Alright, so you’re looking for the best 2021 shooter games, huh? Well, you’ve come to the right place. That year was pretty big for shooting games, with a ton of cool stuff coming out. We saw some classic series get new life, and also some fresh faces that really shook things up. Whether you like fast-paced action, tactical battles, or something a bit more chill, there was definitely a shooter for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the top picks that made 2021 a memorable year for gamers who love to pull the trigger.
Key Takeaways
- 2021 was a strong year for shooter games, offering a wide range of styles and experiences.
- Both new titles and updates to popular franchises made a mark.
- The list includes games with diverse gameplay, from intense action to more strategic play.
- Many of these games continued to be popular well beyond their release year.
- There was something for every type of shooter fan in 2021.
1. Quake
Okay, so Quake. Where do I even start? It’s one of those games that basically invented a whole genre. I remember when it first came out; it was mind-blowing. The speed, the atmosphere, the guns – everything was just so different from what we were used to. It’s wild to think about how much it influenced everything that came after. I mean, without Quake, would we even have half the shooters we love today? Probably not.
It’s not just nostalgia talking, either. I recently played the remastered version, and it still holds up. The level design is fantastic, the shooting is tight, and the whole vibe is just…right. Plus, they added new episodes, which is always a win. If you’ve never played it, you owe it to yourself to check it out. Seriously, it’s like taking a trip back to the roots of best PC games.
Here’s why it’s still awesome:
- The atmosphere is unmatched. That gothic, medieval dark fantasy setting? Still creepy and cool.
- The multiplayer is still a blast. Get some friends together and frag each other. Classic.
- The level design is top-notch. Labyrinthine and full of secrets. What’s not to love?
2. Trepang2
Trepang2 is a game that really throws you into the action right from the start. You play as a supernaturally-powered, amnesiac soldier, which is a cool setup. The main goal? Revenge. It’s a straightforward premise, but the gameplay is where it shines. Think fast-paced, intense combat scenarios that keep you on your toes. It’s not just about shooting; you’ve got to use your abilities to survive.
I remember when I first played the Trepang2 Demo. The movement felt so fluid, and the gunplay was satisfying. It’s one of those games where you feel like a total badass as you’re clearing rooms. The story is engaging enough to keep you invested, but the real draw is the adrenaline-pumping action. If you’re looking for a shooter that doesn’t hold back, Trepang2 is definitely worth checking out.
3. RoboCop
There’s something uniquely satisfying about video games that let you live out your power fantasies. In this case, you get to step into the massive metal boots of Officer Alex Murphy, better known as RoboCop. After a near-fatal incident, Murphy was rebuilt into Detroit’s finest, and most heavily armed, law enforcer. The game lets you feel like an unstoppable force of justice.
It’s not about intense difficulty; it’s about embodying a walking tank dishing out justice, one criminal at a time. Whether you’re issuing parking tickets or taking down entire gangs, RoboCop is on the case. It might not be the most complex game out there, but if you’re looking for some mindless, crime-fighting fun, you can’t do much better. Plus, there’s even a standalone Robocop DLC to add even more action to the mix.
4. Fragpunk
Okay, so Fragpunk showed up in March of 2025, making it one of the newest games on this list. It’s trying to blend the best parts of different shooters, and honestly, it’s doing a pretty good job. Think Apex Legends’ gunplay mixed with Valorant’s intensity, but with a dash of something uniquely fun. And the best part? It’s free to play!
The core twist in Fragpunk lies in its ‘Shard Cards,’ special abilities that can seriously shake up a match. These cards have varying costs and can dramatically alter how things play out. It’s a cool way to keep things fresh and unpredictable. I mean, who doesn’t love a good curveball?
Of course, being a free game, there are some microtransactions. But you can totally jump in and enjoy the game without spending a dime. If you want all the fancy gun skins or to unlock everything immediately, then yeah, you might need to open your wallet. But honestly, it’s not necessary to have a good time. You can even find Fragpunk codes for free in-game rewards.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Free to play
- Unique Shard Card mechanic
- Microtransactions are optional
- Fast-paced FPS action
I’ve been messing around with it for a bit, and it’s surprisingly addictive. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a new great FPS to sink some time into.
5. Powerwash Simulator
Okay, so maybe it’s not exactly a shooter in the traditional sense, but hear me out. Powerwash Simulator is all about precision and using high-powered water jets to obliterate grime. That’s kind of like shooting, right? It’s definitely a game that’s captured a lot of people’s attention, and for good reason. It’s weirdly satisfying.
