Best Shooter games on Steam
Unlike generic lists, our strategy game recommendations use a rigorous analysis of Steam user reviews to identify and feature only the best, community-validated shooter games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free shooter games are available at the bottom of the page.
Chicken Shoot Gold
This tiresome bunch of feathered troublemakers is not giving any peace. Stop this hostile destruction from these rampaging roosters in Arcade mode, or fight against the clock in Classic mode in three difficulty levels.Day of Defeat
Enlist in an intense brand of Axis vs. Allied teamplay set in the WWII European Theatre of Operations. Players assume the role of light/assault/heavy infantry, sniper or machine-gunner class, each with a unique arsenal of historical weaponry at their disposal. Missions are based on key historical operations.Mafia
It’s 1930. After an inadvertent brush with the mafia, cabdriver Tommy Angelo is reluctantly thrust into the world of organized crime. Initially, he is uneasy about falling in with the Salieri family, but soon the rewards become too big to ignore.Deathmatch Classic
Enjoy fast-paced multiplayer gaming with Deathmatch Classic (a.k.a. DMC). Valve's tribute to the work of id software, DMC invites players to grab their rocket launchers and put their reflexes to the test in a collection of futuristic settings.Half-Life: Blue Shift
Made by Gearbox Software and originally released in 2001 as an add-on to Half-Life, Blue Shift is a return to the Black Mesa Research Facility in which you play as Barney Calhoun, the security guard sidekick who helped Gordon out of so many sticky situations.Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne
Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne is a violent, film-noir love story. Dark, tragic and intense, the in-depth story is a thrill-ride of shocking twists and revelations. Love hurts.Counter-Strike
Play the world's number 1 online action game. Engage in an incredibly realistic brand of terrorist warfare in this wildly popular team-based game. Ally with teammates to complete strategic missions. Take out enemy sites. Rescue hostages. Your role affects your team's success. Your team's success affects your role.Half-Life: Opposing Force
Return to the Black Mesa Research Facility as one of the military specialists assigned to eliminate Gordon Freeman. Experience an entirely new episode of single player action. Meet fierce alien opponents, and experiment with new weaponry. Named 'Game of the Year' by the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences.Team Fortress Classic
One of the most popular online action games of all time, Team Fortress Classic features over nine character classes -- from Medic to Spy to Demolition Man -- enlisted in a unique style of online team warfare. Each character class possesses unique weapons, items, and abilities, as teams compete online in a variety of game play modes.Half-Life
Named Game of the Year by over 50 publications, Valve's debut title blends action and adventure with award-winning technology to create a frighteningly realistic world where players must think to survive. Also includes an exciting multiplayer mode that allows you to play against friends and enemies around the world.Arma 2
Building on 10 years of constant engine development, ARMA II boasts the most realistic combat environment in the world. It models real world ballistics & round deflection, materials penetration, features a realtime day/night cycle and dynamic wind, weather and environmental effects.Resident Evil 6 Benchmark Tool
Download the official Resident Evil 6 PC Benchmark and see if your system is ready for Capcom's latest installment of the Resident Evil franchise!Shadow Warrior Classic (1997)
Strap on your combat sandals...Lo Wang is coming to the Land of the Rising Sun to turn out the lights. Experience total blood immersion. If you can't touch, kill or drive something...then blow it away! Whether you're wielding shurikens, an Uzi, or a freshly plundered Guardian head...you've got your work cut out for you.Serious Sam Fusion 2017 (beta)
Serious Sam Fusion is a central hub for several existing Serious Sam games developed by Croteam. Cool new features, engine upgrades, patches and updates will be released to existing owners for FREE!Shooter games are a staple in the gaming world, known for their fast-paced action and competitive gameplay. Whether you're blasting enemies in a single-player campaign or teaming up with friends in multiplayer modes, shooters offer an adrenaline rush that keeps players coming back for more.
What Makes a Great Shooter Game?
