Games worth discovering

What Are Boomer Shooter Games?

2K View2024-10-29

Hey everyone! So, you've probably heard of Boomer shooter games, but what exactly are they? This genre didn't come from developers or critics—it kind of just appeared, and there isn’t a clear-cut definition for it. A lot of people think any classic 90s FPS game is a Boomer shooter, but that’s not quite right. So, in this video, we’re breaking down what defines Boomer shooters and what sets them apart. So Let's get into it!

What Exactly Are Boomer Shooters?

Boomer shooters are a subgenre of first-person shooters inspired by iconic 90s games like Doom, Quake, and Duke Nukem 3D. But while they draw heavily from these classics, Boomer shooters aren’t simply “old-school FPS games.” Here’s what makes them unique:

Gameplay: Boomer shooters are all about fast-paced action, intense combat, and the classic run-and-gun style, often with little to no story or open-world exploration.

Visual Style: While many have pixelated graphics or low-poly models to keep the retro vibe, not all Boomer shooters rely on this style. Some newer titles have realistic graphics but still keep that old-school spirit alive.

Combat: Combat is high-energy and relentless, with enemies coming at you from all sides. These games focus on player movement and accuracy to survive.

Level Design: Levels are designed with depth, packed with hidden areas and secrets, encouraging players to explore.

Weapons and Power-Ups: You’ll have access to a powerful arsenal and various power-ups that make taking down enemies even more satisfying.

Super shotgun and BFG are most famous weapons of this genre.

Let’s look at some recent games that capture the essence of Boomer shooters:
Examples of Popular Boomer Shooters
Dusk: Known for blending classic FPS vibes with modern game design.
Dusk is a standout title in the "boomer shooter" genre, a term affectionately coined for retro-inspired first-person shooters that evoke the spirit of classic '90s games like Doom, Quake, and Hexen. Boomer shooters are known for their fast-paced gameplay, simplistic graphics, and reliance on skillful shooting rather than cover-based mechanics. These games often feature a dark, horror-inspired aesthetic, maze-like levels, and an emphasis on exploration and secrets. Dusk brings modern polish to this old-school formula, capturing the raw energy and brutal intensity that defined the golden age of shooters.

Ion Fury: A spiritual successor to Duke Nukem 3D.
Ion Fury is a modern "boomer shooter" that pays homage to classic first-person shooters of the '90s, especially those built on the Build Engine like Duke Nukem 3D and Blood. Developed by Voidpoint, the game places players in the boots of Shelly "Bombshell" Harrison, a fearless protagonist battling her way through cyberpunk-inspired cityscapes, sewers, and industrial zones to stop the evil Dr. Jadus Heskel. Ion Fury combines retro-styled pixel graphics with fast-paced, skillful gunplay, embracing a no-holds-barred approach that includes secret-filled levels, satisfying weapons, and relentless enemy encounters. This dedication to old-school mechanics and design has earned Ion Fury high praise for bringing nostalgia to life in a fresh, thrilling way.

Wrath: Aeon of Ruin is a dark, atmospheric first-person shooter that channels the essence of '90s classics, blending horror elements with fast-paced gameplay. Built on the Quake engine, the game embraces a gritty, gothic fantasy world where players become the Outlander, journeying through decayed landscapes, ominous dungeons, and otherworldly realms to hunt down powerful Guardians. Wrath stands out with its intricate level design, eerie environments, and relentless monsters, evoking the brutal difficulty and hidden secrets of retro shooters. It combines old-school mechanics with modern polish, appealing to fans of both traditional and contemporary FPS games.

Project Warlock: Retro-inspired FPS with tons of weapon variety and power-ups.
Developed by Buckshot Software, it features a unique blend of gunplay and spellcasting, letting players switch between an arsenal of weapons and powerful magic to battle hordes of demons, undead, and dark creatures. With a mix of pixel art and low-poly 3D graphics, the game creates a nostalgic yet fresh experience across diverse levels inspired by horror, sci-fi, and fantasy settings. Project Warlock also includes RPG elements, allowing players to upgrade abilities, choose new skills, and customize their loadout, giving it an extra layer of depth uncommon in classic shooters.

Now Why Are Boomer Shooters Making a Comeback?

Boomer shooters have become popular among fans of classic FPS games, providing that nostalgic experience with a twist of new ideas and challenges. These games have incredible replay value. For example, I could play Doom 1 for years, just by setting myself new challenges. Plus, in a world full of complex multiplayer games, Boomer shooters offer straightforward, intuitive controls that few modern titles can replicate, not all can't.

And yeah, some people argue that Half-Life fits as a Boomer shooter—but given what we’ve just covered, it doesn’t quite align with the genre.

The Essence of Boomer Shooters: A Recap
In short, Boomer shooters are a subgenre of FPS games rooted in 90s-style, fast-paced, easy-to-control, brutal action without heavy storylines, often set in arena-style levels. It’s the kind of game that hits you with pure nostalgia, like reconnecting with a lost love—intense, timeless, and full of heart.

Thanks for watching, and good night!