Price: £7.49

"Duke Nukem 3D," released in 1996 by 3D Realms, is a first-person shooter that became an instant cult classic thanks to its explosive action, over-the-top humor, and unforgettable main character. You play as Duke Nukem — a cigar-chomping, one-liner-spouting badass determined to save the Earth from an alien invasion.

The game takes place across a variety of highly interactive environments inspired by real-world locations — from strip clubs and movie theaters to space stations and dystopian cities. These detailed, destructible settings set a new standard for interactivity in FPS games, allowing players to blow up walls, use toilets, or even tip dancers.

Duke’s arsenal is just as memorable as his attitude. From the rapid-fire chaingun cannon to the mighty RPG and shrink ray, every weapon packs punch and personality. Enemies are grotesque, mutated, and relentless, keeping the pace intense from start to finish.

What truly set "Duke Nukem 3D" apart from its contemporaries was its tone. The game embraced satire and pop culture references, breaking the mold of the grim, silent shooter protagonist. Duke’s constant quips, cheesy bravado, and refusal to take anything seriously gave the game its iconic charm.

Technically, it pushed the Build engine to its limits. Though not fully 3D, the engine used clever tricks to create dynamic levels with slopes, elevators, mirrors, and overlapping sectors — a major innovation at the time. It also offered a level editor, inspiring a wave of community-created content and mods that extended the game's life for years.

"Duke Nukem 3D" also featured fast-paced multiplayer deathmatch modes, known as “DukeMatch,” that quickly became a staple at LAN parties. With chaotic weapon fights and traps hidden in levels, multiplayer was every bit as fun and irreverent as the campaign.

Loud, brash, and endlessly entertaining, "Duke Nukem 3D" remains a cornerstone of '90s FPS design — unapologetically wild and forever quotable.

Add to cart