24 Best Third-Person Shooter Games in 2026 You Must Play
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This list is regularly updated to match what’s trending and in-demand among gamers.
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 more intense.
Whether it’s diving for cover, pulling off precision headshots, or surviving chaotic shootouts, TPS games deliver 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.
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Our Picks for Third-Person Shooters
From fighting otherworldly 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.
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Buy nowMarvel Rivals 2024An explosive free-to-play 6v6 superhero shooter where iconic Marvel characters clash across destructible battlefields.
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Buy nowHelldivers 2 2024High-stakes cooperative sci-fi combat delivering intense tactical chaos, hilarious squad moments, and explosive alien firefights.
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Buy nowARC Raiders 2025A thrilling extraction shooter where Raiders brave lethal machine threats topside to scavenge vital resources for survival.
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.
24 Best Third-Person Shooter Games That Redefine Action
No matter if you’re looking to hunt down a handful of zombies or craving some World War-inspired action in the third-person narrative, I’ve made a selection of the finest TPS video games out there. You’ll find more than enough TPS games in this guide to satisfy your cravings for a proper third-person narrative.
1. Marvel Rivals [Best Free-to-Play Superhero Third-Person Shooter]
| Type of game | Free-to-play 6v6 hero third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, PS4 |
| Year of release | 2024 |
| Developer | NetEase Games |
| Publisher | NetEase Games |
| Average playtime | Endless (multiplayer) |
| Best for | Superhero fans and competitive players who love dynamic squad synergies |
| What I liked | Environmental destruction, deep team-up abilities, and fast-paced hero action |
Marvel Rivals brings the full power of the Marvel Universe into an adrenaline-fueled third-person hero shooter arena. Controlling iconic heroes and formidable villains, you’ll team up in 6v6 matches across constantly shifting, destructible battlefields overseen by Galacta. What elevates its combat is the Team-Up Skills system, allowing characters to combine powers for game-changing tactical combos.
Check the Team-Up icons when choosing your hero. These bonuses only work when the paired heroes are on the same team, so coordinate with your squad to activate them.
With a rapidly expanding roster, gorgeous comic-inspired visuals, and tight competitive mechanics, it sets the current gold standard for team-based superhero shooters.
My Verdict: Pure superhero spectacle. Packed with intense team fights, creative strategy, and destructive arenas, it’s an absolute blast.
2. Helldivers 2 [Top Co-Op Third-Person Shooter with Intense Alien Combat]
| Type of game | Co-op sci-fi third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2024 |
| Developer | Arrowhead Game Studios |
| Publisher | Sony Interactive Entertainment |
| Average playtime | Endless (live service) |
| Best for | Cooperative squads who love chaotic alien encounters and camaraderie |
| What I liked | Satisfying co-op mechanics, friendly fire hilarity, and intense atmospheric firefights |
Helldivers 2 drops you straight into the boots of Super Earth’s elite defenders, tasked with spreading democracy across a hostile galaxy overrun by vicious Terminids, deadly Automatons, and the mind-controlling Illuminate. Playing alongside friends in co-op mode, every mission requires precise execution, tactical stratagem deployment, and managing chaotic friendly fire in the heat of battle.
Friendly fire is always on, so throw Stratagem beacons away from teammates and warn your squad before calling orbital strikes. Samples only count if someone extracts with them, so pick up any dropped by fallen teammates.
The gunplay feels exceptionally responsive, and the live galactic war system keeps every deployment feeling impactful for the wider player community.
My Verdict: A riotous co-op masterpiece that’s as rewarding as it is relentless. Bring your squad and plenty of heavy ordnance.
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3. ARC Raiders [Best Sci-Fi Extraction Third-Person Shooter]
| Type of game | Sci-fi extraction third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Year of release | 2025 |
| Developer | Embark Studios |
| Publisher | Embark Studios |
| Average playtime | ~30+ hours (multiplayer extraction runs) |
| Best for | Extraction shooter fans who crave high-stakes tension and machine survival |
| What I liked | Atmospheric ruin exploration, intense machine AI, and high-risk extraction mechanics |
Set on a desolate future Earth ravaged by environmental collapse and a machine invasion, ARC Raiders places you in the boots of a Raider venturing out from the underground sanctuary of Speranza. Topside, lethal mechanical monsters known as ARC patrol the ruins. You must scavenge valuable tech, navigate unpredictable weather and player encounters, and successfully extract back to base before losing your hard-earned loot.