Gameplay Mechanics
Smooth controls and responsive gameplay are crucial. Players want to feel in control, whether they're aiming, shooting, or dodging.
Graphics
Stunning visuals can enhance immersion. Great art design and realistic graphics can make the game world feel alive.
Story
While not all shooters focus on narrative, a compelling story can add depth and keep players engaged.
Multiplayer Options
Many players enjoy competing against others. A solid multiplayer experience with various modes can significantly boost a game's appeal.
Community and Updates
A strong community and regular updates keep the game fresh. Developers who listen to player feedback and introduce new content can maintain interest over time.
How to Find More Shooter Games
If you're looking for more shooter games, our site makes it easy! You can explore various categories and use filters to narrow down your search. Whether you're interested in tactical shooters, battle royales, or classic FPS games, our curated lists will help you find exactly what you're looking for. Don't forget to check out user reviews and ratings to see what others think!
What are the best shooter games for beginners?
If you're new to shooter games, consider titles like Titanfall® 2 or Halo: The Master Chief Collection. They offer friendly gameplay mechanics and are pretty simple to learn.
What are the differences between single-player and multiplayer shooters?
Single-player shooters focus on a story-driven experience, allowing you to play at your own pace and immerse yourself in the game's narrative. They often feature campaigns with missions and objectives. Multiplayer shooters, on the other hand, emphasize competition against other players. They usually offer various game modes, such as team deathmatch or battle royale, where you can test your skills against real opponents. Both types have their own appeal, so it really depends on what you're in the mood for!
How often do shooter games get updates?
The frequency of updates can vary by game. Popular titles like Apex Legends™ and Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six® Siege often receive regular updates, including new content, balance changes, and bug fixes. Developers typically listen to community feedback, so if a game has an active player base, you can expect ongoing support and improvements.
The world of shooter games on Steam is vast and exciting, offering something for everyone. Whether you prefer intense single-player campaigns or competitive multiplayer matches, there's a game out there for you.
Most played shooter games on Steam
Take a look at the top shooter games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of April 30th 2025.
1. Counter-Strike 2
For over two decades, Counter-Strike has offered an elite competitive experience, one shaped by millions of players from across the globe. And now the next chapter in the CS story is about to begin. This is Counter-Strike 2. Counter-Strike 2 is a fps, shooter and multiplayer game developed and published by Valve. Released on August 21st 2012 has received 8,740,794 reviews of which 7,583,945 were positive and 1,156,849 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played shooter game, thanks to its 630,905 peak concurrent players over the last day.2. Apex Legends™
Apex Legends is the award-winning, free-to-play Hero Shooter from Respawn Entertainment. Master an ever-growing roster of legendary characters with powerful abilities, and experience strategic squad play and innovative gameplay in the next evolution of Hero Shooter and Battle Royale. Apex Legends™ is a free to play, battle royale and multiplayer game developed by Respawn and published by Electronic Arts. Released on November 04th 2020 has received 988,584 reviews of which 663,861 were positive and 324,723 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.7 out of 10. While seeing 55,172 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among shooter games based on player count.3. Crosshair X
Overlay custom crosshairs on every game you play. Choose from thousands of unique crosshairs created by the Crosshair X community or design your own using the designer. Crosshair X is a action, indie and adventure game developed and published by CenterPoint Gaming. Released on August 17th 2020 has received 30,201 reviews of which 28,200 were positive and 2,001 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. While seeing 42,485 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among shooter games based on player count.4. Team Fortress 2
