10 Best FPS Games For Non-FPS Fans

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If you’re someone who came of age during a time when few video games were available without you taking on the role of a powerful soldier blasting through adversaries, I can empathize with your discomfort towards conventional first-person shooter (FPS) games.

For a lot of players, the continuous fast-paced gameplay is thrilling. However, this style can sometimes seem repetitive, dull, or even boring to others.

Many of these games seem remarkably similar, frequently emulating war movies or popular action films, and typically offering an abundance of both stylish elements and filler material, rather than focusing on depth or originality.

However, some First-Person Shooter (FPS) games cater to both fans and those new to the genre, offering refreshing gameplay experiences within the FPS realm or introducing something completely different.

To prove that the First-Person Shooter (FPS) genre could still be enjoyable for you, I’d like to recommend some FPS games that might just win you over, even if you typically don’t favor this type of gameplay.

10.
SUPERHOT

Matrix-Style Gunplay

Theoretically, the game SUPERHOT is designed to resemble a classic First-Person Shooter (FPS) in all aspects, since it consists of multiple brief stages requiring you to eliminate a specific number of adversaries to advance, using simple melee and firearm combat techniques.

Due to the unique time-based dynamics, where time advances only when you’re active, what were once simple first-person shooter (FPS) stages now seem like intriguing puzzles to unravel.

In this context, mastering each level is similar to learning a dance. But unlike a regular dance, if you trip up on the moves here, it might be fatal for you.

This game is incredibly fashionable and easy to get into, even for those new to first-person shooters. What makes it particularly appealing is its unique departure from the contemporary military themes found in most first-person shooter games today, which makes it an essential experience to try out.

9.
Boomerang X

These ‘Rangs Got Fangs

In the situation where you’re battling groups of opponents, it’s clear that guns can be quite handy. Interestingly enough, I found out that a magical boomerang can also prove to be quite effective in such situations.

Title offers an engaging experience as you navigate a compact yet delightful arena-style game. Instead of using guns, you’ll perform thrilling aerial dashes, master precise platforming moves, and hurl a boomerang to take down your adversaries.

In this game, it’s more about keeping things moving, continually pushing forward, and choosing the right opportunities to attack and retreat, rather than focusing on pinpoint accuracy, saving ammo, or shooting from safe spots.

This game doesn’t resemble typical first-person shooter (FPS) titles at all, but it undeniably fits the genre perfectly. If past FPS experiences left you disappointed, I recommend giving this one a chance.

8.
Neon White

A Heavenly Experience

As a gaming enthusiast, let me tell you about my recent encounter with Neon White, a first-person shooter (FPS) game that’s all about maintaining that adrenaline rush. This game is the brainchild of Ben Espositio, and it offers a unique twist on time trials – a challenge only a seasoned speedrunner could appreciate.

However, because the game offers opportunities for exploration and unconventional strategies that can lead to shortcuts, all while maintaining an accessible experience, individuals without any speedrunning aptitude may still find themselves enjoying the same sense of accomplishment as those who excel at it.

In this game, the first-person shooter (FPS) element takes a back seat compared to its focus on precise movement and platform navigation. The shooting mechanics are primarily used to set off chains of events and continue your progression towards the end goal.

At certain moments, playing this game seems almost like an exhilarating racer rather than a typical first-person shooter. If you’re willing to overlook the corny dialogue, you’re likely to find yourself in for a delightful experience if you decide to play it.

7.
Portal

Life As A Lab Rat

Although Portal 2 offers a more movie-like experience with its action sequences, I believe that the original Portal, by skillfully combining first-person shooter (FPS) elements with puzzle mechanics, edges out its sequel in terms of thoughtful gameplay.

Through Portal, you can navigate Aperture Labs using a classic first-person shooter setup, except instead of firing destructive ammunition, you create portals. These portals serve as stepping stones to traverse and engage with the game’s intellectually stimulating puzzles.

Moreover, the original game effectively combines its compelling narrative, the feeling of powerlessness caused by domineering supervisors, and the amusing “cake is a lie” motif.

If you enjoy solving puzzles, this is perfect for you! It provides an excellent mental exercise. This well-known challenge won’t disappoint.

6.
Deathloop

Kill Or Be Killed

Although Deathloop shares many shooting mechanics typical of conventional first-person shooter (FPS) games, it offers significantly more than a standard shooter experience.

In essence, the shooting scenes mainly serve as triggers for the events that follow, stemming from the game’s main themes and deep elements.

Primarily, the game revolves around solving a mystery within a time loop, which can be achieved by investigating, collecting clues, and stepping back to view the complete puzzle. This perspective enables you to eliminate all your objectives and ultimately reach the end.

