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Johnny Dunes
Johnny Dunes Technical Writer
20 Best Looter Shooters in 2025 for Chaotic Combat & Endless Rewards
Image credit: People Can Fly

If you’re hunting for the best looter shooters, you’re probably after nonstop action, addictive progression, and sweet gear that keeps you coming back for ‘just one more run.’ In 2025, the genre is stacked with co-op mayhem, deep customization systems, unique abilities, and worlds built around the thrill of loot. Some of these games shaped the genre, while other titles bring new combat ideas and constant updates. Each one of them brings that addictive looting and replay factor that fans can’t get enough of this year.

Our Top Picks for Looter Shooters

Some looter shooters simply hit harder than the rest, regardless of whether it’s chaotic humor, tactical depth, or online co-op that keeps you glued to the screen. A big part of that appeal comes from that instant connection you feel with a game’s style, progression, and a bunch of cool gear you earned. 

Here are the three standout picks that dominate the genre in different ways:

  1. Borderlands 3 (2019) – Unhinged humor, a wild world, and a perfect over-the-top co-op make every playthrough feel fresh. 
  2. Destiny 2 (2017) – With deep classes, a rich sci-fi world, and a steady flow of seasonal loot, Destiny 2 remains the undisputed king. 
  3. The Division 2 (2019) – If you prefer tactical gunplay over chaos, and love realistic combat, and loot tied to strategy, The Division 2 is the smarter pick. 

Each pick dominates for a different reason, like humor, depth, or developer-driven design, but one thing is common: all three nail the kind of loot progression that makes the genre so addictive. And in case you are looking for more options, the full list below breaks down every flavor of looter shooter so you can lock in your next time sink. 

20 Best Looter Shooters Ranked in 2025 for Every Playstyle 

If you’re into chaotic sci-fi, grounded firefights, or something in between, these games deliver the best looter shooter experiences you can play right now. Let’s see how many of these you’ve sunk hours into.

1. Borderlands 3 [Best Over-the-Top Co-Op Shooter]

Borderlands 3 - Best Over-the-Top Co-Op Shooter
Our Score
10
Type of gameLoot-focused cooperative shooter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2019
Creator/sGearbox Software | 2K Games
Average playtime/Unique features50-70 hours, chaotic guns, four Vault Hunters, co-op mayhem
Best forCo-op shooter fans, loot hunters.
What I likedHumor, endless weapon variety, cinematic action.

Borderland 3 doesn’t waste a second throwing you into the chaos. You pick from four Vault Hunters, each with their own skill trees and playstyles, and dive into a galaxy-spanning loot hunt that’s part comedy, part carnage, and all co-op fun. It’s one of the best open-world games in the looter shooter genre, and what really makes it different is the chaotic charm and attitude baked into every moment. sw

The Calypso Twins, Troy and Tyreen, run a cult called The Children of the Vault, and they basically want to become gods. Your job is to stop them with the most ridiculous arsenal ever created. We’re talking guns with legs, weapons that scream insults, and launchers that fire sawblades or burgers. Every fight feels like a chance to snag something even weirder (and stronger) than before.

Why we chose it

It keeps the Borderlands identity intact. You get humor, co-op mayhem, and absurd weapons, while expanding the universe, endgame, and replay value in the best way possible. 

The world-hopping adventure really hits a new level when you’re moving from Pandora to swamplands, futuristic cities, monasteries, and beyond. Side quests bring in equal unhinged characters, sarcastic NPCs, and surprisingly good story moments. Add in endgame modes like Mayhem levels and Proving Grounds, and there’s always a reason to keep completing challenges and jumping back in. 

My Verdict: If you’re the kind of player who loves absurd humor, nonstop action, and co-op loot hunts that never get old, Borderlands 3 still stands at the top of the genre. 

2. Destiny 2 [Best Online Multiplayer Looter Shooter]

Destiny 2 - Best Online Multiplayer Looter Shooter
Our Score
9.8
Type of gameOnline multiplayer looter shooter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2017
Creator/sBungie
Average playtime/Unique features100+ hours, raids, strikes, PvP arenas, co-op missions
Best forMMO shooter fans, gear collectors
What I likedSci-fi worlds, customizable classes, and endgame variety.

