In the 2020s, indie developers have continued to demonstrate that a large budget and a huge team are not prerequisites for creating compelling first-person shooter (FPS) games. This decade has seen the release of several remarkable FPS titles that have captured the attention of gamers, particularly those fond of ‘boomer shooters’—a playful term for games inspired by classic FPS titles from the 1990s. This article delves into the top 10 indie FPS games of the 2020s, discussing their unique attributes and why they have gained popularity.

10. Fashion Police Squad

Fashion Police Squad diverges from the typical FPS narrative that revolves around violence and profanity. Instead, the game centers on solving wardrobe malfunctions with unconventional weapons like sewing guns and sock-stealing gnomes. To maintain player health, mocktails are available in abundance. The game stands out for its vibrant colors, wit-infused dialogues, and well-thought-out level designs. Additionally, the soundtrack complements the overall joyful theme.

9. Zortch

Zortch is a sleeper hit in the FPS genre. Despite minimal pre-release hype or marketing, the game rapidly garnered attention post-launch. The mechanics and visuals evoke the essence of Nintendo 64-era shooters, offering a range of weapons and 15 expansive levels filled with quirky humor. Notably, Zortch runs efficiently even on low-end computers, thanks to its custom-made engine.

8. HROT

Fondly called ‘Slavic Quake’ by its fans, HROT takes inspiration from Soviet-era architecture and late ’90s 3D shooters. The game features levels set in authentic Eastern bloc locations, such as abandoned factories and chapels. Health can be replenished by consuming food rations. The adversaries are particularly unusual—ranging from gasmask-wearing horses to mutated politicians with spider legs. HROT offers a mix of conventional and bizarre weaponry for an unsettling yet unique gaming experience.

7. Nightmare Reaper

Nightmare Reaper introduces players to a complex protagonist: an asylum patient in reality but a monster slayer in her dreams. The game offers an extensive array of weapons, including grappling hook-chainsaws and spell books. Progressing through the story reveals the protagonist’s backstory, providing added incentive to engage in monster combat. The gameplay is accompanied by a metal score composed by Andrew Hulshult.

6. CULTIC

CULTIC distinguishes itself with its grainy visual texture and eerie soundtrack. The player must contend with cultists who are resilient but not impervious to a variety of weapons, including SMGs and TNT. The game offers both fast-paced combat and stealth options, allowing players to set traps and ambush enemies. The first chapter is currently available, and a second chapter is in the works as DLC.

5. Viscerafest

Viscerfest stands out for its protagonist, Caroline, who is both amusing and armed with futuristic weaponry. The game is structured around challenging gunplay and a story mode rich with creative twists. The soundtrack by Michael Markie and Geoffrey Day significantly enhances the gaming experience. Two of the three promised chapters are currently available, and fans eagerly await the release of the final chapter.

4. BattleBit Remastered

BattleBit Remastered offers a unique combination of cartoon-like art and a focus on realism. The game features extensive weapon and character customization and supports large-scale multiplayer battles. Its attention to detail is evident in gameplay mechanics like medics being the only characters capable of full healing. With a large player base, finding a server is rarely an issue.

3. Hedon: Bloodrite

Hedon: Bloodrite utilizes a modified DOOM engine and offers a package containing both the original Hedon and the new Bloodrite chapter. The game is highly praised for its detailed visuals, atmospheric music, intricate level designs, and engaging gameplay. It also provides a compelling narrative and an extensive inventory of helpful items.

2. ULTRAKILL

ULTRAKILL sets itself apart with its focus on the movement shooter subgenre. The game features an array of weapons with unique abilities and requires fast reflexes to tackle aggressive bosses. The drum ‘n’ bass soundtrack adds intensity to the gameplay. Despite being in Early Access, the game has already received high acclaim.

1. Turbo Overkill

Turbo Overkill takes the top spot with its protagonist, Johnny Turbo, who fights to reclaim his hometown from an evil AI. The game is laden with intense, over-the-top action and features a unique chainsaw leg ability for the protagonist. With overwhelmingly positive reviews on Steam, Turbo Overkill is considered one of the best indie FPS games of recent times.

Conclusion

The 2020s have proven to be a rich era for indie first-person shooters, each bringing their unique flair and mechanics to the table. From tackling wardrobe malfunctions in Fashion Police Squad to reclaiming a cyborg’s hometown in Turbo Overkill, these games offer a diverse range of experiences that have left an indelible mark on the genre.

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