The Best First Person Shooter Games On Steam

Ranker Games
Updated December 29, 2023 24.1K views
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Latest additions: GTFO
Most divisive: Necromunda: Hired Gun
Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best First Person Shooter Games On Steam

The exhilarating world of first-person shooter games on Steam offers a plethora of engaging experiences for gamers seeking pulse-pounding, immersive action. With an abundance of fantastic titles boasting impressive graphics, adrenaline-pumping gameplay, and immersive experiences, it's an exciting time to dive into this ever-evolving genre. Get ready to gear up and master some of the most highly-regarded shooting games PC has to offer and experience the unparalleled excitement of becoming a true virtual sharpshooter. 

As you journey through these carefully curated selections, you'll find that the best first-person shooter games on Steam have achieved critical and mainstream success due to their innovative utilization of genre-defining tropes. Each masterfully crafted gaming experience tells groundbreaking stories that captivate players while delivering intense, entertaining combat mechanics. From riveting multiplayer options to unforgettable solo campaigns, FPS games for PC in this collection showcase the unique aspects that make them stand out as exceptional additions to the genre. 

Among the vast selection of the best first-person shooter games on Steam, certain distinctive titles truly set the bar with their groundbreaking features and atmospheric narratives that leave players spellbound. Notable examples include Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, a competitive multiplayer FPS Steam classic that has remained popular for years with its addictive team-based gameplay and strategic elements; Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege, a tactical Steam shooter game known for its thrilling close-quarters battles, destructible environments, and high-stakes objectives; and Doom Eternal, a demon-slaying masterpiece that expertly combines fast-paced gunplay with fluid movement mechanics, setting new standards for the genre. Each of these exemplary games holds its own distinct charm, offering players diverse and unparalleled experiences in the world of first-person shooters. 

As the landscape of first-person shooter games on Steam continues to expand and evolve, gamers everywhere can look forward to countless hours of heart-pounding action and immersive experiences. As you embark on your action-packed journey through these stellar titles, prepare to be astounded by the incredible feats of ingenuity and creativity that developers have poured into these Steam FPS games. So, gear up and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating worlds of the finest first-person shooters available on Steam. 

  • Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
    1
    Valve Corporation, Hidden Path Entertainment
    236 votes

    In the high-stakes world of CS:GO, two teams – terrorists and counter-terrorists – battle to emerge victorious. Action-packed gameplay combines strategic planning and twitch reflexes, creating an adrenaline rush second to none in the gaming world. With its impact spanning over two decades, CS:GO has cemented its place as one of the most iconic esports titles of all time.

  • Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege
    2
    185 votes

    Step into the tactical boots of specialized operators in Rainbow Six Siege, a game that pits teams against each other in intense close-quarters combat scenarios. Coordination, strategy, and destructible environments spice up gameplay, making every match feel like an epic chess match with guns. Siege's explosive impact on the competitive gaming scene has made it an undeniable staple in the world of first-person shooters.

  • Doom Eternal
    3
    id Software
    112 votes

    Rip and tear through endless hordes of demons in Doom Eternal's fast-paced, gory campaign. Killer gameplay comes courtesy of powerful weapons, brutal glory kills, and fluid mobility mechanics that flow together like a symphony of destruction. The game's impact on the FPS genre is unmatched, proving once again that Doom's hellish power remains unrelenting.

  • Half-Life 2
    4
    Valve Corporation
    155 votes

    Join Gordon Freeman on his iconic journey through the dystopian City 17 as he battles against both alien forces and oppressive human overlords. Half-Life 2's innovative gameplay introduced us to the Gravity Gun, opening up new dimensions of interactivity. With its lasting impact on both narrative-driven games and physics-based mechanics, the title is hailed as one of the greatest games ever made.

  • Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
    5
    130 votes

    Experience a gritty, heart-pounding military campaign as you play through Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2's pulse-pounding missions. The gameplay's high-octane blend of stealth, combat, and powerful weaponry elevated the Call of Duty franchise, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon. Its impact was so forceful that it essentially defined the modern era of online multiplayer shooters.

  • BioShock Infinite
    6
    Irrational Games, 2K Marin
    83 votes

    Discover a city in the clouds, unraveling its dark secret as you explore the rich narrative of BioShock Infinite. The distinct gameplay blends powers, weapons, and a mysterious companion, resulting in an unforgettable adventure. This highly acclaimed title's impact on storytelling and world-building in gaming has proven to be nothing short of monumental.

  • Quake
    7
    Midway Games, Midway Games, Inc.
    87 votes

    Legions of Lovecraftian monsters await you in Quake, a groundbreaking FPS that introduced gamers to the beauty of true 3D graphics. With fast-paced gameplay and an emphasis on strafing and vertical movement, Quake left an indelible mark on the ever-evolving landscape of first-person shooters. Its impact extends beyond gaming – inspiring mods, sequels, and even an entire esports community.

