The hero shooter genre has exploded in popularity, especially on consoles like the PS5. While narrative-driven games still hold a strong presence, the best first-person shooters (FPS) are increasingly making their mark, with hero shooters leading the charge. These games elevate the traditional run-and-gun experience by introducing unique characters with distinct abilities, adding layers of strategic depth beyond aiming and reflexes. With many titles supporting cross-platform play, finding a match is easier than ever. Here are the best hero shooters you can play on PS5 right now.
Valorant
Valorant gameplay on PS5
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 5
- Genre: Tactical Shooter
- Developer/Publisher: Riot Games
- Release Date: June 2, 2020
Originally a PC exclusive, Valorant surprised everyone with a successful transition to PS5, retaining its competitive edge. Imagine Counter-Strike 2 with unique heroes, and you’ve got Valorant. Riot Games, known for League of Legends, brings their expertise in character balancing to this tactical shooter. Mirroring CS, players purchase weapons and gear at the start of each round, attacking or defending bomb sites. The fast-paced gameplay and strategic abilities create intense moments. Being free-to-play adds to its appeal, making it one of the best tactical shooters on consoles.
The Round // Gameplay Preview – VALORANT
Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Marvel's Midnight Suns Gameplay
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 5
- Genre: Shooter
- Developer: NetEase Games
- Publisher: NetEase Games, Marvel Games
- Release Date: December 6, 2024
While initial comparisons to Overwatch were made due to ability functionality and UI, Marvel’s Midnight Suns carves its own path with a third-person perspective and a diverse roster of Marvel characters. Featuring classic game modes like cart pushing and point capturing, the game shines with its extensive character selection. The large roster ensures a favorite for every player, and contributing to the team doesn’t solely rely on aiming skills. Playing with a PS5 controller arguably provides the optimal control experience.
Marvel’s Midnight Suns | Official Announcement Trailer
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Rainbow Six Siege Gameplay
- Platforms: Google Stadia, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One
- Genre: Tactical Shooter
- Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
- Publisher: Ubisoft Entertainment
- Release Date: December 1, 2015
Rainbow Six Siege offers a more intimate and tactical experience compared to large-scale shooters like Battlefield. Each operator boasts unique loadouts, stats, and gadgets for both offense and defense, ranging from bear traps and cameras to breaching charges and thermal grenades. The destructible environments, diverse operator abilities, and rapid time-to-kill demand constant vigilance and strategic thinking. The game’s steep learning curve is rewarded with a deeply engaging and adrenaline-pumping experience. Its enduring popularity over the past decade speaks volumes.
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six: Siege – Launch Trailer (Official)
Apex Legends
Apex Legends Gameplay on PS5
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Tactical Shooter, Battle Royale
- Developer: Respawn Entertainment
- Publisher: Electronic Arts
- Release Date: February 4, 2019
Apex Legends seamlessly blends hero shooter mechanics with the battle royale genre, emphasizing fluid movement and precise gunplay. Teams of three Legends, categorized into assault, skirmishers, recon, controller, and support classes, compete for survival. While character abilities are impactful, mastering movement, aiming, and looting are equally crucial. Teamwork is paramount for success in Apex Legends.
Apex Legends Official Launch Trailer
Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 Gameplay on PS5
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Shooter
- Developer/Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment
- Release Date: August 10, 2023
No discussion of hero shooters is complete without mentioning Overwatch 2, the game that propelled the genre into the mainstream. Despite its ups and downs, the core gameplay remains engaging. The massive roster of unique characters offers diverse playstyles, though balancing remains an ongoing challenge. With constant updates, new game modes, and seasonal ranked play, Overwatch 2 retains its unique appeal.
Overwatch 2 Announce Cinematic | “Zero Hour”
Paladins: Champions of the Realm
Paladins Champions of the Realm Gameplay
- Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC, Mac, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Genre: Shooter, Strategy
- Developer: Evil Mojo Games, Hi-Rez Studios
- Publisher: Hi-Rez Studios
- Release Date: May 2, 2017
Paladins: Champions of the Realm presents a compelling alternative for those seeking an Overwatch-like experience. With 5v5 objective-based matches and a vibrant art style, Paladins offers a unique roster of champions customizable through card loadouts. Despite existing in the shadow of other hero shooters, Paladins boasts a dedicated community that keeps the game thriving.
These are just a few of the excellent hero shooters available on PS5. With a variety of styles and gameplay mechanics, there’s a perfect hero shooter out there for everyone.
