First-person shooter

First-person Shooter

A first-person shooter (FPS) is a genre of video game that centers the gameplay around gun and other weapon-based combat from a first-person perspective. This means that the player experiences the action through the eyes of the protagonist. FPS games are a subgenre of shooter games, which also include third-person shooter games, where the player can see the character they are controlling.

History

The origins of the first-person shooter genre can be traced back to the early 1970s. One of the earliest examples is the game Maze War, which was developed in 1973. However, the genre gained significant popularity with the release of Wolfenstein 3D in 1992, developed by id Software. This game is often credited with popularizing the FPS genre and establishing many of its conventions.

Following Wolfenstein 3D, id Software released Doom in 1993, which further defined the genre and introduced multiplayer gameplay, allowing players to compete against each other over a network. Doom was a critical and commercial success, leading to a surge in the development of FPS games.

Gameplay

First-person shooters typically involve a player navigating through a 3D environment, using a variety of weapons to defeat enemies. The gameplay often includes:

• **Combat**: Players engage in combat with enemies using firearms and other weapons. The perspective is from the player's viewpoint, enhancing immersion.
• **Exploration**: Players explore levels or maps, often finding items, solving puzzles, and completing objectives.
• **Multiplayer**: Many FPS games feature multiplayer modes, where players can compete against or cooperate with other players online.

Notable Games

Some of the most influential and popular FPS games include:

• Half-Life (1998) - Developed by Valve Corporation, it introduced a strong narrative and advanced AI.
• Counter-Strike (1999) - A mod for Half-Life that became a standalone game, focusing on team-based multiplayer gameplay.
• Call of Duty series - Known for its cinematic single-player campaigns and robust multiplayer modes.
• Halo series - Developed by Bungie, it was a flagship title for the Xbox console and known for its engaging story and multiplayer.

Impact on Culture

First-person shooters have had a significant impact on both gaming culture and the broader entertainment industry. They have influenced the development of esports, with games like Counter-Strike and Call of Duty being played competitively at a professional level. FPS games have also been the subject of controversy, often criticized for their violent content.

Technology

The development of FPS games has driven advancements in computer graphics and game engine technology. Engines like the Unreal Engine and Unity are commonly used to create FPS games, providing developers with tools to create realistic environments and physics.

See Also

• List of first-person shooters
• Shooter game
• Video game genres

References

• "The history of the first-person shooter". Polygon. Retrieved 2023-10-10.