The Most Popular FPS Game of All Time, Ranked

Choose the game you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 20, 2024 06:39
Debates often arise among gamers about which first-person shooter (FPS) game stands above the rest. A comprehensive and community-driven list where fans cast votes can help settle these discussions with clarity and a fair perspective. It allows players to see consensus and trends as they emerge from the collective input. By participating in the ranking, users contribute to a broader understanding of what makes an FPS game resonant with its audience. This process not only highlights the favorites but also gives insight into the evolving tastes and criteria of gamers worldwide. Everyone's vote matters, shaping a live and authentic ranking that reflects the current gaming community's preferences.

What Is the Most Popular FPS Game of All Time?

  1. 1
    32
    votes
    This game revolutionized the FPS genre with its realistic campaign and addictive multiplayer that has spawned a massive esports scene.
    Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2007) is a first-person shooter video game that was developed by Infinity Ward and published by Activision. It is the fourth installment in the Call of Duty series and is set in a modern-day setting, focusing on fictional conflicts in the Middle East and Russia. The game features a single-player campaign, multiplayer modes, and a cooperative mode called Special Ops. It received critical acclaim for its immersive storytelling, intense gameplay, and realistic graphics.
    • Platform: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows
    • Release Date: November 5, 2007
    • Genre: First-person shooter
    • Modes: Single-player, multiplayer, cooperative
    • Campaign Length: Approximately 6-8 hours
    Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2007) in other rankings
  2. 2
    47
    votes
    The latest installment in the Counter-Strike series, this game has a large competitive scene and is known for its tactical gameplay and high skill ceiling.
    Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (2012) is a first-person shooter game and the fourth installment of the Counter-Strike series. It is a highly competitive multiplayer game that emphasizes teamwork and tactical gameplay. Players take on the roles of either terrorists or counter-terrorists and engage in various objective-based game modes.
    • Release Date: August 21, 2012
    • Platform(s): Windows, macOS, Linux, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
    • Genre: First-person Shooter
    • Modes: Multiplayer
    • Number of Players: Up to 10 players per team
  3. 3
    39
    votes
    A classic game that helped popularize the FPS genre on consoles, Halo's innovative gameplay and sci-fi setting made it a hit.
    Halo: Combat Evolved is a first-person shooter (FPS) video game that was released in 2001. It is the first installment in the Halo franchise and is widely regarded as one of the most popular FPS games of all time. The game takes place in a science fiction universe and follows the protagonist, Master Chief, as he battles against an alien alliance known as the Covenant.
    • Release Date: November 15, 2001
    • Platforms: Xbox, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X
    • Game Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
    • Campaign Length: Approximately 10-12 hours
    • Multiplayer Modes: Deathmatch, Capture the Flag, Team Slayer, King of the Hill, etc.
  4. 4
    13
    votes
    One of the original FPS games, Doom popularized the genre and set the standard for many games that followed. Its fast-paced action and demonic setting made it a cult classic.
    Doom (1993) is a first-person shooter video game that revolutionized the genre and became a landmark title in the gaming industry. The game is set in a futuristic science fiction universe, where players take on the role of a marine who must fight through hordes of demons from Hell that have been unleashed by the Union Aerospace Corporation. Doom (1993) features fast-paced gameplay, intense combat, and a wide array of weapons and power-ups to aid the player in their mission.
    • Platform: MS-DOS
    • Engine: id Tech 1
    • Single Player: Yes
    • Multiplayer: Yes
    • Number of Levels: 27
  5. 5
    12
    votes
    Another groundbreaking game, Half-Life's immersive storytelling and innovative gameplay mechanics made it a classic that has stood the test of time.
    Half-Life (1998) is a first-person shooter game developed by Valve Corporation. It is considered one of the most influential and iconic games in the FPS genre. The game revolves around the story of Gordon Freeman, a scientist who finds himself in a research facility overrun by alien creatures. With its gripping narrative and immersive gameplay, Half-Life set new standards for storytelling and level design in the gaming industry.
    • Release Date: November 19, 1998
    • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 2
    • Engine: GoldSrc
    • Singleplayer: Yes
    • Multiplayer: Yes
  6. 6
    9
    votes
    A relatively new game, Overwatch has quickly become one of the most popular FPS games due to its diverse cast of characters, fast-paced gameplay, and colorful art style.
    Overwatch is a team-based first-person shooter (FPS) developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment. The game was released in 2016 and has become one of the most popular FPS games of all time. It features a diverse roster of heroes, each with unique abilities and playstyles, making for dynamic and strategic gameplay. Overwatch offers both competitive and casual game modes, allowing players to engage in intense team battles or enjoy more relaxed gameplay. The game has a vibrant and colorful art style, with a variety of maps set in different locations around the world.
    • Release Date: May 24, 2016
    • Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
    • Genre: First-person shooter
    • Modes: Multiplayer
    • Number of Players: Up to 12 players in each team
  7. 7
    15
    votes
    A quirky and fun game that has a dedicated fanbase, Team Fortress 2's cartoonish visuals and class-based gameplay make it a unique experience.
  8. 8
    6
    votes
    One of the most competitive FPS games of all time, Quake III Arena set the standard for esports with its fast-paced gameplay and high skill ceiling.
    Quake III Arena (1999) is a first-person shooter (FPS) video game that was developed by id Software. It is considered one of the most popular FPS games of all time due to its fast-paced multiplayer gameplay and advanced graphics for its time. The game focuses on competitive multiplayer matches where players battle against each other in various arenas.
    • Platform: PC
    • Engine: id Tech 3
    • Game Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
    • Maximum players: Up to 16 players
    • Weapons: 20 different weapons
  9. 9
    2
    votes

