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The Xbox One, now approaching its 12th year, remains a vibrant platform with publishers continuing to deliver exceptional games. Our team at IGN has meticulously curated a list of the top 25 Xbox One titles, reflecting a consensus reached after extensive internal discussions. These games represent the pinnacle of what the Xbox One has to offer, and you can find additional recommendations in our list of free Xbox games.
Here's our selection of the 25 best Xbox One games.
More on the best of Xbox:
Best Xbox Series X|S Games Best Xbox 360 Games
The Best Xbox One Games (Spring 2021 update)
26 Images
Outer Wilds
Image credit: Annapurna Interactive
Developer: Mobius Entertainment | Publisher: Annapurna Interactive | Release Date: May 28, 2019 | Review: IGN's Outer Wilds review | Wiki: IGN's Outer Wilds Wiki
Outer Wilds is a captivating sci-fi adventure that blends exploration with a unique time loop mechanic. Despite its open-ended nature, the game's handcrafted solar system is filled with intriguing clues and stunning visuals, inviting players to explore its depths. The expansion, "Echoes of the Eye," adds even more depth to this experience, and a free 4K/60fps update is available for Xbox Series X|S owners.
Destiny 2
Image credit: Bungie
Developer: Bungie | Publisher: Bungie/Acvtision | Release Date: September 6, 2017 | Review: IGN's Destiny 2 review | Wiki: IGN's Destiny 2 Wiki
Destiny 2's seasonal model has evolved into a compelling narrative that keeps players engaged. With its addition to Game Pass, it's more accessible than ever. The game's expansive world, filled with thrilling combat and the latest expansion, "The Final Shape," continues to draw players in. Check out our free-to-play guide for more ways to enjoy Destiny 2.
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
Image credit: Ninja Theory
Developer: Ninja Theory | Publisher: Ninja Theory | Release Date: August 8, 2017 | Review: IGN's Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice review | Wiki: IGN's Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice Wiki
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a masterclass in atmosphere and storytelling, seamlessly blending gameplay with its narrative. Its optimization for Xbox Series X|S has elevated its performance to new heights. The sequel, "Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2," is now available exclusively on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Image credit: SEGA
Developer: Ryu ga Gotoku Studios | Publisher: SEGA | Release Date: January 16, 2020 | Review: IGN's Yakuza: Like a Dragon review | Wiki: IGN's Yakuza: Like a Dragon Wiki
Yakuza: Like a Dragon reinvents the series with a new protagonist and a shift to a turn-based RPG format. Its blend of humor, drama, and social commentary creates a compelling narrative. The sequel, "Infinite Wealth," and the upcoming "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" continue this legacy on Xbox One.
Gears Tactics
Image credit: Microsoft
Developer: Splash Damage/The Coalition | Publisher: Microsoft | Release Date: April 28, 2020 | Review: IGN's Gears Tactics review | Wiki: IGN's Gears Tactics Wiki
Gears Tactics transforms the iconic franchise into a strategic, turn-based game reminiscent of XCOM. It retains the core elements of Gears of War while delivering a fresh and engaging experience. The original Gears series is also celebrated for its excellence on Xbox.
No Man's Sky
Image credit: Hello Games
Developer: Hello Games | Publisher: Hello Games | Release Date: August 9, 2016 | Review: IGN's No Man's Sky review | Wiki: IGN's No Man's Sky Wiki
No Man's Sky has made a remarkable comeback, evolving through numerous updates to offer a rich and expansive universe. Its ongoing development and community engagement make it a standout title in the survival genre. Look forward to "Light No Fire," Hello Games' next ambitious project.
Elder Scrolls Online
Image credit: Bethesda Softworks
Developer: ZeniMax Online Studios | Publisher: Bethesda Softworks | Release Date: June 9, 2015 | Review: IGN's Elder Scrolls Online review | Wiki: IGN's Elder Scrolls Online Wiki
Elder Scrolls Online offers an expansive RPG experience that continues to grow with regular updates. Its inclusion in Xbox Game Pass and optimization for Xbox Series X make it an ideal choice for fans of the series. Dive into the world of Tamriel with our guide on how to play the Elder Scrolls games in order.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: November 15, 2019 | Review: IGN's Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order review | Wiki: IGN's Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order Wiki
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order excels with its engaging combat and compelling narrative. The sequel, "Star Wars Jedi: Survivor," continues this legacy, offering one of the best Star Wars gaming experiences to date.
Titanfall 2
Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: October 28, 2016 | Review: IGN's Titanfall 2 review | Wiki: IGN's Titanfall 2 Wiki
Titanfall 2 enhances its predecessor with a standout single-player campaign and robust multiplayer features. Its innovative gameplay twist remains a highlight of this generation's shooter campaigns.
Apex Legends
Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: February 3, 2019 | Review: IGN's Apex Legends review | Wiki: IGN's Apex Legends Wiki
Apex Legends has grown from a strong launch into a dynamic battle royale with regular updates, new Legends, and evolving gameplay mechanics. It remains a top choice for fans of competitive multiplayer games.
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Image credit: Konami
Developer: Kojima Productions/Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release Date: September 1, 2015 | Review: IGN's Metal Gear Solid 5 review | Wiki: IGN's MGS 5 Wiki
Metal Gear Solid 5 offers an ambitious sandbox experience with deep gameplay mechanics and a fragmented story. Its open-world design and tactical gameplay make it a must-play for stealth enthusiasts.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Image credit: Microsoft
Developer: Moon Studios | Publisher: Microsoft | Release Date: March 11, 2020 | Review: IGN's Ori and the Will of the Wisps review | Wiki: IGN's Ori and the Will of the Wisps Wiki
Ori and the Will of the Wisps builds on the success of its predecessor with enhanced gameplay, a richer world, and a poignant story. It's a standout platformer that delivers on every level.