I was skeptical at first. I mean, who wants to simulate cleaning? But after trying it, I totally get the appeal. It’s almost meditative. You just zone out and watch the dirt disappear. Plus, there’s a surprising amount of depth to it. You start with basic equipment and gradually unlock better power washing tools as you progress.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- The sheer variety of things to clean. From cars and houses to entire playgrounds, there’s always something new to blast clean.
- The satisfying sound design. The pshhhhh of the water is strangely therapeutic.
- The sense of accomplishment. Seeing a once-filthy object become sparkling clean is incredibly rewarding. It’s a great feel-good game.
And if you’re looking for even more to do, there’s DLC content like "Muckingham Files – Part 6" that adds new jobs and challenges. It’s a game that keeps on giving, in the most unexpected way. Honestly, give it a try. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
6. Warzone
Warzone throws you into Urzikstan with one simple goal: be the last squad standing. It uses the same solid gunplay as Black Ops 6, making for a tactical experience that rewards smarts just as much as shooting skills. It’s a pretty intense game, and you really need to be aware of what’s going on around you.
Squad up, drop in, and get to work. Complete contracts and clear strongholds to earn money and customize your weapons. You can even mess with your enemy’s head using proximity chat. It’s hard to argue against Warzone – it’s a comprehensive FPS that’s also free, so you have no excuse not to try it. If you don’t like making custom setups, don’t worry, there are plenty of guides out there to help you find the best Warzone loadouts.
7. Apex Legends
Created by the same team that gave us the Titanfall series, Apex Legends has been a huge hit since it launched in 2019. It started as a battle royale game, but now it has other game modes too. This 3v3 squad-based shooter has a bunch of unique Apex Legends characters trying to survive the shrinking ring and be the last team standing.
Apex Legends uses a free-to-play model, and it’s become even more popular over time thanks to regular seasonal updates. These updates come out every few months, bringing new maps, characters, and balance changes. Now, the game has several big battle royale maps and over 20 Legends to choose from. It’s a great way to spend some time, especially if you’re looking for a free game with a lot of depth. The gaming console market has definitely been impacted by the success of free-to-play titles like Apex Legends.
Here’s why Apex Legends is still a top pick:
- Constant updates keep the game fresh.
- The variety of Legends offers different playstyles.
- It’s free to play, so anyone can jump in.
8. Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 is here, and it’s… well, it’s Overwatch, but different. Announced way back in 2019, it finally launched in early access in October 2022 and officially released in August 2023. The idea was to build on the original, adding more content and features. Some people think of it as more of an update than a true sequel, but either way, it’s still a fun, colorful shooter.
The shift to 5v5 combat and the introduction of role lock have really changed the game. It feels like there’s less shield spam and more focus on actually playing the objective. Plus, the Overwatch League has shown off the game’s potential as an esport. But don’t worry if you’re not trying to go pro – it’s still easy to pick up and play for a quick match or two. It’s got that same charm that made the first game so popular. If you’re just starting out, you might want to check out some guides to see which Overwatch 2 characters are strong right now.
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, though. The new monetization system has added a bit of a grind, and some of the cosmetic items are pretty expensive. But overall, Overwatch 2 is still a blast to play. It’s got that same team-based synergy and diverse cast of characters that made the original so great. If you’re looking for a shooter that’s not afraid to be colorful and fun, Overwatch 2 is definitely worth checking out.
9. Atomfall
It shouldn’t shock anyone that the Sniper Elite people know how to make a solid shooter. Atomfall might be an RPG at its core, but it’s also an FPS, giving you the freedom to swap between different guns like shotguns, pistols, and sniper rifles. As you explore the post-apocalyptic English countryside, you’ll run into all sorts of enemies. While stealth is an option, sometimes it’s more fun to just blast through them with the best Atomfall weapons.
Atomfall does quests differently, using a leads system that ditches quest markers. You’re encouraged to talk to NPCs and really listen to what they have to say, which gives you a reason to explore the big Atomfall map. The game takes place in an alternate 1957 Britain, ravaged by nuclear fallout. It’s a weird mix of post-war Britain and sci-fi horror, and it’s definitely got a unique vibe. Think Fallout meets The Wicker Man, and you’re getting close. The game’s quests encourage exploration and investigation, moving away from the typical hand-holding found in many modern RPGs. It’s a bold move, and it really pays off in creating a sense of immersion and discovery. The collectible card game elements add another layer of depth, allowing players to customize their characters and abilities in meaningful ways.
