The Best Xbox One Games

The Xbox One, nearing its twelfth anniversary, remains a relevant platform despite the rise of the Xbox Series X/S. Publishers continue to release compelling titles, and we've curated a list of 25 favorites, representing the best the Xbox One offers, following extensive deliberation by the IGN team. For additional options, explore our free Xbox game selection.

Explore the Best of Xbox:

Best Xbox Series X|S Games
Best Xbox 360 Games

The Best Xbox One Games (Spring 2021 Update)

25. Outer Wilds

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, a sci-fi adventure, captivates with its open-ended exploration. A handcrafted solar system brimming with clues, narrative hints, and breathtaking visuals constantly draws you in. The time loop mechanic adds thrilling tension to the serene exploration. While initially challenging, Outer Wilds rewards dedicated players. The expansion, *Echoes of the Eye*, and a 4K/60fps update for Xbox Series X|S enhance the experience.

24. Destiny 2

Developer: Bungie | Publisher: Bungie/Activision | Release Date: September 6, 2017 | Review: IGN's Destiny 2 review | Wiki: IGN's Destiny 2 Wiki

Destiny 2's seasonal model delivers a compelling narrative, weaving together story arcs. Its inclusion in Game Pass expands its reach. Whether you embrace Stasis or enjoy shooting with unique weapons, Destiny 2 endures, particularly with expansions like *The Final Shape*. Explore our free-to-play guide for more details.

23. Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

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 masterfully blends atmosphere, storytelling, and game mechanics. Ninja Theory's dedication to Senua's story shines through. The game's presentation and narrative reinforce its serious themes. Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, it offers superior performance, even surpassing high-end PCs. The sequel, *Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2*, is available on Xbox Series X|S and PC.

22. Yakuza: Like a Dragon

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 revolutionizes the series with a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and a shift to turn-based RPG combat. The hilarious cast of characters and side missions enhance the game's absurdity. The main storyline explores themes of betrayal and marginalization. Sequels, *Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth* and *Like a Dragon: Pirate of the Caribbean*, are also available. Consult our guide for the Yakuza game order.

21. Gears Tactics

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 successfully transitions the Gears of War franchise into an XCOM-style turn-based strategy game. It retains classic Gears gameplay elements within a strategic framework. The story benefits from strong character development and impressive cutscenes.

20. No Man's Sky

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's remarkable turnaround showcases Hello Games' commitment to post-launch support. Updates have added features like Expeditions, improved space stations, new enemies, and cross-platform bases. The game is a beloved example of a successful comeback story and is comparable to *Starfield*. Look forward to *Light No Fire*, Hello Games' upcoming survival adventure.

19. Elder Scrolls Online

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 a compelling online RPG experience, consistently enhanced by updates. Its optimization for Xbox Series X and availability on Xbox Game Pass adds to its appeal. Enjoy the world of Tamriel without the commitment of a full-time MMO.

18. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

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 in combat, rewarding precise parries and Force power usage. The challenging difficulty levels enhance the rewarding gameplay. The memorable story and diverse cast of characters add to the experience. The sequel, *Star Wars Jedi: Survivor*, is available on Xbox One.

17. Titanfall 2

Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: October 28, 2016 | Review: IGN's Titanfall 2 review | Wiki: IGN's Titanfall 2 Wiki

Titanfall 2 improves upon its predecessor with a standout single-player campaign and enhanced multiplayer. The campaign's innovative design is a highlight. The multiplayer offers more Titans, modes, and maps.

16. Apex Legends

Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: February 3, 2019 | Review: IGN's Apex Legends review | Wiki: IGN's Apex Legends Wiki

Apex Legends' consistent seasonal updates, including new Legends, map changes, weapons, and quality-of-life improvements, maintain its appeal. The regular content drops and events keep the game fresh and engaging.

15. Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain

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 is ambitious in its gameplay and story. Its complex sandbox offers a vast arsenal of tools for creative mission approaches. Stealth is rewarded, but the game allows for more aggressive playstyles.

14. Ori and the Will of the Wisps

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 upon its predecessor with a more vibrant world, expanded moveset, and enhanced combat. The creative puzzles and platforming challenges, combined with emotional storytelling, make it a standout platformer.

13. Forza Horizon 4

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 a top contender for the best racing game, featuring a stunning recreation of Great Britain and emphasizing social fun. The diverse car selection, dynamic seasons, and vibrant soundtrack contribute to its appeal. Forza Horizon 5, also available on Xbox One, is another excellent option.

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 delivers exceptional third-person cover-based shooter gameplay. The story focuses on Kait Diaz's past, resolving the cliffhanger from Gears of War 4. The multiplayer includes Versus, Horde, and the new Escape mode.

11. Halo: The Master Chief Collection

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

This collection of six Halo games, featuring remastered campaigns and enhanced multiplayer, offers the definitive Halo experience.

10. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

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 delivers challenging yet rewarding combat. The supernatural setting and cryptic story differentiate it from other FromSoftware titles. The traversal and combat mechanics are unique and engaging.

9. Inside

Developer: Playdead | Publisher: Playdead | Release Date: June 29, 2016 | Review: IGN's Inside review | Wiki: IGN's Inside Wiki

Inside is a masterpiece, showcasing exceptional attention to detail in its visuals, animation, and sound design. The impactful, non-verbal story lingers long after completion.

8. It Takes Two

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 and engaging cooperative experience. The story, focusing on a failing marriage, is both heartwarming and humorous. The game requires two players, either locally or online.

7. Control

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 third-person action-adventure with strong storytelling, memorable characters, and innovative telekinesis mechanics. The intriguing setting and mystery keep players engaged.

6. Hitman 3

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 offers stunning visuals and diverse assassination opportunities. The game's levels provide numerous ways to eliminate targets.

5. Doom Eternal

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 delivers an exceptional first-person shooter campaign with intense combat and power progression. The gameplay loop is built around the player's increasing power and skill.

4. Assassin's Creed Valhalla

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 is a well-realized open-world RPG set in a Norse-Viking world. The game features a large amount of content and engaging combat.

3. Red Dead Redemption 2

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 achievement, setting a new standard for open-world storytelling. Its detailed world and rich characters create a memorable experience.

2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

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 offers a massive open world with a compelling story, memorable characters, and impressive visuals. The two expansions add significant content.

1. Grand Theft Auto 5 / GTA Online

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's expansive and detailed world, engaging single-player story, and extensive GTA Online multiplayer content make it the top Xbox One game.

Upcoming Xbox One Games

Several games are anticipated for 2025, including *Little Nightmares 3*, *Atomfall*, and the *Croc: Legend of the Gobbos* remaster.