Finding a good FPS game with a strong single player mode can be tough. Many shooters focus on multiplayer action, leaving solo players with few choices. But some games stand out with their amazing stories and gameplay.
The best single player FPS games offer exciting stories and fun gameplay without needing other players. These games let you enjoy shooting action at your own pace. From sci-fi adventures to horror themes, there’s something for every type of player who wants to game alone.
1. Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal stands as a masterpiece in the first-person shooter genre. Released as a sequel to the 2016 Doom reboot, it has taken what made its predecessor great and improved upon it in nearly every way.
The combat in Doom Eternal creates an addictive loop that keeps players engaged. You must constantly move, think, and adapt to survive the demon hordes. This peak of FPS gaming demands both quick reflexes and smart resource management.
What sets Doom Eternal apart is its “push-forward” combat system. Players can’t hide behind cover – they must attack to survive. Different demons require different strategies, adding layers to the combat.
The game runs smoothly on most platforms. It achieves 60 fps on everything except Nintendo Switch, which is impressive given its high-quality graphics and non-stop action.
Visual design in Doom Eternal blends hellish landscapes with sci-fi elements. The environments range from ruined Earth cities to alien worlds and demonic realms, each with unique architecture and atmosphere.
The soundtrack complements the fast-paced gameplay perfectly. Heavy metal riffs sync with the action, pushing players forward through intense combat scenarios.
Movement mechanics add another layer of skill. The Slayer can double jump, dash in mid-air, swing from poles, and climb walls. These options give players freedom to approach combat arenas in various ways.
Weapon variety stands out as a high point. Each gun feels unique and serves specific purposes. The Super Shotgun with its meat hook attachment lets players zip toward enemies, while the Plasma Rifle excels at removing enemy shields.
Players who enjoyed Doom 2016 might find Eternal more challenging. The game demands more from the player with its expanded combat system and resource management.
For many fans, Doom Eternal has ruined other shooters by setting such a high standard. Its speed, intensity, and mechanical depth make it a benchmark in the genre.
The addition of mods, skins, and randomizers has extended the game’s life. These features give players new ways to experience the campaign even after multiple playthroughs.
2. Titanfall 2
Titanfall 2 stands out as one of the best shooter campaigns since Half-Life 2. Released in 2016, this game gives players an amazing mix of fast movement and giant robot action.
The campaign follows Jack Cooper, a rifleman who links with BT-7274, a Titan whose pilot has died. Their relationship grows throughout the story, making players truly care about both characters.
What makes Titanfall 2 special is how it keeps introducing new ideas. Each level brings something fresh and exciting. The game never gets boring.
One standout level called “Effect and Cause” lets players jump between two different time periods. This clever design has made many players call it one of the smartest FPS games of the last decade.
The movement system feels smooth and fun. Wall-running, sliding, and double-jumping give players amazing freedom. These moves work perfectly with the well-designed levels.
Combat feels great whether fighting as a pilot or in your Titan. As a pilot, you move quickly and use various weapons. In your Titan, you feel powerful with big guns and special abilities.
Many fans place Titanfall 2 among the top three FPS campaigns ever made, alongside classics like Halo Reach and Halo 3. The game packs more creativity into its short runtime than many longer games.
The campaign lasts about 5-6 hours, which some players feel is too short for a full-price game. However, most agree that the quality makes up for the length.
The story moves at a perfect pace. It never drags or feels rushed. Each mission builds on the last one while adding new tricks to keep players engaged.
Titanfall 2’s campaign is wall-running, robot-battling masterpiece that shows what first-person shooters can be when developers focus on fun and creativity over length. Eight years after its release, few games have matched its smart design.
3. Half-Life: Alyx
Half-Life: Alyx stands as one of the best VR games available today. Released in 2020, it brought the beloved Half-Life universe into virtual reality with stunning results.
The game serves as a prequel to Half-Life 2, putting players in the shoes of Alyx Vance as she fights against the alien Combine forces. Its story fits perfectly within the Half-Life timeline while adding new depth to the series.