Keep your most valuable loot in your Safe Pocket, since it’s the one inventory slot you keep if you die. If you’re low on supplies, use a free loadout to scavenge without risking your own gear.
Its incredible visual detail, dynamic map events, and deep crafting and workshop progression systems make every surface run feel uniquely unpredictable and thrilling.
My Verdict: A masterpiece of tension and atmosphere. Every extraction is a heart-pounding gamble that leaves you eager for one more run.
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4. Control [Best Story-Driven Third-Person Shooter with Supernatural Powers]
| Type of game | Story-driven action-adventure third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch (cloud) |
| Year of release | 2019 |
| Developer | Remedy Entertainment |
| Publisher | 505 Games, Remedy Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~20 hours |
| Best for | Fans of supernatural powers, mystery, and immersive storytelling |
| What I liked | Telekinetic combat, eerie world design, and stunning atmosphere |
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, the Bureau has been overrun by the Hiss, a paranatural force that possesses its staff. 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 enemies with a pistol, but use telekinesis abilities as well.
Enemies drop health when defeated, so hiding behind cover won’t restore it. Stay aggressive and spend your early skill points on Launch, which lets you throw objects at enemies and deal reliable damage.
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. Control comes highly recommended if you want to experience a story-based third-person shooter with challenging gameplay.
My Verdict: An unforgettable mix of eerie mystery and thrilling combat. If you want a third-person shooter that challenges your mind as much as your reflexes, Control is essential.
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5. Fortnite [Top Online Third-Person Shooter for Battle Royale Fans]
| Type of game | Online multiplayer third-person battle royale |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, mobile |
| Year of release | 2017 |
| Developer | Epic Games |
| Publisher | Epic Games |
| Average playtime | Endless (multiplayer) |
| Best for | Competitive players and creative builders |
| What I liked | Dynamic combat, crossovers, and constantly evolving gameplay |
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 online battle royale game with a third-person narrative that gives you a run for your money.
If building feels too difficult, try Zero Build, where you can focus on shooting and movement instead. In either mode, watch the storm timer so you have time to reach the safe zone without fighting your way through.
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.
My Verdict: The perfect mix of chaos and creativity. No matter whether you’re building skyscrapers mid-battle or chasing your next Victory Royale, Fortnite keeps you coming back.
Fortnite V-Bucks
6. Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands [Best Tactical Co-Op Third-Person Shooter Experience]
| Type of game | Tactical co-op third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Year of release | 2017 |
| Developer | Ubisoft |
| Publisher | Ubisoft |
| Average playtime | ~35 hours main story |
| Best for | Co-op fans who enjoy tactical missions and open-world freedom |
| What I liked | Massive world, realistic gunplay, and teamwork-driven gameplay |
No matter if 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.
Use your drone to scout outposts and mark enemies before attacking. Then, use Sync Shot to have your squad take out several marked targets at once without alerting everyone.
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.
My Verdict: A tactical masterpiece that rewards patience and planning. Squad up, strategize, and dominate – it’s still one of Ubisoft’s best.
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7. Spec Ops: The Line [Most Emotional and Cinematic Third-Person War Shooter]
| Type of game | Third-person military shooter |
| Platforms | PC, PS3, Xbox 360 |
| Year of release | 2012 |
| Developer | Yager Development |
| Publisher | 2K |
| Average playtime | ~6–8 hours |
| Best for | Players who love dark, story-rich war shooters |
| What I liked | Emotional narrative, moral choices, and cinematic intensity |
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 the Damned 33rd, a rogue U.S. Army battalion that has seized control of the storm-hit city.
Use squad commands to make Adams and Lugo focus on specific enemies. This helps you deal with snipers and heavily armored targets faster. Also, pay attention to your choices, as they can lead to different endings.
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.
My Verdict: A haunting, emotional descent into the cost of war – not just another shooter, but a psychological experience.
