The best FPS games have been a centric part of gaming culture. It all started way back in 1993 when software made Doom, the big daddy of all the FPS shooters.
The concept was rather simple, a man goes around a annihilates demons with a huge gun. But what was different from all the other games of its time was the perspective.
Instead of a spring arm camera for a third-person shooter, Doom showed you what your character saw, and that was the birth of the First Person genre.
Since then, after over two decades of FPS games, we’ve come a long way and the newer FPS games are a testament to that fact. But the core of all the best FPS games still carries the spirit of the original Doom.
Today, we’re counting down the best FPS games you can play in 2023. We’ve got a bit of everything, from narrative-focused FPS to fast-paced competitive titles, we covered it all! So let’s get into it.
Best FPS Games
1. Doom Eternal

- Release Date: 20 March 2020
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Google Stadia, Microsoft Windows
Doom Eternal, released in the year 2020, is the latest iteration of the game that started the FPS genre, making it one of the best first-person shooters in the market.
The developers ‘ID Software’, built on the well-beloved 2016 reboot of the game but improved it with larger maps filled with mysteries, brutal new weapons, and a variety of demons to slay.
The story of the game goes around the rather beaten path; The planet of evils has come to capture the Earth, so as the equation stands in most action games & alien-invasion movies ‘You’re the one to save humanity!’
But what’s unique about Doom Eternal is its magnificent animations of slaying demons that fill you with a surge of power. The game has many campaigns & modes with intense & furious battles, so have a blast on your mission!
Xbox Download Link
Steam Download Link
2. Half-Life 2

- Release Date: 16 November 2004
- Supported Platforms: Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, PS3
A 2004 FPS game from the famous Valve studios, Half-Life 2 is arguably the best single-player FPS game for PC. Compared to the first game, Half-Life 2 doesn’t bring anything particularly new to the table but sets a higher standard in terms of storytelling and realistic game design.
The sequel engages you in its mysterious scenarios and perfectly tailored conversations. While the visuals are outdated for 2023, they were groundbreaking for its time.
The game has a great track record with eight million retail units sold overall on top of it, Half-Life 2 has won more than 50 ‘game of the year’ awards, making it a must-play.
Steam Download Link
3. Escape from Tarkov

- Release Date: 27 July 2017
- Supported Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems
Another classic MMORPG released in 2017 made its way to this prestigious list. ‘Escape from Tarkov’ is a realistic first-person action game for hardcore gamers from Battlestate Games.
The game is a unique package, starting from its story-driven prologue and ultra-realistic setting. The story resides in a region of Norvinsk, where there are different gangs in the city trying to take control over it. The conflict in Tarkov has been there for a prolonged period, and you must choose a side to end the war.
The connection to the world is lost, supply chains are shut down, and the city is in chaos already. You just have to kill, survive & escape from Tarkov in this intense-epic action FPS!
Even the tiniest of things affect the game. You run on limited ammo, your character’s speed is altered by the weight of items and so many tiny details that are otherwise ignored. It’s safe to say that Escape from Tarkov isn’t for casuals.
Download Link
4. Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege

- Release Date: 1 December 2015
- Supported Platforms: PS4 , PS5 , Xbox, Microsoft Windows
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege by Ubisoft Montreal had a ton of hype to live up to, thanks to both its predecessors and the book series that the game is based on. Ubisoft delivered to the hype and released what can be dubbed as the best multiplayer FPS.
While there isn’t any narrative, the game is filled with a ton of maps and game styles. Ubisoft kept up with all the demands of players with an array of constant updates that packed new Maps, operators, and cosmetic items. Siege is a challenging FPS that puts you in fierce close combat amidst a ton of destruction, strategic decision making, and exciting intense action.
Steam Download Link
5. Destiny 2

- Release Date: 6 September 2017
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 4, Google Stadia, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Destiny 2 is a fresh release, published in 2017. Bungie studios did a fabulous job building upon the original game. The first Destiny game was missing a compelling storyline, and that’s exactly where Destiny 2 shines. The game’s storyline is up with its smooth first-person shooter gameplay and aesthetic looks.
The multiplayer gameplay is still one of the best in the market, however, it’s tougher to find players in the lobby these days. The game is about exploring your elemental abilities as well as our solar system. So, create your guardian, collect your favorite weapons, and armor, and get ready to unleash your abilities & playstyle.
Steam Download Link
6. Bioshock