What makes Alyx special is how it uses VR. Players can interact with almost everything in the environment. You can pick up objects, throw them, and solve puzzles in ways that feel natural.
The combat feels fresh and exciting. Reloading weapons requires physical movements, adding tension to firefights. Taking cover behind walls and peeking around corners becomes second nature as you play.
Valve created amazing environments that players can explore. From dark tunnels filled with headcrabs to abandoned buildings overrun by alien growth, each area tells a story.
PC Gamer named it Best VR Game of 2020, and for good reason. The attention to detail is impressive, with graphics that push the limits of current VR technology.
The game mixes combat, puzzles, and exploration perfectly. Each section flows into the next, keeping players engaged without feeling repetitive. The gravity gloves add a fun way to grab distant items with a flick of the wrist.
Sound design in Half-Life: Alyx creates a scary atmosphere. The noises of approaching enemies will make players’ hearts race. Voice acting is top-notch, bringing characters to life.
Some fans debate whether Alyx is truly an FPS first and foremost. Some discussions note it has many horror elements and exploration segments. The game often gives players quiet moments between action scenes.
Half-Life: Alyx ranks high on lists of best VR shooters, alongside titles like Arizona Sunshine and Into the Radius. What sets it apart is how it feels built for VR from the ground up.
Playing Half-Life: Alyx requires a VR headset and a good gaming PC. While this limits who can play it, those who can experience it find something special. The game shows what VR gaming can be when developers fully commit to the format.
4. Metro Exodus
Metro Exodus stands out as one of the most immersive shooters in the single-player FPS genre. The game takes players on a journey through post-apocalyptic Russia, offering a perfect mix of atmospheric storytelling and survival horror elements.
The graphics in Metro Exodus are stunning, especially with ray tracing technology. The game offers insane RTX visual enhancements that make the harsh Russian landscape come to life with realistic lighting and shadows.
Unlike its predecessors that kept players mostly underground, Metro Exodus opens up with larger semi-open world areas. These expansive zones let players explore and approach objectives in different ways, adding freedom to the series’ formula.
The game keeps the series’ signature scavenging mechanics. Every bullet counts, and players must carefully manage resources to survive the deadly wilderness. This tension makes each encounter meaningful.
Weather and day-night cycles change how you play. During night, mutants roam more freely, while human enemies patrol during daylight. This dynamic system forces players to adapt their tactics based on time of day.
The story follows Artyom and his companions on a cross-country train journey across Russia. This moving base of operations adds a fresh element as players bond with crew members between missions.
Crafting plays a key role in survival. Players can modify weapons and create useful items from scavenged materials. This system rewards thorough exploration and resourcefulness.
Many gamers recommend playing the first two Metro games before Exodus to fully appreciate the story. However, newcomers can still enjoy Metro Exodus as a standalone experience.
The sound design deserves special mention. From the howling wind to distant monster calls, the audio creates a truly immersive single-player experience that pulls players into its world.
Metro Exodus ranks among the best single-player FPS games on PC, alongside titles like Doom Eternal and Titanfall 2. Its unique blend of storytelling, survival mechanics, and atmospheric world-building makes it a standout title in the genre.
5. Far Cry 5
Far Cry 5 takes the popular first-person shooter series to America for the first time. The game is set in the fictional Hope County, Montana, and players face a dangerous cult led by the charismatic Joseph Seed.
The game offers a wide-open playground with all the ingredients needed for exciting gameplay. You’ll encounter many enemies, helpful allies, and unpredictable wildlife throughout your journey.
The gunplay feels satisfying and fun, which is important for any good FPS game. Players can find and modify weapons with various attachments to suit their playstyle.
Far Cry 5 isn’t as story-heavy as some other FPS games like Bioshock or later Fallout titles. This means the focus stays on action rather than complex narratives.
The game world looks stunning with beautiful landscapes and detailed environments. Montana’s forests, mountains, and rivers create a perfect backdrop for the intense action sequences.
Some fans consider the Far Cry series to contain some of the best single-player FPS experiences in gaming history. Far Cry 5 continues this tradition with its polished mechanics.
