10 Best First Person Games With No Guns

FPS games are usually about one thing and one thing only. Violence.

In many first-person shooter (FPS) games, players are invited to engage enemies directly, using an array of weapons such as guns, explosives, tactical knives, and so forth. The objective is often to neutralize them with bullets until they meet their end. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that not every FPS game is centered around violence, gore, or excessive bloodshed to maintain player engagement.

Indeed, numerous modern first-person shooter (FPS) games deviate from conventional styles, incorporating violence and gunplay, offering a unique gaming experience that significantly differs from high-octane series such as Call of Duty or Battlefield.

It may seem strange to consider a shooter game without any shooting, but let me demonstrate that engaging gameplay doesn’t always rely on bullets or ballistics.

Or, for a more colloquial version: Whoa, a shooter game with no shooting? Sounds crazy, right? But trust me, I’m gonna show you it’s possible to keep players hooked without all that gunfire!

Instead of filling the list with walking simulations and medieval combat festivals, we’ve opted for First-Person games that offer an experience similar to shooters, delivering intense, fast-paced action in real-time.

10. Portal

Portals For Ammo

Kick-starting our journey is a towering figure from the puzzle genre, often hailed as the greatest puzzle game that has graced our screens by many.

As a gamer, I can tell you that Portal is a game where you wield a peculiar device, seen through my own eyes as the protagonist. This device isn’t your typical firearm for blasting foes; rather, it’s a portal gun used to establish gateways, allowing me to swiftly transport from one location to another in the blink of an eye.

With this feature, gamers can harness the powerful physics system within the game to propel themselves to discover hidden regions, move objects onto interactive triggers, and so on. Plus, it offers a witty, captivating dystopian storyline that’s simply charming.

You can experience the thrill of aiming and firing a gun, plus the satisfaction of solving puzzles for that delightful “Ah-ha” realization. What could be better?

9. Boomerang X

Why Shoot When You Can Throw?

Boomerang X.

In this action-packed game, you’ll experience a unique blend of first-person shooter (FPS) gameplay and platform navigation. However, unlike traditional FPS games, you won’t be wielding guns; instead, boomerangs will be your tools for both defeating adversaries and traversing the environment.

With the enchanting prowess of this boomerang, you’ll find yourself capable of untangling puzzles, confronting adversaries, performing quick teleports, and even temporarily freezing time. Similar to many first-person shooter games, it’s simple to start playing, but mastery requires precision and swiftness as both are crucial factors.

This game is incredibly important, and it’s no wonder that it has been widely adopted for speedrunning. Its mechanics are smooth and enjoyable to experiment with, making perfect sense for its popularity.

This brief game might not appeal equally to everyone, but if you’re seeking a first-person shooter (FPS) experience that focuses on fundamental aspects of shooting without relying heavily on conventional firearms, then this could be just what you’re looking for.

8. Horizon: Call Of The Mountain

POV: Hiding In Long Red Grass

As a dedicated enthusiast, I must admit that it sometimes seems like virtual reality (VR) is still merely a budding idea, but let’s not forget its truth. Compared to the immersive, fully realized worlds that traditional games have consistently delivered, VR has yet to offer an equivalent experience in full bloom.

In contrast, there are specific genres and specialized areas where this medium truly excels, and VR Shooter games are undeniably among them. Yet, the VR adaptation linked to the Horizon series demonstrates that success isn’t solely tied to the use of weapons; it can be achieved without them as well.

In this VR experience, although you’re not portraying Aloy, the franchise’s main character, you possess an equally sharp eye for archery. Therefore, whenever the situation calls for it, you’ll find yourself using bows to hit targets, solve mysteries, and eliminate pesky mechanical enemies that might otherwise pose a threat or become your meal.

In addition to its finely-tuned archery controls, this game boasts some of the most thrilling climbing mechanics ever seen in video games. For those seeking an engaging first-person shooter experience without the complexities of ballistics, this makes for an excellent choice.

7. Cryptmaster

Type To Survive

Among all the games listed here, this one is the farthest from a typical shooter game. Yet, because of its rapid, real-time battles and distinct structure, I found it intriguing enough to merit a mention as something unexpected or unconventional, even if for no other reason.

In the game named Cryptmaster, your primary method of protection is typing. You’ll assume command over four revived warriors, and by uncovering specific words related to their abilities and past, you can execute various actions.

During battles, you find yourself rapidly entering commands for precise attacks, and as the game unfolds, this action turns into a strategic and thoughtful process.

Incorporate these elements – the outstanding writing, the mysterious, cryptic ambiance, the superior wit, and challenging brain teasers – and you get a game that strikes you in various ways.

For individuals with dyslexia, this game may prove challenging, almost like a nightmarish experience. On the other hand, if you possess a knack for words and enjoy first-person shooter games, this could be an ideal game for you.

6. Hardspace: Shipbreaker

Trading Pistols For Plasma Cutters

If you’re not up for battling countless monsters, there are some first-person shooter games that reduce the intensity of combat but still preserve many of the core mechanics.

In Hardspace Shipbreaker, you assume the role of an interstellar engineer working for Lynx Corporation. To clear your significant financial obligations, you’ll be tasked with dismantling spacecrafts for their valuable components.

