Painkiller
Painkiller is a 2004 first-person shooter developed by the Polish studio People Can Fly, a deliberate throwback to the fast, arena-driven action of classic 1990s shooters. Players take the role of Daniel Garner, battling through purgatory and hell, mowing down relentless hordes of demonic and undead enemies to earn his way to redemption.
The game stripped away modern conventions like regenerating health and cover in favor of pure, high-speed circle-strafing combat, throwing dozens of monsters at the player across atmospheric gothic levels such as cathedrals, asylums, and battlefields. An inventive arsenal, headlined by the versatile combined stakegun and grenade launcher, plus demon cards that granted temporary powers and demanding boss battles against towering creatures, was powered by a strong Havok physics engine that sent enemies flying.
Painkiller developed a cult following and spawned numerous expansions, spin-offs, and sequels of varying quality. The original remains available on digital storefronts, still cherished by fans of old-school run-and-gun action.
Play it today
Modern alternatives to Painkiller, with the devices they run on and their price. Ordered editorially by how well each one stands in for the original, with community votes weighted in as they accumulate.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
DUSK Indie
€ 19,50An indie retro shooter with breakneck speed and dark atmosphere.
DUSK runs on PC, PlayStation, Switch. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, Xbox. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Prodeus Indie
€ 24,99An indie fast FPS blending retro sprites with modern effects.
Prodeus runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet. It is Steam Deck Playable.
Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun
€ 21,99A retro-style boomer shooter with hordes of enemies.
Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet. It is Steam Deck Verified.
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