First-person shooter (FPS) games have been around for decades and have evolved over time to include various subgenres. One of the newer subgenres is extraction shooters, which puts the emphasis on collecting loot and successfully escaping rather than a last-man-standing scenario commonly found in battle royale games.
In this article, we will discuss the unique style of gameplay that sets extraction shooters apart from other FPS games. Moreover, we will explore popular examples of this subgenre and highlight some key features that make extraction shooters engaging.
The Gameplay of Extraction Shooters
Extraction shooters have slow-paced and tactical gameplay, which sets them apart from other FPS games. These games require players to be strategic in collecting loot from opponents or key locations while trying to avoid detection.
The focus is more on completing the objective of collecting and successfully escaping with loot rather than gun combat. Players need to plan their attacks carefully, and teamwork is essential to success.
Each player has to watch their back, or they will quickly find themselves eliminated, and in extraction shooter games, death usually means the player and all of their current loot are lost. In some games, even their characters are lost for good.
Their Popularity Has Grown Recently
There has been a recent rise in popularity in the extraction shooter subgenre. This is due to the need for a change from the fast-paced (and somewhat silly) action of traditional FPS games like Call of Duty.
Players are looking for a new challenge, and extraction shooters offer a fresh and unique experience. In this subgenre, players are not just trying to eliminate other players but are also focused on completing an objective, which adds more complexity to the game.
The tension that arises from the possibility of losing all your progress is palpable. This adds to the excitement of these games and is part of why they are so popular today.
Key Features of Extraction Shooters
Some of the key features that distinguish extraction shooters from other FPS games include smaller player counts, usually less than 16 players per game on a large map. As a result, the emphasis on tactics and strategy.
The smaller player count ensures that players have to make smart decisions and work well together in small teams to accomplish the objectives, adding another layer of complexity to the game’s strategy.
Players can’t just run around mindlessly and expect to win; a calculated approach is necessary. For more insights into what makes an extraction shooter great, check out our related guide.
The Best Examples of Extraction Shooters
Now, let’s look at some popular examples of extraction shooters.
Hunt: Showdown
Hunt: Showdown is a horror-infused first-person shooter set in the late 1800s. This game requires players to extract bounty from a map while facing threats from zombies and other players. Hunt: Showdown’s unique PvPvE (Player versus player versus environment) approach is sure to keep players on their toes, making it an excellent starting point for beginners.
Other Great Examples
Other popular examples include Marauders, a space-based extraction FPS game that also allows players to play like a space pirate, and Escape from Tarkov, a hardcore survival shooter that demands a strategic approach.
Escape from Tarkov is the best-known example of an extraction shooter game. For those already familiar with the game, we’ve created a list of the best extraction shooter games like Escape from Tarkov for you to find other amazing picks.
Final Thoughts
Extraction shooters provide a unique and exciting experience for players who want a change from traditional FPS games. With a slower and more tactical approach to gameplay, extraction shooters require players to think more strategically.
The popularity of this subgenre has grown in recent years, and with games like Hunt: Showdown leading the charge, it’s no surprise. These types of games offer something fresh to gamers who are looking for a new challenge.
So why not pick up a copy of Hunt: Showdown or another extraction shooter and try it out for yourself? We promise you won’t be disappointed!
If extraction shooter games don’t sound like your kind of thing, you may be interested more in the best boomer shooters. They are more fast-paced and action-packed games.