The progression system lets you improve your character and unlock new abilities. This adds depth to the gameplay and gives players goals beyond just finishing the main story.
One standout feature is the companion system. Players can recruit both human allies and animals like bears and cougars to help fight against the cult members.
Vehicle options add variety to the gameplay. You can drive cars, trucks, boats, and even fly planes to travel across the large map.
Side missions and activities fill the world with things to do beyond the main quest. Hunting, fishing, and collecting resources offer breaks from the intense shooting.
Despite its strengths, some critics found the game gorgeous but somewhat hollow. The beautiful setting sometimes masks a lack of depth in certain story elements.
For players seeking a fun FPS with satisfying gunplay and weapon customization, Far Cry 5 delivers an exciting experience. The open world design gives players freedom to approach objectives in their own way.
6. Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus stands out as one of the best first-person shooters focused on single-player action. Released in 2017, it continues the story of BJ Blazkowicz in an alternate history where the Nazis won World War II.
The game builds on everything that made its predecessor great. It dials up all the elements that made Wolfenstein: The New Order an excellent shooter, delivering an even more intense experience.
Combat feels smooth and satisfying with a wide range of weapons. Players can dual-wield guns and take down enemies in creative ways. The game encourages both stealth and all-out action approaches, letting players choose their style.
What truly sets this game apart is its story. Wolfenstein II doesn’t shy away from heavy themes while balancing them with moments of dark humor. The characters feel real and their struggles against the Nazi regime create emotional investment.
Many critics consider it a standout title in the FPS genre. The Washington Post even called it the year’s best first-person shooter single-player campaign.
The game offers plenty of freedom in how players approach combat situations. This flexibility makes each encounter feel unique and keeps gameplay fresh throughout the campaign.
Some reviewers have gone so far as to call it the new benchmark for single-player shooter campaigns. The freedom given to players combined with the strong narrative creates a memorable gaming experience.
Graphics and sound design also deserve praise. The detailed environments bring this dark alternate history to life. The voice acting stands out as particularly strong, making cutscenes as enjoyable as the action.
While some FPS games focus mainly on multiplayer, Wolfenstein II puts all its effort into a rich single-player experience. This dedication to solo gameplay makes it a must-play for fans of story-driven shooters.
For those who enjoy games with both excellent combat and compelling narratives, Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus delivers on both fronts. It proves that single-player FPS games can still offer some of gaming’s most exciting experiences.
7. Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary stands as a landmark title in first-person shooter gaming. Released as a remaster of the original 2001 classic, this version brought the game to new life with updated graphics while keeping the core gameplay intact.
The game follows Master Chief, a super soldier, as he battles alien forces called the Covenant. Players can switch between the original and remastered graphics with the press of a button, showing just how far gaming visuals have come.
The single-player campaign offers about 10 hours of gameplay across varied environments. From lush forests to the inside of alien structures, each level brings new challenges and enemies to face.
What makes Halo special is its balanced combat system. Players can only carry two weapons at a time, forcing smart choices about which guns to use. The recharging shield system also changed how FPS games approach health mechanics.
Vehicle sections add variety to the gameplay. Driving the Warthog jeep or flying a Banshee aircraft breaks up the on-foot combat sections and keeps the experience fresh.
The story might seem simple by today’s standards, but it set up one of gaming’s most important franchises. The mystery of the Halo ring world unfolds at a perfect pace, with surprising twists along the way.
Enemy AI remains impressive even years later. The Covenant forces work together, take cover, and respond to player actions in ways that feel natural and challenging.
The Anniversary edition includes enhanced sound design and a remastered musical score. These audio improvements make the combat feel more intense and the quiet moments more atmospheric.
For new players, this game serves as the perfect starting point for the Halo series. The release order (Combat Evolved, then 2, 3, etc.) remains the best way to experience the full story.
Many fans consider Halo: Combat Evolved to have one of the best single-player campaigns in gaming history. The Anniversary edition makes this classic accessible to modern players without losing what made it special.
