The PlayStation 1 was a game-changer, especially with its focus on high-end 3D gaming and expansive virtual worlds. The PS1 played a pivotal role in popularizing the third-person shooter genre, hosting a slew of captivating titles that have unfortunately faded into obscurity.

These games were part of an ongoing effort by developers across various platforms to perfect the third-person perspective in gaming. While many of them had their flaws, they still warrant a revisit today.

6 Love & Destroy

Mech Warfare Meets Dating Sims

Love & Destroy is a captivating third-person mech shooter that seamlessly blends elements of dating sims with fast-paced action. Developed by Arc Entertainment and Inti Creates, this unique title boasts stunningly crafted cutscenes, delivering an immersive gaming experience reminiscent of 1990s Japanese anime.

The game offers exceptional mech controls and swift movements, offering a standout experience amidst the multitude of titles that graced the PS1 era.

5 Gungage

Sci-Fi Shooter with Diverse Protagonists

Konami's Gungage stands as a hidden gem in the world of third-person shooters. Set in a universe where humans coexist with giant insects, the game exudes a unique charm, typical of Japanese anime, exclusive to the PS1 era. Boasting four playable characters, Gungage offers a fantastic gaming experience that unfortunately remains overshadowed.

4 C: The Contra Adventure

The Contra Series in 3D

Amidst the transition to 3D gaming, the Contra series ventured into the third-person realm with C: The Contra Adventure. Despite its potential, the game failed to garner the attention it deserved, fading into obscurity in the vast PS1 library.

3 Duke Nukem: Time To Kill

The Classic Hero Embraces 3D

While Duke Nukem's success primarily stemmed from its PC endeavors, Duke Nukem: Time To Kill emerged as a standout, albeit overlooked, third-person shooter on the PS1. Boasting exceptional art direction and responsive shooting mechanics, the game remains an understated gem in the series.

2 Blasto

Retro Sci-Fi Adventure with a Twist

Among the multitude of PS1 games, Blasto offered a unique experience with custom shaders and the comedic flair of Phil Hartman. Embracing a retro-futuristic sci-fi theme, the game delivers an enduring charm and engaging shooting mechanics that still hold up, making it an overlooked treasure of the PS1 era.

1 Apocalypse

Sci-Fi Action Flick Featuring Bruce Willis

Apocalypse, initially conceived as a sci-fi spectacle starring Bruce Willis, evolved into a thrilling third-person shooter that embodies the essence of the PS1 era. Despite its promising premise and impactful cutscenes, the game unfortunately faded into the background, remaining a forgotten gem among the PS1's extensive lineup.