5 FPS Games You Should Play Before Overwatch 2

With the Overwatch 2 beta ending on May 17, it's safe to say that reactions to the new and improved game were divided. If you were one of the lucky few who had beta access, we'd love to hear your opinions in the comments, since we're sure you have a similar feeling. Overall, there was a lack of new content and the game seemed like a re-skinned version of itself, leaving a poor first impression. In light of this, you're probably still dying to play a new game that matches the competitive FPS feel of Overwatch. That's why we're bringing you the five FPS games you should play before Overwatch 2.

All of the games on this list share characteristics with Overwatch and its soon-to-be second installment. They're also all centered on competitive team-based FPS action, so your Overwatch experience and knowledge should come in handy for these games as well. So, if you're searching for something to scratch that itch before Overwatch 2 arrives “sometime in 2023,” these games should do the trick. And hopefully, by then your senses will be sharp and refined for when the game releases.

5. Rainbow Six Siege

The most noticeable change in Overwatch 2 is the shift from 6v6 to 5v5 multiplayer. It's not the shift we anticipated to see with the new title, and there are some disagreements over whether it's better or worse. Well, if you're on the opposing side of the fence, head over to Rainbow Six Siege. The game is an iconic 6v6 multiplayer FPS, with many similarities to Overwatch, not directly, but more or less in its gameplay and overall mechanics.

Firstly, each person must pick a character with their own abilities to help them in combat. These aren't as wildly creative as Overwatch, since Siege is more of a breach and clear shooter. Most of these abilities are based on real-life Swat Team devices and technologies. However, they work the same in that they could help change the tide of combat and need to try and be used effectively. Another area that needs to be used effectively, much like Overwatch, is teamwork. You won't be able to play this game alone, and it's practically necessary that you cooperate with your teammates in order to succeed.

4. Apex Legends

The closest experience you can get to an Overwatch FPS battle royale is Apex Legends. This is mainly in terms of its playable characters known as, Legends. Hence the name. Currently, there are 18 Apex Legends characters, all with a passive, two core abilities, and one main ultimate. Sounding somewhat familiar? Much like in Overwatch as well, composition between these characters can be a deciding factor if your squad gets steamrolled through or not.

The game is extremely movement based which results in a lot of fast-paced action. If you've played Overwatch, you'll know that the team battles are flat-out frantic and chaotic. In turn, the battles in Apex Legends may not be as hectic as they're typically 3v3 unless that nasty third-party shows up. However, they're similarly challenging in terms of how quickly things take place. This is where quick-time strategic decisions need to be made to counter whatever the enemy team may be throwing at you.

3. Destiny 2

Making parallels between Destiny 2 and Overwatch is a little more difficult than with the other games on our list. Mainly because there aren't many direct correlations. However, there still is a solid reason it's included, aside from it being an FPS/TPS. The game can be enjoyed in PvE, but we reckon most of you Overwatch fans will take a liking to the PvP. Much like Overwatch, communication, and coordination in movements, attacks, and abilities is key to success.

You can choose between three classes, which are Warlocks, Hunters, and Titans. Their abilities aren't overly game-changing but do come in handy from time to time. The main focus here is between team play and FPS action, which gets more and more extensive the deeper you dive into the game. As you progress your character's weapons and abilities further open up. Even more so in PvE if you're willing to give it a try. The game may not compare directly to Overwatch, but it's still worth the time of day to try out.

2. Valorant

Now a highly comparable title to Overwatch can be found in Valorant. This game might just be exactly what you need to get prepared for Overwatch 2's release. In a similar setting to CS:GO, players face off 5v5 to protect/defuse a bomb site. The big comparison kicker, Valorants characters, known as Agents, come with their own abilities. These include a passive, two main abilities, and of course a game-changing ultimate.

It's actually a bit ironic how similar some of Overwatch's heroes are to Valorants Agents, with some being almost spitting images of each other. However, because of that, we can surely say that Valorant is an excellent option among the FPS games you should play before Overwatch 2. There are some ironic parallels between the two games, primarily with the characters, but Overwatch aficionados will undoubtedly resonate with the similarities between the two games.

1. Paladins

Speaking of similarities between the two games, Paladins is a game that has been accused of copying Overwatch. Not just from the characters you play and their abilities, but also from the game modes and art style. As a result, many Overwatch fans have criticized the game for attempting to capitalize on the popularity of its original notion— which is far from the truth. However, because of all these similarities, we can say this is “the game” of FPS games you should play before Overwatch 2.

There is one defining difference between these two games, which is the character customization of Paladins. Through a “card” system, you can customize your character to appeal to your play style in that game. This allows for good cooperation of strategy in the game. This is much needed because Paladins is coming in on much bigger maps, with a much slower style. This puts the majority of focus on teamwork and strategy, something you should know all too well from Overwatch.

So, what's your take? Do you agree with our top five? Are there other games FPS games like Overwatch 2 that we should know about? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!