As the Xbox One approaches its 12th year on the market, it continues to receive exceptional games from publishers, even as Microsoft gears up to focus more on the Xbox Series X/S. We've delved into the vast catalog of Xbox One games and handpicked our top 25 titles. These selections were made by the entire IGN content team after thorough discussion, reflecting what we consider to be the cream of the crop on the Xbox One. For those interested in more options, don't forget to explore our list of free Xbox games.
Here's our curated 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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25. Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds may be categorized as a sci-fi game, but it captures a unique kind of magic with its open-ended exploration. You might find yourself drifting through space, sometimes crashing into planets at breakneck speeds, unsure of what to do next. Yet, the handcrafted solar system is brimming with intriguing breadcrumbs, compelling story teases, and stunning sights that pull you into one awe-inspiring moment after another. The world invites exploration, and the time loop mechanic adds a thrilling tension to the serene journey. It may take a moment to find your bearings, but Outer Wilds offers an adventure well worth embarking upon.
The expansion, Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye, described as "a wonderful return to the clockwork solar system of Outer Wilds," is available for $15 USD. Additionally, a free 4K/60fps update is available for Xbox Series X|S owners.
24. Destiny 2
Destiny 2's seasonal model initially faced skepticism, but Bungie has since delivered a compelling narrative that weaves seamlessly from season to season. The inclusion in Game Pass has further broadened its appeal, bringing more players into its universe. Whether you're battling the darkness with Stasis or enjoying the thrill of combat with unique weapons, Destiny 2 has stood the test of time. The latest expansion, The Final Shape, is available now and adds even more depth to the experience.
Check out our free-to-play guide to Destiny 2 to explore everything you can do without spending a dime.
23. Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a masterclass in atmosphere, storytelling, and the integration of mechanics with conceptual design. Ninja Theory's dedication to Senua's journey has crafted an extraordinary experience. The game's stunning visuals and deep narrative enhance its serious themes, making it a poignant exploration of darkness and resilience.
Senua's Sacrifice is now optimized for Xbox Series X|S, with our performance review noting that it even outperforms high-end PCs. The sequel, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, is now available exclusively on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
22. Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Yakuza: Like a Dragon revolutionizes the series with a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and shifts from traditional beat 'em up action to a turn-based RPG format. The game's ensemble of quirky characters and humorous side missions, like delivering formula to diaper-wearing gangsters, elevate its absurdity to new heights. Yet, it remains a poignant drama, exploring themes of betrayal and the lives of marginalized individuals.
The sequel, Infinite Wealth, is also available on Xbox One, as is the series' 2025 release: Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. For more on the series, see our guide to all the Yakuza games in order.
21. Gears Tactics
Gears Tactics successfully transitions the Gears of War franchise into an XCOM-like turn-based strategy game, retaining the series' signature cover-based combat and brutal executions. The game excels in both strategy and storytelling, with high-quality character development and stunning in-engine cutscenes. It's a rare example of a franchise seamlessly adapting to a new genre.
The original Gears made our list of the all-time best Xbox exclusives.
20. No Man's Sky
No Man's Sky is a testament to a remarkable comeback story in the gaming industry. Hello Games' dedication to continuous updates has transformed the game, adding quality-of-life features, Expeditions for cooperative play, and numerous community-requested enhancements. The game's enduring appeal has made it beloved by players worldwide.
No Man's Sky also ranks among the best survival games and is a stellar alternative to Starfield. Look forward to Light No Fire, Hello Games' upcoming survival adventure announced at The Game Awards 2023.
19. Elder Scrolls Online
There are numerous compelling reasons to play Elder Scrolls Online on Xbox. It's a top-notch online RPG that keeps improving with each update, featuring iconic locations like Morrowind. The game now takes advantage of the Xbox Series X's capabilities and is available on Xbox Game Pass, allowing players to enjoy Tamriel without the commitment of a full-time MMO. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in a rich world until The Elder Scrolls 6 arrives.
See our guide on how to play the Elder Scrolls games in order for a comprehensive timeline.
18. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order excels in teaching players the art of combat through perfectly timed parries and strategic use of lightsabers and force powers. The challenge is particularly rewarding on higher difficulties, requiring mastery of all abilities to overcome foes. The game's engaging story takes you across the galaxy with a memorable cast, making it a standout adventure in 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 to date.
17. Titanfall 2
While the original Titanfall was impressive, Titanfall 2 surpasses it with an outstanding single-player campaign and enhanced multiplayer features. The campaign, though light on story, is one of the best shooter experiences of this generation due to its innovative and varied design. The multiplayer offers more Titans, game modes, and maps, making it a robust experience.
An ex-Respawn developer revealed that Titanfall 3 was in development for 10 months before being canceled in favor of Apex Legends, which is next on our list.
16. Apex Legends
Apex Legends brought Respawn's signature gunplay to the battle royale genre in 2019, and it has only improved since. Regular seasonal updates bring new Legends, story content, map changes, and quality-of-life enhancements. These updates, along with holiday events and quests, keep the game fresh and engaging, making it one of the best alternatives to Fortnite.
15. Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Metal Gear Solid 5, encompassing both The Phantom Pain and Ground Zeroes, is the most ambitious entry in the series. Its expansive sandbox offers players a vast array of weapons, vehicles, gadgets, and AI companions, allowing for creative mission approaches. While stealth is rewarded, the game accommodates loud and messy tactics as well. Despite creative differences between Hideo Kojima and Konami, Metal Gear Solid 5 remains a must-play for fans of open-world stealth games.
14. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps builds upon the foundation laid by Blind Forest, expanding the world with vibrant environments, a richer moveset, and a focus on combat. The game is a standout platformer, offering creative puzzles and thrilling platforming sequences alongside a poignant story that allows its characters to shine.
Moon Studios discussed the potential of a new Ori game in 2020, though their relationship with Microsoft has reportedly ended. The studio released No Rest for the Wicked, a Dark Souls-inspired ARPG, into early access in 2024.
13. Forza Horizon 4
Forza Horizon 4 is not just the best Forza game; it's the pinnacle of car gaming in the last decade. Set in a beautifully fictionalized Great Britain, the game focuses on socially engaging fun rather than hardcore racing simulation. With a vast selection of cars, dynamic seasons that alter the gameplay, and an uplifting soundtrack, Forza Horizon 4 is a joy to play. The series continues to evolve, with Forza Horizon 5 earning IGN's 2021 Game of the Year title and also available on Xbox One.
12. 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 retains the series' hallmark third-person cover-based shooter gameplay while shedding the "of War" from its title. The story delves into Kait Diaz's past, offering a heartfelt and engaging narrative. Multiplayer remains a blast, with the addition of the innovative Escape mode, challenging players to outrun a lethal poison cloud.
The Coalition is developing a prequel, Gears of War: E-Day, and multiple new projects using Unreal Engine 5. They've also partnered with Netflix for a Gears of War movie and an adult animated series.
11. Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Halo: The Master Chief Collection is a must-have for fans, offering six Halo games with remastered campaigns, particularly the stunning Halo 2 Anniversary. The once-maligned multiplayer has been updated and enhanced, making this collection the quintessential Halo experience. Whether you're a veteran or new to the series, this is the best way to dive into Master Chief's saga.
10. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice offers a thrilling experience with FromSoftware's signature skill-heavy combat systems. Set in a supernatural take on Japanese history, the game stands out from its Souls-Borne counterparts with unique traversal and combat mechanics. Though challenging, Sekiro rewards perseverance with an immensely satisfying journey.
FromSoftware's latest game, Elden Ring, is one of the best-reviewed games in recent history, earning Game of the Year accolades in 2022 from IGN and The Game Awards.
9. Inside
Inside is a masterpiece, a non-sequel follow-up to Limbo that took six years to perfect. Every element, from the visuals to the audio cues, feels meticulously crafted. While the puzzles are engaging, it's the game's impactful non-verbal storytelling that leaves a lasting impression, prompting reflection long after completion.
Playdead's next game is a "3rd-person science fiction adventure set in a remote corner of the universe," set to be published by Epic.
