Reflecting on the evolution of first-person shooters (FPS), it’s evident that the genre has transformed dramatically from the days of my youth. The current gaming landscape is dominated by various online multiplayer formats, including Battle Royales, live service games, and extraction shooters, among others.
Personally, I find more joy in revisiting classic retro shooters than engaging with these contemporary iterations. While I have nothing against boomer shooters, my nostalgia is tied to the gaming experiences of my formative years.
To clarify, any FPS that was released 20 years ago or earlier falls into the retro category. It’s a startling realization that the late ’90s and early 2000s are now nearly three decades in the past!
Now, let’s shift our focus away from the relentless forward march of time and instead dive into some classic titles that could brighten the mood.
1. Doom
The Trailblazer of the FPS Genre
Although it wasn’t the very first FPS, Doom is often hailed as the father of the genre for its groundbreaking impact on gaming.
Regarded as one of the most influential PC games of all time, Doom’s gameplay continues to resonate with today’s players. The core mechanics are the backbone of the modern Doom series (Doom 2016, Eternal, Dark Ages), which showcase that fast-paced and engaging gameplay still captures gamers’ hearts.
It’s a harmonious blend of outstanding level design, memorable weapons, formidable enemies, and straightforward gameplay mechanics. The premise is simplicity itself: “grab a gun and eliminate demons” – and that’s all it needs to be. The game remains as exhilarating as its iconic soundtrack.
2. Quake 2
id Software’s Groundbreaking FPS
A discussion about Doom would be incomplete without mentioning Quake, another legendary franchise from id Software. When comparing titles, I would argue that Quake 2 is the superior game.
While the original Quake is credited as a revolutionary title, with its introduction of 3D environments, and Quake 3’s multiplayer plays a larger role in gaming today, Quake 2 encapsulates a well-rounded experience. Additionally, the first installment hasn’t aged particularly well.
Shifting from gothic horror to a more sci-fi backdrop featuring the Strogg, Quake 2’s gameplay feels notably more polished and balanced compared to its predecessor.
3. Heretic
A Fantasy Twist on Doom
Prior to Quake’s arrival in 1997, Raven Software cleverly utilized a modified Doom engine to create not just a spiritual sequel but a game that offers a truly distinct experience.
While it may seem at first that Heretic is merely a fantasy variant of Doom, Raven Software introduced substantial gameplay innovations. For instance, players can now aim in multiple directions, enhancing the overall gameplay experience, while still embracing the gothic atmosphere.
Excitingly, with Phil Spencer hinting at a revival of Hexen, the follow-up to Heretic, it presents a perfect opportunity to dive back into this beloved franchise.
4. Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory
One of the Best Multiplayer FPS Experiences
Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory was revolutionary for its time.
Building on the success of Return to Castle Wolfenstein, this free-to-play game set the standard for objective-based multiplayer action.
The objectives in this title are anything but mundane; players are challenged to storm enemy bases, blow up obstacles, commandeer tanks, and escort them to safety.
With a class-based system, every participant plays a vital role, whether it’s providing much-needed medical support, assisting with objectives as an engineer, or fulfilling the classic role of the sharpshooter.
5. Star Wars Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II
A True Star Wars Classic
Star Wars Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II blends nostalgic FPS elements with modern gaming features that resonate with today’s audiences.
This title introduces a morality system that significantly impacts gameplay and narrative progression, coupled with outstanding storytelling and impressive performances.
True to the Star Wars legacy, it combines thrilling boss fights with expansive yet manageable level design, delivering quintessential gameplay that captures the spirit of the franchise.
6. GoldenEye 007
A Classic Best Experienced Remastered
Some might claim that GoldenEye 007 has not aged gracefully, but I contend that with modern upgrades, its charm shines through.
The nostalgic awkwardness of the Nintendo 64 controller is a relic, as contemporary consoles allow for refined gameplay that enhances the experience.
This game is a masterclass in design, engaging players not only through its alignment with the GoldenEye movie plot but also through its exploration of iconic James Bond moments.
While the multiplayer mode remains iconic, a replay of the campaign reveals its remarkable pacing, heady action, and responsive controls on current systems.
7. Turok 2: Seeds of Evil
An Underappreciated Classic
Yet another noteworthy retro FPS on the N64 is Turok 2: Seeds of Evil, a sizable title packed with intricacies.
Despite having only five expansive levels, each one brims with objectives, foes, and exploration possibilities that keep players enthralled for hours.
The recent remaster effectively addresses the original game’s flaws while preserving its nostalgic charm.
The game excels in its wild and imaginative approach, embracing its sci-fi dinosaur-hunting premise, along with an arsenal featuring some of the most creative weapons in gaming history, including the notorious Cerebral Bore—perfect for those who enjoy flamboyant and over-the-top action!
8. Half-Life
Potentially The Most Groundbreaking FPS Ever
While the original Half-Life might show its age, it remains one of the most critical and influential titles in the gaming world.
Valve’s groundbreaking ability to create an immersive, cinematic FPS that fuses traditional shooting with clever puzzle-solving sets it apart from earlier games. Players face sophisticated enemy AI that enhances the combat experience, making it feel innovative.
The fan-made mod Black Mesa revitalizes the game, presenting a fresh perspective while retaining its core essence from the 1998 release.
For those seeking a title that has withstood the test of time, Half-Life 2 may offer a better experience, yet the original Half-Life remains a pivotal chapter in video game history.
9. Medal of Honor
The Cinematic Experience of a Spielberg Classic
When discussing cinematic FPS titles, Medal of Honor is often cited as a significant influencer.
Remarkably, it achieved this on the PlayStation 1’s limited hardware, demonstrating the potential for engaging gameplay experiences on consoles, particularly with the DualShock controller enhancing playability.
Producer Steven Spielberg’s influence is palpable throughout the game, helping to solidify the WWII shooter genre while proving that video games can provide a compelling cinematic narrative.
While many shooters that followed surpassed it in various aspects, Medal of Honor remains a classic that’s worth revisiting, showcasing impressive achievements for its time in 1999.
10. Halo: Combat Evolved
The Sovereign of Console FPS
Halo: Combat Evolved, released nearly 25 years ago, rightfully earns its spot as a classic.
While Medal of Honor and GoldenEye 007 set the stage, Halo took the mantle and elevated it significantly. The Xbox controller and hardware certainly played their part, yet Halo’s innate understanding of what constitutes a quintessential FPS experience was key.
The campaign remains an exemplary model for FPS design, and although other titles may boast superior visuals or immersive mechanics, Halo excels in enemy AI, core gameplay, cooperative play, and level architecture.
The multiplayer realms established in Halo continue to exemplify ideal map design, creating spaces that foster excitement and engagement for countless hours.
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