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8. Hitman World of Assassination [Best Stealth-Based Third-Person Shooter for Creative Assassinations]
| Type of game | Stealth action with third-person shooting |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, iOS, Mac |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Developer | IO Interactive |
| Publisher | IO Interactive |
| Average playtime | ~25–30 hours for the main campaigns |
| Best for | Stealth fans who love sandbox levels and creative assassinations |
| What I liked | Open-ended missions, intricate level design, and huge freedom of approach |
Hitman World of Assassination isn’t a traditional shooter-first TPS, but its third-person sandbox gives you enormous freedom in how you approach each target. As Agent 47, you can infiltrate heavily guarded locations, steal disguises, set elaborate traps, or simply pull out a suppressed pistol when subtlety stops being an option.
Follow Mission Stories during your first playthrough to learn the level’s key assassination opportunities. On later runs, try finding your own routes. Use Instinct mode to spot targets and useful objects through walls.
What makes World of Assassination stand out is how many solutions each mission supports. The current package brings together locations and campaigns from the modern HITMAN trilogy, making it the most complete way to experience IO Interactive’s assassination sandbox.
My Verdict: A brilliant stealth sandbox where preparation and creativity matter more than raw firepower. It isn’t the purest TPS on this list, but few third-person games give you this much freedom.
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9. Resident Evil Requiem [Best Horror Third-Person Shooter with Survival Elements]
| Type of game | Survival horror third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Year of release | 2026 |
| Developer | Capcom |
| Publisher | Capcom |
| Average playtime | ~12–15 hours |
| Best for | Horror fans who crave action and survival elements |
| What I liked | Creepy atmosphere, improved mechanics, and thrilling pacing |
Resident Evil Requiem marks the next chilling chapter in Capcom’s legendary survival horror series. Set 28 years after the destruction of Raccoon City, this entry follows FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft and veteran agent Leon S. Kennedy as they’re drawn into the aftermath of another bio-organic catastrophe. Requiem pushes the limits of the RE Engine with next-gen lighting, hyper-detailed environments, and an emphasis on psychological tension over raw firepower.
You don’t need to kill every zombie, especially in Grace’s sections, so save your ammo for tougher enemies. Explore carefully to find Antique Coins for permanent upgrades, and switch between first- and third-person views in the Options menu.
While staying true to the series’ survival roots, Requiem introduces smarter enemy AI, seamless exploration, and improved inventory systems that make every encounter feel unpredictable. It delivers Capcom’s classic fear-driven pacing, where every shot counts, and every shadow hides danger.
My Verdict: Resident Evil Requiem delivers the perfect blend of dread, survival, and intensity that fans have been craving. A must-play release for horror shooter enthusiasts.
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10. Sniper Elite: Resistance [Top Third-Person Shooter for Tactical Sniping]
| Type of game | Tactical stealth third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Year of release | 2025 |
| Developer | Rebellion |
| Publisher | Rebellion |
| Average playtime | ~10–12 hours |
| Best for | Players who enjoy precision sniping, stealth, and WWII missions |
| What I liked | Realistic ballistics, weapon customization, and flexible mission approaches |
Sniper Elite: Resistance takes the series’ signature sniping gameplay to occupied France during World War II. You play as Harry Hawker, an SOE agent working alongside the French Resistance to disrupt the Nazi development of a powerful new weapon.
The campaign offers large environments, multiple routes, and different ways to complete objectives, letting you choose between stealthy infiltration and direct combat.
Use your binoculars to mark enemies and study patrol routes before entering an area. Customize your weapons at workbenches to suit each mission, and use nearby noise, such as explosions or machinery, to mask your rifle shots.
With its tactical freedom, authentic WWII weapons, and signature X-ray Kill Cam, Sniper Elite: Resistance offers a focused sniping experience for players who enjoy planning their attacks as much as taking the shot.
My Verdict: A rewarding tactical shooter that gives you the freedom to approach missions your way. Its stealth mechanics, customizable weapons, and varied objectives make it a solid choice for fans of WWII action.
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11. Alan Wake 2 [Best Psychological Third-Person Shooter with Horror Storytelling]
| Type of game | Psychological horror third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Developer | Remedy Entertainment |
| Publisher | Epic Games Publishing |
| Average playtime | ~18 hours |
| Best for | Horror and story-driven adventure lovers |
| What I liked | Dual protagonists, gripping narrative, and cinematic visuals |
The entire game is set in a chaotic world, where Alan Wake 2 tells a dark tale of interconnected dimensions filled with terrors at every point and sinister forces. Despite its dark settings, the map is crafted beautifully, and with 2 playable protagonists, Alan Wake 2 quickly rose to the top rankings for its deep lore and incredible combat.
