Shot peening is a surface-strengthening process that is widely used in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and biomedical engineering. The process involves the impact of small, spherical media, called shots, onto the surface of a material, resulting in residual compressive stress and improved surface properties. This review aims to provide an overview of the state of the art and perspectives on surface strengthening by shot peening. The review covers various aspects of shot peening, including process parameters, shot materials, and quality control techniques. The advantages and limitations of shot peening in comparison to other surface-strengthening techniques are also discussed. The findings of this review indicate that shot peening is a versatile and effective surface-strengthening technique with numerous applications, and further research is needed to fully realize its potential. In conclusion, this review provides insights into the current status and future perspectives on surface strengthening by shot peening, and it is expected to be useful for researchers, engineers, and practitioners in the field of material science and engineering.