Best Tactical Shooters Of All Time, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Tactical-based shooters require communication and teamwork for success in online gameplay.
The inventory management in Escape from Tarkov is a standout feature in the game.
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
offers a smart blend of tactical gameplay and first-person shooting.

As a seasoned gamer and history enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the digital battlefields of World War II, allow me to share my insights on these tactical shooters that have captured the imagination of gamers worldwide.

In the category of tactical shooter games, you’ll find gameplay that evolves dynamically as you play. These games frequently incorporate various tools and devices, such as breaching doors with a team or strategizing your approach before a battle begins. Communication is essential in these online tactical games, as it often determines the outcome of each match.

Regardless of a player’s experience level with tactical shooter games, it’s never too late to delve into one of these hit games. It can be quite challenging to get into these titles (especially if players are too used to FPS titles where individual skill is more important than teamwork), but patient players who take their time to learn how the game works will be more than pleased with what these games have to offer when everything finally clicks into place.

That being said, it’s nothing new in the gaming genre. There have been many successful tactical shooters from the original PlayStation era, and now it seems the genre is just getting more love from games in the light of games like Tarkov or Rainbow Six Siege.

21 Valorant

Hero-Based Competitive Shooter With An Abundance Of Strategies

Absolutely, Valorant doesn’t provide the immersive war or battlefield sensation one might expect, given it’s a hero shooter with characters boasting supernatural abilities. However, it certainly shines in offering a tactical gameplay experience. Success relies heavily on effective communication among team members if they aim to emerge victorious.

Every time I jump into a game of Valorant, the sheer number of strategies to experiment with based on the map layout and the unique blend of agents in each team keeps things fresh and exciting. Plus, its gunplay reminiscent of Counter-Strike adds a layer of depth that shooter enthusiasts love.

20 Escape From Tarkov

Hardcore Extraction Shooter Featuring PvP And PvE

It’s important to mention that the game “Escape from Tarkov” isn’t common due to its exclusive game-specific launcher, similar to “Fortnite“. Yet, if you can access it, it’s definitely worth giving a shot.

As a devoted fan of Escape from Tarkov, I’d like to highlight the exceptional inventory management system that sets this tactical masterpiece apart. Reminiscent of survival games such as PUBG and Z1 Battle Royale, the game offers an inventory system that adds depth to the overall experience. Despite being in its beta phase since July 2017, it has already left a lasting impression on players.

19 Hunt: Showdown 1896

An Extraction Shooter Set In Zombie-Torn Wild West

Much like Escape From Tarkov, the game Hunt: Showdown 1896 is a shooter that blends PvP and PvE elements, set in maps where players must eliminate bosses to collect bounty tokens and successfully exit the map before other competitors do. Alternatively, they can opt for a different strategy – wait for other players to slay the bosses, then raid their collected tokens.

In contrast to Escape From Tarkov’s mastery of modern firearms, Hunt: Showdown 1896 shines by accurately depicting the antique weapons from the 19th century. Lately, it has been enhanced visually, further enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

18 Operation Flashpoint: Cold War Crisis

Lead Operation Squad In A Variety Of Tactical Missions

2001 saw the launch of a gripping tactical shooter experience I immersed myself in, titled “Operation Flashpoint: Cold War Crisis.” Developed by the talented minds at Bohemia Interactive Studio, this game was later re-released in 2011 under the name “ARMA: Cold War Assault.”

2001 saw the exceptional release of “Operation Flashpoint: Cold War Crisis”, which was notable for its team-oriented gameplay, diverse array of drivable vehicles, and Real Time Tactics elements. Unfortunately, legal disputes between Bohemia Interactive and Codemasters over the intellectual property have led to a decline in the series’ significance as more advanced tactical shooters emerged, gradually overshadowing it.

17 Project I.G.I.: I’m Going In

Infiltrate The Facilities And Wipe Targets As A Lone Wolf

In a nutshell, Project I.G.I. is a distinctive tactical shooter game that emphasizes stealth over head-on battles. It’s an experience where players will find themselves in a nerve-wracking situation as they attempt to navigate enemy bases unnoticed, making use of the various tools at their disposal. This is a one-of-a-kind title that should be on the radar of anyone who enjoys tactical shooters and doesn’t mind a more vintage gaming feel.

Making just one error can cause disastrous outcomes, so intense battles should only be engaged in during emergency scenarios or similar critical situations. It may take a few initial missteps for players to find their rhythm with the game, but Project I.G.I. has the potential to enthrall tactical shooter enthusiasts swiftly.