- Release Date: 21 August 2007
- Supported Platforms: PS4 , Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, PS3 , iOS
A unique & constantly evolving first-person shooter released back in 2007, ‘Bioshock’ is a genius work of storytelling. Developed by 2K studios, Bioshock presents a memorable atmosphere under the ocean, complete with assorted close combats.
The game takes you through the Rapture city, where you must survive the harsh dystopia revolvers, guns, fierce grenade launchers, chemical throwers, and even supernatural abilities. Every fight is different in Bioshock, there will be no instance where the player will face the exact encounter twice.
That’s the uniqueness & diversity of Bioshock. The game has made its permanent mark in the gaming industry, setting a benchmark for narrative-driven first-person shooter games. Plus, if. you want to experience games like Bioshock; we have just the list for you.
Steam Download Link
7. Bioshock Infinite

- Release Date: 26 March 2013
- Supported Platforms: PS3, XBOX 360, classic Mac OS, Linus, Microsoft Windows
While Bioshock took you on an adventure below the sea, Bioshock Infinite transports you above the clouds to Columbia city. Developed by irrational games and released in 2013, Bioshock Infinite is a hell-ride to enjoy.
The game is set in the times of 1912 in the city of Columbia, where you are sent to rescue Elizabeth. You start to develop a deep relationship with Elizabeth right from the get-go as you plan an escape from the Sky-City. You are provided with an assortment of brutal weapons, explosive fireballs, and devastating battlefields.
Furthermore, if that’s not enough, the game puts you through various experiences of delusional time and space in battles. Go, grab your armor & weapons, take Elizabeth to your side and pull out a daring escape!
Steam Download Link
8. Crysis

- Release Date: 13 November 2007
- Supported Platforms: PS3, XBOX 360, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, PS4
“But can it run Crysis?” If you’ve ever ventured into the PC gaming space, you must have heard that phrase. Crysis was released way back in 2007 with graphics that can go head-to-head with modern 2023 games.
But the ultra-realistic graphics and demanding specs are just the tips of what Crysis brings to the table.
The Crytek studios developed survival shooter is all about adapting on various battlefields from frozen jungles to zero-gravity zones. The story is about a rescue operation of American scientists in the Pacific region.
Allied with the US Armed forces, you must battle against the North Korean army to get your scientist back to safety, all the while fighting an alien invasion. It sounds like too much to swallow at first, but you get a nano-suit that boosts your powers and gives you extreme abilities.
The nano-suit & your abilities are the only ways to turn down this alien invasion, fight out Koreans and escape to the Homeland along with rescuing the scientists.
Steam Download Link
9. Titanfall 2

- Release Date: 28 October 2016
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One ,PC
A high-tech and one of the top-tier first-person shooter games released in 2016, Titanfall 2 fixed all the problems that its predecessor was criticized for and resulted in one of the best FPS of the decade.
Developed by Respawn Entertainment, the narrative side of the game presents a thrilling journey of rifleman Jack Cooper, who is stranded on a planet called ‘Typhon’ with his Titan (exo-suit) named ‘BT’. Jack & Titan make a great human-machine pair with a playful tussle between them.
It is a nail-biting FPS experience with the most advanced Titan technology. This sequel brings out a new single-player campaign that mainly focuses on the bond of the pilot & Titan.
But, at the same time, you can go with the old but now more advanced and intense multiplayer mode with features like new maps, 6 new Titans & new pilot abilities. So, get hold of your Titan and conquer the ‘typhon’!
Steam Download Link
10. Wolfenstein The New Order

- Release Date: 20 May 2014
- Supported Platforms: PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, IBM PC, Microsoft Windows
Released in 2014, Wolfenstein The New Order is still held in high regard for its best-in-class gunplay experience and unforgettable game moments that provide a satisfying therapy for many gamers.
The game is a reboot of the Wolfenstein franchise, a game that stood along with the original Doom. ‘Wolfenstein The New Order’ from Machine Games is a first-person shooter with a familiar but exciting storyline based in Germany.
It’s the 1960s, the axis power won the second world war, and the Nazis rule over the world. Berlin is all red with the Nazi-terror poster, topped with loudspeakers constantly repeating Nazi slogans. The game packs a thrilling adventure with high voltage action, balanced with a great storyline, and clean gameplay that is always a treat to play.
You are from a small resistance group on a mission to bring the Nazi Power down on its knees. You can do it, soldier!
Steam Download Link
11. CS: GO

- Release Date: 21 August 2012
- Supported Platforms: PS3, Xbox 360, Linux, Microsoft Windows
CS: GO is the OG of Multiplayer FPS games, the big daddy of competitive titles. Developed by Valve Studios, CS: GO is a 2012 released beast that continues its legacy in the first-person shooters.
The game holds the title of the most played FPS game with over 25 million copies sold worldwide. You either step into the shoes of Terrorists who plant a bomb or Counter-Terrorists who try to defuse the bomb, a formula that has been borrowed by countless other FPS games.
GO adds new maps, weapons, and game modes that improve on the tried and tested Counter-Strike formula. So, choose your team, defuse the bomb & wait for “counter-terrorists Win”.
Steam Download Link
12. Valorant

