Today we talk about 10 Games Like Overwatch: Since its release, Overwatch has become a cornerstone in the hero shooter genre, captivating players with its vibrant characters, strategic team-based gameplay, and thrilling battles. However, for those seeking to diversify their gaming experience or find something new yet similar, several alternatives offer unique takes on the team-based shooter formula.
Table of Contents
ToggleOverwatch
Initial release date: 3 May 2016
Developers: Blizzard Entertainment, Iron Galaxy
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composer: Derek Duke
Genres: First-person shooter, Fighting game
Overwatch was a 2016 team-based multiplayer first-person shooter game by Blizzard Entertainment. The game was first released for PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One in May 2016 and Nintendo Switch in October 2019. Cross-platform play was supported across all platforms. Wikipedia
10 Games Like Overwatch
Here, we explore ten games like Overwatch that provide engaging gameplay, diverse characters, and cooperative action.
1. Paladins
Initial release date: 16 September 2016
Developers: Hi Rez Studios, Evil Mojo Games
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Genres: First-person shooter, Massively Multiplayer, Adventure, Strategy
Publisher: Hi Rez Studios
Engine: Unreal Engine 3
Paladins is often regarded as the most direct competitor to Overwatch. It features a diverse roster of champions, each with unique abilities and customizable loadouts. The game’s fantasy setting contrasts with Overwatch’s sci-fi world, providing a different yet familiar feel. Players can tailor their champions’ abilities through a card system, adding a layer of strategy to the gameplay.
2. Team Fortress 2
Initial release date: 10 October 2007
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composer: Mike Morasky
Genres: First-person shooter, Free-to-play
Designers: Robin Walker, John Cook
Developer: Valve Corporation
Team Fortress 2 is a pioneer in the team-based shooter genre, offering nine distinct classes, each with unique weapons and abilities. Its cartoonish art style and humorous tone set it apart, while its deep mechanics and balanced gameplay keep players engaged. TF2’s focus on team coordination and objective-based modes makes it a timeless classic.
3. Apex Legends
Initial release date: 4 February 2019
Developers: Respawn Entertainment, Panic Button Games, Respawn
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composer: Stephen Barton
Genres: First-person shooter, Battle royale game
Apex Legends blends the hero shooter mechanics of Overwatch with the battle royale genre. Each legend in Apex has unique abilities that can turn the tide of battle, emphasizing team coordination and strategic play. The game’s fast-paced action and evolving map keep the experience fresh and exciting.
4. Rainbow Six Siege
Initial release date: 1 December 2015
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composers: Ben Frost, Paul Haslinger
Genre: Tactical shooter
Designers: Andrew Witts, Daniel Drapeau, Chris Lee
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
Rainbow Six Siege offers a more tactical and slower-paced approach compared to Overwatch. The game revolves around close-quarters combat, with each operator bringing unique gadgets and abilities to the team. Siege’s emphasis on environmental destruction and defense strategies adds depth and complexity to the gameplay.
5. Valorant
Initial release date: 2 June 2020
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composer: Jesse Harlin
Genre: First-person shooter
Developer: Riot Games
Valorant combines traditional tactical shooter gameplay with hero-based mechanics. Each agent in Valorant has unique abilities, which must be used strategically alongside precise gunplay. The game requires sharp shooting skills and team coordination, making it a compelling alternative for Overwatch fans.
6. Battleborn
Initial release date: 3 May 2016
Developer: Gearbox Software
Designer: John Mulkey
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composers: Cris Velasco, Kevin Riepl
Genres: Multiplayer online battle arena, First-person shooter, Action role-playing game
Although Battleborn had a short lifespan, it offered a unique blend of first-person shooter mechanics with MOBA elements. Players could choose from a variety of heroes, each with distinct abilities and playstyles, leveling up during matches to unlock new powers. Its colorful art style and fast-paced action drew comparisons to Overwatch.
7. Rogue Company
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
Initial release date: 30 September 2020
Developer: First Watch Games
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composer: Run The Jewels
Genres: Free-to-play, Third-person shooter
Publisher: Hi Rez Studios
Rogue Company is a third-person tactical shooter where players choose from a roster of mercenaries, each with unique abilities and weapons. The game focuses on completing various team-based objectives, offering a blend of strategic planning and fast-paced action. Its cross-platform play and frequent updates keep the community engaged.
8. Dirty Bomb
Developer: Splash Damage
Initial release date: 1 October 2013
Platforms: GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
Publishers: Splash Damage, WarChest, Nexon, Nexon America Inc.
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Genre: Massively multiplayer online first-person shooter
Engine: Unreal Engine 3
Dirty Bomb is a free-to-play first-person shooter that emphasizes team play and objective-based modes. Players select from a variety of mercenaries, each equipped with unique weapons and abilities. The game’s fast-paced, skill-based combat and strategic objectives make it a worthy alternative to Overwatch.
9. Monday Night Combat
Developer: Star Theory Games
Initial release date: 11 August 2010
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composers: Cris Velasco, Howard Mostrom
Genres: Third-person shooter, Multiplayer online battle arena
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360
Monday Night Combat mixes elements of tower defense and MOBAs with third-person shooter mechanics. Players choose from various classes, each with different abilities and roles, to compete in a futuristic sports arena. Its unique gameplay and humorous tone set it apart from other team-based shooters.
10. LawBreakers
Developer: Boss Key Productions
Initial release date: 8 August 2017
Composers: Jack Wall, Jason Graves
Designer: Dan Nanni
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Genre: First-person shooter
Although no longer active, LawBreakers offered a gravity-defying take on the hero shooter genre. The game featured a variety of characters, each with distinct abilities, and emphasized fast-paced, vertical combat. LawBreakers’ innovative mechanics and intense action provided a fresh experience for fans of the genre.
Conclusion
While Overwatch remains a giant in the hero shooter genre, these ten games offer unique twists and engaging alternatives for players seeking new challenges. Whether you prefer the fantasy elements of Paladins, the tactical depth of Rainbow Six Siege, or the battle royale excitement of Apex Legends, there’s something for everyone in this list. Each game brings its own flavor to the team-based shooter experience, ensuring that you won’t run out of thrilling gameplay options.
FAQ
Paladins and Overwatch share similar hero-based gameplay, but Paladins offers a fantasy setting and a card-based system for customizing abilities. Paladins also has a more open loadout system, allowing players to modify their champions’ skills to suit their playstyle.
Yes, Team Fortress 2 remains popular due to its timeless gameplay, active community, and regular updates. Its unique classes and emphasis on team coordination continue to attract new players.
Apex Legends combines hero shooter mechanics with the battle royale genre. Players choose legends with unique abilities and work together to be the last team standing. The game’s focus on survival, fast-paced action, and evolving maps sets it apart from traditional hero shooters.
Rainbow Six Siege offers a more tactical and slower-paced gameplay compared to other hero shooters. Its emphasis on close-quarters combat, environmental destruction, and strategic defense adds depth and complexity, requiring players to plan and coordinate carefully.
As of now, Valorant is available only on PC. Riot Games has expressed interest in bringing the game to consoles, but no official release date has been announced.