  • Doom
    8
    id Software, Williams Entertainment Inc.
    103 votes

    Make your stand against the forces of Hell in Doom, the iconic first-person shooter that redefined what it meant to be an action-packed video game experience. With its fast-paced gameplay, brutal weapons, and maze-like levels, Doom established itself as the cornerstone of the FPS genre. The game's impact on the industry still reverberates today, as it inspires both developers and players alike to push expectations and delve into the deepest reaches of hellish creativity.

  • Portal 2
    9
    Valve Corporation
    105 votes

    Wield your wits and a trusty portal gun as you solve mind-boggling puzzles in the popular sequel to Valve's Portal. With a narrative involving cheeky humor and a sentient AI foil, Portal 2's unique gameplay captivates, challenges, and entertains in equal measure. This game's fusion of story and player innovation ultimately altered the way we interact with puzzle-platformers.

  • Call of Duty: Black Ops II
    10

    Continue the covert missions and high-stakes action of the Black Ops series, as Call of Duty: Black Ops II transports you into a near-future world marked by advanced technology and shifting alliances. With revamped gameplay features and the inclusion of branching storylines, this sequel redefines the modern military FPS. Its impact is evident in the continued success of the Call of Duty franchise, pushing boundaries and setting new standards for future titles.

  • BioShock
    11
    2K Boston, 2, Australia
    88 votes

    Descend into Rapture, the underwater city hiding a devastating secret, as you fight through mutated inhabitants in search of answers in BioShock. The unique pairing of firearms and "plasmids" gives rise to strategic gameplay possibilities that refuse to outstay their welcome. This critically acclaimed title left an indelible mark on gaming, demonstrating that video games can be works of art.

  • Doom II: Hell on Earth
    12
    Nerve Software, id Software
    71 votes

    The demon-slaying carnage continues in Doom II, with players blasting through hordes of nightmarish creatures in a desperate bid to save Earth. Traversal and gunplay are key aspects of this relentless gameplay that build upon the success of its predecessor. Its influence can be felt in many modern FPS titles, proving Doom II's infernal grip remains steadfast.

  • Wolfenstein: The New Order
    13

    Wolfenstein: The New Order

    MachineGames
    63 votes

    Step back into B.J. Blazkowicz's well-worn boots as you fight to overthrow a Nazi-filled alternate history in Wolfenstein: The New Order. With a mix of stealth tactics and heavy firepower, this game's engaging gameplay provides a fresh take on the classic FPS formula. Its impact led to the revival of a beloved franchise, proving there is still life in even the most ruthless enemies.

  • Fallout 4: Game of the Year Edition
    14

    Fallout 4: Game of the Year Edition

    Bethesda Game Studios
    93 votes

    Explore the vast, post-apocalyptic wasteland of Fallout 4, where your actions and choices help shape both your character and the fate of the Commonwealth. With its immersive gameplay and engaging storyline, this RPG experience remains one for the ages. The game's impact endures as players continue to roam the wastes, seeking adventure and surviving against the odds.

  • Quake 4
    15
    Raven Software, id Software
    46 votes

    Join the war effort against the Strogg in Quake 4, where mankind's survival hangs in the balance. Following in the footsteps of its predecessors, Quake 4 delivers high-octane gameplay fueled by intense action and out-of-this-world weaponry. Its blend of sci-fi storytelling and visceral combat experiences propelled the Quake series to even greater heights.

  • Portal
    16
    Valve Corporation
    86 votes

    Enter the twisted chambers of Aperture Science as you manipulate space and time itself with the revolutionary portal gun to solve devilishly clever puzzles. Portal's one-of-a-kind gameplay, combined with dark humor, carved out its own niche within the puzzle-platform genre. Its pervasive impact on pop culture resulted in catchphrases, memes, and scores of devoted fans who still dream of cake.

  • Call of Duty: Black Ops
    17
    n-Space, Treyarch
    106 votes

    Engage in top-secret operations, as you fight through the Cold War era conflicts of Call of Duty: Black Ops. With memorable characters and novel gameplay additions like the fan-favorite Wager Matches, this title raised the bar on what gamers expected from their FPS experiences. Its influence on the gaming industry remains undeniable, helping to shape the blockbuster Call of Duty franchise as we know it today.

  • Quake II
    18
    id Software
    52 votes

    Embark on an epic quest to save humanity from the grips of an alien menace in Quake II. With its refined gameplay mechanics and emphasis on exploration, the game delivers a truly memorable gaming experience. The impact of Quake II stretches far across the gaming landscape, setting the stage for 3D environments and multiplayer deathmatches alike.

  • Return to Castle Wolfenstein
    19
    Nerve Software, Gray Matter Interactive, id Software
    51 votes

    Take on the might of the Third Reich and their occult experiments as you infiltrate their secret stronghold in Return to Castle Wolfenstein. With its balanced blend of stealth, action, and supernatural elements, this game's gameplay adds a fresh layer to the classic FPS formula. This memorable title proved that revisiting and revitalizing classic series can lead to exciting and unexpected results.

