The Xbox One is approaching its 12th year on the market, and while Microsoft may eventually shift its focus solely to the current-gen Xbox Series X/S consoles, the Xbox One continues to receive excellent new game releases from publishers. The IGN content team has carefully curated a list of the 25 best Xbox One games, representing what we believe to be the pinnacle of gaming experiences on this platform. You can also explore our list of free Xbox games for more options.
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)
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Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds is a captivating sci-fi game with a unique charm. Its open-ended nature invites you to explore a handcrafted solar system, filled with intriguing breadcrumbs, story teases, and breathtaking sights. The time loop mechanic adds a tense layer to the serene exploration, making it a rewarding journey. The expansion, "Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye," offers a wonderful return to this world, and a free 4K/60fps update is available for Xbox Series X|S owners.
Destiny 2
Destiny 2 has evolved with its seasonal model, offering a compelling narrative that connects story arcs across seasons. Its inclusion in Game Pass has attracted more players. Whether you're fighting the darkness with Stasis or simply enjoying the action, Destiny 2 has stood the test of time, especially with expansions like "The Final Shape." Check out our free-to-play guide to explore everything available without cost.
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice excels in atmosphere, storytelling, and the seamless integration of mechanics and concepts. Ninja Theory's dedication to Senua's story results in a powerful experience. The game's visuals and narrative depth highlight its serious themes. Now optimized for Xbox Series X|S, it even outperforms high-end PCs. The sequel, "Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2," is available exclusively on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Yakuza: Like a Dragon reinvents the series with a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and a shift to a turn-based RPG format. It combines humor and drama, with side missions that are as entertaining as they are absurd. The main storyline explores themes of betrayal and marginalization. The sequel, "Infinite Wealth," and the upcoming "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" are also available on Xbox One. For more on the series, see our guide to the Yakuza games in order.
Gears Tactics
Gears Tactics seamlessly transitions the Gears of War series into a turn-based strategy game, akin to XCOM. It retains classic elements like cover-based combat and executions while delivering a compelling story with high-quality character development. It's a testament to how well a franchise can adapt to a new genre. The original Gears series remains one of the best Xbox exclusives of all time.
No Man's Sky
No Man's Sky is a remarkable comeback story in the gaming industry. Hello Games has continuously supported it with updates that enhance gameplay and add community-requested features. From Expeditions to revamped space stations, the game has evolved into a beloved experience. It also ranks among the best survival games and offers an experience akin to Starfield. Look forward to "Light No Fire," Hello Games' upcoming survival adventure announced at The Game Awards 2023.
Elder Scrolls Online
Elder Scrolls Online offers a robust online RPG experience that continues to improve with each update, including the addition of Morrowind. It's now optimized for Xbox Series X and available on Xbox Game Pass, making it an accessible MMO you can enjoy at your own pace. For a full timeline of the series, check out our guide on how to play the Elder Scrolls games in order.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order excels in combat, requiring precise timing for parries and force abilities, especially on higher difficulties. Its engaging story takes you across the galaxy with a memorable cast of characters. The sequel, "Star Wars Jedi: Survivor," is now available on Xbox One and is considered one of the best Star Wars games.
Titanfall 2
Titanfall 2 surpasses its predecessor with an outstanding single-player campaign and enhanced multiplayer features. While the story may be simple, the campaign's innovative design stands out. Respawn was working on Titanfall 3 for 10 months before shifting focus to Apex Legends, which is next on our list.
Apex Legends
Apex Legends brings Respawn's signature gunplay to the battle royale genre, consistently improving with seasonal updates that include new Legends, map changes, and quality-of-life improvements. It's a standout title among games like Fortnite, offering a rich and evolving experience.
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Metal Gear Solid 5, including "The Phantom Pain" and "Ground Zeroes," is the most ambitious entry in the series, offering a complex sandbox with numerous ways to approach missions. It rewards stealth but allows for dynamic action if needed. Despite creative differences with Konami, it remains a must-play for fans of open-world stealth games.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps builds upon the foundation set by "Ori and the Blind Forest," delivering a vibrant world, enhanced combat, and a poignant story. It's a top-tier platformer with creative puzzles and emotional depth. Although Microsoft reportedly parted ways with Moon Studios, the studio's new project, "No Rest for the Wicked," a Dark Souls-inspired ARPG, is now in early access.