Use your flashlight to burn away the Darkness protecting the Taken before shooting, or your bullets will deal very little damage. Boosting your flashlight drains batteries quickly, so make sure to carry spare ones.
The plot is written beautifully, and with different protagonists fighting their own battles, it offers a fresh and unique perspective within the third-person shooter genre. Moreover, since Alan Wake 2 revolves around a horror tale, we must warn our readers that it isn’t for the faint-hearted.
If you’re after a casual third-person shooter and not something that will scare the life out of you, I’d suggest reading on.
My Verdict: A masterclass in storytelling and atmosphere – eerie, bold, and unforgettable.
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12. Max Payne 3 [Most Iconic Third-Person Shooter for Bullet-Time Action]
| Type of game | Action third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS3, Xbox 360, PC |
| Year of release | 2012 |
| Developer | Rockstar Games |
| Publisher | Rockstar Games |
| Average playtime | ~10–12 hours |
| Best for | Fans of gritty storytelling and bullet-time combat |
| What I liked | Stylish action, perfect pacing, and dark emotional tone |
Continuing the story of an ex-cop in the third installment of the franchise, Max Payne heads to São Paulo, Brazil, to work as private security for the wealthy Branco family, only to be dragged into a deadly conspiracy after his client’s wife is kidnapped. 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.
Always keep at least one bottle of painkillers in reserve. If you take fatal damage while carrying one, Last Man Standing gives you a short window in slow motion to shoot your attacker and survive.
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.
My Verdict: Stylish, tragic, and explosive. The bar for action shooters was set here – and few have cleared it since.
13. Dead Space Remake [Best Sci-Fi Third-Person Shooter for Atmospheric Combat]
| Type of game | Sci-fi survival horror third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Developer | Motive Studio |
| Publisher | Electronic Arts |
| Average playtime | ~14 hours |
| Best for | Fans of tense, atmospheric horror and sci-fi lore |
| What I liked | Haunting visuals, smooth gunplay, and intense survival gameplay |
The original Dead Space debuted in 2008, but a more polished and optimized remake was released in 2023, delivering significant upgrades in graphics, shooting mechanics, and overall gameplay while remaining faithful to its core essence.
Aim for the limbs instead of the head. Dismembering Necromorphs is the most effective way to stop them, while Stasis slows dangerous enemies and gives you more time to aim.
Dead Space Remake tells a sad tale of a spaceship overrun by otherworldly monsters, and you, Isaac Clarke, go onboard to look for your partner. Along the way, you’ll have to fight various monsters and upgrade your equipment while searching for Nicole and uncovering what happened aboard the Ishimura.
All these moving parts work together to immerse you fully in the game. If you’re obsessed with games set in outer space with a third-person narrative, you’ll love this Dead Space Remake.
My Verdict: A nerve-wracking sci-fi masterpiece. Every corridor, every sound, every shot counts – and that’s what makes it brilliant.
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14. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain [Top Open-World Third-Person Shooter for Tactical Espionage]
| Type of game | Open-world stealth third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC |
| Year of release | 2015 |
| Developer | Kojima Productions |
| Publisher | Konami Digital Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~45–50 hours |
| Best for | Tactical players and stealth fans |
| What I liked | Expansive missions, emergent gameplay, and deep systems |
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain continues the Big Boss storyline, as the legendary soldier awakens from a nine-year coma and sets out for revenge against the forces that destroyed his private army.
Use Fulton extraction to recruit skilled soldiers instead of killing them. They’ll help staff Mother Base and unlock better gear. Non-lethal weapons, such as the tranquilizer pistol, make it easier to recruit enemies without being detected.
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, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is the best game in the franchise to experience it firsthand.
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.
My Verdict: Stealth and strategy done right. The Phantom Pain is endlessly replayable and remains one of the genre’s finest achievements.
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15. Warhammer 40000: Space Marine 2 [Best Third-Person Shooter with Melee Combat Hybrid]
| Type of game | Action third-person shooter with melee combat |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Year of release | 2024 |
| Developer | Saber Interactive |
| Publisher | Focus Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~10–12 hours (campaign) |
| Best for | Fans of brutal action and sci-fi warfare |
| What I liked | Smooth combat, epic scale, and hybrid melee-shooter mechanics |
Warhammer 40000: Space Marine 2 isn’t just your standard third-person shooter game. It combines the elements of melee combat and special abilities that give you the perfect combat you can expect from a third-person shooter game.
