Summary
First-person shooter(FPS) games have undeniably evolved into a beloved and influential genre, captivating players with their intense action and immersive gameplay. While games likeDoomandWolfenstein 3Dare often credited with popularizing the FPS genre, it is important to recognize that they were not the starting point. The roots of FPS games can be traced back to a number of early pioneers and groundbreaking titles that laid the foundation for the genre’s development.
Without these early pioneers’innovative ideasand daring experimentation, the landscape of gaming might have looked vastly different today. They laid the groundwork for the immersive, action-packed experiences that continue to captivate players in modern shooter games. Each of theseearly FPS gamesplayed a significant role in shaping the FPS genre and deserves recognition for their contributions to its rich history.
Updated August 04, 2025 by Mark Sammt:The specifications have been added for every FPS game, including their developers and, if available, publishers.
Stellar 7, developed by Dynamix, made its debut on multiple platforms, such as the Apple II and Commodore 64. Blending tank combat and first-person shooting, the game thrusts players into a maze-like battlefield, demanding quick reflexes and strategic maneuvers to conquer adversaries.
What setStellar 7apart was its introduction of 3D wireframe graphics, which enhanced the sense ofdepth and immersionwithin the gameplay. While not considered groundbreaking,Stellar 7received praise from critics for its engaging and challenging gameplay, as well as its innovative use of graphics that elevated the overall experience for players.
Phantom Slayer, developed by Med Systems Software, made its debut on the TRS-80 computer, marking an early foray into the realm offirst-person perspectivegames. The game immersed players in a maze-like environment, where they had to navigate dark corridors and confront invisible monsters armed with limited resources.
Despite its simplicity,Phantom Slayercaptivated players with its suspenseful gameplay, creating a tense and atmospheric experience. This early title holds significance in the history of FPS games as it showcased the potential of the first-person perspective and laid the groundwork for future innovations in the genre.
Horizon V, developed by JV Software, emerged as a pioneering FPS game on the Atari 8-bit computer series. Notably, it was one of the early titles to introduce 3D wireframe graphics, pushing the boundaries of visual presentation in the genre. Players found themselves immersed in a grippingspace stationdefense scenario, fending off waves of enemy spacecraft.
Horizon Vstood out by blending shooting gameplay with strategic elements, adding depth and complexity to the experience. Although its distribution was relatively limited, the game garnered positive public reviews for its innovative graphics and engaging gameplay.
Atari’sBattlezonestands as a groundbreaking game that revolutionized the FPS genre with its introduction of true 3D graphics. Initiallyreleased in arcades, the game immersed players in a wireframe battlefield where they piloted a tank, engaging in intense battles against enemy tanks and saucers.
Battlezone’sinnovative use of vector graphics brought a remarkable sense of immersion and depth to the gameplay. The game garnered critical acclaim for its pioneering visuals and the adrenaline-fueled intensity it delivered, solidifying its status as a landmark title in the history of FPS games.
Atari’sStar Raidersis widely recognized as a groundbreaking title that pioneered the space combat simulator and FPS genres. Developed by Atari and available on the Atari 8-bit computer series,Star Raidersblended first-person space combat with strategic gameplay elements likeresource managementand navigation.
The game set a new standard for immersive gameplay, grounding players in intense interstellar battles while requiring strategic thinking to effectively manage resources and navigate the vast cosmos.Star Raidersgarnered critical acclaim for its innovative fusion of action and strategy, cementing its status as an influential title in the early history of FPS games and space combat simulators.
There are conflicting reports on whetherStar Raiderswas released in 1979 or 1980; however, considering the Atari 400 debuted in November 1979, it seems more likely that the game launched in 1980.
Starhawk, developed by Howard Palmer, emerged as one of theearly FPS gamesand was released on the Atari 8-bit computer series. The game immersed players in the role of a starship pilot, where their objective was to defend their base against incoming threats.
Starhawkcaptivated players with its fast-paced action, offering multiple weapon systems to unleash upon adversaries. Notably, the game introduced a unique radar display, adding a layer of depth and strategy to the experience.
Cosmic Conflict, developed by Gary Whisenhunt and Ray Wood, made its mark as an early multiplayer FPS game released on the PLATO computer system. This innovative title allowed players to take control of spaceships and engage in thrilling dogfights against each other.
Cosmic Conflictnot only showcased the exciting potential ofmultiplayer FPSgameplay but also laid the groundwork for the future of online multiplayer experiences in the genre. Despite its limited availability, the game garnered positive feedback from players who were captivated by its immersive multiplayer battles.
Star Ship, developed by Atari, emerged as an early arcade machine release and introduced players to the thrilling world of first-person space combat. In the game, players took command of a spaceship and engaged in fierce battles against waves of enemy ships.
WhileStar Ship’sgameplay may seem rudimentary by today’s standards, it played a crucial role in laying the foundation for future space-themed FPS games. Despite its simplicity, the game garnered positive reviews from its players for its addictive gameplay, leaving a lasting impact and paving the way for the genre’s future growth and innovation.
Spasim, developed by Jim Bowery, holds a significant place in gaming history as one of the earliest examples of multiplayer FPS games. Running on the PLATO computer system, this title allowed multiple players to pilot spaceships and engage in exhilarating dogfights within a shared 3D environment.
Spasimshowcased the immense potential of multiplayer gaming, demonstrating the thrill and camaraderie that could be experienced through cooperative and competitive gameplay. Its innovative multiplayer mechanics left a lasting impact on the development of subsequent multiplayer FPS titles, influencing the evolution of the genre.
Maze War, developed by Steve Colley, Greg Thompson, and Howard Palmer, is widely recognized as a trailblazing title and is often credited as the first true FPS game. Released on the Imlac PDS-1 computer system,Maze Warintroduced players to the revolutionary concept of first-person shooting within a maze-like environment where they could hunt each other.
Although the game lacked sophisticated graphics, the innovative mechanics set the stage for the future of the FPS genre.Maze Warreceived a positive reception from players, cementing its status as a seminal title that established the foundation for the countless FPS games that would follow in its footsteps.
