Top Shoot'Em Down Alternatives for Your Next FPS Fix
Shoot'Em Down and Shoot'Em Down II offer intense, death-match style first-person shooter action, pitting 4-player teams against 4-6 player opposing teams as either SWAT or Terrorists. With eight weapon types and four maps (plus additional single-player and zombie maps), it provides a solid foundation for quick, engaging combat. However, if you're looking to expand your horizons, explore new challenges, or simply find a fresh take on the team-based FPS genre, there are numerous excellent Shoot'Em Down alternative options available that offer similar thrills and unique features.
Best Shoot'Em Down Alternatives
Whether you're after free-to-play options, cross-platform compatibility, or games with deep lore and expansive multiplayer, this list has you covered. Dive into these top-tier FPS games that provide similar team-based combat, varied weapon selections, and dynamic gameplay experiences.
Xonotic
Xonotic is a fantastic free and open-source first-person shooter available on Mac, Windows, Linux, BSD, and PortableApps.com. Much like Shoot'Em Down, it offers fast-paced arena shooter gameplay, making it an excellent choice for players seeking addictive multiplayer action without a price tag. Its FLOSS and OpenGL features provide a robust and customizable gaming environment.
Counter-Strike
Counter-Strike is arguably the most iconic fast-paced, multiplayer FPS game series where teams combat for objectives as terrorists or counter-terrorists – a direct parallel to Shoot'Em Down's team structure. Available on Freemium, Mac, Windows, Linux, Steam, Playstation, and Xbox, it offers deep tactical gameplay, extensive weapon choices, and a massive community, making it a powerful alternative for those craving competitive online shooting.
Doom
While known for its single-player sci-fi horror, the Doom series also features intense multiplayer modes that will appeal to Shoot'Em Down fans looking for visceral first-person shooting. Available commercially on Windows, Steam, Nintendo Switch Online, Xbox, and Stadia, Doom offers fast-paced combat and a strong emphasis on gunplay, making it a compelling alternative for those who enjoy the pure shooting mechanics.
Quake
Quake, another legendary series from id Software, offers thrilling first-person shooter gameplay centered around arena-style combat, similar to the deathmatch focus of Shoot'Em Down. As a commercial title available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and Steam, Quake delivers iconic sci-fi settings and high-octane multiplayer action, perfect for players seeking a classic FPS experience with a strong competitive edge.
Battlefield
For players who enjoy the team-based and large-scale combat of Shoot'Em Down but crave more expansive maps and vehicle warfare, the Battlefield series is a prime commercial alternative. Available on Mac, Windows, iPhone, iPad, Origin, Playstation, and Xbox, Battlefield excels in massive multiplayer battles and offers a robust shooting experience with varied objectives, making it ideal for those seeking a grander scale of conflict.
Cube 2: Sauerbraten
Cube 2: Sauerbraten is a free and open-source multiplayer/single-player first-person shooter that, like Shoot'Em Down, emphasizes fast-paced combat. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and BSD, it’s built as a major redesign of the Cube FPS engine. Its portable nature and focus on shooting make it a highly accessible and fun alternative for quick gaming sessions.
AssaultCube
Based on the CUBE engine, AssaultCube is a free, multiplayer, first-person shooter game that offers fast, arcade gameplay in realistic environments. Similar to Shoot'Em Down's accessible nature, AssaultCube is available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and PortableApps.com. Its emphasis on quick matches and multiplayer modes makes it an excellent choice for casual yet competitive FPS fans.
OpenArena
OpenArena is a community-produced, free-to-play deathmatch FPS based on GPL idTech3 technology, making it a direct competitor to Shoot'Em Down in terms of core gameplay. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, it supports various game types including Free For All and Capture The Flag, providing a versatile and free option for fans of arena-style shooting.
Halo
The Halo series is a science fiction, first-person shooter franchise known for its compelling story and robust multiplayer experiences. As a commercial title available on Mac, Windows, Steam, and Xbox, Halo offers both single-player campaigns and diverse multiplayer modes, including local multiplayer, making it a premier alternative for those who enjoy futuristic settings and engaging team-based combat similar to Shoot'Em Down.
Urban Terror
Urban Terror, which started as a total conversion mod for Quake III Arena, is now a free, stand-alone FPS played using the ioquake3 engine. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, it balances realism with arcade gameplay, offering a competitive multiplayer experience. For Shoot'Em Down players who enjoy the blend of tactical team play and fast action, Urban Terror provides a compelling and free option.
From the classic arena shooters to massive multiplayer battlefields, the world of first-person shooters is vast and exciting. Each of these alternatives offers a unique take on the genre while retaining the core appeal of games like Shoot'Em Down. Explore their features, check their platforms, and find the perfect FPS to match your gaming style and continue the fight!