Use executions on staggered enemies to restore your armor. Learn to parry enemy attacks, too, since a perfect parry opens up a gun strike that deals heavy damage.
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.
My Verdict: Loud, violent, and immensely fun. The perfect power fantasy for anyone craving high-octane sci-fi combat.
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16. The Last of Us Part II Remastered [Best Narrative-Driven Third-Person Survival Shooter]
| Type of game | Action-adventure survival third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, PC |
| Year of release | 2024 |
| Developer | Naughty Dog |
| Publisher | Sony Interactive Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~25–30 hours |
| Best for | Players seeking intense stealth-action, deep emotional storytelling, and brutal combat |
| What I liked | Visceral gunplay, incredible prone stealth mechanics, and the roguelike No Return mode |
The Last of Us Part II Remastered brings Naughty Dog’s post-apocalyptic masterpiece to modern hardware with enhanced visuals, faster load times, and new gameplay features. Following the interconnected stories of Ellie and Abby across a ruined Pacific Northwest, the game elevates third-person combat through fluid dodging, prone crawling through tall grass, and dynamic crafting under intense pressure.
Use prone stealth to hide in tall grass and break line of sight, and throw brick or bottle distractions to split up groups of Infected or WLF soldiers. Save explosive arrows and pipe bombs for heavily armored enemies like Bloaters.
Beyond its gripping single-player campaign, the Remastered edition introduces No Return, a roguelike survival mode that tests your combat mastery in randomized encounters across iconic locations.
My Verdict: A masterclass in stealth-action and emotional storytelling. Its visceral gunplay and tight survival mechanics set a high bar for the third-person shooter genre.
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17. Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 [Top Online Third-Person Shooter with RPG Depth]
| Type of game | Online RPG third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2019 |
| Developer | Massive Entertainment |
| Publisher | Ubisoft |
| Average playtime | ~40+ hours |
| Best for | Players who enjoy looter-shooters and team-based combat |
| What I liked | Realistic world, deep progression, and satisfying gunplay |
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.
Aim for enemy weak points, such as backpacks and fuel tanks, which can explode and damage nearby enemies. Choose skills that work well with your squad, as coordinated drones, turrets, and healing are just as important as shooting.
The Division 2 is an online third-person shooter with a strong focus on RPG elements. The gunplay in this installment is highly satisfying and impressive. Unlike games like Call of Duty, 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.
My Verdict: A gritty, rewarding shooter that shines brightest in co-op. Perfect for players who love tactical realism with RPG depth.
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18. Returnal [Best Roguelike Third-Person Shooter with Fast-Paced Action]
| Type of game | Roguelike third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, PC |
| Year of release | 2021 |
| Developer | Housemarque |
| Publisher | Sony Interactive Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~20 hours (main run) |
| Best for | Fast-paced action fans and roguelike enthusiasts |
| What I liked | Fluid movement, stunning environments, and thrilling loop |
Returnal isn’t only known for its gripping plot that depicts the life of an astronaut who crash-lands on the alien planet Atropos; its epic and fast-moving combat mechanics also play a vital role in its success. From a vibrant environment to a wide variety of enemies, Returnal feels like the perfect third-person shooter we all wanted.
Defeat three enemies in a row without taking damage to build up Adrenaline and gain stacking combat bonuses. Time your reloads correctly to trigger an Overload, which reloads your weapon faster and gives you bonus damage.
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.
My Verdict: Punishing, stylish, and deeply atmospheric. Every loop is a battle against the world and yourself.
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19. Days Gone [Top Zombie Survival Third-Person Shooter with Open World]
| Type of game | Open-world zombie survival third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, PC |
| Year of release | 2019 |
| Developer | Bend Studio |
| Publisher | Sony Interactive Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~35–40 hours |
| Best for | Players who love open-world exploration and zombie combat |
| What I liked | Emotional story, huge world, and terrifying horde battles |
Taking down herds of zombies and other undead monsters can be quite thrilling, and if you’re looking to experience that in the third-person mode, Days Gone would make for an excellent addition to your game’s arsenal.
