Iconic Weapons in the History of First-Person Shooters

3 September 2025

When you think of first-person shooters (FPS), what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Maybe it’s the adrenaline-pumping action, the pulse-pounding battles, or the sense of accomplishment after a perfectly executed headshot. But there’s one thing that undeniably defines the experience: the weapons. Over the decades, FPS games have gifted us with some of the most iconic and memorable firearms in gaming history.

These aren’t just tools for digital destruction—they’re cultural touchstones. The kind of weapons that, when someone mentions them, you instantly picture the game, the sound it makes, and the chaos it causes. Let’s dive into the most iconic weapons ever to grace our screens in first-person shooters.

The Shot Heard 'Round the Arena: The Power of the BFG 9000

Is there a more legendary FPS weapon than Doom’s BFG 9000? For OG gamers, the BFG (yes, it stands for “Big Freaking Gun”) symbolizes power in its purest form. Introduced in the ’90s, this beast of a weapon became synonymous with overkill.

The BFG didn’t just kill enemies—it obliterated them. Imagine walking into a room filled with demons, pulling the trigger, and within seconds, it’s just you and a pile of smoldering corpses. It’s the gaming equivalent of bringing a tank to a knife fight. The BFG 9000 is more than a gun; it’s a statement. When you wield it, you’re saying, “I’m here to win, and I’m not messing around.”

The Pistol That Defined Precision: Halo’s M6D Magnum

Now let’s talk about Halo: Combat Evolved and its beloved M6D Magnum. It’s funny—most of us usually ditch pistols in FPS games as soon as we find something better. But the M6D? Oh, that pistol was different.

Why? It delivered insane damage and precision, especially with its 2x zoom scope. In multiplayer, it was the ultimate equalizer. Everyone remembers the first time they got "three-shotted" by the Magnum. It was humbling. Whether you were playing on Blood Gulch or Hang 'Em High, this weapon was a force to be reckoned with.

In a franchise filled with futuristic alien tech and massive plasma weapons, the modest Magnum somehow managed to steal the show. That’s iconic.

The Gun That Rewrote Multiplayer Rules: Counter-Strike’s AWP

No FPS weapon list is complete without mentioning the AWP (Arctic Warfare Police) from Counter-Strike. If you’ve ever played CS, you’ve probably been on the receiving end of an AWP headshot—and let’s be real, it stings.

The AWP is the very definition of risk versus reward. Sure, it’s expensive, slow, and makes a loud “BOOM” every time you shoot, but the payoff? Unmatched. One shot, one kill. That’s the kind of firepower that strikes fear into the hearts of your enemies.

The AWP also fostered some of the most creative plays in FPS history. Who didn’t love seeing skilled players pull off pixel-perfect flick shots or no-scopes that made your jaw drop? It’s not just a weapon; it’s a badge of honor for those who can master it.

The All-Time Fan Favorite: Call of Duty’s Ray Gun

In the FPS world, there’s a special kind of joy that comes from using outlandish, over-the-top weapons. Enter the Ray Gun from Call of Duty’s Zombies mode.

This colorful blaster didn’t just look cool—it was a lifesaver in a pinch. When you’re swarmed by zombies, and your ammo is running low, pulling out the Ray Gun felt like finding water in the desert. With its sci-fi vibes, satisfying sound effects, and powerful splash damage, the Ray Gun is one of those weapons that you never forget.

It’s also a testament to Call of Duty’s willingness to experiment. In a game mostly filled with realistic military hardware, the Ray Gun added a fun, almost whimsical touch.

The Gravity-Defying Favorite: Half-Life 2’s Gravity Gun

Not all iconic FPS weapons are about sheer firepower. The Gravity Gun from Half-Life 2 is proof of that. On the surface, it seemed basic—it wasn’t a gun in the traditional sense. But the creative ways you could use it? Absolute genius.

The Gravity Gun let you pick up and manipulate objects in the game world. Need to clear a path? Use the Gravity Gun. Want to hurl a saw blade at a horde of zombies? Gravity Gun. It completely changed how players thought about combat and puzzles.

What made it even more special was how intimately it tied into the game’s physics engine. It wasn’t just a tool—it was an extension of your instincts as a player. No weapon has ever made you feel quite so clever.

A Blade Hidden in the Shadows: Valorant’s Operator

Okay, technically not a gun, but let’s bend the rules a bit. The Operator from Valorant is a modern FPS icon. Like its spiritual predecessor, the AWP, the Operator is all about precision and high stakes.

Valorant’s Agent-based gameplay means that every encounter feels personal, and when you’re holding this sniper rifle, every shot counts. The Operator doesn't just win rounds—it makes a statement. It’s the go-to choice for clutch players who thrive under pressure.

What really sets it apart is its cultural impact. Streamers, pro players, and casual fans alike have created tons of highlight reels showcasing insane Operator plays. It’s a perfect representation of what makes Valorant such a fun and competitive experience.

The Icon of Simplicity: AK-47 from Every FPS Ever

It's impossible to talk about iconic FPS weapons without mentioning the trusty AK-47. Whether it’s Counter-Strike, Call of Duty, or Battlefield, the AK has been a constant presence in the FPS world.

Why is it so beloved? Partly because it’s realistic—it’s one of the most widely used firearms in real life, and games have always reflected that. But more than that, it’s reliable, versatile, and just plain satisfying to use. There’s something about the AK’s signature kick and its rough-around-the-edges feel that makes you feel like a total boss.

In gaming, the AK-47 is like that one friend you can always count on. It’s not flashy or overpowered—it’s just dependable.

Honorable Mentions

We’ve covered a lot, but let’s hit a few more fan favorites before we wrap up:
1. Portal Gun (Portal) – Not an FPS in the traditional sense, but this gun literally redefined how we navigate virtual worlds.
2. Spinfusor (Tribes) – Mastering the Spinfusor’s projectile shots was a rite of passage for Tribes players.
3. MP5 (Rainbow Six Siege) – A balanced SMG with a clean design; it’s a staple of tactical FPS games.

Why Iconic FPS Weapons Matter

Iconic weapons go beyond stats and gameplay mechanics—they’re tied to memories. They remind us of all those late-night gaming sessions, the thrill of a hard-fought victory, and the laughter shared with friends.

The best part? FPS games keep evolving, which means we’re bound to get more legendary weapons in the future. Who knows what the next BFG 9000 or Gravity Gun will be? All we know is, it’s going to be awesome.