If you're a fan of shooters, then you've likely encountered a few of these legends that have forever changed the landscape of gaming. From the pixelated battles of the '90s to the sophisticated modern titles, the genre has evolved while maintaining its popularity. In this list, we'll reminisce about 30 of the greatest shooters that have etched their names into gaming history.

Table of Content ---

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 top 30 shooters was no small feat. Our criteria included:

• Influence on the Industry: These games set benchmarks still followed today.
• Gameplay and Mechanics: Unique experiences that defined their eras.
• Popularity and Legacy: Titles that continue to inspire developers.
• Atmosphere: Visuals, style, and the overall feel of the gameplay.

Let’s dive into the selections that made the cut.

Escape from Tarkov

Image: gamerjournalist.com
Metascore: tbd
Developer: Battlestate Games
Release Date: July 27, 2017
Download: Official Page

A hardcore survival shooter in its purest form, Escape from Tarkov combines realism, tactics, and adrenaline into one thrilling package. Set in a devastated city, players face death at every turn—be it from enemies, supply shortages, or poor decisions. Losing all gear upon death adds tension to every firefight. This is a game for those who cherish survival, intense shootouts, and heart-stopping pressure.

Ultrakill

Image: dreadcentral.com
Metascore: tbd
Developer: New Blood Interactive
Release Date: September 3, 2020
Download: Steam

Ultrakill brings non-stop action to the forefront, drawing inspiration from '90s classics but with modern mechanics. Demons, blood, and endless ammo fuel the chaos, pushing players to move and act quickly. A combo system reminiscent of Devil May Cry encourages stylish play, while unique mechanics—like restoring health via melee kills—make every firefight unforgettable. This isn’t just a retro shooter; it’s the epitome of pure gaming bliss for those who love speed, style, and controlled chaos.

Rainbow Six Siege

Image: playstation.com
Metascore: 73
Developer: Ubisoft
Release Date: December 1, 2015
Download: Steam

Turning tactical shooters into a tense chess match, Rainbow Six Siege emphasizes strategy, communication, and adaptability. Operators with unique gadgets and roles ensure evolving tactics, whether it’s trapping windows, placing cameras, or busting through walls. The game’s complexity weeds out casual players, making each match a test of skill and teamwork. Thanks to its influence, Siege remains a staple in esports and tactical shooters.

Fortnite

Image: insider.razer.com
Metascore: 78
Developer: Epic Games
Release Date: July 21, 2017
Download: Fortnite

Fortnite isn’t just a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Combining building mechanics, updates, and a unique visual style, it became one of the most popular games in history. Its battle royale mode introduced a new twist: the ability to build structures on the fly. This shift required more tactics, agility, and shooting skills. Collaborations, events, and concerts have turned Fortnite into a global gaming platform.

[Continue Formatting the Rest of the List in Similar Fashion]