Destiny 2 drops you into a living sci-fi universe where every mission feels like part of an evolving war. You get to choose from three main classes: Titan, Hunter, or Warlock. Each offers personalization through subclasses, abilities, and gear bulbs, letting you tailor your playstyle, regardless of whether you’re all about aggressive DPS, support roles, or crowd control. 

The game’s core loop revolves around blasting through alien factions, farming gear, and tackling everything from campaign missions and seasonal events to PvP arenas and endgame raids. Strikes and dungeons are perfect for quick co-op sessions, while six-player raids are where the developer really flexes the game’s tactical and mechanical depth. 

Why we chose it

Amazing sci-fi battles, deep class personalization, and an endless loot grind across evolving worlds.  

With smooth online security supporting co-op raids, Destiny 2 stands out with its cinematic planetscapes, neon-soaked cities, frozen moons, sand-swept ruins, and lush alien jungles.In a shared world shooter format, you play as Guardian, a space-faring warrior powered by the Light. 

My Verdict: If you are looking for a looter shooter with MMO depth, satisfying combat, and a universe that never stops growing, Destiny 2 is an easy and fun pick. 

3. The Division 2 [Best Tactical Loot Shooter]

The Division 2 - Best Tactical Loot Shooter
Our Score
9.7
Type of gameTactical third-person shooter with loot
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2019
Creator/sMassive Entertainment | Ubisoft
Average playtime/Unique features60-80 hours; cover-based combat, Dark Zones, endgame specialization
Best forTactical shooter and co-op players
What I likedRealistic urban environments, gear customization, strategic co-op

The Division 2 drops you in a collapsed Washington D.C., seven months after a deadly virus brought society to its knees. A virus wiped out most of society, factions are fighting for control, and you’re one of the last agents trying to pull the city back from total collapse. 

Most players split their time between the campaign, co-op missions, and PvP modes like Conflict and Skirmish. And then there are the Dark Zones, those tense areas where you’re fighting AI foes but also watching your back because other players can turn rogue at any moment, which also makes security and awareness part of the core experience.  

Why we chose it

It delivers realistic urban combat and team-based strategy while still giving you that satisfying loot loop and steady progression. 

Gear customization is a huge part of this fun game. You get tons of weapons, armor pieces, and skills to shape your build, and you can make it work for drones, turrets, seeker mines, or full-on healer support. Once you hit the endgame, things really open up with specializations, exotic loot, and tougher challenges that keep the grind going.

My Verdict – If tactical gunplay, co-op planning, and grounded world design sound like your thing, The Division 2 nails the experience.

4. Outriders [Best Third Person RPG Shooter]

Outriders - Best Third Person RPG Shooter
Our Score
9.6
Type of gameRPG shooter with loot and class abilities 
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2021
Creator/sPeople Can Fly | Square Enix
Average playtime/Unique features40 – 60 hours; four classes, skill combos, story-driven campaign. 
Best forRPG shooter fans, co-op players.
What I likedPowerful abilities, loot variety, cinematic story

Outriders throw you into a broken world where Earth’s last hope is planet Enoch, and things go sideways fast. You awaken as an Altered, a survivor gifted or maybe cursed with dangerous powers after exposure to the Anomaly. From there, you dive into a brutal third-person shooter RPG loop to combat, loot, and evolving builds, where your security depends on how well you adapt and survive each counter. 

You’ll mix gunplay with abilities, like summoning lava, bending time, or deploying turret support, to slay waves of monsters and human factions. As difficulty increases, your builds matter even more, and you’ll need to fine-tune synergies between weapon mods, ability cooldowns, and gear stats to push your ranking in the tougher tier. 

Why we chose it

Outriders nails fast-paced combat powered by devastating abilities while weaving in a dark sci-fi narrative; it feels like a gritty fantasy shooter that respects your time and hunger for power. 

No wonder Outriders ranks among the best sci-fi games, blending gritty sci-fi with brutal warzones. The landscapes range from scorched deserts to twisted alien forests. The atmosphere leans dark and oppressive, and it isn’t a pretty world, and that’s part of the charm of this game. The lore is rich, and the story has emotional stakes, though some players say it leans heavily on classic sci-fi tropes. 

