In recent years, the world of games has been dominated by a flood of subgenres within the already popular shooting games, among them, the “Hero Shooters”. The subgenre was very popular especially among competitive players, thanks to its strategic profile.
But what does this mean in practice? How does this style differ from other first or third person shooting games? And, more importantly, what are the titles that are worth your time, whether you are you PC player or console?
Understand simply what the hero shooters are, because they have become so popular and five of the main games of its kind available today. Spoiler: They involve a lot of strategy, well -mounted teams and charismatic characters with unique skills. If you enjoy action, competition and quick matches that require teamwork, this list has been made for you.
What is a hero shooter?
Hero Shooter is a shooting game subgenre in which playable characters (the “heroes”) have unique skills, specific teams, and distinct game styles. Unlike the traditional FPS (First-Person Shooters), in which all players usually have access to the same weapons and equipment, here each character is a unique piece in a tactical puzzle.
The idea is that by choosing a hero, the player also chooses a set of skills and a function within the team: tank, support, attack or control, for example. This mechanics brings strategic depth to the matches, where the composition of the team and the synergy between the characters often define victory.
In addition, hero shooters are usually visually striking. Heroes have strong personalities, their own stories and an aesthetic appeal ranging from stylized cartoon to Cyberpunk futurism. This combination of competitive gameplay with memorable characters is what made the genre so addictive and so popular.
Also read:
The 5 best hero shooters for PC and consoles
Now that you have understood what a Hero Shooter is, it’s time to know the main names of the genre. The following list brings together titles that have made (or still) history, are available on multiple platforms and offer unique experiences within the style. Check it out:
Overwatch 2
“Overwatch 2” is undoubtedly the most remembered name when talking about Hero Shooters. The direct sequence of “Overwatch” brought a reformulation of the game model, now with 5V5 matches, new heroes, maps and a more modern interface. Each character has well -defined skills, divided into three categories: tank, damage and support.
The game focuses on fast matches, varied and mechanical goals that require constant cooperation. In addition, Blizzard invests heavily in seasonal events, skins and regular updates. It is one of the most polished experiences of the genre and always active servers.
Apex Legends
Although it is better known as a Battle Royale, “Apex Legends” fits perfectly with the definition of Hero Shooter. Each character, called “legend”, has its own skills, ranging from temporary shields to dimensional portals or healing drones.
The differential here is the combination of the intense action of survival games and the tactical element of heroes. The movement is fast, fluid and vertical, with a lot of influence of games like “titanfall”. Apex requires sharp mira and tactical reading of the composition of the chosen trio and also offers a rich and constantly expanding futuristic universe.
Valorant
“Valorant” is a mixture between “CS: GO” and “Overwatch”, and the formula works incredibly well. Each agent (name given to the characters of the game) brings unique skills, ranging from blinding grenades to poison walls and teleportation.
Although the target and positioning are the main focus, skills make all the difference in the outcome of the rounds. The game requires communication, reflection and strategy and each agent can turn the game if used correctly.
With constant updates and strong presence in eSports, Valoant is one of the most important competitive FPS today.
Paladins
“Paladins” is a Hero Shooter with visual style similar to “overwatch”, but with its own footprint. One of its differentials is the card system, which allows us to customize the skills of the characters and adapt their style of play.
With dozens of heroes available, each with specific functions, paladins offers casual and ranked modes, varied maps and mechanics that favor both beginners and veterans. The game still stands out for its active community and not requiring a cutting -edge PC to run well.
Team Fortress 2
Launched in 2007, “Team Fortress 2” is the “grandfather” of modern hero shooters. Even with its road years, the game still maintains a solid base of players. Here, each class represents a “hero” with different weapons and functions: engineer, spy, doctor, soldier, among others.
TF2 combines mood, stylized art and frantic shootings in maps with various goals. Despite the age, it remains a great gateway to understand the essence of the genre.
Oh, and of course: it is completely free on Steam.
If you like shooting games, but you miss more tactical variety and striking characters, it is very worth exploring the world of hero shooters. They can balance the intense action with intelligent decision making well.
Also, most of the titles we mentioned here are free. That is, you can test without spending anything. Just don’t be surprised if you are addicted to trying to master that hero that no one else knows how to use it right.