The Xbox One, now in its 12th year, continues to be supported by publishers with fantastic new games, even as Microsoft shifts focus to the newer Xbox Series X/S consoles. Our team at IGN has meticulously curated a list of the 25 best Xbox One games, reflecting our collective expertise and passion for gaming. These selections showcase the pinnacle of what the Xbox One has to offer, and for those looking for more, don't miss our list of free Xbox games.
Here's our definitive list 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)
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Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds combines the thrill of sci-fi exploration with a unique time loop mechanic, creating an experience that is both serene and tense. This handcrafted solar system is brimming with intriguing mysteries and stunning visuals, urging players to explore every corner. The game's expansion, Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye, offers a wonderful return to this captivating universe, while a free 4K/60fps update enhances the experience on Xbox Series X|S.
Destiny 2
Destiny 2 has evolved into a compelling narrative experience with its new seasonal model, seamlessly weaving story arcs across seasons. Its inclusion in Game Pass has broadened its appeal, and the game continues to captivate players with expansions like The Final Shape. For those interested in starting without cost, our free-to-play guide to Destiny 2 outlines everything available for free.
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice stands out for its atmospheric storytelling and seamless integration of mechanics with its narrative. The game's optimization for Xbox Series X|S showcases its visual and performance excellence, while the upcoming Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 continues this legacy on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Yakuza: Like a Dragon reinvents the series with a turn-based RPG system and a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga. Its blend of humor and drama, alongside its engaging storyline about betrayal and societal margins, makes it a standout title. The sequel, Infinite Wealth, and the upcoming Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii continue this legacy on Xbox One.
Gears Tactics
Gears Tactics masterfully transitions the Gears of War series into a turn-based strategy game, retaining its iconic cover-based combat and execution mechanics. Its engaging story and high-quality cutscenes make it a seamless and enjoyable leap into a new genre. The original Gears series remains one of the best Xbox exclusives.
No Man's Sky
No Man's Sky is a testament to a successful game revival, with continuous updates enhancing its gameplay and community features. From Expeditions to overhauled space stations, Hello Games has crafted an experience beloved by players worldwide. The upcoming Light No Fire promises to extend this magic into a new survival adventure.
Elder Scrolls Online
Elder Scrolls Online offers a rich online RPG experience on Xbox, with regular updates enhancing its content. Its inclusion in Xbox Game Pass makes it accessible to a wider audience, and its optimization for Xbox Series X ensures a smoother experience. Dive into the world of Tamriel without the need for a long-term commitment.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order excels in combat, requiring players to master parry and force powers to progress, especially on higher difficulties. Its compelling story and memorable characters make it a standout adventure in the Star Wars universe. The sequel, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, continues this legacy as one of the best Star Wars games available on Xbox One.
Titanfall 2
Titanfall 2 elevates its predecessor with an exceptional single-player campaign and expanded multiplayer features. Its innovative gameplay and diverse game modes, combined with the surprise of its campaign's twists, make it a must-play shooter. Respawn's shift to Apex Legends after canceling Titanfall 3 underscores their commitment to evolving their game offerings.
Apex Legends
Apex Legends has redefined the battle royale genre with its slick gunplay and regular content updates. Each season introduces new Legends, map changes, and quality-of-life improvements, keeping the game fresh and engaging. It stands out as one of the best alternatives to Fortnite.
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Metal Gear Solid 5 offers an expansive sandbox with a rich array of gameplay options, from stealth to action. Despite its incomplete story, the game's innovative mechanics and open-world design make it a standout title for fans of the series and open-world stealth games alike.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps builds upon the success of its predecessor with enhanced gameplay, a more vibrant world, and an emotionally charged story. Its creative puzzles and platforming challenges make it one of the best platformers available on any platform. Moon Studios' next venture, No Rest for the Wicked, promises to bring a new Dark Souls-inspired experience to players.