My Verdict: If you’re into third-person shooters that let you mix powers with firepower and fine-tune your build along the way, Outriders delivers that blend perfectly. 

5. Warframe [Best Cooperative Shooter]

Warframe  - Best Cooperative Shooter
Our Score
9.5
Type of gameFree to play cooperative sci-fi shooter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2013
Creator/sDigital Extremes
Average playtime/Unique features200+ hours, combats, customizable Warframes, and weapons
Best forSci-fi shooter fans, co-op adventures
What I likedFluid combat, endless customization, constant updates

Warframe brings you into the role of a spacefaring warrior called a Tenno, who is an ancient fighter who wakes from cryosleep to take on warring factions across the Origin System. It’s fast, stylish, and built around co-op play, where you and your squad tear through missions with acrobatics, power, and an ever-growing arsenal. 

Most of your time is spent blasting through enemies, personalizing your Warframe, and farming gear through missions, open-world zones, and boss fights, while completing challenges and gaining access to new abilities, zones, and equipment. This isn’t a normal running and shooting game, because you’re jumping across maps, wall-running, gliding in slow motion, and using powers that range from invisibility to electric storms. 

Why we chose it

The movement is incredibly fluid, customization goes deep, and the amount of content continues to grow even years later.  

On top of that, there are hundreds of weapons you can collect and upgrade. There are flamethrowers and rifles to katanas and laser pistols, and each one of them is customized with mods to suit your playstyle. Open-world zones add even more variety with spearfishing, hoverboards, mining, and exploration beyond core missions, making Warframe one of the best MMORPG games for players who love co-op progression. 

My Verdict: If you love co-op games with tons of customization, constant updates, Warframe is a goldmine. It’s the kind of game you can sink hours into without running out of things to do. 

6. Remnant: From the Ashes [Best Boss-Focused Looter Shooter]

Remnant: From the Ashes - Best Boss-Focused Looter Shooter
Our Score
9.4
Type of gameOnline multiplayer looter shooter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2017
Creator/sBungie
Average playtime/Unique features100+ hours, raids, strikes, PvP arenas, co-op missions
Best forMMO shooter fans, gear collectors
What I likedSci-fi worlds, customizable classes, and endgame variety.

If you’ve ever wished Dark Souls had guns and co-op, Remnant: From the Ashes is exactly that energy. The world’s been ruined by an interdimensional threat called the Root, and human civilization is hanging by a thread. 

The gameplay is all about third-person gunplay, dodge-based combat, and teamwork. You can play solo, but Remnant really shines in co-op with up to two other players. Every world you step into is procedurally generated, which means things change with every run, like maps, enemies, events, loot, and even bosses that you’ll eventually learn to anticipate and strategize against while completing challenges. 

Why we chose it

Remnant delivers a rare mix of challenge, replayability, and co-op intensity. The boss fights and procedural worlds make every run feel unpredictable and rewarding in a way most looter shooters don’t even try to match. 

The visual style of the game blends ruined Earth environments with eerie alien landscapes, monstrous bosses, and grim, atmospheric zones that feel hostile the moment you step in. The real hook, though, is the boss design, as these things simply absorb the damage, and force you to plan, move, and adapt..  

My Verdict: If you love tough boss battles, co-op survival, and loot that actually feels earned, Remnant: From the Ashes is the one for you. It’s a cool mix of strategy and action that keeps each run exciting.

7. Tom Clancy’s The Division [Best Original Tactical Shooter]

Tom Clancy’s The Division - Best Original Tactical Shooter
Our Score
9.3
Type of gameTactical third-person shooter
PlatformsPC, PS4, Xbox One
Year of release2016
Creator/sMassive Entertainment | Ubisoft
Average playtime/Unique features50-60 hours; cover-based combat, RPG elements, online co-op
Best forTactical Shooter enthusiasts
What I likedImmersive D.C. setting, skill combos, co-op flexibility.

Tom Clancy’s The Division takes you into a post-crisis New York where a deadly virus has collapsed society overnight. You play as a sleeper agent from the Strategic Homeland Division, activated to restore order, help civilians, and uncover the truth behind the outbreak. 

