That’s the eternal question! It really depends on the player's taste, but if I have to recommend just one game that defines the PC shooter experience, it has to be Counter-Strike 2 (CS2).
Why? It’s simply the purest competitive shooter available. It’s not about unlocks or fancy gadgets; it’s just you, your aim, and your map knowledge against the opponent. It has an infinite skill ceiling, and the satisfaction of mastering its mechanics is unmatched. It’s tough to learn, but once it clicks, nothing else feels the same.
If you’re looking for something newer and faster, Apex Legends is fantastic for Battle Royale, but for a true, classic PC shooter challenge, start with CS2.