Forza Horizon 4
Forza Horizon 4 is not only the best in its series but also one of the greatest car games ever. Its dynamic seasons and diverse car selection set in a beautifully rendered Great Britain create an unparalleled experience. The latest entry, "Forza Horizon 5," was IGN's 2021 Game of the Year and is also available on Xbox One.
Gears 5
Developer: The Coalition | Publisher: Microsoft| Release Date: September 10, 2019 | IGN's Gears 5 review | IGN's Gears 5 Wiki
Gears 5 retains the series' signature third-person shooter gameplay while exploring Kait Diaz's backstory. Its heartfelt story and engaging multiplayer modes, including the new Escape mode, make it a standout title. The Coalition is working on a prequel, "Gears of War: E-Day," and multiple new projects, alongside a Gears of War movie and an adult animated series with Netflix.
Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Halo: The Master Chief Collection is the definitive Halo experience, with remastered campaigns and a polished multiplayer suite. It's a must-own for fans and newcomers alike, offering a comprehensive journey through the Halo universe.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with its precise combat system. Its unique take on Japanese history and supernatural elements distinguish it from other FromSoftware titles. The developer's latest game, "Elden Ring," was a critical success and won multiple Game of the Year awards in 2022.
Inside
Inside is a masterpiece that showcases meticulous attention to detail in every aspect, from visuals to puzzles. Its non-verbal story leaves a lasting impact, making it an unforgettable experience. Playdead's next project is a third-person sci-fi adventure, set to be published by Epic.
It Takes Two
It Takes Two offers a unique multiplayer experience that combines whimsical visuals with a compelling story about a failing marriage. Its cooperative gameplay is both fun and innovative, making it a must-play with a friend or loved one. Hazelight Studios' next game, "Split Fiction," is set to release in March.
Control
Control won IGN's 2019 Game of the Year for its exceptional third-person action-adventure gameplay and storytelling. Its engaging mystery and innovative telekinesis mechanics create a captivating experience. Remedy's latest release, "Alan Wake 2," ties into Control's lore, with "Control 2" and a multiplayer game, "FBC Firebreak," in development, alongside remakes of Max Payne 1 and 2.
Hitman 3
Hitman 3 is a visually stunning and mechanically superior entry in the series, offering diverse ways to eliminate targets. It has been rebranded as "Hitman: World of Assassination," consolidating the trilogy. IO Interactive is now focusing on a James Bond game, "Project 007."
Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal is a standout single-player FPS campaign on Xbox One, with a combat loop that makes you feel like a true badass. Its challenging encounters and rewarding progression system set it apart. It also made our list of the best Steam Deck games.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla represents the series' evolution into a full-blown open-world RPG, set in a rich Norse-Viking world. Its combat is weighty and satisfying, and the game is accessible to newcomers. The next installment, "Assassin's Creed Shadows," will be set in Feudal Japan. For more on the series, see our guide to the Assassin's Creed games in order.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a technical marvel and a storytelling masterpiece set in a meticulously crafted open world. Its narrative weaves themes of honor and loss, while the world itself offers endless exploration and activities. It's one of the best-selling video games of all time, despite being released only seven years ago.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt sets the standard for open-world RPGs with its vast, detailed world and engaging content. Its expansive areas are filled with monsters, mysteries, and personal stories, complemented by a stellar voice cast and soundtrack. CD Projekt Red is developing "The Witcher 4," with Ciri as the protagonist, and an Unreal Engine 5 remake of "The Witcher 1."
Grand Theft Auto 5 / GTA Online
Grand Theft Auto 5 offers an unparalleled open-world experience with its detailed map and rich content. Its single-player story is a gripping crime epic, while GTA Online provides years of multiplayer content, from heists to custom races. It remains the best Xbox One game ever. Rockstar has confirmed "GTA 6" will release in 2025, set in Vice City with a female protagonist. For more on the series, see our guide to the GTA game series.
Upcoming Xbox One Games
There are several exciting upcoming Xbox One games slated for 2025, including "Little Nightmares 3," "Atomfall," and the "Croc: Legend of the Gobbos remaster."
The 25 Best Xbox One Games
Those 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.