8. Deus Ex: Mankind Divided
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided offers a rich single-player FPS experience with RPG elements. This game continues the story of Adam Jensen in a world divided between normal humans and those with augmentations.
The game gives players multiple ways to complete missions. You can go in guns blazing, sneak around enemies, or use a mix of both approaches. This freedom of choice makes each playthrough unique.
Mankind Divided is absolutely worth playing for first-time players. It delivers a compelling story with nostalgic elements that fans of the series appreciate.
The combat feels smooth and satisfying. Players can access special augmentations that enhance Jensen’s abilities. Some augs even let you throw people and vending machines, adding fun gameplay options.
The game’s setting in Prague is detailed and atmospheric. Streets, shops, and apartments feel lived-in and real. This attention to detail pulls players into the game world.
Stealth mechanics work well for players who prefer a quieter approach. The cover system lets you move between hiding spots without being seen. Takedowns are quick and satisfying.
Hacking mini-games add another layer to gameplay. Players can hack computers and security systems to gain advantages. This creates more paths through challenging areas.
The story tackles themes of discrimination and social division. These topics feel relevant and give weight to the game’s world. Characters have clear motivations that drive the plot forward.
While some players note that the environments aren’t as large or varied as pure FPS games, the depth of interaction makes up for it. Each area has multiple entry points and secrets to find.
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided stands among the best single-player shooters with good stories. Its mix of shooting, stealth, and role-playing elements creates a game that stays fresh throughout.
The visuals still hold up years after release. Prague’s streets in rain and neon lights create a perfect cyberpunk mood. Character models show emotion during important story moments.
Despite being released in 2016, many gamers count this title among older games that remain good 20 years later. Its blend of shooting, stealth, and storytelling keeps players coming back.
9. Bioshock Infinite
Bioshock Infinite stands as one of the most fun single-player FPS campaigns ever created. Released in 2013, this game takes players to the floating city of Columbia, a stark contrast to the underwater setting of previous Bioshock titles.
The game follows Booker DeWitt, a former Pinkerton agent sent to rescue a woman named Elizabeth. Their relationship forms the emotional core of the story, making it more than just another shooter.
Combat in Bioshock Infinite shines with its mix of guns and special powers called Vigors. Players can shoot enemies, use telekinesis, or call flocks of murderous crows – often combining these tactics in creative ways.
Return to Sender is noted as one of the most enjoyable Vigors in the game. This power lets players catch incoming bullets and throw them back at enemies.
The Sky-Line system adds another layer to combat. These rail networks let players zoom around battle areas, jumping on and off to attack from different angles. This movement system was revolutionary when the game released.
Columbia itself is a visual treat. The bright, open city contrasts with the dark, claustrophobic halls of Rapture from earlier games. Yet both share strong themes and striking art styles.
The story tackles complex ideas about choice, constants and variables, and parallel worlds. While the shooting is solid, many fans remember the game most for its mind-bending narrative twists.
Elizabeth is more than a typical companion character. She helps in combat by finding supplies and opening “tears” to other realities. She never needs protection, eliminating the frustration of escort missions.
Some players consider Bioshock Infinite better than Half-Life and the original Bioshock. Though others don’t rank it alongside classics like Doom or Unreal Tournament.
The game appears on many must-play FPS lists, showing its lasting impact. Its mix of shooting, powers, story, and setting created something truly special in the FPS genre.
10. Prey (2017)
Prey (2017) stands out as a masterful blend of first-person shooting and immersive sim elements. Created by Arkane Austin and published by Bethesda Softworks, this game offers players a unique space adventure.
The game puts you aboard Talos I, a massive space station orbiting the moon in 2032. You wake up as the subject of an experiment meant to change humanity forever. Things quickly go wrong when aliens called Typhons break loose.
What makes Prey special is its freedom of choice. Players can tackle problems in many ways – using guns, special powers, tools, or even stealth. The game never forces you down a single path.
The story keeps you guessing with its twists and turns. Your choices matter and shape how events unfold. This adds replay value as you can try different approaches on later playthroughs.
The space station itself feels like a character. Its art deco design mixes with futuristic tech to create a world that feels both old and new. Each area tells its own story through notes, recordings, and environmental details.