In gameplay, you’ll balance story missions, side ops, and PvP zones like the Dark Zone, where loot can be stolen by fellow players. You’ll need to respond quickly to threats, adapt your tactics, and imagine different strategies to survive intense firefights. The visual tone leans gritty and realistic; abandoned streets, ruined skyscrapers, and urban decay set the stage for each firefight. 

Why we chose it

It reshaped the genre with its grounded combat, atmospheric New York setting, and loot that actually matters, all built around teamwork and strategy. 

What sets Tom Clancy’s The Division apart is how grounded it feels. What really matters in combat is timing and smart decisions, like when to advance, when to take over, and when to strike with the right loadout. The loot feels meaningful; each upgrade has an impact on your stats and survival. 

My Verdict: If you want a gritty, strategic shooter with serious loot rewards and smart combat, Tom Clancy’s The Division is a timeless pick. 

8. Anthem [Best Exosuit Action Looter]

Anthem - Best Exosuit Action Looter
Our Score
9.3
Type of gameThird-person action looter with flying suits
PlatformsPC, PS4, Xbox One
Year of release2019
Creator/sBioWare | Electronic Arts
Average playtime/Unique features40-60 hours; Javelin suits, aerial combat, co-op missions
Best forPlayers who enjoy flying combat and loot
What I likedSuit customization, vertical gameplay

Anthem gets you into an alien world where human survival depends on fortified walls, while Freelancers, the elite pilots, take on the dangers beyond. You suit up in customizable Javelin exosuits, each acting like a different class with its own abilities, playstyle, and traversal style. 

Most of your time is spent taking on co-op missions, free roaming for loot, and battling massive creatures or enemy factions. The world is lush, alive, with amazing waterfalls, jungle canyons, and open skies that make soaring in a Javelin feel incredible. 

The fun part is that you can personalize your Javelin like you can tweak weapons, abilities, and visuals to match your build and personality. The world also evolves with events, new threats, and rotating challenges that keep missions fresh, which also makes completing objectives feel rewarding and impactful.

Why we chose it

No other looter shooter nails aerial combat and exosuit power fantasy like Anthem. Its Javelin system and world design make even casual sessions feel cinematic. 

My Verdict: If you love flying into battle in a fully customizable mech suit and teaming up for flashy co-op fights, Anthem delivers that power-trip gameplay few games can match. 

9. Borderlands 2 [Best Classic Looter Shooter]

Borderlands 2 - Best Classic Looter Shooter
Our Score
9.3
Type of gameFirst-person looter shooter
PlatformsPC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Year of release2012
Creator/sGearbox Software | 2K Games
Average playtime/Unique features40-60 hours, Vault Hunters, hilarious dialogue, endless loot
Best forFans of classic FPS looter shooters
What I likedIconic humor, unique weapons, memorable characters

Borderlands 2 takes you back to Pandora, but this time, things are even more unhinged. Handsome Jack has hijacked the Hyperion Corporation, declared himself ruler, and taken credit for everything the original Vault Hunters achieved. You play as one of four new Vault Hunters on a mission to take him down and restore some kind of order, or at least blow stuff up along the way. 

From the very beginning, the game won’t let you waste a single second. Your train ride to the Vault is actually a trap; you get blown into the Arctic Wasteland, and Claptrap is the first one you see when you wake up. And from there, it’s all guns, jokes, explosions, and meeting familiar faes like Lilith, Roland, and Brick, who now play major roles as NPCs. 

Every character feels fun to build, and the mix of action skills, loot upgrades, and ridiculous enemies keeps the combat feeling fresh for hours. And of course, the loot is pure chaos; some shotguns scream, pistols you throw like grenades, alien tech, and gear from manufacturers with wild designs and gimmicks. 

Why we chose it

We chose Borderlands 2 for its iconic characters, nonstop co-op fun, and a loot system that defined the genre. 

My Verdict: If you love quirky humor and over-the-top combat, Borderlands 2 still holds up as one of the most entertaining shooters ever made. 

