“Riot's ultra-optimized tactical FPS built specifically for low-spec competitive play”

Valorant tops this list because it’s engineered to stay responsive on low-end hardware while preserving crisp gunfeel. On integrated graphics, players routinely report stable 60 FPS at 720p Low, helped by a lean DX11 path and resolution scaling. Input latency is excellent, and the small install won’t choke a modest SSD. Netcode and anti-cheat are reliable, with low bandwidth needs and consistent matchmaking. It’s approachable thanks to a strong practice range and clear recoil behavior, yet deep enough to sustain long-term competitive play. For tactical shooting on iGPUs, it sets the standard.

“Timeless class-based shooter with perfect low-end optimization and endless content”

Team Fortress 2 remains a model of low-spec scalability. The Source engine hits triple-digit frame rates on modest integrated GPUs, while classes and maps keep combat readable at low settings. It’s friendly to small SSDs and low bandwidth, with LAN and offline practice for truly constrained setups. The huge community and Workshop keep modes and maps fresh, and the controls are flexible with raw input and FOV tweaks. It doesn’t modernize like newer titles, but its performance headroom, stable netcode, and endless content make it a near-perfect fit for budget systems.

“Low-poly Battlefield alternative designed explicitly for integrated graphics”

BattleBit Remastered is built to be Battlefield-scale warfare that runs on integrated graphics. Its low-poly art style and Unity optimizations let Iris Xe users push 60+ FPS at 1080p Low, and the 4GB install is kind to cramped SSDs. The shooting feels weighty but readable even at reduced resolutions, and resolution scaling plus FOV controls help with visibility. Netcode is reliable with modest bandwidth needs for the scale. Population dips outside peak hours can extend matchmaking times, but when servers are active, it’s the best large-battle experience for budget PCs.

“Legendary arena shooter with perfect low-end performance and skill-based combat”

Quake Live delivers pure arena fundamentals with near-zero hardware friction. The id Tech 3 foundation screams on integrated GPUs—expect well over 100 FPS—and the 1GB footprint suits tiny SSDs. Weapons have clean feedback, movement is precise, and the HUD stays readable at low resolutions. Bandwidth demands are minimal, so even modest connections hold up. Its small but dedicated community and steep learning curve limit approachability, yet for players who want skill-first shooting that flies on old hardware, it’s a superb fit that respects every ounce of a low-end rig.

“Timeless co-op zombie shooter with ultra-light requirements and infinite mod content”

Left 4 Dead 2 remains a gold-standard co-op shooter for weak hardware. Source engine scalability means 60–100+ FPS on integrated GPUs at low settings, and the 13GB install is manageable. It excels offline or on LAN for low-bandwidth households, and online co-op is stable when available. Gunfeel is snappy, weapon readability is excellent at 720p, and the AI director keeps runs engaging. The Steam Workshop adds thousands of campaigns and tweaks without heavy performance cost. It’s easy to set up, endlessly replayable, and ideal for friends sharing a modest network.

“Classic horde-based arena shooter with split-screen/LAN and 1GB footprint”

Serious Sam: The First Encounter is a horde-blasting time capsule that’s perfect for low-end PCs. The tiny ~1GB install, LAN and split-screen support, and rock-solid performance on integrated GPUs make it a rare combination of accessible and communal. Gunplay is punchy, strafing is responsive, and the arenas read clearly even at low resolutions. It’s ideal for offline gatherings or bandwidth-limited homes. While its mechanics are old-school and simple, the sheer enemy count and scalable difficulty offer satisfying arcade pacing that respects low-power hardware and small storage.

“Brutally fast boomer shooter with devil-may-cry style combat and ultra-light requirements”

ULTRAKILL brings modern precision to a retro-fast package that loves integrated graphics. Retro visuals and tight Unity optimization yield 100+ FPS on Iris Xe at 1080p Low, keeping inputs razor sharp. Weapon juggling and movement tech reward mastery, while a clear FOV slider and responsive controls aid readability on low settings. It lacks multiplayer, but its score-chasing structure and secrets carry strong longevity without an internet connection or big patches. For players who want mechanical depth and top-tier responsiveness on a basic laptop, it’s a standout single-player pick.

“Physics-based Source engine deathmatch with gravity gun chaos and LAN support”

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch is a lean, physics-forward alternative that thrives on weak systems. The Source engine produces excellent frame rates on iGPUs and the ~4GB footprint barely dents a small SSD. Gravity gun chaos and tight projectile reads make its combat distinct, and LAN plus bot support provide reliable low-bandwidth options. The active population isn’t huge, which limits matchmaking breadth, but for parties, LANs, and drop-in aim sessions, it remains a fast, responsive arena that scales down effortlessly while keeping gunplay crisp and readable at 720p.

“Fast-paced roguelite FPS with satisfying gunplay and offline progression”

Roboquest nails the balance of speed, clarity, and replayability on a budget rig. Unity’s DX11/DX12 paths with resolution scaling deliver 60+ FPS on common iGPUs at Low settings, and the small install won’t crowd a 256GB SSD. The shooting feels snappy, with readable recoil and generous FOV control to offset low resolutions. Meta progression and varied builds keep solo runs fresh without requiring online services. Expect brief shader compilation hiccups on first launch, but performance steadies quickly, making it an easy recommendation for offline-friendly replay value.

“F2P hero shooter with better low-end performance than Overwatch 2”

Paladins survives on low-end PCs where newer hero shooters stumble. The UE3 foundation scales cleanly, with UHD 620 laptops achieving 60 FPS at 720p Low, and its ~30GB install is reasonable for a live service. Gunfeel and abilities remain responsive at reduced settings, and aim assist helps controller users. Matchmaking is stable with modest bandwidth needs. It’s not the flashiest option, and regular updates can add download overhead, but if your rig or connection struggles with heavier hero shooters, Paladins is a practical, free-to-play fit.