal 2 remains an essential piece of any FPS fan's library.
More Portal 2- #40 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #47 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- #7 of 63 onThe Best Video Game Sequels
- 24Jan 01 1999
Continuing the legacy of the groundbreaking series, Quake III Arena honed in on what made its predecessors so popular: pulse-pounding multiplayer action. Players stepped into the role of various warriors and aliens, battling it out across intricately designed maps. The game's powerful arsenal, including iconic weapons like the Railgun and Lightning Gun, allowed for exciting and strategic combat. With its focus on providing a pure, competitive FPS experience, Quake III Arena became a fan-favorite title that still holds a special place in the hearts of gamers.
- 25Nov 11 2008
Taking a dark and gritty approach to the World War II setting, Call of Duty: World at War delivered a harrowing campaign that took players from the Pacific theater to the war-torn streets of Berlin. The game's detailed visuals and brutal depiction of war brought the horrors of the conflict to life like never before. In addition to its engaging single-player storyline, World at War introduced the now-iconic Zombies mode, giving players an addictive and challenging cooperative experience that would become a staple of the series. By revisiting the franchise's roots, World at War managed to carve out its memorable niche within the pantheon of first-person shooters.
- #23 of 498 onSony PlayStation 3 Games: List of PS3 Console Games
- #185 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #184 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- 26Oct 25 2005
As the follow-up to the original game that started it all, Call of Duty 2 raised the stakes with its cinematic portrayal of World War II across multiple theaters of war. Players experienced the harrowing stories of Russian, British, and American soldiers as they fought tooth and nail against the Axis powers. The game's refined gameplay mechanics, including an improved health system and expanded arsenal, made for a more intense and immersive experience. With its incredible attention to historical detail and visceral combat, Call of Duty 2 remains a standout entry in the long-running series.
- 272004
Taking the series in a darker and more atmospheric direction, Doom 3 plunged players into a terrifying battle against the forces of Hell on Mars. With its moody lighting and emphasis on horror elements, the game provided a distinctly different experience from its faster-paced predecessors. With an array of devastating weapons at their disposal, players fought against hordes of demonic enemies while unraveling the sinister events that led to the invasion. Doom 3's unique approach to horror and first-person shooter gameplay made it a memorable and distinct entry in the legendary franchise.
More Doom 3- #2 of 25 onList of Space Marine Games
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- #253 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
The latest entry in the storied Counter-Strike franchise, Global Offensive continued the series' tradition of tense, tactical multiplayer combat between terrorists and counter-terrorists. Boasting refined gameplay, updated visuals, and a wealth of new maps and weapon skins, CS:GO breathed fresh life into the seminal competitive shooter. With its professional esports scene and dedicated fanbase, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive has cemented its status as a titan of the first-person shooter genre.
- 292008
Few games have managed to capture the essence of co-op survival horror like Left 4 Dead, which pitted players against relentless hordes of zombies in a desperate bid for survival. The game's iconic cast of characters - Bill, Zoey, Francis, and Louis - each brought their unique personalities to the table, while the engrossing campaign forced players to rely on teamwork and strategic thinking to stay alive. Featuring an adaptive AI Director that kept gameplay fresh and unpredictable, Left 4 Dead became an instant classic and a benchmark for co-op first-person shooters.
More Left 4 Dead- #41 of 111 onThe Best Horror Games Ever Made, Ranked
- #122 of 842 onThe 100+ Best Video Games Of All Time, Ranked By Fans
- #189 of 222 onThe 220+ Most Compelling Video Game Storylines Ever
- 302008
In a post-apocalyptic world devastated by nuclear war, Fallout 3 allowed players to experience an engaging first-person role-playing adventure as they navigated the harsh and unforgiving wasteland. Encountering memorable characters and factions such as the Brotherhood of Steel and the Enclave, players faced difficult moral choices that shaped their journey throughout the sprawling Capital Wasteland. Boasting an arsenal of unique weapons like the Fat Man and Laser Rifle alongside the game's innovative V.A.T.S. targeting system, Fallout 3 provided a deeply satisfying fusion of first-person shooter and role-playing gameplay. Its blend of memorable storytelling and immersive world-building makes Fallout 3 an essential experience for fans of the genre.
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