Many gamers consider Prey one of the best single-player FPS games due to its smart design. The game rewards curious players who explore every corner of Talos I.
Combat feels tense and strategic rather than mindless. Early on, even basic enemies pose a threat. As you gain new tools and abilities, you feel genuinely stronger.
The Gloo Cannon stands out as one of gaming’s most creative weapons. It shoots foam that hardens instantly, letting you create paths, block enemies, or put out fires. This one tool opens up countless options.
Unlike Prey (2006), which was a more straightforward shooter, the 2017 game focuses on player choice and problem-solving. The two games share only a name, aiming for different gaming experiences.
Sound design adds to the tension throughout. The music shifts based on danger, and the eerie sounds of Typhons will keep players on edge. Even silence becomes unsettling as you wonder what might be lurking nearby.
For anyone who enjoys thoughtful gameplay and atmospheric settings, Prey delivers an unforgettable experience. It rightfully earns its place among the must-play single-player FPS games of this generation.
History and Evolution of Single Player FPS Games
First-person shooter games have transformed dramatically since their inception, evolving from simple pixel mazes to complex narrative experiences with cutting-edge graphics and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Early Innovations and Their Impact
The FPS genre began in the late 1970s and early 1980s with primitive 3D environments. Wolfenstein 3D (1992) is often credited as the first true FPS game, introducing Nazi enemies and maze-like levels. This groundbreaking title set the stage for Doom (1993), which revolutionized gaming with its improved graphics, multiplayer options, and modding capabilities.
Half-Life arrived in 1998 and changed everything. It brought story-focused gameplay and seamless level design without breaking immersion. Players experienced the narrative through the eyes of Gordon Freeman without cutscenes.
The early 2000s saw the rise of more story-driven experiences. Halo: Combat Evolved mixed vehicle sections with on-foot combat and introduced regenerating shields instead of health packs. These innovations shaped how future FPS games would approach single-player campaigns.
Technological Advancements and Trends
As hardware improved, FPS games grew more sophisticated. The mid-2000s brought physics-based gameplay with Half-Life 2‘s Gravity Gun and destructible environments. Games like F.E.A.R. combined horror elements with tactical combat and advanced AI.
By the 2010s, Titanfall 2 and Doom Eternal emerged as standout single-player experiences. Titanfall 2 offered innovative movement mechanics and mech combat, while Doom Eternal perfected the “push-forward” combat style.
Modern FPS games now feature:
- Realistic graphics with ray-tracing
- Complex narrative structures
- RPG elements like skill trees
- Open-world design options
Technological leaps allowed for more immersive worlds with realistic graphics. Today’s games balance cinematic experiences with player agency, creating memorable campaigns that stand apart from multiplayer modes.
Core Elements of Single Player FPS Games
Great single player FPS games blend compelling stories with tight gameplay mechanics to create immersive experiences that keep players engaged from start to finish.
Narrative and Storytelling
Strong storylines set the best single player FPS games apart from their multiplayer counterparts. Games like BioShock use environmental storytelling to build rich worlds without interrupting gameplay.
The Call of Duty campaigns (especially Modern Warfare 1-3) create memorable characters and high-stakes situations that motivate players to continue. These stories often feature:
- Character development that creates emotional investment
- Plot twists that keep players guessing
- Moral choices that impact gameplay outcomes
- Environmental storytelling that rewards exploration
Games like Metro Exodus and STALKER 2 build atmospheric worlds where the setting itself becomes a character in the story.
Game Mechanics and Level Design
The best FPS games feature smooth controls and varied combat scenarios. Doom Eternal perfectly balances fast movement with strategic combat that forces players to switch weapons and tactics constantly.
Level design in top single player FPS games typically includes:
- Multiple paths through environments
- Varied combat arenas that encourage different playstyles
- Hidden secrets that reward exploration
- Vertical spaces that add dimension to firefights
Titanfall 2 stands out with innovative level mechanics like time travel and wall-running that change how players move through the environment. Games like Dying Light blend parkour and first-person combat to create unique gameplay experiences.
