21 Best Third-Person Shooter Games You Must Play in 2025
The best third-person shooters have always held a special place in my gaming library – there’s just something about that over-the-shoulder view that makes every firefight feel a lot more intense.
Whether it’s diving for cover, pulling off precision headshots, or surviving chaotic shootouts, TPS games deliver some truly unforgettable moments.
From iconic titles like Max Payne to modern hits like Control, this genre has given us some seriously addictive gameplay.
Narrowing it down to just a few titles wasn’t easy, but I’ve rounded up the best third-person shooters that are absolutely worth your time. Trust me – there’s something here you won’t want to miss.
Our Top Picks for Third-Person Shooters
From fighting other-worldly monsters to taking down an entire network of militants taking over the entire city, let’s glance at our top picks for the best TPS games you can’t afford to miss if you call yourself a TPS-enthusiast.
- Alan Wake 2 (2023): Get dragged into a mind-bending thriller where reality twists, shadows lurk, and light is your only key to surviving the horrors chasing you.
- Resident Evil 4 (2023): Fight your way through a village filled with unimaginable horrors where every shot matters and every step is risky.
- Vanquish (2010): Prepare for an adrenaline rush like non other as you rocket through the battlefield slowing time and dodging bullets. Here, standing still is a death sentence.
- Dead Space (2023): Survive the cosmic horrors in the cold void of space where silence is your enemy, the shadows ar never empty, and every step is terror.
- Control: Ultimate Edition (2021): Unravel the supernatural mysteries of the Federal Bureau of Control. The walls whisper, the objects move on their own, and only you can stop this madness.
Nope, filling these top spots wasn’t easy. I had to leave out quite a few gems. But, fortunately, the rest of them are down below, so just keep scrolling.
21 Best Third-Person Shooter Games
Whether you’re looking to hunt down a handful of zombies or craving some World War-inspired action in the third-person narrative, I’ve got you covered with the selection of the finest TPS video games out there.
From modern gems to retro masterpieces, you’ll find more than enough TPS games in this guide to water your cravings for a proper third-person narrative. Let’s dive right in!
1. Alan Wake 2
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows | 2023 | Remedy Entertainment |
This unsettling horror game is a mind-bending psychological horror game that pulls you into a twisted world of mystery and darkness.
This sequel dials up the tension with even more intense storytelling and atmospheric dread. This iconic title blends survival mechanics with gripping narrative elements – every shadow feels like a threat, and every clue leads deeper into the madness.
If you’re into chilling plots, eerie visuals, and combat that keeps you on edge, Alan Wake 2 delivers an unforgettable horror experience that’ll stay with you for a very long time.
2. Resident Evil 4
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, macOS | 2023 | Capcom |
For survival horror fans, the 2023 remake of the all-time great Resident Evil 4 is another unbeaten third-person shooter. From the moment you step into Leon’s boots, you’re hooked.
The combat, where every shot matters and the tension is always high, feels damn near flawless. The pacing is just as good, with plenty of action, eerie moments, and heart-pounding encounters that blend almost seamlessly.
It’s no less stunning visually either. Every environment, from the foggy village to the nightmarish castle, feels alive. The main story takes around 16 hours alone, but you can easily go way beyond that as there is a ton of exploration and upgrading to do besides that.
Like in the original game, some areas may feel a bit too linear, and the inventory system can get quite annoying when using it mid-fight. But other than that, Resident Evil 4 is hands down one of the best third-person shooters ever made. Give it a shot, you won’t regret it.
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3. Vanquish
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 | 2010 | PlatinumGames |
Vanquish is an amazing adventure game and a third-person shooter that’s set in the backdrop of an outer space war where you’re fighting aliens that threaten humanity. Equipped with a specialized suit, you’ll take on alien forces and use the weapons at your disposal to take on hoards of enemies.
Featuring fluid dynamics and very decent graphics, Vanqish will always keep you on the edge of your seat with boss fights and hoards of enemies waiting for you at every corner. Moreover, the campaign is around 5 hours long, and it’s very fun to play and I’d highly recommend checking it out!