- Release Date: 2 June 2020
- Supported Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Rufus, Android, macOS
The recently released Valorant is a new sensation that is taking over the FPS industry. It is an action-packed character-based first-person shooter that plays like a harmonies blend between CS: GO and Overwatch.
Valorant is developed by Riot Games who don’t have any history with shooter games, but they’ve managed to deliver a top-notch title. On the contrary, Riot is a veteran of competitive esports and that’s where Valorant is heading.
Coming to the game, Valorant is a 5 versus 5 characters based tactical shooter. You need to make out-of-the-box, risky strategies to put yourself on the winning side.
The game revolves around round-based gameplay, where the winner is decided by the round victories of the team. Whichever team wins more rounds claims the victory.
Download Link
13. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered

- Release Date: 4 November 2016
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
The Remastered version released in 2016 is a perfect successor of this legendary and one of the most critically-acclaimed games in history. The ‘Raven software’ developed Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered is setting new standards with its cinematic action & intense gun gameplay.
The game has already won numerous honorable awards. You have access to the most iconic campaigns in history, all across the globe anywhere and of course, those fan favorite missions like ‘All Ghillied Up’, where you crawl into the enemy encampment in camouflage.
Call of Duty is famous for its competitive weapon range, so you have a variety of firearms. So, sergeant, get ready for the mission.
Steam Download Link
14. Left 4 Dead 2

- Release Date: 17 November 2009
- Supported Platforms: Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, Classic Mac OS, Linux
The Renowned Valve Studios is back on the list with ‘Left 4 Dead 2’. Left 4 Dead is the OG zombie apocalypse franchise. The sequel keeps up with its original version in terms of entertainment and shooting experience.
Left 4 Dead 2 never runs out of fun with its five new campaign maps which can be enjoyed with five different game modes. The highly anticipated sequel delivers up to its expectations.
You are provided with varieties of upgradable weapons. You are tasked with rescuing yourself from the Apocalypse and killing all those infected to end this never-ending zombie virus!
Steam Download Link
15. Fortnite

- Release Date: 25 July 2017
- Supported Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, PS4, Xbox One, Android, iOS, Mac OS
This 2017 released Battle Royale game ‘Fortnite’ grabbed its position in the industry very quickly. Developed by ‘Epic Games’, Fortnite is the biggest Battle Royale game that influenced the world like no other game ever could. Fortnite makes its own league by forgoing the traditional format and adapting to the new fashion.
The game packs a vivid color palette, famous characters, and funky emotes. The standout feature of the game is its freeform building system which is unlike any other multiplayer FPS in the competition. Fortnite is efficient with its innovations, including alternative games like Fortnite are worth checking out. You get a funky party bus instead of that old military plane, and you land on the colorful island instead of those devastated battlefields.
16. PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds

- Release Date: 23 March 2017
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One
We know for a fact that PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds did not invent the last-person standing Battle Royale formula, that title is reserved for Minecraft Hunger games.
But in the development process, the developers of the game made it almost perfect. The 2017 released game is continuously improving with the help of Brendon Greene, the Creator of the Battle Royale game modes. PUBG is perfect with its player-to-player smooth conversation between the whole survival and intense squad versus squad battles.
The wide range of weapons, numerous game modes, a handful of diverse maps & competitive missions takes the game ahead of its competition.
Download Link
17. Halo 3

- Release Date: 25 September 2007
- Supported Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows
Halo is the unofficial mascot of Xbox. The third game of the trilogy. released in the year 2007, continues the fight with the Master Chief. The storyline of the game starts from the point where ‘Halo 2’ left off.
Developers Ruffian games worked really well on its storyline to make it a thrilling and exciting package of alien invasion drama. The covenants, the human race, the secret hidden under the African sands, and much more are there to keep your adrenaline rushing.
You’re there to put a stop to this human-covenant conflict. You’re the one who holds the future of this planet Earth in your hand. As always, Halo also packs a thrilling multiplayer component that was further refined in Halo 3.
Steam Download Link
18. Overwatch

- Release Date: 24 May 2016
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Overwatch can be regarded as the big daddy of character-based shooters. It was the first game where each character was blessed with its own unique defense and offense abilities.
Character choice made a huge impact on the victory rate of your team. Overwatch features multiple game modes, a vibrant & colorful game environment, and team coordination.
The game provides you with a variety of characters having a certain playstyle and different abilities. The constant updates and newly added maps keep the game fresh and entertaining even years after release.
Download Link
19. Borderlands

