Top Xbox One Games Revealed

The Xbox One, now approaching its 12th year on the market, continues to be a robust platform for gaming enthusiasts. While Microsoft may eventually shift focus to the newer Xbox Series X/S, the Xbox One remains a vibrant hub for incredible gaming experiences. Our team at IGN has meticulously curated a list of the 25 best Xbox One games, reflecting the collective expertise and passion of our content team. These selections highlight the diversity and quality of the Xbox One's library, offering something for every type of gamer. For those looking for more gaming options, 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)

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 secrets and stunning visuals, inviting players to delve deeper into its mysteries. The game's serene yet tense atmosphere makes it a must-play for those seeking a profound gaming experience. Additionally, the expansion "Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye" and a free 4K/60fps update for Xbox Series X|S enhance this already remarkable journey.

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 significantly with its seasonal model, offering a rich narrative that unfolds over time. The addition to Game Pass has made it more accessible, drawing in a wider audience. Whether you're battling with Stasis or enjoying the thrill of combat, Destiny 2's enduring appeal is evident, especially with expansions like "The Final Shape." Check out our free-to-play guide to explore everything Destiny 2 offers without cost.

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 stands out for its atmospheric storytelling and innovative gameplay. Ninja Theory's dedication to Senua's story creates a compelling narrative that delves into themes of darkness and mental health. The game has been optimized for Xbox Series X|S, surpassing even high-end PCs in performance. The sequel, "Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2," is now available exclusively 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 revolutionizes the series with a turn-based RPG approach and a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga. The game blends humor with heartfelt drama, exploring themes of betrayal and marginalization. The sequel, "Infinite Wealth," and the upcoming "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" continue the series' legacy. For a comprehensive overview, see our guide to the 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 franchise into a turn-based strategy game, reminiscent of XCOM. It retains the series' core elements, including cover-based combat and dramatic executions, while delivering a compelling story. The game's seamless genre shift is a testament to its quality, and it joins the ranks of iconic Xbox exclusives like the original Gears of War.

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 remarkable comeback story, with Hello Games continuously enhancing the game through updates. These updates have introduced new features like Expeditions, revamped space stations, and cross-platform bases, responding to community feedback. No Man's Sky stands as a testament to perseverance and is featured on our lists of the best survival games and games similar to Starfield. Look forward to "Light No Fire," Hello Games' upcoming 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 is an excellent online RPG that continues to evolve with regular content updates. It leverages the power of Xbox Series X and is available on Xbox Game Pass, making it an accessible and engaging experience. With the world of Tamriel at your fingertips, ESO offers a rich, immersive experience without the need for a time-consuming commitment. For a complete timeline, see our guide on how to play the Elder Scrolls games in order.

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 precise timing and mastery of abilities to overcome challenges. Its engaging narrative and memorable characters make for an unforgettable journey through the Star Wars universe. The sequel, "Star Wars Jedi: Survivor," continues this legacy and is one of the best Star Wars games available.

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 builds upon its predecessor with an outstanding single-player campaign and enhanced multiplayer features. The campaign's innovative design and memorable gameplay twists set it apart as one of the best shooter experiences on Xbox One. Although Titanfall 3 was canceled in favor of Apex Legends, Titanfall 2 remains a standout 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 transformed the battle royale genre with its fast-paced gameplay and regular content updates. The game introduces new Legends, map changes, and quality-of-life improvements, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience. It's a top choice for fans of games like Fortnite, offering a rich, evolving world to explore.

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 vast sandbox for players to explore. Its complex gameplay mechanics and open-world design allow for creative approaches to missions, rewarding both stealth and action. Despite some narrative shortcomings due to creative differences, it remains a standout title for stealth fans.

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 on the success of its predecessor, delivering a richer world and a more diverse moveset with a focus on combat. Its creative puzzles and emotional storytelling make it one of the best platformers available. While Moon Studios has moved on to new projects, their impact on the genre remains significant.

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 in its series but arguably the greatest car game of the last decade. Its dynamic seasonal changes and diverse car selection create an immersive, fun-filled experience. The game's cheerful soundtrack and social elements add to its appeal, making it a standout title. The latest entry, Forza Horizon 5, continues this excellence and is 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 maintains the series' signature third-person cover-based shooter gameplay while deepening its narrative with Kait Diaz's story. The game's engaging multiplayer modes, including the new Escape mode, add to its replayability. The Coalition's ongoing projects, including a prequel and a Netflix series, ensure the franchise's continued relevance.

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 offers a comprehensive Halo experience, with remastered campaigns and an updated multiplayer suite. Its continuous improvements and expansive content make it an essential title for both new and veteran fans of the series.

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 unique combat system and rich, atmospheric world. Its departure from the Souls-Borne formula, while still retaining FromSoftware's signature difficulty, makes it a standout title. The success of FromSoftware's latest game, Elden Ring, further cements their reputation for quality.

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 storytelling and design, delivering a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after completion. Its polished visuals and impactful narrative set it apart as one of the best games available. Playdead's next project promises to continue their tradition of innovative gaming experiences.

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 and engaging multiplayer experience, focusing on a whimsical yet poignant story of a couple turned into dolls. Its innovative gameplay and emotional depth make it a must-play, especially with a friend or loved one. Hazelight Studios' upcoming game, Split Fiction, promises to continue their tradition of creative storytelling.

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 compelling narrative. Its unique setting and innovative use of telekinesis make it a standout title. Remedy's continued work on related projects, including Alan Wake 2 and Control 2, ensures its legacy will continue to grow.

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 offers breathtaking visuals and engaging missions that allow for numerous creative approaches to assassination. Its rebranding as Hitman: World of Assassination consolidates the trilogy's content into a single game. While the franchise is on hiatus, IO Interactive's work on Project 007 promises exciting developments.

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 a thrilling single-player FPS campaign that emphasizes fast-paced, intense combat. Its challenging enemies and empowering gameplay mechanics make it a standout title in the genre. Its inclusion on our list of the best Steam Deck games further highlights its versatility and appeal.

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 offers a rich, immersive world filled with activities and brutal combat. The game's accessibility to new players and its expansive content make it a standout title. The upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows continues this tradition.

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 masterpiece of storytelling and open-world design, setting a new standard for video games. Its detailed world and engaging narrative make it one of the greatest games ever made. Its status as one of the best-selling games of all time is well-deserved, reflecting its lasting impact on the industry.

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 landmark RPG with a vast, densely packed world full of engaging content. Its sophisticated storytelling, impressive visuals, and expansive expansions set a new standard for the genre. CD Projekt Red's ongoing projects, including The Witcher 4 and a remake of the first game, promise to continue this legacy.

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's expansive and detailed world remains the benchmark for open-world games. Its engaging single-player story and the vast, ever-evolving content of GTA Online offer endless hours of entertainment. The upcoming GTA 6, set to release in 2025, promises to continue this legacy with a return to Vice City and new protagonists.

Upcoming Xbox One Games

Looking ahead, 2025 will bring exciting new titles to the Xbox One, including Little Nightmares 3, Atomfall, and the remaster of Croc: Legend of the Gobbos.

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. For more gaming recommendations, explore our lists of the Best PS4 Games, Best PC Games, and Best Nintendo Switch Games.