4. Dead Space
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows | 2023 | Motive Studio |
This is an incredible single-player game that plunges you into the chilling depths of the USG Ishimura.
From the flickering lights to the unsettling whispers, the atmosphere is pure nightmare fuel. The combat? Brutal. Dismembering necromorphs isn’t just satisfying – it’s your only shot at survival. Exploring the ship, upgrading gear, and piecing together the grim backstory keeps you constantly on edge.
If you’re craving a space game that blends horror, strategy, and gripping storytelling, Dead Space is an unforgettable ride.
5. Control: Ultimate Edition
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, Xbox One, GeForce Now, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia | 2021 | Remedy Entertainment |
On a quest to find her missing brother, Jesse Faden infiltrates the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC) but, on the other side of the door, only the undead remains. In terms of gunplay and combat mechanics, unlike other third-person shooters, Control offers a unique and immersive experience where you’ll not only fight off with a pistol but some Telekinesis abilities as well.
The plot of the game is quite epic and with its stunning graphics, it didn’t take long for this title to become a cult classic in the horror TPS genre. Moreover, with a sequel in the works, Control comes highly recommended if you want to experience a story-based third-person shooter with challenging gameplay.
Grab a copy of Control: Ultimate Edition >
6. Fortnite
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| Playstation 4/5, Xbox One/Xbox Series X, Microsoft Windows | 2017 | Epic Games |
Simply interested in testing your skills against the most skilled shooters on the planet? Fortnite is the perfect place to do it. Fortnite is the most popular battle royale game online with a third-person narrative that gives you a run for your money.
Offering you a massive playground, you can test your shooting, crafting, and building in the same place. Moreover, Fortnite is a very fun game to play, especially when you’re playing with your own squad.
While it can get quite unforgiving at times, Fortnite is undoubtedly one of the finest online TPS games on the market.
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7. Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, Google Stadia, Amazon Luna | 2017 | Ubisoft |
Whether you’re looking for a gripping plot or the perfect co-op mode where you can team up with your mates and take on well-equipped mercenaries, Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands is the perfect place to do it.
The campaign is quite incredible as you’re on a hunt for El Sueño, head of the Santa Blanca drug cartel. You’ll be tasked with taking out enemies throughout the map and you can play the campaign alongside your friends as well.
As for the combat, you’ll have a vast arsenal of weapons that includes ARs, RPGs, Machine Guns, and much more. I’ve played a number of third-person shooter games over the years, but, Wildlands remains my favorite TPS of all time.
Grab a copy of Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands >
8. Spec Ops: The Line
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| Microsoft Windows, Linux, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, macOS | 2012 | YAGER |
Want to experience what it’s like to go all gun-blazing into enemy territory in the 3rd-person mode? Spec Ops: The Line is your best bet. Set in war-torn Dubai, you and your squad will take on mercenaries that occupy the storm-hit city.
Spec Ops: The Line is a no-nonsense third-person shooter that keeps you engaged in combat at every turn. It can be compared to Call of Duty, but with a third-person perspective, offering a more immersive and tactical approach to the action.
Moving on, aside from its combat, its touching story with twists and betrayal makes it one of the most beloved TPS games of our time.
Snag a copy of Spec Ops: The Line >
9. HITMAN 3
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows | 2021 | IO Interactive |
While this title is generally considered one of the greatest stealth games, the third-person narrative is what makes it shine. If you’re going full stealth mode, you don’t even have to fire a single bullet but, for people like myself who prefer a gun-blazing style, Hitman 3 can be an excellent third-person shooter.
There’s a vast arsenal of weapons, different fight tactics, and a strong emphasis on attention to detail that makes Hitman 3 a truly exceptional title. If you’d like to combine the third-person perspective with a stealth-based mode, you’ll have to try Hitman 3.
10. Helldivers 2
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows | 2024 | Arrowhead Game Studios |
Mostly known for its epic multiplayer game mode, Helldivers 2 has received a lot of praise from the gaming community for its unmatched third-person shooter gameplay. Set in a dystopian future where alien species threaten humanity, you can play alongside your friends in co-op mode to take down these otherworldly creatures.
