Top Xbox One Games Revealed

As the Xbox One approaches its 12th year on the market, it continues to be a robust platform for gaming, with publishers still delivering top-notch titles. We've meticulously curated a list of the 25 best Xbox One games, selected by the entire IGN content team after extensive deliberation. These games represent the pinnacle of what the Xbox One has to offer, and we've also included a list of free Xbox games for those looking 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)

26 Images

25. 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. Its handcrafted solar system is brimming with intriguing mysteries and stunning visuals, encouraging players to explore and uncover its secrets. The expansion, "Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye," adds even more depth to this already rich experience, and a free 4K/60fps update enhances the game for Xbox Series X|S owners.

24. Destiny 2

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

Destiny 2 has evolved with a compelling seasonal model that weaves a continuous narrative across its seasons. Its inclusion in Game Pass has broadened its reach, attracting more players to its universe. Whether you're battling with Stasis or enjoying the thrill of combat, Destiny 2's expansions, like "The Final Shape," keep the game fresh and engaging. Check out our free-to-play guide for more on what you can experience without spending a dime.

23. 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. Ninja Theory's dedication to Senua's journey results in a profound experience that resonates with players. The game has been optimized for Xbox Series X|S, and its sequel, "Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2," continues the saga on Xbox Series X|S and PC.

22. 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 turn-based RPG combat. Its blend of humor and drama, coupled with a deep narrative about betrayal and societal issues, makes it a standout title. The sequel, "Infinite Wealth," and the upcoming "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" continue the series' legacy on Xbox One. For more on the series, see our guide to all Yakuza games in order.

21. 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 successfully transitions the Gears of War series into a turn-based strategy game, retaining its signature cover-based combat and executions. The game's story and character development are compelling, making it a seamless and enjoyable shift to a new genre. The original Gears series remains one of the best Xbox exclusives.

20. 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 is a testament to a successful comeback, with Hello Games continuously updating the game to include new features and community-requested content. From Expeditions to overhauled space stations, the game offers a vast universe to explore. It's also featured on our list of the best survival games and is a great alternative to Starfield. Look forward to "Light No Fire," Hello Games' next survival adventure.

19. 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 a rich online RPG experience that continues to evolve with regular updates. Its inclusion in Xbox Game Pass makes it an accessible and engaging MMO that you can enjoy at your own pace. With the addition of Morrowind and optimization for Xbox Series X, it's a must-play for fans of the series. See our guide on how to play the Elder Scrolls games in order for a complete timeline.

18. 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 in its combat mechanics, requiring players to master parries and force powers to overcome challenges. Its engaging story and memorable characters make it a standout adventure in the Star Wars universe. The sequel, "Star Wars Jedi: Survivor," continues the saga and is one of the best Star Wars games available on Xbox One.

17. 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 improves upon its predecessor with an outstanding single-player campaign and enhanced multiplayer features. Its innovative gameplay twist and variety of modes make it one of the best shooter campaigns of this generation. Although Titanfall 3 was canceled in favor of Apex Legends, Titanfall 2 remains a beloved title.

16. 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 since its launch, offering regular seasonal content, new Legends, and map changes. Its battle royale format, combined with Respawn's signature gunplay, makes it a standout title in the genre. It's one of the best games like Fortnite available on Xbox One.

15. 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 is the most ambitious entry in the series, offering a complex sandbox with numerous ways to approach missions. Its stealth mechanics and open-world design make it a must-play for fans of the genre, despite the incomplete story due to creative differences with Konami.

14. 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 upon the success of its predecessor with a more vibrant world, enhanced combat, and a poignant story. Its creative puzzles and platforming make it one of the best platformers available on any platform. Although Moon Studios is no longer working with Microsoft, their new game, "No Rest for the Wicked," continues their legacy.

13. 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 only the best Forza game but also one of the greatest car games ever made. Its dynamic seasons and diverse car selection, set against the backdrop of a beautifully rendered Great Britain, make it a joy to play. The series continues to excel with Forza Horizon 5, which was IGN's 2021 Game of the Year.

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 on its promise of third-person cover-based shooter excellence, with a heartfelt story and engaging multiplayer modes. The new Escape mode adds a fresh twist to the series. The Coalition is working on multiple new projects, including a prequel, "Gears of War: E-Day," and a Netflix movie and animated series.

11. 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 definitive Halo experience, offering remastered campaigns and an updated multiplayer suite. It's a must-own for both longtime fans and newcomers to the series, providing a comprehensive journey through the Halo universe.

10. 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 and rewarding experience with its skill-heavy combat and unique setting. Its supernatural take on Japanese history and precise gameplay mechanics set it apart from other FromSoftware titles. The studio's latest game, "Elden Ring," has been critically acclaimed and won multiple Game of the Year awards.

9. 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 game design, with every element meticulously crafted to create an unforgettable experience. Its non-verbal storytelling and impactful puzzles leave a lasting impression. Playdead's next game, a third-person science fiction adventure, is eagerly anticipated.

8. 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 requires cooperation to progress. Its whimsical tone and engaging story about a failing marriage make it a standout title. Hazelight Studios' next game, "Split Fiction," is set to release in March.

7. 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 won IGN's 2019 Game of the Year for its exceptional action-adventure gameplay and storytelling. Its unique setting and telekinesis mechanics make it a must-play. Remedy's latest game, "Alan Wake 2," ties into the Control universe, with more expansions planned for the future.

6. 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 best entry in the series since Blood Money, offering stunning visuals and diverse mission scenarios. Its rebranding as "Hitman: World of Assassination" consolidates the trilogy's content into one game. IO Interactive is now focusing on the James Bond game, "Project 007."

5. 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 the pinnacle of single-player FPS campaigns on Xbox One, with its intense combat and dynamic gameplay. Its challenging enemies and rewarding progression make it a standout title. It's also featured on our list of the best Steam Deck games.

4. 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 represents the series' evolution into a full-blown open-world RPG. Its Norse-Viking setting and brutal combat make it a compelling entry point for new players. The next game, "Assassin's Creed Shadows," set in Feudal Japan, continues the series' legacy.

3. 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 storytelling masterpiece, setting a new standard for open-world games. Its detailed world and engaging narrative make it one of the greatest games ever made. Despite being only seven years old, it's already one of the best-selling video games of all time.

2. 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 monumental RPG with a vast, detailed world and a rich narrative. Its expansions and overall production quality set a high bar for the genre. CD Projekt Red is working on "The Witcher 4" and an Unreal Engine 5 remake of the first game.

1. 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 with its expansive, detailed map and engaging single-player story. GTA Online offers endless content, from heists to custom races, making it a continuously evolving experience. Rockstar has confirmed GTA 6 will release in 2025, featuring a return to Vice City and the series' first female playable character.

Upcoming Xbox One Games

There are several exciting upcoming Xbox One games in 2025, including "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. Let us know in the comments what games you think should have made the list 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.