As we look back, 2024 has proven to be an exceptional year in the gaming industry, highlighted by sleeper hits like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, which captured the hearts of gamers everywhere. For enthusiasts of first-person shooters (FPS), the year has been particularly rewarding, offering a rich variety of options ranging from independent projects to blockbuster titles. This has provided fans with a treasure trove of immersive experiences to dive into, all while adding to their growing playlists.
With 2025 on the horizon, anticipation is building for some of the most awaited FPS games in history, which is exciting news for those who have already explored the offerings from 2024. Nonetheless, acknowledging and celebrating the standout FPS titles of 2024 is crucial for gamers looking to prioritize their playtime effectively. From anime-influenced shooters to gripping survival horror experiences, this year has certainly delivered a diverse array of impressive FPS games.
10
Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6 (Treyarch/Raven Software)
One Of The Best CODs In A Long Time
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 marked a significant resurgence for the franchise, particularly following the mixed reception of Modern Warfare 3. This installment has successfully demonstrated that Activision remains adept at delivering an engaging COD experience, thanks to its robust campaign featuring beloved characters, captivating plot twists, and stunning set pieces. Additionally, the multiplayer aspect launched in excellent condition, enriched by an impressive lineup of maps and frequent content updates.
It’s no surprise that Black Ops 6 has emerged as one of 2024’s finest first-person shooters. With exceptional graphical fidelity and groundbreaking gunplay, this title pushes the boundaries of what players have come to expect. While new features may spark debate, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 firmly establishes itself among the top triple-A FPS games of the year.
9
STALKER 2: Heart Of Chornobyl (GSC Game World)
An Intense Survival Horror Experience
Although initially released with several bugs, updates have transformed STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl into the game’s true potential. Right from launch, it has showcased a unique blend of survival horror and surreal sci-fi elements set within a vast, immersive open world. This title is filled with surprises catering to both series veterans and newcomers alike.
The game’s attention to detail is what sets it apart, whether it’s meticulously crafted animations or intricate dialogue choices and NPC interactions. Furthermore, the player is afforded minimal guidance, allowing for a truly engaging exploration of its anomaly-laden world. Although the game’s atmosphere may be intimidating, the reward is an immersive experience that is unmatched.
8
Anger Foot (Free Lives)
A First-Person Kicker
In a unique twist, Anger Foot is a frenetic indie title that revolves around kicking your way to victory. Developed by Free Lives and published by Devolver Digital, the game blends high-octane action with an energetic soundtrack, reminiscent of combining DOOM with a sporty flair.
Throughout the game, players can collect various shoes and weapons while navigating gritty environments, which can be replayed at lightning speed to improve scores. It’s a perfect blend of precision and fun, with humorous moments such as kicking enemies into walls offering a never-ending source of amusement. Anger Foot is sure to provide players with a plethora of joy and excitement during its runtime.
7
MULLET MADJACK (HAMMER95)
An Anime Boomer Shooter
Mullet MadJack delivers an exhilarating experience characterized by its vibrant aesthetic and fast-paced gunplay that defines the boomer shooter genre. Influenced by ’80s anime, every element—from levels to weapon designs—oozes style, making each gameplay session a visual delight.
This title introduces an innovative health mechanic: players have a limited time of 10 seconds to live. However, defeating enemies grants additional time, encouraging players to master each level to optimize their survival. The frantic pace of Mullet MadJack results in a thrilling blend of strategy and action, making it a standout title in 2024.
6
I Am Your Beast (Strange Scaffold)
A Fast-Paced Revenge Thriller
Essentially a tribute to the action hero genre, I Am Your Beast lets players channel their inner vigilante as they confront overpowering forces. This narrative-driven thriller encompasses 20 engaging missions while allowing players to experience an exhilarating survival fantasy.
Players navigate through diverse environments, executing fluid maneuvers that turn the tide against formidable enemies. Offering a blend of an engaging story, solid mission structure, and slick combat mechanics, I Am Your Beast is not only captivating but also positions itself as one of the top indie FPS experiences of 2024.
5
Witchfire (The Astronauts)
A Fantasy Extraction Shooter
Blending dark fantasy elements with a thrilling extraction shooter format, Witchfire allows players to explore various biomes in pursuit of valuable loot. Players must choose from an array of unique weapons and strategize their approach, making every decision critical as they venture onward.
This unique premise creates a tantalizing risk-reward dynamic, prompting gamers to decide whether to retreat with their gains or press further into danger for additional rewards.
4
Destiny 2: The Final Shape (Bungie)
A Refreshing Expansion For The Live-Service Shooter
Destiny 2 faced challenges with the release of Lightfall, which failed to meet expectations set by its predecessors. However, The Final Shape rejuvenated interest, delivering a much-needed comeback for the live-service shooter. This expansion is marked by exceptional level design, compelling encounters, and vibrant multiplayer content.
The Final Shape’s narrative stands out as one of the series’ finest, weaving together essential character arcs and memorable moments that fans craved. Bungie has reaffirmed its prowess within the industry, crafting spectacular missions that are sure to remain etched in the minds of players.
3
Selaco (Altered Orbit Studios)
A Fully Destructible Sci-Fi Shooter
Selaco distinguishes itself with its narrative-driven approach and innovative destructible environments. While still in Early Access, featuring only a portion of the anticipated content, it is an ambitious indie shooter showcasing the potential for an exhilarating gaming experience.
Drawing inspiration from titles like FEAR, Selaco introduces highly intelligent AI that collaborates to thwart players’ progress. The clever enemy mechanics amplify the tension, ensuring that each mission is filled with pulse-pounding moments and stunning visuals that enhance the overall experience.
2
Echo Point Nova (Greylock Studio)
An Open-World FPS From The Developers Of Severed Steel
From the creators of the critically acclaimed Severed Steel, Echo Point Nova epitomizes an ambitious indie FPS offering fast-paced action and polished game mechanics. Drawing heavily from the esteemed design principles of its predecessor, this title stands out in a competitive year for indie shooters.
1
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle (MachineGames)
The Best Piece Of Indiana Jones Media In A While
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle emerged as an unexpected success, even amidst skepticism about its first-person perspective. Many anticipated a more standard action-adventure format akin to Uncharted, yet MachineGames successfully demonstrated the benefits of this unique perspective, resulting in an incredibly immersive and exhilarating cinematic experience.
Amidst the numerous stellar FPS offerings of 2024, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle distinctly rises above the rest.
Source: Hammer95studios/YouTube, Selaco/YouTube