The combat is smooth, and with the inclusion of an objective system, the game offers a highly immersive experience. Additionally, if you’re a fan of co-op games, be sure to explore the best co-op games of all time.
11. Sniper Elite 4
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, Xbox One, GeForce Now, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia | 2017 | Rebellion Developments |
Sniper Elite 4 centers around the life of a sniper, where the objective is straightforward: eliminate high-ranking officers and get out. The authenticity of the gameplay makes it a great addition to the TPS genre and for many gamers out there, including myself, Sniper Elite 4 is one of the finest games on the planet.
The plot is generally quite weak in pure TPS games but, Sniper Elite 4 offers such an immersive experience that you often feel overwhelmed. Everything from the stunning graphics to the realistic gunplay makes this game such an incredible title.
Although Sniper Elite 5 is its successor, it couldn’t quite replicate what Sniper Elite 4 offered, making the latter truly the finest game in the franchise.
Get a copy of Sniper Elite 4 >
12. Max Payne 3 – Complete Edition
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, macOS | 2012 | Rockstar Games |
Continuing the story of an ex-cop in the third installment of the franchise, Max Payne heads to São Paulo, Brazil to take on the foes that betrayed him. The plot of Max Payne 3 is written quite well. However, the major reason behind the success of this title is its incredible shooting mechanics and just the right difficulty.
Rockstar Games delivered an outstanding third-person shooter with Max Payne 3, which remains one of the greatest titles in the TPS genre even over a decade later from when the game launched, all because of its stunning world and perfect mechanics, making it a well-rounded AAA title.
Grab a copy of Max Payne 3 – Complete Edition >
13. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows | 2015 | Konami |
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is the 9th installment in the franchise and it continues the tale of Venom Snake, an iconic character, who embarks on a journey to a fight against various factions threatening world peace.
In case you’re living under a rock and unfamiliar with the MGS franchise, this is just a friendly reminder that if you’re craving some high-level third-person action, the Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is the best game in the franchise to experience it first-hand.
From a touching story to phenomenal gameplay with the third-person narrative, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is an all-time fan favorite.
Grab Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain now >
14. Warhammer 40000: Space Marine 2
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows | 2024 | Saber Interactive |
This impressive Warhammer 40K game isn’t just your standard third-person shooter game, it combines the element of melee combat and special abilities that give you the perfect combat you can expect from a third-person shooter game.
And the best part? You’re getting a nice campaign with a co-op and PVP mode that allows you to sink countless hours of experience in one of the finest combat systems of recent times. And since the game was released in 2024, the graphics are quite stellar and the mechanics feel as smooth as a baby’s cheek.
If you’re after something that combines melee and third-person combat, don’t miss out on this gem of a game.
Grab your copy of Warhammer 40000: Space Marine 2 >
15. Tom Clancy’s The Division 2
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, Xbox One, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows, Amazon Luna, Google Stadia | 2019 | Ubisoft |
The Tom Clancy franchise is packed with exceptional third-person shooter games, and The Division 2 is another fan-favorite that can’t be overlooked. Whenever there’s talk of the best TPS games of all time, The Division 2 will always be a top contender.
It’s an online third-person shooter with a strong focus on RPG elements. The gunplay in this installment is highly satisfying and impressive. Unlike popular Call of Duty games, the combat and mechanics in The Division 2 are much more realistic, offering a fresh and immersive experience. For TPS enthusiasts, it’s definitely a title worth exploring.
Treat yourself with a copy of Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 >
16. Returnal
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows | 2023 | Housemarque |
This wonderful space game isn’t only known for its gripping plot that depicts the life of an astronaut who crashed on a strange island, its epic and fast-moving combat mechanics also play a vital role in its success. From a vibrant environment to a vast variety of enemies, Returnal feels like the perfect third-person shooter we all wanted.
The environment feels alive, the world is crafted beautifully, and with all the blazing-fast movement, the combat feels quite great. If you’re after the perfect title that combines a strong story with unmatched third-person combat, you shouldn’t miss out on Returnal.
17. Days Gone
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows | 2019 | Bend Studio |
Taking down herds of the undead and other undead monsters can be quite thrilling, and if you’re looking to experience that in a creepy zombie game, Days Gone makes an excellent addition to your game’s arsenal.