Additionally, the game incorporates sophisticated stealth systems akin to those found in an upcoming Arkane title, offering a similar experience.

This game might have received the Game of the Year (GOTY) award over other more worthy contenders, yet it remains an exceptional game, captivating enough to merit your playtime and focus.

5.
Pistol Whip

John Wick But Funky

It might be hard for someone to fully engage with a thrilling first-person shooter game if they’re mostly hiding and using a controller to dodge bullets instead of actively participating in the action.

But the experience significantly intensifies once the projectiles are hurtling towards you, forcing you to swiftly move around – dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodge again – to evade them.

Or even simpler: The gameplay gets more intense when bullets start flying at you, requiring quick maneuvers to dodge them.

In essence, Pistol Whip is a first-person VR shooter game where you dodge bullets, engage enemies using dual pistols, and groove to great music all at the same time.

However, what makes this arcade shooter stand out is that it rewards players not just for accuracy, but also for timing their shots with the rhythm of the music. In other words, it’s less about being an expert marksman, and more about mastering the dance of bullets and beats.

Imagine blending the rhythmic excitement of Dance Dance Revolution with the action-packed thrill of Time Crisis, and you’ll come pretty close to the experience. But if this combination doesn’t strike you as fun, I’m at a loss for other ways to describe it.

4.
Atomfall

Cor, Blimey

Rebellion is generally recognized for their contemporary First-Person Shooter (FPS) series titled Sniper Elite. In case you’re unaware, this series embodies the essence of FPS games more accurately than any other, making it an anomaly that doesn’t fit the criteria of the given list.

On the other hand, it’s important to mention Atomfall, as its style is quite distinct. Unlike Sniper Elite, this game simplifies the gunplay for a more raw, brawl-like combat experience. It shifts away from tactical espionage, offering a different, more straightforward fight scene.

Moreover, this game employs an open-ended simulation design, meaning there are no set quests for you to follow. It also boasts a unique northern British ambiance seldom seen in video games and provides flexibility in gameplay, enabling you to participate in battles or opt out of them according to your preference.

This game embodies the classic elements of a First-Person Shooter (FPS) as much as desired, making it an ideal choice for newcomers wanting to enter the genre.

3.
PowerWash Simulator

Scrubs Up Well

If you’re searching for a game that offers the feel of a first-person shooter (FPS), but without the actual combat, high risks, or danger typically found in such games, I’m happy to share that what you might be interested in is PowerWash Simulator.

In essence, this game resembles a colored image being cleaned instead of colored in, as if you’re using a high-powered pressure washer like you might use an M16 in a Call of Duty game to remove grime from various objects.

Cleaning in PowerWash Simulator offers a stress-relieving, relaxing, and engaging experience. You could spend hours upon hours washing away dirt without the intense action of games like DOOM. Instead, it provides a calming, positive atmosphere that’s quite different from the adrenaline rush of DOOM.

To some, it might seem painfully tedious, but I’d still recommend giving it a shot, as surprisingly enough, it turns out to be quite captivating once you start.

2.
Mirror’s Edge

Hardcore Parkour

Despite repeatedly navigating the gritty metropolis in Mirror’s Edge as if it were second nature, I tend to overlook the fact that the game is fundamentally a first-person shooter, with combat using firearms being a tactical choice.

In essence, the main objective of the game isn’t centered around combat; instead, it encourages players to master parkour techniques for efficient route navigation, preserving speed, and outmaneuvering adversaries, rather than engaging in prolonged gun battles.

This game excels at smooth and well-executed free-running movements that are hard to find in many other titles. Unfortunately, its sequel didn’t live up to expectations. Despite the flaws in the sequel, the original remains a timeless masterpiece, making it worth revisiting today.

1.
Dishonored

A Stealth-Based Masterclass

True to my word, let me share another Arkane Studios gem on this list, similar in spirit to Deathloop. Similar to it, Dishonored incorporates many standard first-person shooter elements, giving you the freedom to act as a ruthless assassin should you wish.

If you decide to approach the game in this manner, you’re actually overlooking its essence. To this day, Dishonored remains a strong contender for the best stealth-focused game, enabling you to move around undetected, seamlessly transitioning between levels without being noticed or heard.

In most situations, it’s best to rely on stealth and avoid using your firearms, melee weapons, or special abilities unless absolutely necessary. By staying in the shadows, you’ll have a better chance of success and will likely appreciate your sneakiness at the end of the game.

In terms of overall gaming experience, Dishonored still takes the crown, although individual levels in Dishonored 2 are exceptional. However, if we consider the entire gameplay package, Dishonored 1 offers the superior experience.

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2025-05-21 17:40