10. Stalker 2
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a game that aims to redefine expectations for the FPS genre. Set within the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, players navigate a radioactive world filled with valuable artifacts, dangerous mutants, and deadly anomalies. You embody a lone stalker, dedicating your life to uncovering the Zone’s secrets.
Living in the Zone is a challenge due to warring factions, each with their own motives. The game offers more than just shooting; it’s about unraveling the mysteries of the Zone. The A-Life system simulates the lives of characters, even when you aren’t looking at them. It’s a pretty cool feature.
I’m really looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds and what kind of crazy stuff I’ll find in the Zone. It’s supposed to be a real step up from the first game, with better graphics and a more immersive world. I’ve been watching some gameplay videos, and it looks intense. Hopefully, it lives up to the hype!
11. Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6
Okay, so the Call of Duty franchise has been… well, it’s been doing its thing, right? Jumping from World War II to space and then battle royales. It’s been a ride. But Black Ops 6? It feels like a solid return to form. It’s bringing back that classic Black Ops vibe that a lot of us have been missing.
First off, there’s the campaign. It’s supposed to be this globe-trotting, action movie kind of deal where you’re uncovering some shady stuff within the CIA. Sounds pretty intense, right? Then you’ve got Zombies, which, let’s be honest, is a staple. It’s bringing back the round-based co-op mode that everyone knows and loves. I’m personally excited about that. I’ve spent countless hours with friends just mowing down zombies.
But let’s be real, the multiplayer is where it’s at for most people. And from what I’m hearing, Black Ops 6 is delivering. Apparently, there’s a great range of Black Ops 6 guns and some awesome maps. It’s supposed to be fast-paced, arcade-style gunplay that’s actually satisfying. I’m hoping it lives up to the hype. I’m ready to equip the best Black Ops 6 loadouts and jump in.
12. I Am Your Beast
Remember those old-school action flicks where one person takes on an army? Well, I Am Your Beast throws you right into that scenario. You play as Alphonse Harding, a retired secret agent who’s basically a one-person wrecking crew. He turns down one last mission, and that kicks off a full-blown war against his former employers.
This game is all about short, intense bursts of action. There are 20 missions designed for speedruns, and you’ve got a bunch of weapons at your disposal – assault rifles, snipers, even bear traps! Sometimes, you’re even forced to get up close and personal, using your fists or whatever you can find to take down enemies before they can call for backup. It’s a fast-paced, brutal experience that’s earned some serious praise. You can see what people are saying in the Steam reviews, and they’re pretty much glowing. It’s a fun, over-the-top shooter that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. If you enjoy tactical strategy and war games, this might be a fun diversion.
13. Doom The Dark Ages
Okay, so the Doom series? It’s kind of a big deal. And Doom: The Dark Ages? It’s switching things up again. It’s pulling back a bit from the super-fast pace of Eternal and going for something closer to Doom 2016. But, there’s a twist! We’re talking about a shield saw. Yeah, you heard that right. Medieval Doom is here, people.
But don’t think you’re just going to be doing medieval combat the whole time. This is still Doom. There are still guns. Big guns. Really big guns. If that doesn’t sell you, I don’t know what will. It’s set in Doom’s Medieval period, after all, so expect some crazy combinations of old and new.
While the modern Doom games are all great, The Dark Ages is the newest and it’s on Game Pass. So, if you have to pick just one, this is probably it. Plus, you’re going to fall in love with the Doom The Dark Ages weapons, trust me.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Medieval setting with a Doom twist
- Slower pace than Doom Eternal
- Shield saw weapon
- Still plenty of guns and gore
- Available on Game Pass
Doom: The Dark Ages blends old-school design with modern know-how to form a satisfying, unholy concoction.
14. Crysis Remastered
Don’t let the pretty graphics fool you; Crysis Remastered is more than just a visual upgrade. It’s a solid FPS with a unique nanosuit mechanic that lets you become the ultimate soldier. You play as Nomad, a special forces operative equipped with a nanosuit that gives you four main abilities: armor, speed, strength, and invisibility. It doesn’t take long to start switching between these powers to take out entire squads of enemies. It’s a blast!
The campaign in Crysis Remastered mostly holds up, although things get a little weird when the aliens show up. Still, the game is full of epic moments, and it’s still a graphical showcase, depending on your PC. The remastered version might miss some features from the original, but it makes up for it with ray tracing, DLSS, and HDR. It’s a great way to experience this classic game with updated visuals. It’s a fun experience to see how spatial computing can be used in gaming.