    GoldenEye 007 (1997)

    Developed by Rare
    A game that defined a generation, GoldenEye 007's multiplayer mode was a staple of many childhoods and helped popularize the FPS genre on consoles.
    GoldenEye 007 (1997) is a first-person shooter video game based on the 1995 James Bond film, GoldenEye. It was developed by Rare and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64 console. The game was highly influential and considered a landmark in the genre, setting new standards for multiplayer FPS games. It featured both single-player and multiplayer modes, with players assuming the role of James Bond as he battles enemies in various missions. The game was known for its innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and extensive multiplayer options.
    • Release date: August 25, 1997
    • Platform: Nintendo 64
    • Genre: First-person shooter
    • Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
    • Number of players: 1-4 players
  10. 10
    7
    votes

    Wolfenstein 3D (1992)

    id Software
    One of the earliest FPS games, Wolfenstein 3D was a groundbreaking game that helped popularize the genre and set the stage for many games that followed.
    Wolfenstein 3D is a first-person shooter (FPS) game released in 1992. It is widely considered as one of the most popular FPS games of all time. The game takes place during World War II, where the player assumes the role of an Allied spy named William 'B.J.' Blazkowicz, who infiltrates a Nazi stronghold to stop their secret weapon projects. The game is known for its fast-paced action, innovative gameplay mechanics, and influential role in popularizing the FPS genre.
    • Release Year: 1992
    • Platform: MS-DOS
    • Game Engine: id Tech 1
    • Graphics: 2.5D
    • Resolution: 320x200

Missing your favorite game?

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Ranking factors for popular game

  1. Sales and revenue
    The overall sales figures and generated revenue indicate the commercial success and popularity of a game. A higher number of copies sold generally indicates a larger player base and popularity.
  2. Active player base
    The number of active players at a given time is crucial in determining the popularity of an FPS game. A game that consistently has a large number of active players is likely to be more popular and successful.
  3. Community engagement
    The level of engagement and interaction within the community, including forums, social media, streaming platforms, and esports events, shows the level of interest and involvement among players and fans.
  4. Longevity
    How long a game remains popular and relevant in the gaming community is an essential factor. A game that continues to be played and supported for years after its initial release demonstrates its lasting impact and appeal.
  5. Esports presence
    A strong presence in the competitive gaming scene, including the number of esports events, tournaments, and organized leagues, showcases the popularity of a game among professional players and organizations.
  6. Critical acclaim
    Reviews and ratings from gaming critics and publications are essential in determining a game's overall quality, gameplay experience, and innovation. A game that has received high ratings and praise is likely to attract more players.
  7. Post-release support and updates
    A game's continued development and support, including patches, updates, and added content (such as downloadable content or expansion packs), contribute to its longevity and popularity among gamers.
  8. Awards and recognitions
    The number of awards and recognitions a game receives within the gaming industry (such as "Game of the Year" titles) often reflects its quality and impact on the players.
  9. Accessibility and platforms
    The availability of the game on multiple platforms, such as PC, consoles, and mobile devices, increases its audience and reach, contributing to its popularity.
  10. Influence and impact on the gaming industry
    A game that has significantly influenced the development of other games or the FPS genre itself is a testament to its popularity and importance.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular FPS game of all time. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or game is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2348 views
  • 184 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each game once every 24 hours. The rank of each game is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular fps game of all time

First-person shooter (FPS) games have been a staple in the gaming industry since the early 1990s. These games typically involve the player taking on the role of a character, armed with a variety of weapons, navigating through various environments while engaging in combat with enemy characters. Over the years, numerous FPS games have been released, each with their own unique gameplay mechanics, storylines, and fan bases. From classic games like Doom and Quake to modern titles like Call of Duty and Overwatch, there is no shortage of options for FPS enthusiasts. But which FPS game is the most popular of all time? It's a tough question to answer, as popularity can be subjective and can vary depending on factors such as platform, release date, and even cultural influences. However, through the use of data and community feedback, StrawPoll aims to shed some light on this topic and determine the ultimate champion of FPS games.

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