The FPS genre reigns supreme on PC, with titles like Counter-Strike 2 consistently topping player charts. Within this vast landscape, hero shooters have carved a special niche, blending fast-paced gunplay with unique character abilities and RPG elements. While Overwatch pioneered the genre, numerous exceptional hero shooters have emerged, refining and innovating the formula. Many also offer cross-platform play, allowing you to compete with friends on console. Here are the best hero shooters available on PC today.
Best Hero Shooters
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Rainbow Six Siege distinguishes itself with its realistic approach to the hero shooter genre. It combines simulation-level gunplay and destructible environments with a diverse roster of operators, each possessing unique gadgets and loadouts. Whether deploying bear traps, utilizing breaching charges, or employing thermal grenades, operators offer a wide range of tactical options. The sheer number of operator abilities to learn, coupled with the dynamic environments and swift time-to-kill, demands strategic thinking and cautious movement. Siege rewards careful planning and precise execution, delivering intense and adrenaline-pumping gameplay.
[Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six: Siege – Launch Trailer (Official)](insert link here)
Team Fortress 2
Team Fortress 2 Characters
Team Fortress 2 is a timeless classic that predates the term “hero shooter.” Its enduring appeal lies in its balanced gameplay, achieved through its nine distinct classes and consistent meta. The game’s stylized graphics and humorous tone contribute to its ageless charm. Team Fortress 2 offers diverse mechanics and encourages player expression within each class. No class is overpowered or underpowered, requiring players to strategically utilize their abilities based on map dynamics and team composition. This title remains equally enjoyable for casual and competitive players, and the readily available community-created maps and modes further extend its replayability.
[Meet the Heavy](insert link here)
Valorant
Valorant Agent
Developed by Riot Games, the creators of League of Legends, Valorant takes the core gameplay of Counter-Strike and infuses it with unique hero abilities. The game retains the familiar weapon purchasing and objective-based gameplay of CS, while adding strategic depth through active and passive skills. This fresh twist elevates the experience for seasoned CS players without compromising the high skill ceiling. Valorant offers a compelling blend of familiar mechanics and innovative character abilities.
[The Round // Gameplay Preview – VALORANT](insert link here)
Apex Legends
Apex Legends Characters
Apex Legends successfully translates the hero shooter formula to the battle royale genre. Players form squads of three Legends, each belonging to a specific class (assault, skirmisher, recon, controller, support). Character abilities are impactful but not game-breaking, emphasizing the importance of movement, aim, and looting. Teamwork is paramount in Apex Legends, making it an excellent choice for playing with friends.
[Apex Legends Official Launch Trailer](insert link here)
Quake Champions
Quake Champions Arena
Quake Champions revitalizes the classic arena shooter with a hero shooter twist. Retaining the fast-paced, brutal gameplay of its predecessors, Quake Champions introduces unique character abilities like grappling hooks and wallhacks. While these abilities add a new layer of strategy, mastery of movement, aim, and map awareness remain crucial.
[Quake Champions: E3 2016 Reveal Trailer](insert link here)
Marvel Rivals
Marvel Rivals Heroes
Marvel Rivals embraces the “hero” aspect of the genre with its roster of iconic and lesser-known Marvel characters. While drawing inspiration from Overwatch, the game distinguishes itself with its third-person perspective. Featuring classic game modes like cart pushing and point capturing, Marvel Rivals offers a variety of ways to contribute to the team beyond pure marksmanship. The extensive character roster ensures a diverse and engaging experience.
[Marvel Rivals | Official Announcement Trailer](insert link here)
Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 Heroes
Despite initial challenges, Overwatch 2 continues to thrive and evolve. The game retains its signature polish and engaging gameplay. Boasting a massive roster of original characters, Overwatch 2 provides a wide range of playstyles. While balancing such a diverse cast can be challenging for competitive play, the average player benefits from the sheer variety. With a constant stream of new content, game modes, and seasonal ranked play, Overwatch 2 maintains its unique appeal.
[Overwatch 2 Announce Cinematic | “Zero Hour”](insert link here)
