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The Xbox One, now approaching its 12th year on the market, continues to be supported with exceptional games from publishers, despite the rise of the newer Xbox Series X/S consoles. Our team at IGN has meticulously curated a list of the 25 best Xbox One games, reflecting the collective opinion of our content team after extensive discussion. For those looking for more gaming options, don't miss our list of free Xbox games.
Here are the top 25 Xbox One games you should play:
More on the best of Xbox:
- Best Xbox Series X|S Games
- Best Xbox 360 Games
The Best Xbox One Games (Spring 2021 update)
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Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds is a captivating sci-fi game that immerses players in a handcrafted solar system filled with mysteries and stunning visuals. Its open-ended exploration, combined with a time loop mechanic, adds both excitement and tension to the serene journey. The expansion, Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye, further enriches the experience and is available for $15 USD. Additionally, a free 4K/60fps update enhances the game for Xbox Series X|S owners.
Destiny 2
Destiny 2 has evolved with a compelling seasonal model that weaves continuous narratives, drawing players in with its engaging story and gameplay. The addition to Game Pass has made it even more accessible. The latest expansion, The Final Shape, continues to keep players engaged with its fresh content and thrilling gameplay. Check out our free-to-play guide for more details on what you can experience without cost.
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a masterclass in storytelling and atmosphere, brilliantly blending mechanical and conceptual design. Its optimized version for Xbox Series X|S outperforms high-end PCs, and the sequel, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, is now available exclusively on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Yakuza: Like a Dragon revolutionizes the series with a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and a shift to a turn-based RPG system. Its blend of humor and drama, along with themes of marginalization, offers a unique and engaging experience. The sequel, Infinite Wealth, and the upcoming Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii are also available on Xbox One.
Gears Tactics
Gears Tactics seamlessly transitions the Gears of War series into a turn-based strategy game, maintaining its core elements like cover-based combat and executions. Its engaging story and strategic gameplay make it a standout title, proving that a franchise can successfully shift genres.
No Man's Sky
No Man's Sky has made a remarkable comeback with numerous updates, enhancing the game with new features and community requests. Its expansive universe and survival elements make it a beloved title, also featured in our best survival games list. Keep an eye out for Hello Games' upcoming Light No Fire.
Elder Scrolls Online
Elder Scrolls Online on Xbox offers an immersive RPG experience with continuous updates, including the beloved Morrowind expansion. Available on Xbox Game Pass, it's an MMO that allows for flexible play without the need for constant commitment. It's a perfect way to explore the rich world of Tamriel while awaiting The Elder Scrolls 6.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order excels with its combat system, requiring precise timing and mastery of abilities, especially on higher difficulties. Its memorable story and engaging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the Star Wars universe. The sequel, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, is now available on Xbox One and is considered one of the best Star Wars games ever.
Titanfall 2
Titanfall 2 surpasses its predecessor with an outstanding single-player campaign and expanded multiplayer features. Its innovative gameplay twists make it one of the best shooter campaigns of this generation. Despite the cancellation of Titanfall 3 in favor of Apex Legends, Titanfall 2 remains a standout title.
Apex Legends
Apex Legends has consistently improved since its 2019 launch, with regular seasonal content including new Legends, map changes, and quality-of-life updates. Its engaging gameplay and variety of events make it a top choice for fans of battle royale games.
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain is the most ambitious entry in the series, offering a complex sandbox with a wide array of weapons and tactics. Its open-world stealth gameplay remains a highlight for fans, despite the creative differences that affected its development.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps builds upon the success of its predecessor with a richer world, expanded moveset, and a touching story. It's one of the best platformers available, offering creative puzzles and soulful moments. Moon Studios has since released No Rest for the Wicked into early access.
Forza Horizon 4
Forza Horizon 4 stands out as the best car game of the last decade, offering a vibrant, dynamic world inspired by Great Britain. Its diverse car selection and engaging gameplay make it a joy to play, with the latest entry, Forza Horizon 5, also available on Xbox One and crowned IGN's 2021 Game of the Year.
Gears 5
Developer: The Coalition | Publisher: Microsoft | Release Date: September 10, 2019 | Review: IGN's Gears 5 review | Wiki: IGN's Gears 5 Wiki
Gears 5 continues the series' tradition of excellent third-person shooting with a heartfelt story and engaging multiplayer modes, including the new Escape mode. The Coalition is currently developing a prequel, Gears of War: E-Day, and working on multiple new projects, alongside a Gears of War movie and animated series with Netflix.
Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Halo: The Master Chief Collection offers a comprehensive experience with its remastered campaigns and updated multiplayer suite. It's the quintessential Halo experience, continuously improved over the years, making it a must-own for fans and newcomers alike.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with its skill-heavy combat and unique take on Japanese history. Its engaging gameplay and atmospheric storytelling make it a standout title, with FromSoftware's latest, Elden Ring, also receiving high acclaim.
Inside
Inside is a masterpiece of storytelling and puzzle design, offering a polished and unforgettable experience. Its non-verbal narrative leaves players pondering its meaning long after completion. Playdead is currently working on a new 3rd-person science fiction adventure to be published by Epic.
It Takes Two
It Takes Two offers a unique multiplayer experience, requiring cooperation to navigate its whimsical world. Its engaging story and innovative gameplay make it a standout title, with Hazelight Studios' next game, Split Fiction, set to release in March.
Control
Control won IGN's 2019 Game of the Year for its exceptional action-adventure gameplay and storytelling. Its unique setting and engaging mystery make it a must-play, with Remedy also working on Control 2, a multiplayer game, and remakes of Max Payne 1 and 2.
Hitman 3
Hitman 3 is the best in the series since Blood Money, offering stunning visuals and engaging missions. It has been rebranded as Hitman: World of Assassination, consolidating the trilogy's content. IO Interactive is currently focusing on the James Bond game, Project 007.
Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal offers one of the best single-player FPS campaigns on Xbox One, with its intense combat and engaging gameplay loop. Its challenging enemies and rewarding progression make it a standout title, also featured in our best Steam Deck games list.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla exemplifies the series' evolution into a full-blown open-world RPG, offering a rich Norse-Viking world filled with activities and brutal combat. The upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows will take players to Feudal Japan.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a technical and storytelling masterpiece, offering a sprawling and detailed open world filled with engaging content. Its rich narrative and immersive gameplay make it one of the best games ever made, already among the best-selling video games of all time.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers a vast and dense open-world RPG experience, filled with engaging quests, memorable characters, and a compelling story. Its expansions further enhance the experience, setting a high standard for the genre. CD Projekt Red is currently developing The Witcher 4 and an Unreal Engine 5 remake of The Witcher 1.
Grand Theft Auto 5 / GTA Online
Grand Theft Auto 5 remains the pinnacle of open-world gaming, with its detailed map and engaging single-player story. GTA Online offers years of content, from heists to custom races, making it the best Xbox One game ever. Rockstar has confirmed GTA 6 will release in 2025, featuring a return to Vice City and a new female protagonist.
Upcoming Xbox One Games
In 2025, Xbox One players can look forward to titles like Little Nightmares 3, Atomfall, and the Croc: Legend of the Gobbos remaster.
The 25 best Xbox One games
These are our top picks for the best Xbox One games. Share your favorites in the comments below, and don't forget to create your own ranked list using our tier list tool!
For more gaming recommendations, check out our lists of the Best PS4 Games, the Best PC Games, and the Best Nintendo Switch Games.
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