Scout narrow paths and set traps before fighting a Freaker horde. Use explosives and fire to take down groups of enemies. Keep your bike fueled, too, since fast travel uses fuel and your bike is essential for getting around.
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.
My Verdict: A gripping, slow-burn story of survival and loss. Few shooters feel this personal or alive.
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20. Mass Effect Legendary Edition [Best Sci-Fi RPG Third-Person Shooter Trilogy]
| Type of game | Sci-fi action-RPG third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Year of release | 2021 |
| Developer | BioWare |
| Publisher | Electronic Arts |
| Average playtime | ~60–100 hours (trilogy) |
| Best for | RPG enthusiasts who love epic space operas and choice-driven stories |
| What I liked | Incredible narrative arc, memorable squadmates, and refined squad-based gunplay |
Mass Effect Legendary Edition combines all three iconic titles into a single, beautifully remastered package. Taking control of Commander Shepard, you’ll lead a ragtag crew across the galaxy to stop an ancient machine threat. The third-person cover shooting improves dramatically across the trilogy, blending tactical abilities with tight weapon mechanics.
Set up power combos by using one ability to prime an enemy and another to detonate it. These combos deal extra damage in Mass Effect 2 and 3. Carry your save across all three games so your decisions affect the story.
With modernized visuals, rebalanced gunplay in the original installment, and dozens of hours of DLC content included, it’s the definitive way to experience one of gaming’s greatest sci-fi sagas.
My Verdict: A sprawling space opera masterpiece. The ultimate blend of story-rich RPG elements and cover-based third-person shooting.
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21. Vanquish [Best High-Speed Third-Person Shooter for Adrenaline Junkies]
| Type of game | Sci-fi high-speed third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, PC, PS3, Xbox 360 |
| Year of release | 2010 |
| Developer | PlatinumGames |
| Publisher | Sega |
| Average playtime | ~6 hours |
| Best for | Action junkies who love fast, stylish combat |
| What I liked | Smooth mechanics, epic boss fights, and adrenaline-pumping gameplay |
Vanquish is a wonderful third-person shooter that’s set against the backdrop of a war in space, where a Russian military faction has seized a U.S. space colony and threatens America. Equipped with a specialized suit, you’ll take on its robot army and use the weapons at your disposal to take on hordes of enemies.
Don’t overuse your boost, as Sam’s suit can overheat and leave you exposed. Aim while boosting or dodging to activate AR Mode, which slows time and helps you line up accurate shots.
Featuring smooth dynamics and very decent graphics, Vanquish will always keep you on the edge of your seat with boss fights and hordes of enemies waiting for you at every corner. Moreover, the campaign is around 6 hours long, and it’s very fun to play, and I’d highly recommend checking it out.
My Verdict: A pulse-pounding thrill ride – short but spectacular. PlatinumGames at their absolute best.
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22. Remnant 2 [Best Third-Person Shooter with RPG and Co-Op Elements]
| Type of game | Action RPG third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Developer | Gunfire Games |
| Publisher | Gearbox Publishing |
| Average playtime | ~25–30 hours |
| Best for | Players who enjoy challenging co-op shooters |
| What I liked | Atmospheric world, deep customization, and co-op synergy |
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 2 still offers very original and excellent gameplay that you’d love.
Pay attention to your armor weight, since heavier gear slows your dodge. Try different Archetype combinations, as pairing two Archetypes can unlock powerful abilities that work well in both solo and co-op play.
Moreover, with its iconic characters, emotional plot, and some RPG elements, Remnant 2 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, you must check this one out.
My Verdict: Tough, rewarding, and atmospheric. It’s the perfect co-op experience for fans of deep lore and intense gunfights.
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23. Star Wars: Battlefront 2 [Top Third-Person Shooter for Galactic Combat and Lore]
| Type of game | Third-person sci-fi shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2017 |
| Developer | DICE |
| Publisher | Electronic Arts |
| Average playtime | ~15 hours (campaign) |
| Best for | Star Wars fans and large-scale multiplayer battles |
| What I liked | Beautiful visuals, authentic lore, and epic multiplayer modes |
For people who are obsessed with Star Wars mythology, Star Wars: Battlefront 2 is your best bet for experiencing it firsthand, and luckily, you can play it in third-person, with a first-person option for infantry.
Focus on completing objectives to earn Battle Points, which you can use to play as heroes, villains, or vehicles. Stay close to your squad to earn points faster.
