Top 20 best first-person shooters on PC: from classics to new favourites

Why did the game Quake become so deeply embedded in the mind that decades later users keep pressing “Play”? Today we will analyze the reasons that allowed the shooter from the 90s to remain on the pedestal of the industry, and find out what makes thousands of gamers return to this cult world.

The history of the creation of Quake: how the legendary game was born

The history of the project began in 1995, when the team of developers at id Software set a goal to create something revolutionary. They dreamed of a real 3D world in which users could fully immerse themselves. The game Quake became the first real 3D shooter, which opened a new era for the entire industry. Tim Willits, John Carmack and John Romero are the names that went down in history thanks to this project. Their decision to take risks inspired many future developers.

The id Software team sought to create a project that would break all existing patterns at that time. John Carmack developed a revolutionary graphics engine that allowed for the creation of fully-fledged 3D levels, and Romero added unprecedented gameplay dynamics that became a real milestone in the history of the genre. The work on the project was carried out day and night, the developers overcame many difficulties, including limited hardware resources, and, despite this, were able to create an amazing game.

Why is Quake still popular?

Thanks to the community and endless modifications. It is like a construction set that can be constantly adapted and changed. Users create new maps and organize online tournaments, and sportsmen continue to compete in the skill of movement and shooting. Gamers around the world continue to organize competitions and create unique mods, and modern technologies allow you to run the game even on the most unusual devices – from smartwatches to refrigerators. All this maintains a keen interest in the concept, the mechanics and unique style continue to captivate both old-school players and the new generation.

The secret of Quake’s success is an endless return to its roots.

The secret of success lies in simplicity and genius. This is a real fight, where there is no right to make a mistake. No complicated stories, only the user, the speed of his reaction, and constant danger. Trent Reznor’s soundtrack completes the picture – each track seems to push forward, forcing you to be on the edge. The simplicity of the gameplay and the iconic atmosphere make Quake a game that people return to again and again. There are no unnecessary elements – every corner, enemy, and texture has a special meaning.

Speed, reflexes, and skill

The feeling of a constant challenge and the complete absence of unnecessary complexity make the game Quake unique. The project gives the opportunity to enjoy pure gameplay and experience real drive.

Gameplay characteristics:

1. Speed ​​and dynamics: Participants are always forced to move. Delay in one place often leads to death.
2. Accuracy and reflexes: weapons require high accuracy and quick reaction. There is no auto-aiming – every bullet and shot depends on the skill of the user.
3. Arsenal of weapons: the project features several types of weapons, each of which is unique in terms of advantages and disadvantages. The rocket launcher, lightning gun, and shotgun require different approaches to use.
4. A sense of tension: a constant sense of danger. Even when it seems that there are no enemies nearby, you always need to be on guard – the enemy can appear at any moment.
5. No complex stories: but there is pure gameplay, where the main thing is to defeat enemies and stay alive.

Atmosphere and environment of levels

The atmosphere creates a powerful impression: from deaf, gloomy dungeons with otherworldly monsters to majestic Gothic castles. Each level in the Quake game tells its own story through a unique environment. These elements set the tone that does not leave anyone who has once stepped onto the paths of the project indifferent. Music and sound effects create increasing tension, accompanying the player at every step and immersing him in a world where every second is a fight for survival.

Details:

1. Gloomy dungeons. Dim lighting, ominous shadows, otherworldly sounds – all this creates a feeling of real danger and the unknown. Each dungeon seems to come alive when you enter, and every movement echoes off the walls.
2. Gothic castles. Huge halls with high ceilings, moss-covered walls, and Gothic arches, each of which hints at ancient history. Participants feel the grandeur of these places, facing opponents in stone corridors.
3. Musical accompaniment. The soundtrack by Trent Reznor perfectly complements the atmosphere – from the muffled rumble of drums to the growing guitar riffs. Each track immerses you in tension and makes you move faster, keep your weapons at the ready.
4. Sound effects. The grumbling of monsters, the rustling of chains, the sound of secret doors opening – all this helps to create a unique gaming experience, where attention to detail plays a key role. The environment reacts to every action of the user, creating a feeling of real presence.
5. Fluid details of the environment. Lava pits, moving platforms, hidden doors, and teleports.