- Release Date: 20 October 2009
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, Classic Mac OS
Borderlands is a fun and frantic looter shooter experience released way back in 2009. The Gearbox Software developed ‘Borderlands’ is full of erratic madness. The evil corporations are taking over the poor planets of the Galaxy.
You have been given a map and it’s your job to save those planets from destruction. There are four characters to choose from namely FL4K, Amara, Moze & Zane. They all have their special skills and abilities. While it sounds like a plain old ‘Hero’s Journey’ game, the adventure is quite wacky with tons of memorable moments and villains.
So, choose your favorite & enjoy your loot & shoot experience on the planet of Pandora.
Steam Download Link
20. Metro Exodus

- Release Date: 15 February 2019
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia
Metro Exodus released in the recent year of 2019 is an epic, story-based FPS from 4A Games. The game is set in the year 2036, at a time where the world is still recovering from the nuclear war devastation that took place 25 years prior to the events of the game.
Step into the shoes of Artyom, who has survived under the ruins of Moscow in the tunnels of Metro, thus the name. You have to lead the Rangers on an incredible continent-spanning journey to the east! Metro Exodus is a really good blend of survival, exploration genre with deadly combats & horror action experience.
Steam Download Link
21. Payday 2

- Release Date: 13 August 2013
- Supported Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
The Overkill studio production Payday 2 is a 2013 release. Payday 2 is a highly addictive co-op action shooter game. Play with four other friends and choose between different characters from the Payday Crew namely Dallas, Wolf, Chains, and Hoxton.
You are on the run because of your previous crimes and still working for the CrimeNet network. There’s a range of criminal contracts on offer, you’re free to choose from anything, from kidnapping all the way to something as extreme as bank robbery. Payday 2 is also a favorite because it lets you customize your own guns & gears.
Steam Download Link
22. Battlefield V

- Release Date: 9 November 2018
- Supported Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
A perfect & unique portrayal of world war 2 is what we can see in this 2018 released edition of Battlefield V. Dice studios built an immersive battlefield experience with a lot of action and exciting storytelling of an epic conflict.
Battlefield V lends the player a vast arsenal of 17 primary weapons, 4 different vehicles, and many more things that you need to take charge of the Battlefield.
You have to assemble the force of customized soldiers, upgrade your weapons and vehicles to finally take them on the epic journey throughout the whole World War 2. The historical accuracy of the weapons and vehicle is what makes Battlefield 2 stand apart from other WW2 shooters.
Steam Download Link
23. Superhot

- Release Date: 25 February 2016
- Supported Platforms: Linux, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Google Stadia, Nintendo Switch
Time moves when you move, that’s the concept of Superhot. While there aren’t any fancy graphics or immersive narratives, the concept itself is so interesting that Superhot secured a place on this list.
So, basically, your every move has to be calculated in this innovative first-person shooter. The game gives you an unfair disadvantage where you’re just outnumbered and outgunned.
You have to plan every move accordingly. Superhot is really smooth with its gameplay, really aesthetic with its cinematic shots and that’s what keeps you glued & focused in this game.
If you’re feeling fancy, Superhot also has a VR port that further immerses you in this unique world.
Steam Download Link
What Is The Best FPS For Gaming?
The best FPS for gaming is a complicated question to answer. Which is better- Apples or oranges? Playstation or Xbox? Sleek or pronounced? The answer to all these questions boils down to personal preferences.
Similarly, the best FPS for you boils down to personal preferences. Do you like story-driven games or competitive titles? Futuristic or realistic?
That being said, Valorant is the top-grossing and most popular FPS game in 2023. It’s a free-to-play competitive FPS that has garnered millions of players since its release. The developer, Riot Games, is making a push to make Valorant the next big thing in competitive esports.
FPS games have been a staple of the gaming industry since their inception. Going all the way back to the early 90s with the original Doom & Wolfenstein up to 2021 with Valorant and Titanfall 2, FPS video games have evolved a ton.
Now, there are multiple sub-genres of FPS games all the way from historic titles such as Battlefield V to narrative-focused titles such as Titanfall 2 to purely competitive titles such as Valorant and everything in between.
We’ve had some wacky titles in there such as Borderlands and a few hyper-realistic titles such as Escape from Tarkov that blur the difference between reality and the world behind the screen.
Nonetheless, the essence of all FPS remains the same, the sensation of being in the action. Be it the first Doom game or the latest Call of Duty, despite being worlds apart (literally) both of the games focus on putting your right in the middle of an adrenaline-pumped action where you see the world from the eyes of the character you’re controlling.