Third-Person Shooter Games

Third-person shooters (TPS) are one of the most gameplay-focused genres of video games, focused on shooting enemies while seeing the character from a third-person perspective (usually with an over-the-shoulder view). This differentiates TPS games from first-person shooters (FPS), where the perspective is through the eyes of the player character. TPS games give players a broader view of the surroundings and make the character’s movements more visible, adding another layer to the gameplay mechanics.

What makes TPS games so popular?

With third-person shooters, players are treated to a perspective that gives them a full view of their character and the environment in front of them. This allows them to better appreciate character and level design and grants better awareness of their surroundings. Players can see as their character navigates obstacles or dodges incoming attacks, and can plan their strategy accordingly. This strategic viewpoint, combined with the element of character engagement, keeps players invested and contributes significantly to the genre’s appeal.

Several third-person shooter games have made their mark in the hearts of gamers worldwide. Titles such as Gears of War with its intricate cover-based shooting mechanics or Uncharted, known for its cinematic storytelling and amazing parkour, are considered absolute video game classics, offering both engaging and deeply immersive experiences.

Most notable Third-Person Shooter games

• The Gears of War series is known for popularizing cover-based shooters and cooperative multiplayer. Players take the role of soldiers fighting the monstrous Locust Horde, equipped with unique weapons like the iconic assault rifle with a chainsaw bayonet. The game was also the first to introduce the active reload mechanic, which is still present in many shooters today.
  
  

• Grand Theft Auto is THE most well-known and best-selling video game series, always featuring a strong narrative, an open world to explore, plenty of vehicles to drive, and freedom to wreak havoc in whatever way you want. Each game in the series transports players to meticulously crafted cities, modeled after real-world locations.
  
  

• The Red Dead Redemption series is another gem from Rockstar Games, combining third-person action gameplay with the Wild West aesthetic. The series perfectly captures the ruthlessness and spirit of this bygone era, all set against the backdrop of a stunning open world.

What different TPS subgenres are there?

Cover-based shooters like Gears of War heavily emphasize using environmental cover to your advantage. Players have to tactically move between cover points and avoid enemy fire, encouraging strategic play and awareness of their environment.

Tactical shooters like Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon or the Metal Gear Solid series focus on strategy and careful planning over direct combat. Players have to utilize stealth and tactics to overcome enemies, and direct confrontations could often lead to swift defeat.

Survival shooters like Resident Evil typically include horror elements for additional adrenaline. Scarce resources, dark atmosphere, and jumpscares are common in survival shooters, and players are frequently tasked with solving puzzles in addition to battling countless hordes of enemies.

Looter shooters are games like The Division, the Borderlands series, or Destiny 2, where players focus on defeating enemies and completing missions to acquire new weapons and gear and level up their character. Player progression is extremely important in these games, with your character unlocking new powers and abilities as you play.