Classics of the genre: how the game Quake improved the Shooter industry

Classics of the genre inspired hundreds of developers and thousands of players. The concept brought strafe jumping, incredible dynamics, and the ability to modify every detail of the gameplay. Projects like Unreal Tournament and even modern online shooters draw inspiration from the mechanics and pace set by Quake. This game is a tutorial for developers, where every detail is thought out and ready to be used to the maximum.

For the first time, full-fledged multiplayer appeared, allowing users to compete with each other in real-time. Also, the strafe-jumping mechanics became iconic and became the basis of many projects. Other developers adopted the spirit of competition and continuous movement that made Quake one of the most dynamic shooters in history. This approach became the basis for the creation of such masterpieces as Call of Duty and Counter-Strike, which continue to develop the ideas laid down by id Software.

Quake is an eternal classic for old-schoolers

Quake is more than just a set of levels and weapons. It is a challenge that passes through generations. The perfect combination of gameplay and atmosphere does not lose its relevance. The project gives the opportunity to experience the spirit of a real arena again, feel the heat of battles and prove that skills and reaction are the most important.

Quake gave gamers a sense of community and a spirit of competition that remains alive to this day. It is a symbol of the time when games were created with soul, without unnecessary pathos and an emphasis on graphics. That is why it is so nice to return to the roots, feel the atmosphere of good old shooters, and take up arms again to prove to yourself and others that a true master does not depend on time.

On November 15, 2024, Witchfire finally hit Early Access and immediately caught the attention of fans of dark, magical shooters. The concept, developed by The Astronauts, is famous for its roots — its creators are behind the cult classic Painkiller, and now they have brought fury, magic, and a ruthless pace back to the genre. The project is already available on Steam for $29.99, but is it really worth it?

Witchfire Gameplay and Mechanics — a Subtle Balance of Magic and Arsenal

Witchfire’s gameplay is captivating thanks to its unique combination of magic and firearms. From the very first minutes, the player is immersed in a world where each battle requires dynamic use of all available means. Firearms here are not just a means of destroying enemies, but a skillfully integrated element of the combat system that combines with magical attacks. For example, a participant can use a fire shotgun and then instantly launch an ice spell to freeze the remaining opponents. Such combo attacks give the user the ability to control the situation on the battlefield and control opponents from a distance.

Magic is presented not just as an additional feature, but as a full-fledged element of the arsenal. Spells range from offensive (fireballs, lightning) to defensive (barriers, healing auras). By combining weapons and magic, the participant can create unique strategies for each battle. The gameplay of the Witchfire game is focused on dynamism and quick reactions: no passive voice, only active action. Every shot and every spell matter and require thoughtful use. Enemy encounters often take place in open locations, where the player must move quickly, use cover and look for opportunities to attack.

Witchfire system requirements: what hardware will it run on?

The Witchfire game requires a certain level of hardware to enjoy all the graphic effects and detail. The project is well optimized, but to run it at maximum settings, you will need a powerful system:

Minimum requirements:

1. OS: Windows 10
2. Processor: Intel Core i5-6600K
3. RAM: 8 GB
4. Video card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970
5. Free space: 50 GB

Recommended requirements:

1. OS: Windows 10/11
2. Processor: Intel Core i7-9700K
3. RAM: 16 GB
4. Video card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070
5. Free space: 50 GB

The concept offers highly detailed environments, and for full immersion you will need modern hardware. At minimum settings, Witchfire still looks decent, but only at maximum settings does the game reveal the full beauty of its gloomy landscapes and impressive special effects.

Intrigue et personnages du jeu Witchfire : le monde mystérieux des ténèbres

Le scénario plonge le joueur dans une atmosphère inoubliable de mysticisme et de magie. Les développeurs se sont inspirés des légendes de sorcières, des anciens rituels de sorcellerie et des sombres traditions de l’Europe. Le monde est rempli de forêts brumeuses, de temples abandonnés et de ruines, où chaque endroit recèle ses propres secrets. Les forêts sont denses et imprégnées d’obscurité, et il semble que quelque chose de sinistre se cache derrière chaque arbre. Les environnements de Witchfire sont détaillés dans les moindres détails, des torches crépitantes aux vents hurlants, créant un sentiment de tension et de menace constantes.