Forza Horizon 4
Image credit: Microsoft
Developer: Playground Games | Publisher: Microsoft | Release Date: October 2, 2018 | Review: IGN's Forza Horizon 4 review | Wiki: IGN's Forza Horizon 4 Wiki
Forza Horizon 4 is not just the best in its series; it's one of the greatest racing games ever made. Its dynamic seasons and expansive world make every drive a new adventure. The latest entry, Forza Horizon 5, continues this legacy and is also available on Xbox One.
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 delivers the series' signature cover-based shooting with a heartfelt story and engaging multiplayer modes. The introduction of Escape mode adds a thrilling new dimension to the gameplay. The Coalition is working on exciting new projects, including a Gears of War prequel and a Netflix series.
Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Image credit: Microsoft
Developer: 343 Industries | Publisher: Microsoft | Release Date: November 11, 2014 | Review: IGN's Halo: The Master Chief Collection review | Wiki: IGN's Halo: The Master Chief Collection Wiki
Halo: The Master Chief Collection is the ultimate Halo experience, featuring remastered campaigns and an updated multiplayer suite. It's essential for both fans and newcomers to the series.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Image credit: Activision
Developer: FromSoftware | Publisher: Activision | Release Date: March 22, 2019 | Review: IGN's Sekiro: Shadows Die review | Wiki: IGN's Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice Wiki
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with its unique combat system and atmospheric storytelling. FromSoftware's latest, Elden Ring, has continued to set new standards in the genre.
Inside
Image credit: Playdead
Developer: Playdead | Publisher: Playdead | Release Date: June 29, 2016 | Review: IGN's Inside review | Wiki: IGN's Inside Wiki
Inside is a masterpiece of puzzle design and non-verbal storytelling. Its polished visuals and thought-provoking narrative make it an unforgettable experience.
It Takes Two
Image credit: EA
Developer: Hazelight Studios | Publisher: EA | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's It Takes Two review | Wiki: IGN's It Takes Two Wiki
It Takes Two offers a unique multiplayer experience that is both whimsical and deeply engaging. Its cooperative gameplay and heartfelt story make it a must-play with a friend or loved one.
Control
Image credit: 505 Games
Developer: Remedy Entertainment | Publisher: 505 Games | Release Date: August 27, 2019 | Review: IGN's Control review | Wiki: IGN's Control Wiki
Control is a standout action-adventure game praised for its storytelling, atmosphere, and innovative use of telekinesis. Remedy's ongoing projects, including Alan Wake 2 and Control 2, promise to expand this intriguing universe.
Hitman 3
Image credit: IO Interactive
Developer: IO Interactive | Publisher: IO Interactive | Release Date: January 20, 2021 | Review: IGN's Hitman 3 review | Wiki: IGN's Hitman 3 Wiki
Hitman 3 is the pinnacle of the series, offering stunning visuals and intricate levels that encourage creative problem-solving. IO Interactive's focus on Project 007 marks a new chapter for the studio.
Doom Eternal
Image credit: Bethesda Softworks
Developer: id Software | Publisher: Bethesda Softworks | Release Date: March 20, 2020 | Review: IGN's Doom Eternal review | Wiki: IGN's Doom Eternal Wiki
Doom Eternal is a relentless FPS experience with a dynamic combat system that keeps players engaged throughout its campaign. Its inclusion on our list of best Steam Deck games highlights its versatility.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release Date: November 10, 2020 | Review: IGN's Assassin's Creed Valhalla review | Wiki: IGN's Assassin's Creed Valhalla Wiki
Assassin's Creed Valhalla showcases the series' evolution into a full-blown RPG, with a vast Norse-Viking world to explore. Its engaging combat and expansive content make it a standout entry in the franchise.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Image credit: Rockstar Games
Developer: Rockstar Games | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Review: IGN's Red Dead Redemption 2 review | Wiki: IGN's Red Dead 2 Wiki
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a technical and narrative masterpiece, setting a new standard for open-world games. Its detailed world and compelling story make it one of the greatest games of all time.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Image credit: CD Projekt
Developer: CD Projekt Red | Publisher: CD Projekt | Release Date: May 19, 2015 | Review: IGN's The Witcher 3 review | Wiki: IGN's The Witcher 3 Wiki
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a landmark RPG with a vast, immersive world filled with rich content. Its expansions further enhance this already exceptional experience, making it a benchmark for open-world adventures.
Grand Theft Auto 5 / GTA Online
Image credit: Rockstar Games
Developer: Rockstar Games | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release Date: November 18, 2014 | Review: IGN's GTA 5 review | Wiki: IGN's GTA 5 Wiki
Grand Theft Auto 5 remains the best Xbox One game, thanks to its expansive, detailed world and engaging narrative. GTA Online continues to offer endless content, making it a cornerstone of the gaming community.
Upcoming Xbox One Games
In 2025, Xbox One gamers can look forward to titles like Little Nightmares 3, Atomfall, and the remaster of Croc: Legend of the Gobbos.
The 25 Best Xbox One Games
These are our picks for the top Xbox One games. Let us know in the comments what’s on your list that didn’t make ours or create your own ranked list using our tier list tool above!
Be sure to also check out our lists of the Best PS4 Games, the Best PC Games, and the Best Nintendo Switch Games.
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