The Best Looter Shooter Games, Ranked
Looter shooters offer a unique blend of thrilling gunplay and the addictive nature of loot collection. They provide hours of entertainment, pushing players to grind for that perfect weapon or armor piece. This list ranks some of the best, based on gameplay, loot system, and overall enjoyment.
14. Crab Champions
Crab Champions is a quirky roguelike where you control a gun-toting crab. Face off against other crabs and floating heads, all while snagging some impressive loot. It’s a fast-paced, action-packed experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Developed by Noisestorm, its charm lies in its simple yet addictive gameplay loop and lack of microtransactions, making it a worthwhile purchase.
13. Shadow Warrior 2
Shadow Warrior 2 delivers over-the-top action in a semi-open world with procedurally generated areas. As Lo Wang, players slice and shoot through hordes of demons, collecting randomized loot along the way. While the gunplay might not be groundbreaking, the game’s humor and the sheer satisfaction of tearing through enemies make it a fun experience. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy a brain-off game.
12. Borderlands 3
Borderlands 3 refines the gunplay and visuals of the series, but some consider it a weaker entry due to its comedic writing and antagonists. Despite its flaws, it’s still a Borderlands game, meaning it’s enjoyable. The interplanetary campaign and the sheer volume of weapons to collect offer plenty of content. If you’re looking for a Borderlands game with improved shooting mechanics, this is a solid choice.
11. Outriders
Outriders is a memorable looter shooter that draws inspiration from The Division. Playing as a supernaturally powered warrior, you’ll turn enemies into chunks of meat while grabbing loads of loot. What sets it apart is its fantastic buildcrafting, particularly with the Worldslayer expansion. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a more RPG-focused experience with a story.
10. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel
Set on Pandora’s moon, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel provides an entertaining adventure focusing on Handsome Jack’s rise to power. The low-gravity and oxygen mechanics introduce unique gameplay elements. Its main flaw is its lack of innovation. However, it delivers more of the Borderlands experience, making it worth playing for fans of the series.
9. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, a Borderlands spinoff, transports players to a fantasy world inspired by Dungeons & Dragons. This unique setting differentiates it from other sci-fi looter shooters. It borrows much from the Borderlands formula but throws in an overworld map. If you’re searching for a shooter with a fantasy theme, this is an easy recommendation. However, it doesn’t quite match the comedy and quality of the main series.
8. Destiny
The original Destiny revolutionized the looter shooter genre by pioneering the live-service model. With its beautiful worlds, memorable soundtrack, and stellar first-person combat, it deserves recognition. Its raid activities set a new standard for other games. It’s not perfect; the story is confusing, and the grind can be tough, but the gameplay makes up for it.
7. Borderlands
As the first successful looter shooter, the original Borderlands deserves credit for its innovation. Despite its age, it managed to blend FPS with Diablo-like elements effectively. The four Vault Hunters are iconic. Though the game has its flaws, its comedic writing and DLC support extended its lifespan, paving the way for future games in the genre.
6. Tom Clancy’s The Division 2
The Division 2 is among the best live-service shooters. The game has challenging raid activities, excellent loot, and a great build system. Its Dark Zone mechanics are exciting. It offers a realistic and intense post-apocalyptic experience that sets it apart from most games. Both games have a large player base.
5. Destiny 2
Following its predecessor, Destiny 2 has been expanded over years, with expansions. The campaigns and stories are compelling. Character build choices are numerous. This game has a ton of content. The gunplay is stellar, keeping the game engaging. It has grindy components. Still, Bungie has kept this game relevant for a long time, leaving an impact on the industry.
4. Warframe
Warframe can be considered a looter slasher instead of a looter shooter. You play as space ninjas who are extremely cool. The free-to-play model works nicely. The game continues to be improved upon over time. Over the years, Warframe continues to add features.
3. Borderlands 4
Borderlands 4 takes the series in new directions with an open world and new environments. Improved gunplay, featuring new mobility options, makes blasting through enemies enjoyable. The new story and setting on Kairos provide a breath of fresh air. The roadmap promises fresh content.
2. Remnant 2
Remnant 2 combines soulslike, roguelike, and looter shooter elements. It’s unique in that it provides loot, but it is not randomized, setting it apart from the rest of the pack. It gives good reason to continue playing. If you haven’t played it, I recommend that you do.
1. Borderlands 2
Borderlands 2 delivers a combination of comedy writing and great stories. A thousand hours were spent playing this game. However, its gunplay, mobility, and buildcrafting do not hold up to other modern titles. Yet, its impact is notable, refining the genre.
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