Forza Horizon 4
Forza Horizon 4 stands as a pinnacle of the racing genre, offering a diverse range of cars and dynamic seasonal changes in its beautifully rendered Great Britain. Its focus on fun and social engagement, combined with its cheerful soundtrack, makes it an unparalleled driving experience. The series continues to evolve with Forza Horizon 5, 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 delivers a heartfelt story centered around Kait Diaz's past while maintaining the series' signature third-person cover-based shooting. Its engaging multiplayer modes, including the new Escape mode, offer fresh challenges. The Coalition's upcoming projects, including Gears of War: E-Day and collaborations with Netflix, promise to expand the Gears universe further.
Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Halo: The Master Chief Collection offers a comprehensive experience of the Halo series, with remastered campaigns and an updated multiplayer suite. Its continuous improvements make it an essential collection for fans and newcomers alike, providing the quintessential Halo journey.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice challenges players with its precision-based combat and atmospheric storytelling set in a supernatural take on Japanese history. Its unique traversal and combat mechanics make it a rewarding experience for those willing to master its demanding gameplay. FromSoftware's latest success, Elden Ring, further cements their status in the gaming industry.
Inside
Inside is a masterpiece of puzzle-platforming, with every element meticulously crafted for a cohesive and impactful experience. Its non-verbal storytelling leaves a lasting impression, making it an unforgettable journey. Playdead's next project, a third-person sci-fi adventure, promises to continue their tradition of innovative game design.
It Takes Two
It Takes Two offers a unique cooperative experience, requiring players to work together to navigate its whimsical world. Its engaging story and innovative gameplay mechanics make it a standout title, perfect for playing with friends or loved ones. Hazelight Studios' upcoming game, Split Fiction, is set to continue their tradition of compelling multiplayer narratives.
Control
Control stands out for its exceptional storytelling and innovative use of telekinesis in a beautifully crafted brutalist setting. Its engaging mystery and dynamic gameplay earned it IGN's 2019 Game of the Year award. Remedy's ongoing projects, including Alan Wake 2 and Control 2, promise to further explore this intriguing universe.
Hitman 3
Hitman 3 offers breathtaking visuals and diverse assassination methods across its missions, making it the best entry in the series since Blood Money. Its rebranding as Hitman: World of Assassination consolidates the trilogy's content, while IO Interactive shifts focus to the upcoming James Bond game, Project 007.
Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal offers an unparalleled single-player FPS experience, with its intense combat and dynamic gameplay loop. Its challenging enemies and powerful player progression make it a standout title on Xbox One. The game's success extends to the Steam Deck, making it one of the best games for that platform.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla represents the series' evolution into a full-blown open-world RPG, set in a richly detailed Norse-Viking world. Its engaging combat and expansive content make it an ideal entry point for new players. The upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows will continue this legacy in Feudal Japan.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a technical and storytelling marvel, offering a deeply immersive open-world experience. Its meticulously crafted world and engaging narrative make it one of Rockstar's finest achievements. Despite its recent release, it has already become one of the best-selling games of all time.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt sets the standard for open-world RPGs with its vast, detailed worlds and engaging narrative. Its expansive content, including two exceptional expansions, offers hours of immersive gameplay. CD Projekt Red's future projects, including The Witcher 4 and a remake of the first game, promise to continue this legacy.
Grand Theft Auto 5 / GTA Online
Grand Theft Auto 5 remains the pinnacle of open-world gaming with its expansive, detailed map and engaging single-player story. Its satirical take on the American dream and the vast content of GTA Online offer endless hours of entertainment. The upcoming GTA 6, set to release in 2025, will continue this legacy with a return to Vice City and the series' first female protagonist.
Upcoming Xbox One Games
Looking ahead to 2025, Xbox One players can anticipate exciting 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. We invite you to share your favorites in the comments or create your own ranked list using our tier list tool. Don't forget to explore our lists of the Best PS4 Games, Best PC Games, and Best Nintendo Switch Games for more gaming recommendations.
