5 best third-person shooters to play while waiting for Gears of War E-Day

The Gears of War franchise has had a hand in developing the third-person shooter genre. While the series has hosted five mainline games, its next installment, Gears of War E-Day, is set to release in upcoming years. However, if you cannot wait to play this anticipated Gears of War prequel, we know some games that can help scratch the itch till it arrives.

Here are the five best third-person shooters you can play if you enjoyed Gears of War.

Note: This article is subjective and reflects the writer's opinions.

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5 great third-person shooters you should play while waiting for Gears of War E-Day

1) Inversion

A still from Inversion (Image via Bandai Namco Entertainment)

Before Saber Interactive would go on to assist 343 industries in developing the Master Chief Collection, they released a third-person cover-based shooter in 2012. Inversion focuses on policemen Davis Russell and Leo Delgado as they try to find Davis' daughter, Leila, amidst a city-wide invasion by barbaric alien soldiers.

The core gameplay of Inversion is identical to Gears, with a focus on rushing from cover to cover and filling enemies up with lead. However, the game introduces new elements into the game, with its gravity-defying powers, allowing you to change the focus of gravity of your enemies. You can also use your glove to throw objects into enemies or build makeshift paths towards your objectives.

Inversion is one of the best third-person shooters if you want to play something familiar to Gears of War but with some interesting additions.

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2) Binary Domain

A still from Binary Domain (Image via SEGA)

Before it would capitalize on their Yakuza/Like A Dragon IP, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio developed one of the best tactical third-person shooters in their repertoire. Binary Domain is a reformed Earth that became flooded due to an increase in Global Warming, causing people to live above the flood levels while incorporating Robots into their workforce.

Gears fans will be instantly familiar with Domain's gameplay. However, aside from the solid fundamentals, the game also featured some new elements, such as a consequence system, which decides how the player's allies perceive him based on his actions throughout the story. The player will also choose which allies to bring together with him in the various missions of the game.

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3) Vanquish

A still from Vanquish (Image via SEGA)

If you want a high-octane science-fiction third-person shooter, you cannot go wrong with Vanquish. The title was developed by Platinum Games, who also developed other action titles like the Bayonetta series, The Wonderful 101, Nier Automata, etc. The game focuses on an American Armed group trying to stop a Russian Militaristic organization before they destroy New York City.

While the game uses the basics of third-person cover shooters, it also introduces some new additions to the gameplay, such as an original boost sliding mechanic, allowing you to zoom from one objective to the next in the game. The game also has an arcade feel, whether it be the mission-based encounters or fast-paced gameplay style.

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4) Spec Ops: The Line

A still from Spec Ops: The Line (Image via 2K)

While the other entries in this list are a pure celebration of the third-person shooter genre, Yager Games' Spec Ops: The Line is a grounded, brutal, and ruthless meta-commentary on the military shooter genre. The game focuses on Martin Walker, who is sent to the savage confines of a post-catastrophe Dubai to recon with the previous unit commandeered by Col. John Conrad.

While the title's gameplay is excellent, it is the story that is the star of the show. The game does not shy away from showing you the horrors of war. It forces you to enter into the realm of a ravaged land and make some horrible decisions during your stay. This incredible, complex, and gritty narrative is capped off by one of the best plot twists in video game media ever written.

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5) Uncharted 4: A Thief's End

A still from Uncharted 4: A Thief's End (Image via PlayStation Publishing LLC)

When it comes to third-person shooters with great narrative, creative-level design, and high production value, the Uncharted series has always been one to deliver an astounding experience. However, the series' concluding entry, Uncharted 4: A Thief's End, pushes these elements to their maximum potential. The game is filled with high-octane set pieces, one after another, taking you on a wild adventure.

The game focuses on Nathan Drake's efforts to search for the long-lost treasure of Henry Avery. The game intersperses explorative segments with combat encounters or unique action setpieces, allowing for a truly engaging experience from start to finish. For players wanting to play one of the most visually insane third-person shooters in recent times, Uncharted 4 should be their pick.