The nanosuit is what makes Crysis stand out from other shooters. It gives you so much flexibility in how you approach combat situations. Want to sneak past enemies? Use invisibility. Need to soak up some damage? Activate armor. Want to get to a better vantage point quickly? Crank up the speed. It’s all about adapting to the situation and using your powers creatively.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nanosuit abilities:
- Armor: Provides maximum resistance to damage.
- Speed: Increases movement and reaction time.
- Strength: Enhances melee attacks and jumping ability.
- Invisibility: Renders you nearly invisible to enemies.
15. Ghostrunner 2
Okay, so technically you don’t shoot anyone in Ghostrunner 2, but you do slash people in first person, which is just as good in my book. Set in a cyberpunk future where society has broken down, you play as a cyber ninja ready to stop the AI cult that threatens to wipe out humanity as you know it. The online game platforms market is poised for growth.
Equipped with a katana and occasionally a motorbike, you’re set with everything you need to drive through neon-soaked environments, slicing and dicing your way through robot enemies. Ghostrunner 2 does everything a great sequel should by improving on its predecessor in almost every way. It’s one of those games that just feels right, you know? The movement is fluid, the combat is tight, and the story is engaging enough to keep you hooked. I spent hours just trying to perfect my runs, shaving off milliseconds to climb those leaderboards. If you’re into fast-paced action and cyberpunk settings, this is a must-play.
16. Neon White
Okay, so Neon White is a bit of a trip. You’re a demon slayer from hell, trying to earn a spot in heaven by, well, killing other demons. Sounds simple enough, right? But the gameplay is anything but typical. The core mechanic revolves around using cards, called Soul Cards, which you collect by exploring levels or defeating enemies. These cards aren’t just for shooting; they also give you special abilities like stomping, dashing, and leaping. It’s like a super-fast puzzle game mixed with a first-person shooter.
What makes it even more interesting is the story. Neon White has amnesia, and as you play, you start piecing together his past. Plus, there’s a whole cast of other demon slayers who seem vaguely familiar, adding to the mystery. It’s a wild ride, and if you’re looking for something different, this might be it. If you are looking for exclusive hacks for other games, there are plenty of resources online.
17. Halo Infinite
Okay, so Halo Infinite came out a while ago, but it’s still a solid shooter that deserves a spot on this list. I remember when it dropped, everyone was hyped, and honestly, it mostly lived up to it. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it does enough to feel fresh while keeping that classic Halo vibe.
The grappling hook is a game-changer, letting you zip around the open-world environments like a total badass. Plus, the story actually has some emotional weight, which is a nice touch. I think the Halo Infinite weapon spawns are a refreshing contrast to other FPS multiplayer modes out there.
Here’s a quick rundown of why it’s still worth playing:
- The campaign is genuinely engaging.
- Multiplayer is free and super addictive.
- The grappling hook. Seriously, it’s awesome.
I think the biggest downside was probably the battle pass at launch, but they’ve tweaked it since then, so it’s not as much of a grind. If you’re looking for a shooter with a good mix of nostalgia and new ideas, Halo Infinite is definitely worth checking out.
Wrapping Things Up
So, there you have it. We’ve gone through a bunch of great shooter games from 2021. It was a pretty good year for shooting games, with lots of different kinds to pick from. Whether you like playing alone or with friends, there was probably something on our list that caught your eye. Hopefully, this guide helped you find your next favorite game. Now go on, grab your controller or mouse, and get ready to play!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a shooter game?
A shooter game is a type of video game where the main goal is to use guns or other weapons to defeat enemies. You usually play from a first-person view (seeing through the character’s eyes) or a third-person view (seeing the character from behind).
Was 2021 a good year for shooter games?
The year 2021 was pretty awesome for shooter games! Many new and exciting titles came out, and some older ones got cool updates, giving players lots of choices for blasting fun.
Which shooter games were considered the best in 2021?
Some of the top shooter games from 2021 include big names like Halo Infinite, Call of Duty: Vanguard, and Battlefield 2042. There were also cool indie games and remastered classics that got a lot of love.
Are games from the 2021 list still worth playing today?
Many shooter games from 2021 are still popular today! Games like Apex Legends and Warzone continue to have huge player bases, and even some single-player games from that year are still worth checking out.
How can I choose the right shooter game for me?
To pick the best shooter for you, think about what you like. Do you prefer fast-paced action, a deep story, or playing with friends? Look for games that match your style, and maybe watch some videos to see what they’re like.
Can I play these shooter games with my friends?
For sure! Many shooter games offer online multiplayer modes where you can team up with friends or compete against other players from all over the world. It adds a whole new layer of fun!