Les joueurs explorent non seulement la surface de la terre, mais aussi des donjons où sont cachés des artefacts et des ennemis dangereux. La bande sonore ajoute au sentiment d’horreur et d’inconnu : chaque branche fissurée, chaque murmure au loin vous rend méfiant et prêt au combat. La magie ici n’est pas seulement un moyen de détruire les ennemis, mais aussi la clé pour ouvrir des endroits cachés et résoudre des énigmes disséminées dans le monde.

Qui se cache derrière chaque secret ?

L’intrigue tourne autour du personnage principal, un chasseur de sorcières, qui est envoyé dans une mission pleine de dangers et de mysticisme. Les utilisateurs doivent empêcher une puissante sorcière d’utiliser sa magie pour terroriser le monde. Le personnage principal n’est pas seulement un guerrier, mais un homme au destin difficile, qui doit faire face non seulement à des ennemis extérieurs, mais aussi à ses propres démons intérieurs.

Parmi les alliés, vous pouvez trouver des moines ermites qui connaissent les secrets de la magie et sont prêts à vous aider avec des conseils. Les adversaires vont des sorcières ordinaires aux boss puissants, chacun ayant sa propre histoire et ses propres motivations. L’antagoniste principal est une sorcière dont le pouvoir est comparable à celui des magiciens légendaires de l’Antiquité, et sa défaite sera une tâche difficile pour le joueur.

Witchfire et Painkiller sont deux jeux du même développeur

Les projets montrent comment le studio The Astronauts a évolué depuis la sortie de Painkiller. Alors que Painkiller demandait aux joueurs de combattre des hordes de démons en utilisant des armes classiques, Witchfire ajoute des éléments magiques et tactiques à l’équation. Les développeurs ont pris en compte tous les points forts des concepts précédents et ont amélioré le système de combat avec de nouvelles mécaniques.

Witchfire conserve la nature pleine d’action de Painkiller, mais l’histoire est approfondie par l’inclusion d’éléments magiques. Par exemple, les sorts vous permettent non seulement d’attaquer, mais aussi de vous défendre, ce qui rend chaque bataille plus variée et imprévisible. Les ennemis sont désormais plus intelligents et capables de s’adapter aux tactiques de l’utilisateur, obligeant ce dernier à changer constamment de stratégie.

Prix ​​et fonctionnalités du jeu Witchfire

Witchfire vaut la peine d’être acheté pour ceux qui apprécient les jeux de tir atmosphériques avec des éléments RPG : le jeu offre un équilibre impressionnant entre action, magie et exploration d’un monde sombre. Pour 29,99 $, les joueurs ont accès à une première version qui offre déjà une énorme quantité de contenu et promet des mises à jour régulières. Avantages : un gameplay unique, une atmosphère excitante et la possibilité de se sentir comme un véritable chasseur de sorcières. Inconvénients – quelques bugs qui pourront être corrigés dans les futures mises à jour.

Bande-annonce du jeu Witchfire : qu’est-ce qui nous attend ?

La bande-annonce présente les principaux éléments du gameplay, des batailles dynamiques utilisant la magie et les armes à feu à l’exploration de lieux mystérieux. Il transmet toutes les émotions que les participants ressentiront lorsqu’ils affronteront de puissants ennemis et découvriront les secrets du monde.

Conclusion

Witchfire est un jeu de tir magique avec un gameplay dynamique, un monde atmosphérique et un système complexe de magie et d’armes. Le projet séduit par sa présentation unique et sa capacité à retenir l’attention dès les premières minutes. Pour tous ceux qui aiment les aventures sombres et passionnantes, Witchfire est un excellent choix. Les développeurs promettent de développer le concept et d’ajouter du nouveau contenu.