Nine distinct classes provide a broad range of tactical abilities and personalities. Constantly updated with new game modes, maps, equipment and, most importantly, hats! Team Fortress 2 is a free to play, hero shooter and multiplayer game developed and published by Valve. Released on October 10th 2007 has received 1,153,316 reviews of which 1,034,614 were positive and 118,702 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 35,558 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played shooter games.5. Left 4 Dead 2
Set in the zombie apocalypse, Left 4 Dead 2 (L4D2) is the highly anticipated sequel to the award-winning Left 4 Dead, the #1 co-op game of 2008. This co-operative action horror FPS takes you and your friends through the cities, swamps and cemeteries of the Deep South, from Savannah to New Orleans across five expansive campaigns. Left 4 Dead 2 is a zombies, co-op and fps game developed and published by Valve. Released on November 16th 2009 has received 955,598 reviews of which 932,058 were positive and 23,540 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. With 17,964 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played shooter games.6. Arma Reforger
Experience authentic Cold War combat and join the struggle for the sprawling, mid-Atlantic island of Everon and its smaller, offshore territory, Arland – or take on the role of Game Master and create your very own scenarios for others to enjoy. Arma Reforger is a military, simulation and action game developed and published by Bohemia Interactive. Released on November 16th 2023 has received 27,917 reviews of which 20,990 were positive and 6,927 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.4 out of 10. With 11,247 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played shooter games.7. THE FINALS
Join THE FINALS, the world-famous, free-to-play, combat-centered game show! Fight alongside your teammates in virtual arenas that you can alter, exploit, and even destroy. Build your own playstyle in this first-person shooter to win escalating tournaments and lasting fame. THE FINALS is a destruction, free to play and shooter game developed and published by Embark Studios. Released on December 07th 2023 has received 227,357 reviews of which 176,572 were positive and 50,785 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. With 10,633 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played shooter games.8. Arma 3
Experience true combat gameplay in a massive military sandbox. Deploying a wide variety of single- and multiplayer content, over 20 vehicles and 40 weapons, and limitless opportunities for content creation, this is the PC’s premier military game. Authentic, diverse, open - Arma 3 sends you to war. Arma 3 is a military, action and multiplayer game developed and published by Bohemia Interactive. Released on September 12th 2013 has received 281,978 reviews of which 254,964 were positive and 27,014 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. With 7,328 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played shooter games.9. Counter-Strike
Play the world's number 1 online action game. Engage in an incredibly realistic brand of terrorist warfare in this wildly popular team-based game. Ally with teammates to complete strategic missions. Take out enemy sites. Rescue hostages. Your role affects your team's success. Your team's success affects your role. Counter-Strike is a action, fps and multiplayer game developed and published by Valve. Released on November 01st 2000 has received 249,437 reviews of which 243,044 were positive and 6,393 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 6,536 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played shooter games.10. Counter-Strike: Source
Counter-Strike: Source blends Counter-Strike's award-winning teamplay action with the advanced technology of Source™ technology. Counter-Strike: Source is a shooter, fps and action game developed and published by Valve. Released on November 01st 2004 has received 181,503 reviews of which 174,736 were positive and 6,767 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 6,167 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played shooter games.Best deals on shooter games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of shooter games available on Steam right now, updated on April 30th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted shooter games.
