First-person shooter (FPS) games have undeniably evolved into a beloved and influential genre, captivating players with their intense action and immersive gameplay. While games like Doom and Wolfenstein 3D are often credited with popularizing the FPS genre, it is important to recognize that they were not the starting point. The roots of FPS games can be traced back to a number of early pioneers and groundbreaking titles that laid the foundation for the genre's development.

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Without these early pioneers' innovative ideas and daring experimentation, the landscape of gaming might have looked vastly different today. They laid the groundwork for the immersive, action-packed experiences that continue to captivate players in modern shooter games. Each of these early FPS games played a significant role in shaping the FPS genre and deserves recognition for their contributions to its rich history.

Updated November 14, 2023 by Mark Sammt: The specifications have been added for every FPS game, including their developers and, if available, publishers.

10 Stellar 7

1983

Stellar 7, developed by Dynamix, made its debut on multiple platforms, such as the Apple II and Commodore 64. Blending tank combat and first-person shooting, the game thrusts players into a maze-like battlefield, demanding quick reflexes and strategic maneuvers to conquer adversaries.

What set Stellar 7 apart was its introduction of 3D wireframe graphics, which enhanced the sense of depth and immersion within the gameplay. While not considered groundbreaking, Stellar 7 received praise from critics for its engaging and challenging gameplay, as well as its innovative use of graphics that elevated the overall experience for players.

9 Phantom Slayer

1982

Phantom Slayer, developed by Med Systems Software, made its debut on the TRS-80 computer, marking an early foray into the realm of first-person perspective games. The game immersed players in a maze-like environment, where they had to navigate dark corridors and confront invisible monsters armed with limited resources.

Despite its simplicity, Phantom Slayer captivated players with its suspenseful gameplay, creating a tense and atmospheric experience. This early title holds significance in the history of FPS games as it showcased the potential of the first-person perspective and laid the groundwork for future innovations in the genre.

8 Horizon V

1982

Horizon V, developed by JV Software, emerged as a pioneering FPS game on the Atari 8-bit computer series. Notably, it was one of the early titles to introduce 3D wireframe graphics, pushing the boundaries of visual presentation in the genre. Players found themselves immersed in a gripping space station defense scenario, fending off waves of enemy spacecraft.

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Horizon V stood out by blending shooting gameplay with strategic elements, adding depth and complexity to the experience. Although its distribution was relatively limited, the game garnered positive public reviews for its innovative graphics and engaging gameplay.

7 Battlezone

1980

Atari's Battlezone stands as a groundbreaking game that revolutionized the FPS genre with its introduction of true 3D graphics. Initially released in arcades, the game immersed players in a wireframe battlefield where they piloted a tank, engaging in intense battles against enemy tanks and saucers.

Battlezone's innovative use of vector graphics brought a remarkable sense of immersion and depth to the gameplay. The game garnered critical acclaim for its pioneering visuals and the adrenaline-fueled intensity it delivered, solidifying its status as a landmark title in the history of FPS games.

6 Star Raiders

1979/1980

Atari's Star Raiders is widely recognized as a groundbreaking title that pioneered the space combat simulator and FPS genres. Developed by Atari and available on the Atari 8-bit computer series, Star Raiders blended first-person space combat with strategic gameplay elements like resource management and navigation.

The game set a new standard for immersive gameplay, grounding players in intense interstellar battles while requiring strategic thinking to effectively manage resources and navigate the vast cosmos. Star Raiders garnered critical acclaim for its innovative fusion of action and strategy, cementing its status as an influential title in the early history of FPS games and space combat simulators.

5 Starhawk

1979

Starhawk, developed by Howard Palmer, emerged as one of the early FPS games and was released on the Atari 8-bit computer series. The game immersed players in the role of a starship pilot, where their objective was to defend their base against incoming threats.

Starhawk captivated players with its fast-paced action, offering multiple weapon systems to unleash upon adversaries. Notably, the game introduced a unique radar display, adding a layer of depth and strategy to the experience.

4 Cosmic Conflict

1978

Cosmic Conflict, developed by Gary Whisenhunt and Ray Wood, made its mark as an early multiplayer FPS game released on the PLATO computer system. This innovative title allowed players to take control of spaceships and engage in thrilling dogfights against each other.

Cosmic Conflict not only showcased the exciting potential of multiplayer FPS gameplay but also laid the groundwork for the future of online multiplayer experiences in the genre. Despite its limited availability, the game garnered positive feedback from players who were captivated by its immersive multiplayer battles.

3 Star Ship

1977

Star Ship, developed by Atari, emerged as an early arcade machine release and introduced players to the thrilling world of first-person space combat. In the game, players took command of a spaceship and engaged in fierce battles against waves of enemy ships.

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While Star Ship's gameplay may seem rudimentary by today's standards, it played a crucial role in laying the foundation for future space-themed FPS games. Despite its simplicity, the game garnered positive reviews from its players for its addictive gameplay, leaving a lasting impact and paving the way for the genre's future growth and innovation.

2 Spasim

1974

Spasim, developed by Jim Bowery, holds a significant place in gaming history as one of the earliest examples of multiplayer FPS games. Running on the PLATO computer system, this title allowed multiple players to pilot spaceships and engage in exhilarating dogfights within a shared 3D environment.

Spasim showcased the immense potential of multiplayer gaming, demonstrating the thrill and camaraderie that could be experienced through cooperative and competitive gameplay. Its innovative multiplayer mechanics left a lasting impact on the development of subsequent multiplayer FPS titles, influencing the evolution of the genre.

1 Maze War

1973/1974

Maze War, developed by Steve Colley, Greg Thompson, and Howard Palmer, is widely recognized as a trailblazing title and is often credited as the first true FPS game. Released on the Imlac PDS-1 computer system, Maze War introduced players to the revolutionary concept of first-person shooting within a maze-like environment where they could hunt each other.

Although the game lacked sophisticated graphics, the innovative mechanics set the stage for the future of the FPS genre. Maze War received a positive reception from players, cementing its status as a seminal title that established the foundation for the countless FPS games that would follow in its footsteps.

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