10. Godfall [Best Melee Looter RPG]

G - Best Melee Looter RPG
Our Score
9.2
Type of gameThird-person melee RPG with loot
PlatformsPC, PS5
Year of release2020
Creator/sCounterplay Games | Gearbox Publishing
Average playtime/Unique features30-40 hours, melee combos, loot grind
Best forMelee-focused RPG fans
What I likedSmooth combat, flashy skills, loot variety

Godfall is in a high-fantasy world where armored warriors, ancient magic, and godlike power collide. You play as one of the last Valorian knights, who are fighters that can wear legendary Valorplate armor sets that give you the strength to take on cosmic threats and save your realm from destruction. If you ever feel lost in all the flashy combat or massive loot, the game does a great job of explaining mechanics, abilities, and progression clearly.

Instead of guns, this game is all about up-close melee combat. You’ll slash, smash, and spin through enemies using swords, polearms, warhammers, and dual blades, all while unlocking loot that upgrades both your abilities and your armor. Every hit will make you feel that weight, leaving you satisfied. 

Why we chose it

Godfalls delivers exactly what melee-focused looter fans crave: flashy combos, rewarding loot drops, and a world that looks like it was painted in HD.  

My Verdict: If your type is stylish combat and collecting powerful gear while looking like a mythical badass, Godfall hits the mark. Especially if you are someone who prefers swinging blades over shooting guns. 

11. Destiny: The Taken King [Best Loot Expansion Shooter] 

Destiny: The Taken King  - Best Loot Expansion Shooter
Our Score
9.2
Type of gameShooter expansion with RPG elements
PlatformsPS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360
Year of release2015
Creator/sBungie | Activision
Average playtime/Unique features30-50 hours, new raids, loot mechanics, expanded story
Best forDestiny players are looking for expanded content
What I likedRefined loot, new subclasses, memorable raid content

Destiny: The Taken King brings a new story campaign where you face Oryx, the vengeful father of Crota, and introduces fresh subclasses, strikes, and a fan-favorite raid that players still talk about today. 

What sets The Taken King apart is how it revamped the loot system. Drops became more meaningful, progression felt smoother, and raid rewards were actually worth the grind. A lot of longtime players credit this expansion for saving Destiny and setting the standard for future content. 

Why we chose it

The Taken King improved the core Destiny experience with better loot, smarter raids, and a much stronger campaign. 

My Verdict: If you love cooperative shooters with satisfying progression and epic boss fights, this is the expansion that made Destiny unforgettable. 

12. Dying Light 2 [Best Parkour Combat Looter]

Dying Light 2 - Best Parkour Combat Looter
Our Score
9.1
Type of gameOpen world parkour survival looter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2022
Creator/sTechland
Average playtime/Unique features50-70 hours, day-night cycle, parkour combat, choice-driven world
Best forParkour and survival enthusiasts
What I likedFluid movement, open world exploration, creative combat.

Dying Light 2 throws you into a post-collapse world where society has fractured and the infected roam free. You play as Aiden Caldwell, a powerful Parkour-enabled survivor, trying to navigate multiple factions and rebuild a shattered world from scratch through your choices. 

If you ever feel lost in the sprawling city, the game’s mechanics and map help keep movement and combat balanced, so you can tackle challenges without frustration. Proceeding through missions and zones, every decision you make has weight, shaping the world around you.

The environments are detailed and dynamic, full of cracked streets, overgrown urban areas, and lighting that reacts to weather and time of day. Dynamic day-night cycle, creative melee combat, and choice-driven world exploration define the experience, making Dying Light 2 one of the best open-world games for players who love freedom and vertical traversal. 

Why we chose it

It blends agile movement, deadly melee, and real consequence through player choice in a way that few looter shooters even try. 

My Verdict: If you crave a game where you feel nimble, vulnerable, and powerful all at once, and where our choices actually matter, Dying Light 2 is a must-play. 

13. Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodhunt [Best Battle Royale Looter]

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodhunt  - Best Battle Royale Looter
Our Score
9.0
Type of gameVampire-themed battle royale shooter
PlatformsPC
Year of release2021
Creator/sSharkmob
Average playtime/Unique features20-40 hours, vampire powers, vertical combat, tactical looting
Best forBattle royale fans, fast-paced PvP
What I likedVertical mobility, vampire abilities, tense matches

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodhunt throws the vampire fantasy into a battle royale, setting the action in Prague during a violent civil war between vampire sects. You play as a kindred, balancing stealth, supernatural powers, and tactical looting, fighting both your rivals and an entity trying to exterminate all vampires. 