Set in a visually stunning world with lifelike graphics, overrun by relentless hordes of zombies, you’ll have to make your way through by killing countless zombies, and as long as you have the ammo, it is extremely fun. Moreover, its excellent storyline adds depth, keeping you fully immersed and engaged from start to finish.
18. James Bond 007: Blood Stone
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo DS, Xbox 360 | 2010 | Bizarre Creations |
James Bond 007: Blood Stone is an underrated gem that’s often overlooked but, for me, it is one of the finest action games out there with the third-person perspective. The storyline is engaging and easy to follow, revealing an international conspiracy – something you’d always expect from anything James Bond-related.
The combat feels quite great and it was ahead of its time. If you’re looking to invest only a handful of hours into a TPS game, the James Bond 007: Blood Stone comes highly recommended.
19. Remnant II
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows | 2023 | Gunfire Games |
Gunfire Games outdid themselves with Remnant 2, offering a beautifully crafted world that’s filled with otherworldly creatures, there’s never a dull moment here. Although its mobility is somewhat criticized as it’s not as fast-paced as you’d expect, Remnant II still offers a very original and excellent gameplay that you’d love.
Moreover, with its iconic characters, emotional plot, and some RPG elements, Remnant II is undoubtedly one of the finest 3rd-person shooter games on the market. If you’re looking for a game with deep lore and twists at every corner, must check this one out.
20. Star Wars: Battlefront II
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows | 2005 | DICE |
For people who really enjoy a great Star Wars game, Star Wars: Battlefront 2 is your best bet for experiencing it first-hand, and luckily, it is played in the third-person mode.
The world is developed beautifully and the game is a sight for sore eyes. Combine that with its epic plot and phenomenal gunplay with fluid mobility, you’ll love this one. I’m a big fan of its world and deep lore and it’s a true masterpiece.
Grab yourself a copy of Star Wars: Battlefront 2 >
21. PUBG
| Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X/S, Android, iOS | 2017 | Tencent Mobile International Limited |
PUBG is a fantastic battle royale game that doesn’t require too much introduction. Gaining millions of players during the pandemic, PUBG quickly rose to the ranks as one of the most played online games of this era. The gunplay in PUBG is quite decent and you need serious skills to survive.
To earn yourself a chicken dinner, you’ll have to develop serious survival instincts and unmatched shooting skills. Moreover, PUBG receives regular updates and boasts millions of daily players. Now that it’s free-to-play on PC, there’s no reason to hesitate – grab it and jump into the action.
Best Shooter Games
Since shooter games are a massive part of the gaming industry, I’ve experienced a handful of great titles over the years. From iconic FPS games with deep lore like Call of Duty and Battlefield to epic co-op titles like Payday 2, we’re blessed with many top-notch titles.
Let’s look at some of the best shooter games of our time:
- Battlefield 1: Battlefield 1 with its realistic presentation of the Great World War (I) will always be ranked among the best shooter games of all time. From its incredible graphics to phenomenal storytelling, Battlefield 1 is undoubtedly the finest game from the entire franchise.
- Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare: The COD franchise has many entries but COD4 will always remain close to our hearts. From introducing John “Soap” MacTavish to the franchise to the most difficult sniper mission in a first person shooter game, Call of Duty 4 is in a league of its own.
- Halo Infinite: Halo Infinite received a lot of praise from the community for its excellent gameplay and deep lore. The gunplay feels smoother and improved graphics also play a pivotal role in the success of this title.
FAQs
What is the 3rd person view game?
A 3rd-person view game is a type of video game where the players can entirely see the main character that they’re controlling in the game.
What makes a good 3rd person shooter games?
A combination of excellent gunplay with an interactive plot makes a well-balanced 3rd-person shooter game. Games like Sniper Elite 4 are an excellent example of good 3rd-person shooter games.
What is the difference between FPS and TPS?
In first-person shooter (FPS) games, you can see through the eyes of the character but you can’t see the character’s body. In third-person shooter (TPS) games, you’re controlling the character from behind and can see the entire body of the character and its surroundings through the third person viewpoint.