1. Fashion Police Squad
Even at this moment, our fashionable city is under assault. Baggy pants, dull suits, sightings of socks with sandals. A message needs to be sent, and it needs to be sent in style... Time to serve some good ol' Fashion Justice! Fashion Police Squad is a boomer shooter, fps and arena shooter game developed by Mopeful Games and published by No More Robots. Released on August 15th 2022 has received 1,360 reviews of which 1,198 were positive and 162 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Featuring a massive 95% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for shooter category.2. Freedom Fighters
Freedom Fighters is an intense third-person action game set in an alternate history New York during the invasion of a foreign superpower. Take on the role of Chris Stone, a hard-working plumber, and rise through the ranks of the resistance to prove yourself as a charismatic leader. Freedom Fighters is a action, third-person shooter and shooter game developed and published by IO Interactive A/S. Released on September 21st 2020 has received 2,083 reviews of which 1,974 were positive and 109 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.0 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 93% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in shooter games.3. ShootMania Storm
ShootMania the FPS “Powered By Players”ShootMania Storm is revolutionizing the multiplayer FPS by adding a community dimension and unlimited replayability. Developed by the Nadeo studio, renowned for community racing game, TrackMania, ShootMania Storm boasts quick-fire matches and epic battles, where only your talent will distinguish you... ShootMania Storm is a action, shooter and fps game developed by Nadeo and published by Ubisoft. Released on April 10th 2013 has received 852 reviews of which 727 were positive and 125 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 93% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in shooter games.4. Hot Brass
As an elite SWAT operator, think fast and put your tactics to the test to master a series of missions and save lives. Summon your team of up to four players in online and local co-op, or hone your skills solo. Don’t just be the best—be the best of the best. Hot Brass is a real time tactics, stealth and crime game developed by Walk with Kings and published by Treasure Hunters FanClub. Released on February 26th 2021 has received 641 reviews of which 485 were positive and 156 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 93% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for shooter games.5. Ziggurat
Dungeon-Crawling First Person Shooting at its finest! Fast-paced combat! Dozens of perks, spells and enemies! Level ups! Random Dungeons! Traps! Badass bosses! Carrots! Ziggurat is a rogue-lite, action and shooter game developed and published by Milkstone Studios. Released on October 23rd 2014 has received 3,855 reviews of which 3,308 were positive and 547 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.3 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 92% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for shooter games.6. Crime Boss: Rockay City
Crime Boss: Rockay City is a 1-4 player co-op FPS heist game with enjoyable stealth and epic killing spree combat. Featuring a solo roguelike campaign that combines FPS and strategy elements with the most hilariously cheesy voice acting that make you laugh. Crime Boss: Rockay City is a action, shooter and fps game developed by INGAME STUDIOS and published by 505 Games. Released on June 18th 2024 has received 7,230 reviews of which 5,045 were positive and 2,185 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 92% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for shooter games.7. Back 4 Blood
Back 4 Blood is a thrilling cooperative first-person shooter from the creators of the critically acclaimed Left 4 Dead franchise. Experience the intense 4 player co-op narrative campaign, competitive multiplayer as human or Ridden, and frenetic gameplay that keeps you in the action. Back 4 Blood is a zombies, online co-op and multiplayer game developed by Turtle Rock Studios and published by Warner Bros. Games. Released on October 12th 2021 has received 67,866 reviews of which 46,414 were positive and 21,452 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 92% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for shooter games.8. Necromunda: Hired Gun
Become a Hired Gun. The money’s good, the dog’s loyal, and the gun’s reliable. Embark on a fast-paced, violent, and thrilling FPS set in the darkest reaches of Warhammer 40,000’s most infamous hive city. Necromunda: Hired Gun is a action, warhammer 40k and adventure game developed by Streum On Studio and published by Focus Entertainment. Released on May 31st 2021 has received 7,369 reviews of which 4,844 were positive and 2,525 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 92% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for shooter games.9. Sniper Elite 4
Discover unrivalled sniping freedom in the largest and most advanced World War 2 shooter ever built. Experience tactical third-person combat, gameplay choice and epic longshots across gigantic levels as you liberate wartime Italy from the grip of Fascism. Sniper Elite 4 is a sniper, action and multiplayer game developed and published by Rebellion. Released on February 13th 2017 has received 58,926 reviews of which 53,718 were positive and 5,208 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 91% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for shooter games.10. Hard Reset Extended Edition
Over-the-top destruction, loads of enemies & a beautifully realized cyberpunk setting. Hard Reset is here to shake up the shooter scene. Try the demo now. Hard Reset Extended Edition is a fps, cyberpunk and action game developed by Flying Wild Hog and published by Good Shepherd Entertainment. Released on July 12th 2012 has received 4,798 reviews of which 3,929 were positive and 869 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 90% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for shooter games.Free shooter games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play shooter games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on April 30th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play shooter games.