You’ll scale rooftops, slide down alleys, and use vampire powers like invisibility, mobility boosts, or slow time to gain the upper hand. The map design leans heavily on vertical traversal, like skylines, chimneys, and abandoned buildings, which make Prague’s architecture interesting. As you master the mechanics, you can finally see your progress reflected in victories and loot upgrades.

Why we chose it

Fast-paced vertical combat blending vampire powers with tactical looting gives Bloodhunt a unique edge in the battle royale genre. 

My Verdict: If you’re into games that mix mobility, strategy, and playing as a supernatural predator with tools and weapons, Bloodhunt easily stands among the best battle royale games.  

14. Warhammer: Vermintide 2 [Best Co-Op Action Looter]

Warhammer: Vermintide 2 - Best Co-Op Action Looter
Our Score
9.0
Type of gameCo-op melee and ranged action looter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2018
Creator/sFatshark
Average playtime/Unique features50-100 hours, intense melee combat, hero subclasses, horde survival
Best forCo-op squads and melee combat fans
What I likedClass variety, brutal combat, replayable missions.

If you’re into fighting through hordes of enemies with friends, Warhammer: Vermintide 2 brings that chaos to life in the best and the bloodiest way possible. It is set in the Warhammer fantasy universe, where you and your squad battle Skaven and Chaos forces across dark, war-torn maps filled with danger at every turn, the kind of atmosphere fans love in the best dungeon crawler games

The gameplay is all about teamwork, charging into melee, firing off ranged attacks, rescuing teammates, and managing nonstop swarms. Each hero has different subclasses and playstyles, so experimenting with weapons and abilities never gets old. 

Why we chose it

Brutal melee and ranged co-op combat in the grim Warhammer fantasy universe makes this one of the most satisfying team-based looter experiences out there.  

The game leans into a gritty medieval look, with ruined villages, twisted landscapes, and relentless enemies. The combat feels so good, and every run plays out differently on your team.

My Verdict: If you like the thrill of surviving waves with a squad and mastering different classes, Warhammer: Vermintide 2 delivers nonstop action and tons of replay value. 

15. Remnant 2 [Best Sequel with Expansive Loot]

Remnant 2 - Best Sequel with Expansive Loot
Our Score
9.0
Type of gameThird-person action looter shooter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2023
Creator/sGunfire Games | Gearbox Publishing
Average playtime/Unique features50-70 hours, procedural worlds, class combos, co-op bosses
Best forPlayers who love bosses and replay value
What I likedWeapon mods, class synergy, world variety

If you enjoy co-op shooters or just loved the first Remnant, this second version, Remnant 2, goes all in on making everything bigger, tougher, and more replayable. As one of the best TPS games with RPG and co-op elements mixed in, you and your entire team explore bizarre, dangerous worlds full of monsters, bosses, and secrets. 

You’ll spend most of your time shooting, dodging, looting, and experimenting with different archetypes to build your ideal character. The aesthetic is a mix of dark fantasy, sci-fi ruins, and surreal landscapes, making every new location feel like you’ve dropped into another dimension. Proceeding through each world, you’ll encounter surprises that keep every session fresh and unpredictable. 

Why we chose it

Bigger worlds, smarter enemies, and rewarding build diversity for co-op adventures make Remnant 2 a standout sequel that doesn’t play it safe.   

My Verdict: If you’re into challenging co-op action with tons of gear to chase and builds to master, Remnant 2 is packed with depth and variety. 

16. Diablo 4 [Best Action RPG Shooter Hybrid]

Diablo 4 - Best Action RPG Shooter Hybrid
Our Score
8.9
Type of gameAction RPG looter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2023
Creator/sBlizzard Entertainment 
Average playtime/Unique features60 – 100+ hours; world bosses, seasonal progression
Best forDungeon crawler and loot grind fans
What I likedDark tone, class depth, addictive loot cycle

Diablo 4 doesn’t waste time pulling you in. The world of Sanctuary is bleak, bloody, and crawling with demons just begging to be farmed for loot. It’s easy to see why players consider it one of the best action RPG games. You create your hero, pick a class, and dive into a massive open world where every dungeon, event, and enemy encounter drops something worth chasing. 