16 Hidden & Dangerous 2: Courage Under Fire

Recreating Real-Life Operations Of World War 2

As a fervent admirer of tactical shooters, I wholeheartedly endorse the hidden gem that is Hidden & Dangerous 2. In this game, I’m not just a trigger-happy soldier; I’m an operative operating covertly behind enemy lines. The tension here is palpable, and one misstep can lead to dire consequences for me. It’s a thrilling experience that every shooter enthusiast should explore.

As a sneaky gamer, I know the importance of keeping a low profile and avoiding unwanted attention in games like Hidden & Dangerous 2. With its wide range of tactical options, it’s no wonder that fans of stealth shooters can’t get enough of this game.

15 Insurgency Series

Multiplayer-Based Hardcore PvP Shooter In Mid-Size Maps

One of the thrilling tactical shooter games similar to Counter-Strike, the Insurgency series invites gamers to choose a side and accomplish objectives, all while eliminating the enemy team. This creates an exciting experience as players strategize their attacks to prevent the opposing side from even making a move.

In the thrilling world of Insurgency, each round is swift and intense, urging players to fine-tune their aim, positioning, and teamwork skills if they aspire to amass victories consistently. Attempting to play as a lone warrior in this series is strongly advised against; such a move will surely snap any winning streak in an instant.

14 Star Wars: Republic Commando

Leading A Special Ops Squad In Clone Wars

Back in 2005, I was utterly captivated by “Star Wars: Republic Commando”. Even then, it seemed like a game ahead of its time. Looking back now, it’s evident that the game is starting to show its age. But despite this, there’s a timeless quality to this tactical first-person shooter that warrants a fresh take. Ideally, I’d love to see a full remaster or remake, giving this classic the modern treatment it deserves.

In this game, players assume the position of a Republic commando, commanding their elite squad. They have the ability to strategically guide their party members to eliminate enemies effectively. Even though it’s an older title, Star Wars: Republic Commando remains remarkably distinct and is highly recommended for tactical gaming enthusiasts.

13 The Finals

Fast-Paced Competitive Shooter Known For Its Highly Destructible Environment

Currently, the most dynamic live-action shooter game available is The Finals, which masterfully blends successful elements to offer an engaging, competitive, and thrilling shooting experience. Developed by former DICE team members, The Finals successfully merges the fluid movement mechanics from the Mirror’s Edge series with the precision shooting found in the Battlefield franchise.

Despite being new, The Finals currently faces some challenges that prevent it from fully realizing its potential. However, with the overwhelmingly positive reception it has received, it seems highly unlikely that anything short of a major setback will keep this game from becoming one of the most successful live service games in today’s market.

12 Payday 2

Lead A Team Of Heisters Either In Single-Player Or Co-Op Mode

If you loved the heist missions in Grand Theft Auto 5 and are looking for more of the same, then you might enjoy playing Payday 2. This game was launched back in 2013 but can still be found at a great price on the Steam Store. With its timeless gameplay, there’s hardly any excuse not to dive into this four-player cooperative experience.

In this game, players take on roles similar to the initial team from the original Payday, employing strategies to carry out illicit tasks. Prepare for a crime rampage in Washington D.C., an experience that sets it apart from other games. Due to the rocky release of Payday 3 , fans are content to stay with what has proven successful.

11 SOCOM: U.S. Navy Seals Series

It’s unfortunate that Sony decided to permanently retire the SOCOM franchise following a less successful fourth and final installment, which was launched for PlayStation 3. The SOCOM series truly shone on the PlayStation 2, offering players a tactical shooting experience with diverse gameplay elements tailored according to their military rank within the squad.

In the SOCOM game series, the campaign tasks included both compulsory and optional objectives that could be tackled in a flexible sandbox environment. The series typically offered multiplayer options across many of its releases, allowing players to engage in competitive PvP or join forces for cooperative play in the campaign missions.

10 Ready Or Not

Recreating SWAT Operations With Realistic Gunplay And Eye-catching Visuals

In the game of Ready or Not, players assume the position of SWAT team members who must navigate through various hostage situations with strategic precision. A stealthy and cautious approach is key, as minimizing harm to innocent bystanders is crucial. The act of killing innocents would lead to an immediate defeat.

The tense ambiance and nail-biting gameplay of “Ready or Not” make it an engaging tactical shooter for enthusiasts to dive into deeply. Fans who cherished the “SWAT” series and have been yearning for its return in today’s gaming world will find “Ready or Not” incredibly enjoyable.

9 Counter-Strike 2

Competitive FPS Shooter With A Long Learning Curve

The Upcoming Game, Counter-Strike 2, is the newest addition to a franchise celebrated for its emphasis on teamwork. Despite being long-standing, it continues to thrive, captivating its ardent fanbase with the unexpected nature of this update and the sheer enjoyment derived from playing it.