Adjusting to the first few hours of using tools in zero gravity without getting disoriented can be quite challenging. But once you get past that initial learning curve, you’ll find yourself effortlessly chipping away at your tasks, even enjoying it. That is, unless you encounter a hazard and unfortunately meet an explosive end.

Well, that’s simply a part of the responsibilities here. If you’re seeking a different profession or an extraterrestrial job market isn’t offering what you’re looking for, then this could be exactly what you’re searching for!

5. Ghostrunner

Can’t Shoot What You Can’t Catch

In a captivating twist, Ghostrunner takes place within a bleak, futuristic urban landscape – a cyberpunk worldscape. It’s hardly surprising that, amid the technological debris of this city, firearms are an integral part of the gameplay experience.

Openly discussing, the Ghostrunner game heavily incorporates weapons that resemble guns, yet in the course of play, you’ll never find yourself handling them. Considering the setting, why should a futuristic ninja require guns at all?

In this game, you’ll find yourself navigating through a parkour-style environment reminiscent of Mirror’s Edge, requiring you to wall-run, jump across platforms, slide, and use your katana to dodge bullets as you strive to live and prosper in a harsh and unforgiving universe.

In this game, maintaining impeccable agility and staying vigilant about your surroundings is crucial to avoid unexpected harm. Essentially, it’s a fast-paced first-person shooter experience, minus the gunfire sounds.

4. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Magic Over Machine Guns

If you haven’t experienced the injury of an arrow wound to your knee while serving as a guard in Whiterun, it’s likely that you’ve played Skyrim and adopted the stealth archer persona, as this is generally how one should approach and enjoy this renowned role-playing game.

This game’s best class is often preferred due to its exceptional effectiveness at swiftly and quietly eliminating dungeon threats, making it less likely to attract unwanted attention while archery is in use.

As a gamer, I can tell you, you’ve got two options: You can lurk in the shadows, let loose with some arrows here and there, and before you realize it, you’ll be the last one standing, ready to claim the treasures hidden within that dungeon. And if flinging fireballs is more your speed, there’s an enchanting magic system at your disposal too.

In essence, Skyrim is like Fallout, a first-person shooter game developed by Bethesda, but instead of modern firearms, it features medieval weaponry. If you’re open to swapping out your pistol for a longbow, this could be the perfect choice if you’re seeking an adventure that’s similar to an FPS game.

3. Ghostwire: Tokyo

A Sublime Supernatural Showcase

A Ghostwire: Tokyo promo screenshot showing a character with a horned, disappointed-looking mask.

Ghostwire Tokyo, created by renowned designer Shinji Mikami, is a somewhat overlooked open-world game. Yet, it offers an extraordinary, dreamlike adventure that’s truly worth experiencing.

As a dedicated fan, I’d say the game provides a semi-linear mission setup that’s both inviting and challenging, immersing me in a chilling, intriguing supernatural environment. Plus, there’s an abundance of off-the-beaten-path content that adds depth without feeling like tedious tasks to conquer.

In contrast, I’d contend that the most captivating feature in Ghostwire Tokyo lies in its first-person shooter-style mechanics, enabling you to summon spells and magic using the power of the spirit dwelling within you.

It’s much the same as winning over opponents with signature Naruto hand movements, and it’s every bit as thrilling and rewarding as you might imagine.

As a passionate gamer, I can confidently say that this game is far from perfect, with its share of highs and lows. Yet, I firmly believe it’s been undervalued since its release. So, if you haven’t already, dive into the unknown and experience the paranormal thrill this game offers.

2. Powerwash Simulator

Dirt Is The Enemy

Although it may appear unexpected, given that this game has zero combative elements, think about it: a Powerwasher functions similarly to a firearm, as it’s designed for blasting away dirt. So, in essence, it shares some characteristics with conventional shooting games.

In the game Powerwash Simulator, you’ll be navigating through an assortment of peculiar, grimy stages, and your mission is to meticulously eradicate every speck of grime using your powerwasher and a variety of attachments from every hidden corner.

This results in a scenario where you must determine the ideal approach to access a challenging location, possibly involving elevated platforms equipped with ladders for difficult-to-reach spots, and requiring precision when controlling your water flow. This should be familiar territory for seasoned first-person shooter players.

This game offers a less intense, relaxed playing experience compared to most first-person shooter (FPS) games available today. If you’re looking for a game with a more subdued pace, then this could be the perfect ‘shooter’ for you.

1. Dishonored

If You’re Shooting, Something’s Gone Wrong

To set the record straight at the outset, it’s important to note that Dishonored offers a wide array of weapons and supernatural abilities for taking down opponents.

However, I’d contend that if you end up killing any character in this sneaking-focused game, you might be playing it incorrectly.

In simpler terms, Dishonored is an exceptionally flexible stealth game that offers numerous routes to victory, plenty of options for diverting or calming adversaries, and the most enticing aspect – you can complete the entire adventure without ever firing a single shot.

In Dunwall, you have the ability to teleport stealthily to evade notice, you can employ sleeping darts to send guards off for a peaceful slumber, and it’s possible to eliminate your targets without causing any harm.

In this game, it’s best to play as a ghost, invisible and silent, which makes it an excellent choice for first-person shooter (FPS) enthusiasts looking for a change from the usual gunplay.

2025-01-06 20:39