The world is developed beautifully, and the game is a sight for sore eyes. Combine that with its epic plot and phenomenal gunplay with smooth mobility, it provides an experience that’s easy to get lost in. I’m a big fan of its world and deep lore, and it’s a true masterpiece.
My Verdict: Visually stunning and endlessly epic. A must-play for any fan of the galaxy far, far away.
24. PUBG: Battlegrounds [Best Third-Person Battle Royale Shooter for Competitive Play]
| Type of game | Online battle royale third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Year of release | 2017 |
| Developer | PUBG Studios |
| Publisher | Krafton |
| Average playtime | Endless (multiplayer) |
| Best for | Competitive players seeking skill-based survival gameplay |
| What I liked | Realistic gunplay, tension, and rewarding victories |
PUBG is an online third-person shooter battle royale game that doesn’t require much introduction. Attracting millions of players shortly after its 2017 launch, 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.
Use the third-person camera to look over walls and around corners without exposing yourself. Watch the blue zone and move early, as getting caught out in the open late in a match can easily cost you the game.
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.
My Verdict: A survival classic. Every match tells a new story, and every victory feels earned – still one of the best third-person shooter games ever made.
Upcoming Third-Person Shooter Games
The third-person shooter genre isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Several new releases are bringing fresh takes on sci-fi combat, co-op action, and exploration, with these two titles currently among the ones to watch.
Turok: Origins (Expected release: Spring 2027): Saber Interactive is bringing Turok back with Turok: Origins, a fast-paced sci-fi shooter, playable in both first- and third-person, that combines dinosaur hunting with alien threats. You can play through the adventure solo or team up with up to three players in co-op, while weapons and abilities let you take on increasingly dangerous enemies.
The Expanse: Osiris Reborn (Expected release: Q2 2027): A third-person action RPG set in the universe of The Expanse. You play as a mercenary captain trying to keep your crew together while exploring a conflict-filled solar system, with your choices shaping the story and your relationships with your crew. The game is currently planned for Q2 2027.
These upcoming releases give the genre plenty to look forward to, with more third-person adventures set to arrive in the coming years.
My Overall Verdict on the Best Third-Person Shooter Games
Finding your next third-person shooter comes down to the kind of experience you want behind the camera. Here is how I’d break down the top picks depending on what you’re craving:
- For Narrative & Lore: Jump into Mass Effect Legendary Edition for an expansive sci-fi RPG journey, or pick up Control for its mysterious story and telekinetic combat. The Last of Us Part II Remastered is another great option for a story-focused experience.
- For High-Intensity Squad Play: Drop into Helldivers 2 for chaotic co-op battles, or take a tactical, open-world approach with Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands. ARC Raiders adds high-stakes extraction gameplay for solo or squad play.
- For Horror & Survival: Resident Evil Requiem and Dead Space Remake offer tense survival horror, while Alan Wake 2 adds a more psychological approach with supernatural combat.
- For Pure Action & Shooting Mechanics: Play Max Payne 3 for its bullet-time combat, or take a more methodical approach with Sniper Elite: Resistance and its precision sniping. Returnal delivers faster movement and relentless combat.
- For Multiplayer & Competitive Action: Marvel Rivals brings superhero abilities and team-based combat, while Fortnite and PUBG: Battlegrounds offer competitive battle royale action.
Ultimately, every title on this list brings a distinct take to the over-the-shoulder perspective. Pick the world that grabs your attention, jump in, and enjoy the action!
FAQs
Marvel Rivals is one of the standout third-person shooters in 2026, offering fast-paced 6v6 matches, unique hero abilities, and team-based combat. It’s a strong pick if you enjoy competitive multiplayer shooters with a superhero twist.
A 3rd-person view game is a type of video game where players can fully see the character they’re controlling on screen. This perspective allows for greater environmental awareness, showcasing both the player’s movements and the world around them during gameplay.
A good 3rd-person shooter combines satisfying gunplay, engaging gameplay, and a story or world that keeps you invested. Games like Marvel Rivals, Control, and Sniper Elite: Resistance show how different approaches can work within the genre.
In first-person shooter (FPS) games, you can see through the eyes of the character, but you cannot see the character’s body. In third-person shooter (TPS) games, you’re controlling the character from behind and can see their entire body and the surroundings through the third-person viewpoint.