At its initial release, players criticized the game heavily, claiming it was a letdown compared to previous versions in certain aspects. The removal of CS:GO from online platforms didn’t improve the situation either. Fortunately, Valve quickly addressed these issues and significantly improved the game. Now, apart from cheaters, fans find it hard to identify any major drawbacks that prevent them from enjoying the game thoroughly.

8 7 SWAT Series

Simulating Counter-Terrorism Squads In A Variety Of Situations

The SWAT series, initially launched in 1995, gained significant popularity when SWAT 4 was published by Vivendi Universal Games (formerly Sierra Entertainment). This game was created by Irrational Games, a renowned team known for their exceptional work in the first-person shooter genre, including hits like System Shock 2 and BioShock.

In essence, SWAT 4 places you in command of a SWAT team, requiring you to accomplish challenging objectives like rescuing hostages while limiting lethal force whenever possible. It’s not as simple as it sounds, and even seasoned players often struggle to replay missions due to a single critical error, even when they are close to the end.

6 Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Series

Simulating Counter-Terrorism Units In PvE And PvP Scenarios

In terms of tactical-style shooting games, the Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six series stands out as the best. It offers a strategic mix of first-person shooting, and you’ll often find yourself at an advantage if you take a cautious approach rather than charging headlong. This series is renowned for its methodical gameplay style, where rushing in without proper planning usually leads to the player’s downfall in many instances.

In Rainbow Six Siege, the series shifted its approach from primarily focusing on Player vs Environment (PvE) to a competitive multiplayer (Player vs Player or PvP) game, transforming it into a strategic and competitive shooter. Despite this change in direction, the core tactical elements of the game remain, with close-quarter combat still being the primary emphasis. However, Siege also introduced a hero-based system, which has significantly impacted the potential future developments within the series.

5 Brothers In Arms: Road To Hill 30

A Classic Tactical Shooter Set In World War 2

The game “Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30” first debuted in 2005, marking the start of the “Brothers in Arms” series that would expand with an additional ten games over the next decade. Set during World War II and similar to “SWAT 4,” this game allows players to command a team.

In this game, players manage either a single or dual set of compact squads labeled as Fire Teams or Assault Teams. The Fire Team excels at providing covering fire, while the Assault Team is most effective when maneuvering around the enemy. Successfully utilizing these teams is crucial to navigating the numerous combat situations in the game, which become increasingly tough on higher settings.

4 Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Series

Leading The Operations With Modern Equipment

The Ghost Recon series by Ubisoft was initially launched back in 2001. It gained recognition with its standout installment, Advanced Warfighter. This game received widespread acclaim from critics, particularly evidenced by the Xbox 360 version’s Metascore of 90. The game showcased innovative cover mechanics that were ahead of their time and significantly influenced the shooter genre during the seventh generation of home consoles. These mechanics were notably adopted in popular series such as Gears of War and Uncharted.

Upon the debut of “Ghost Recon: Wildlands,” the franchise veered into uncharted territory, offering expansive open-world landscapes and providing players with greater autonomy when tackling missions and objectives. However, the initial rollout of the latest addition to the series, “Breakpoint,” encountered some early turbulence. Yet, through Ubisoft’s persistent efforts, “Breakpoint” eventually established itself as another commendable addition to the franchise.

3 Hell Let Loose

Simulating Massive World War 2 Operations In 100-Player Battles

If you’re captivated by the atmosphere and events of World War II, you’ll find a distinctive gaming experience in Hell Let Loose. This game offers intense, large-scale player versus player battles, meticulously crafted for authenticity in its map layouts and weapon designs.

Participants have the opportunity to try out various positions, ranging from an ordinary foot soldier to the leader of the whole squad. Every position carries specific duties, and it’s crucial for each participant to commit to these tasks to achieve or protect the objectives and ultimately triumph in the game.

2 Squad

Realistic PvP Warfare Set In Gigantic Maps

Originally created by Offworld Industries, the game known as Squad was initially launched in early access in 2015, and it officially hit the shelves in full version in September 2020. In this multiplayer game, players are split into two teams of 50 members, each consisting of nine-person squads with one commander role. The players have a selection of various classes to pick from.

Similar to an engaging team-based strategy combat game, the focus lies on the importance of collaboration among players, resulting in intense and captivating skirmishes. Lacking effective teamwork often leads to criticism from fellow players and potentially their removal from the game if they continue to struggle with understanding its mechanics.

2024-08-23 05:55