You will find yourself indulged in the game, slashing, casting, or blasting through hordes of enemies, leveling up your build, and hunting for gear that makes you unstoppable. This sequel goes back to Diablo’s darker roots, which are gothic ruins, cursed villages, eerie deserts, and hellish underworlds, all wrapped in gritty details fans have been asking for. 

Why we chose it

Dark, open-world action with legendary loot is exactly what makes Diablo 4 stand out, especially for players who love experimenting with builds and diving into seasonal content.    

My Verdict: If you enjoy ARPG combat, addictive progression, and loot that actually feels rewarding, Diablo 4 keeps giving you reasons to come back. 

17. Fallout 76 [Best Open-World Looter RPG]

Fallout 76 - Best Open-World Looter RPG
Our Score
8.8
Type of gameOnline open-world RPG looter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2018
Creator/sBethesda Game Studios | Bethesda Softworks 
Average playtime/Unique features80 – 150 hours; base building, live events, survival mechanics
Best forOpen world explorers and survival fans
What I likedAppalachia setting, progression, constant updates

Fallout 76 takes you into post-apocalyptic West Virginia right after you leave the vault, and it’s up to you to rebuild or just survive. As one of the best RPG games with a shared world twist, you’ll explore massive open zones, scavenge everything you can carry, fight off mutants, and bump into other players doing the same. 

The game goes beyond looting and shooting, letting you build bases, craft better gear, and set up camp anywhere you like. The world has a mix of creepy charm and rugged beauty, and every corner hides something strange, dangerous, or useful. You’ll constantly have to keep your head in the game as danger can come from both the environment and other players.

Why we chose it

Shared world wasteland experience with deep crafting, base-building, and unique weapons makes Fallout 76 stand out for players who love playing around, exploring, and shaping their own survival story.    

My Verdict: If you’re into open-world adventures with tons of loot, creativity, and multiplayer moments, both friendly and chaotic, Fallout 76 is easy to get hooked on.  

18. Escape from Tarkov [Best Hardcore Realistic Looter]

Escape from Tarkov - Best Hardcore Realistic Looter
Our Score
8.7
Type of gameHardcore survival FPS looter
PlatformsPC
Year of release2017
Creator/sBattlestate Games
Average playtime/Unique features100+ hours, realism, extraction gameplay, permadeath loot runs
Best forHardcore FPS and realism seekers
What I likedGear tension, tactical gunfights, risk-reward system

Escape from Tarkov is the kind of game that makes your heart race even before you hear footsteps. You jump into raids with whatever gear you’re brave enough to bring, loot what you can, and try to escape before someone takes you out and takes away everything you had. Every encounter is tense, and sometimes it’s sheer luck that decides who makes it out alive.

The game is slow, intense, and incredibly immersive. Every gunshot matters, healing is manual, and even reloading can get you killed if you’re not careful. If you’re into some of the best FPS games, Tarkov raises the bar with its realism. The locations feel real; there are factories, forests, abandoned towns, all filled with loot, danger, and other players waiting to charge.

Why we chose it

The game is brutally realistic. Tarkov is ideal if you’re into high tension, smart plays, and real consequences. 

My Verdict: If you’re someone who craves high-risk looting, realistic combat, and an adrenaline rush, Escape from Tarkov delivers like nothing else. 

19. Tiny Tina’s Wonderland [Best Chaotic Looter Spin-Off]

Tiny Tina’s Wonderland - Best Chaotic Looter Spin-Off
Our Score
8.6
Type of gameFantasy looter shooter
PlatformsPC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2022
Creator/sGearbox Software | 2K Games
Average playtime/Unique features30-50 hours; spells instead of grenades, D&D twist, co-op chaos
Best forBorderlands and fantasy mashup fans
What I likedClass combos, humor, colorful worlds

Tiny Tina’s Wonderland throws you into a wild D&D-style fantasy world, except everything’s loud, ridiculous, and powered by guns and magic. You play as a custom hero guided by Tiny Tina herself, blasting through goblins, skeletons, dragons, and whatever else her chaotic brain cooks up. 