Well-designed difficulty curves teach players new skills before testing them, creating satisfying progression throughout the campaign.
The Psychological Appeal of Single Player FPS Games
First-person shooter games create unique psychological experiences that keep players coming back for more. These games tap into fundamental aspects of human psychology through immersion, control, challenge, and reward.
Immersion and Player Agency
The psychology of FPS games often revolves around creating intense emotional responses. Games like Doom are designed to trigger fight-or-flight reactions, making players feel truly present in the virtual environment.
The first-person perspective creates a powerful sense of presence. When players see the game world through the character’s eyes, the line between player and character blurs.
Player agency is another key factor. Making meaningful choices about weapons, tactics, and story paths gives players a sense of control that may be lacking in everyday life.
Environmental storytelling enhances immersion. Finding notes, listening to audio logs, or seeing the aftermath of events makes the world feel lived-in and real.
Challenge and Reward System
FPS games offer perfectly tuned difficulty curves that keep players in a state of “flow” – challenged but not overwhelmed. Many games like Half-Life 2 balance frustration and success masterfully.
The reward system triggers dopamine releases through:
- Visible progress markers
- New weapon unlocks
- Story advancement
- Skill improvement
Playing on higher difficulties can build gaming skills, though this doesn’t always translate directly to multiplayer success. Still, the sense of achievement from conquering tough challenges creates satisfaction.
The realistic combat experience provides thrills in a safe environment. Players can experience danger, triumph, and even failure without real-world consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players often have specific questions about single-player FPS games based on their gaming setup, budget, and preferences. Here are answers to some common questions to help you find your next favorite shooter.
What are the top-rated single-player FPS games for PC?
PC gamers have access to an impressive lineup of single-player FPS titles. Half-Life 2 remains a standout choice that many in the gaming community consider one of the best games ever made.
Other top PC shooters include Doom Eternal with its fast-paced combat and Metro Exodus for its immersive post-apocalyptic world. The Half-Life: Alyx VR experience also sets a new standard for immersion in first-person shooters.
Which single-player FPS games on the PS5 are highly recommended?
PS5 owners can enjoy several excellent single-player FPS games with enhanced graphics and performance. Far Cry 6 takes advantage of the PS5’s power with stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.
Deathloop combines first-person shooting with unique time-loop mechanics. Returnal, while technically a third-person shooter, offers PS5 players an engaging single-player experience with roguelike elements.
Can you recommend any free single-player FPS games with engaging gameplay?
Several quality free-to-play FPS games offer solid single-player components. Destiny 2’s base campaign is free and provides hours of shooting action.
Apex Legends includes a training mode for solo practice. The original Destiny 2 campaign gives players a taste of the universe without requiring payment.
Which shooter games for PC offer the best single-player experience?
Far Cry 3 is often cited as one of the best single-player shooters of its generation. Its open world and engaging story make it a standout title.
Titanfall 2 features one of the most creative and well-designed FPS campaigns. The game’s unique wall-running mechanics and mech combat set it apart from other shooters.
Bioshock Infinite has been praised for its outstanding campaign and storytelling. Its unique setting and narrative depth make it a must-play.
What are some critically acclaimed single-player FPS games available today?
Doom Eternal received widespread acclaim for its intense combat and movement mechanics. Critics praised its perfect balance of strategy and action.
Metro Exodus earned recognition for its atmosphere and storytelling. The game’s blend of survival horror and FPS elements creates a unique experience.
Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon was praised for its nostalgic 80s action movie style. It combines humor with solid shooting mechanics.
How does frame rate affect the experience of single-player FPS games?
Frame rate directly impacts player performance and enjoyment in FPS games. Higher frame rates (60 FPS and above) create smoother motion and more responsive controls.
Low frame rates can cause input lag and visual stuttering. This makes precise aiming more difficult and can break immersion during intense gameplay moments.
Most modern gaming platforms aim for at least 60 FPS in FPS titles. Many PC players prefer even higher frame rates of 120-144 FPS for the most fluid experience possible.