  • Half-Life 2: Episode Two
    20

    Half-Life 2: Episode Two

    Valve Corporation
    79 votes

    Continue the thrilling saga of Gordon Freeman as you confront new dangers in Half-Life 2: Episode Two. With refined gameplay and added puzzle elements, the game keeps players on their toes during every intense firefight. Its legacy remains strong, as fans continue to eagerly await closure to the cliffhanger that has captivated them for well over a decade.

  • ArmA III
    21
    70 votes

    Immerse yourself in the gritty world of military simulation with ArmA III, where the battlefield is as treacherous as it is expansive. Authentic gameplay mechanics reward tactical thinking and patient planning, driving players to refine their skills constantly. ArmA III's impact on the sim genre is undeniable, setting new benchmarks for realism and complexity.

  • Duke Nukem 3D
    22
    3D Realms, Lobotomy Software, Tiger Electronics
    42 votes

    Blast alien scum, save Earth's babes, and sling one-liners in Duke Nukem 3D, the classic shooter that oozes 90s attitude. With its raucous gameplay and irreverent humor, this iconic game solidified Duke Nukem as a one-of-a-kind action hero. Its enduring impact is a testament to the power of well-timed quips and adrenaline-fueled action, proving no good fight is complete without a few wisecracks.

  • Doom 3
    23
    id Software
    53 votes

    Confront the very depths of Hell itself as you fight your way through a demon-infested Martian base in Doom 3. With its dark atmosphere, heart-pounding gameplay, and nightmarish monsters, players are kept on edge from start to finish. Doom 3's chilling approach to horror left its mark on the survival horror genre, proving that FPS games can deliver scares just as effectively as their third-person counterparts.

  • Crysis
    24
    Crytek
    72 votes

    Don your high-tech nanosuit and battle your way through a lush, sandbox-style environment in Crysis, a game whose jaw-dropping visuals set a new standard at the time of its release. The gameplay melds stealth, speed, and strength, making for an unmatched soldier simulation experience. Crysis' technological achievements sent shockwaves through the gaming industry, raising the bar for graphical prowess and dynamic AI.

  • Metro: Last Light Redux
    25

    Metro: Last Light Redux

    4A Games
    70 votes

    Step into a desperate, post-apocalyptic world where humanity struggles for survival in Metro: Last Light Redux. Engage in a mixture of stealth gameplay, resource management, and terrifying combat sequences as you confront both supernatural forces and very human enemies. This atmospheric title left a lasting impact on the survival genre, transporting players to a dark and desolate world where hope is as precious as air.

  • Borderlands 2
    26
    Gearbox Software, Iron Galaxy Studios
    88 votes

    Embark on a wild, loot-filled journey across Pandora in Borderlands 2, where cel-shaded graphics give way to a treasure trove of firepower and irreverent humor. The addictive blend of chaotic FPS gameplay and RPG elements redefined the "looter-shooter" genre. Its impact on gaming is unmissable, inspiring imitators and sequels and leaving players hungry for more outrageous mayhem and gear-grinding goodness.

  • Left 4 Dead 2
    27
    Valve Corporation
    95 votes

    Fight your way through hordes of ravenous zombies, relying on teamwork and firepower to survive in Left 4 Dead 2. The gameplay thrives on the unpredictability of the AI Director, which ensures that every playthrough feels like a fresh fight for your life. Left 4 Dead 2's enduring impact on cooperative shooters is impossible to ignore, as it continues to inspire both fans and developers to think creatively about their next undead encounter.

  • The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
    28
    Bethesda Game Studios
    72 votes

    Embark on an epic adventure through the breathtaking land of Skyrim, where danger and beauty are found in equal measure. With its free-roaming gameplay, engrossing storylines, and legendary dragons, Skyrim forged an unforgettable gaming experience. The game's impact on the RPG genre is immeasurable, inspiring countless hours of exploration and fostering a deeply dedicated fan base.

  • Quake III Arena
    29
    Bullfrog Productions, Pi Studios, id Software
    38 votes

    Enter the brutal, fast-paced arena of Quake III, where only the most skilled combatants can hope to survive. By focusing exclusively on multiplayer gameplay, this title honed the art of competitive deathmatches, setting new standards for balance and excitement. Its influence on esports and the competitive gaming scene at large cannot be overstated – a testament to Quake III's lasting impact.

  • Wolfenstein 3D
    30
    Nerve Software, Raven Software, Interplay Entertainment
    44 votes

    Return to the roots of the first-person shooter with Wolfenstein 3D, the genre-defining title that introduced the world to B.J. Blazkowicz. The gameplay is deceptively simple – shoot Nazis and navigate mazes – but its fast-paced action and relentless challenge helped set the stage for an entire generation of shooters. Over three decades later, Wolfenstein 3D's impact is still evident in the countless games that owe their existence to this pioneering classic.