In most of the game, you’ll be looting dungeons, casting flashy spells, swapping absurdly powerful weapons, and teaming up with friends, which makes it one of the best co-op games around. Unlike other games, Tiny Tina’s Wonderland looks like a completely different game in the best way possible. 

The world looks like a mashup of Borderlands insanity and fairy tale fantasy, full of bright colors, twisted castles, mushroom forests, and plenty of sparkle mixed with explosions. Sometimes, defeating a boss or finding a rare weapon depends purely on luck. This makes every run thrilling.

Why we chose it

What makes it stand out is its whimsical fantasy shooter with spellcasting, over-the-top humor, and co-op loot mayhem.  

My Verdict: If you love Borderlands-style looting but want dragons, dumb jokes, and spells that wipe entire rooms, Tiny Tina’s Wonderland is pure chaotic fun. 

20. Borderlands 4 [Best Latest Over-the-Top Loot Shooter]

Borderlands 4 - Best Latest Over-the-Top Loot Shooter
Our Score
8.5
Type of gameCo-op looter shooter
PlatformsPC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Year of release2025
Creator/sGearbox Software | 2K
Average playtime/Unique featuresNew Vault Hunters, expanded planets, and loot overhaul
Best forFans of chaotic co-op shooters
What I likedHumor, insane weapon variety, fast co-op action. 

Borderlands 4 takes everything wild and ridiculous about the series and dials it up even higher. You’re back in a chaotic sci-fi universe full of guns that shouldn’t exist, bandits that yell way too much, and quests that don’t take themselves seriously. 

Why we chose it

We chose Borderlands 4 for its ridiculous humor, insane weapons, and non-stop action that keeps you hooked. 

You’ll spend most of your time looting overpowered weapons, blasting through enemies in co-op or solo, and completing quests while enjoying the franchise’s signature comic book art style, now upgraded with next-gen detail and flair. 

My Verdict: If you are into absurd humor, nonstop action, and that rush of finding a gun that shoots lightning or hamburgers, Borderlands 4 is the right one for you.  

My Overall Verdict

The best looter shooter for you really comes down to how you like to play. Different players chase different highs, like chaos, teamwork, realism, or progression. Here’s where to jump in based on how you like your loot and shoot;

  • For Beginners and Fun Seekers > Borderland 3: It is the easiest and most entertaining place to start. It’s chaotic in all the right ways without overwhelming you, with goofy guns, nonstop action, and zero barrier to entry. 
  • For Co-Op Fans > Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands: It’s a mix of spells, loot, and humor that makes co-op feel fresh and ridiculous in the best way. 
  • For Hardcore Realistics > Escape from Tarkov: It brings hardcore stakes where every bullet matters, anything can happen in every raid, and the tension hits harder than most horror games. 

There’s a looter shooter for every kind of player. It’s just that you have to decide which style of suffering or satisfaction you’re built for.  


FAQs

What is the best looter shooter?

The best looter shooter is Borderlands 3. Its massive gun variety, co-op fun, and easy entry point for new players make it the best in the list. It blends humor, action, and loot progression better than most games in the genre. 

What is a looter shooter in gaming?

A looter shooter is a game where you fight enemies to earn gear, weapons, and upgrades. The main loop revolves around combat, collecting better loot, and improving your character over time, either solo or in co-op.

What is the very first looter shooter?

Borderlands (2009) is the first true looter shooter. It blended FPS combat with RPG-style loot progression and set the base for the genre’s modern identity. 

What game invented the looter shooter?

Borderlands invented the looter shooter formula by mixing Diablo-style loot systems with first-person shooter mechanics and co-op gameplay. 

What are good looter shooter survival games?

Good looter shooter survival games include Escape from Tarkov and Fallout 76. Tarkov offers realism, while Fallout 76 adds survival, exploration, and persistent progression in an open world.

Are there any good multiplayer looter shooter games?

Yes, there are good multiplayer looter shooter games. Some include Borderlands 3, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, and Destiny 2, are fan favorites for co-op action. 

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Johnny Dunes

Technical Writer

I’m an author, casual gamer, and all-around foodie who loves mobile games, eating out with friends, and traveling. When I’m not writing, I’m either leveling up in my favorite games or getting lost in a new city. On my blog, I mix gaming tips, ways to earn on the side, and quirky tales from my latest adventures.