The Best Xbox One Games

As the Xbox One approaches its 12th year on the market, it remains a powerhouse for gamers, with Microsoft still supporting it alongside the newer Xbox Series X/S consoles. Publishers continue to deliver exceptional titles to the platform, ensuring a vibrant gaming ecosystem. Our team at IGN has meticulously curated a list of the 25 best Xbox One games, selected after extensive discussion and debate among our content team. These titles represent the pinnacle of what the Xbox One has to offer, showcasing a diverse range of genres and experiences. For those interested in more gaming 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)

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 sci-fi adventure that captivates with its unique blend of exploration and mystery. This game sets you adrift in a handcrafted solar system, where the open-ended nature can lead you from serene exploration to heart-pounding encounters. The time loop mechanic adds a thrilling twist, compelling you to uncover the secrets of this mesmerizing universe. For an enhanced experience, the "Echoes of the Eye" expansion and a free 4K/60fps update are available 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 into a compelling narrative with its seasonal model, weaving a continuous story that keeps players engaged. Its inclusion in Game Pass has brought even more players into its universe. Whether you're harnessing the power of Stasis or enjoying the thrill of combat, Destiny 2 stands the test of time, especially with expansions like "The Final Shape." For those new to the game, our free-to-play guide offers a comprehensive look at 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 testament to immersive storytelling and atmospheric design. Ninja Theory's dedication to Senua's journey results in a captivating narrative that explores themes of mental health with sensitivity and depth. The game's optimization for Xbox Series X|S delivers unparalleled performance, even surpassing high-end PCs. Look forward to its sequel, "Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2," 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 shift to a turn-based RPG format and a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga. The game balances humor and drama, exploring themes of betrayal and societal marginalization. With its rich narrative and engaging gameplay, it sets a new standard for the franchise. Its sequel, "Infinite Wealth," and the upcoming "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" are also available on Xbox One.

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 seamlessly transitions the Gears of War series into a turn-based strategy game reminiscent of XCOM. It retains the series' signature cover-based combat and executions while delivering a compelling story through high-quality character development and stunning cutscenes. This successful genre shift is a testament to the franchise's versatility.

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 the power of perseverance and continuous improvement. Hello Games has transformed this title into a beloved adventure through numerous updates, including Expeditions, overhauled space stations, and cross-platform bases. It's a standout in the survival genre and a must-play for fans of games like Starfield. Keep an eye on "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, evolving online RPG experience on Xbox, enhanced by regular content updates and its inclusion in Xbox Game Pass. With the addition of the Morrowind region and optimization for Xbox Series X, it's an ideal way to immerse yourself in the world of Tamriel without the wait for The Elder Scrolls 6.

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 delivers a masterful blend of combat and storytelling. Mastering parries and using force powers becomes rewarding, especially on higher difficulties. Its engaging narrative and memorable characters make it a standout adventure in the Star Wars universe. The sequel, "Star Wars Jedi: Survivor," continues this legacy and is one of the best Star Wars games to date.

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 exceeds its predecessor with an outstanding single-player campaign and enhanced multiplayer experience. Its innovative gameplay twists and diverse game modes make it a standout shooter of its generation. Despite the cancellation of Titanfall 3 in favor of Apex Legends, Titanfall 2 remains a must-play 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 evolved since its 2019 launch, offering a dynamic battle royale experience with regular seasonal updates. New Legends, map changes, and quality-of-life improvements keep the game fresh and engaging. It's a top choice for fans of competitive multiplayer games like Fortnite.

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 a landmark in the series, offering an expansive sandbox with innovative gameplay mechanics. Despite some narrative shortcomings, its focus on stealth and creativity in mission approaches makes it a compelling experience for fans of open-world games.

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, offering a more expansive world and enhanced combat mechanics. Its poignant story and challenging puzzles make it a standout platformer. While Moon Studios is exploring new ventures, Ori's legacy continues to shine.

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 the pinnacle of the racing genre, offering a dynamic world set in a fictionalized Great Britain. Its seasonal changes and extensive car selection provide endless fun, making it a benchmark for car games. The series continues to evolve 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 a compelling narrative centered on Kait Diaz's journey, alongside the series' signature cover-based shooter gameplay. The addition of new modes like Escape enhances the multiplayer experience. The Coalition's ongoing projects, including a prequel and a Netflix series, promise to expand the Gears universe further.

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

The Master Chief Collection is the ultimate Halo experience, featuring remastered campaigns and a polished multiplayer suite. It's a must-own for fans and newcomers alike, offering a comprehensive journey through the iconic 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 yet rewarding experience with its precision-based combat and unique setting. Its demanding gameplay and cryptic story make it a standout title in FromSoftware's catalog. The success of Elden Ring only highlights the studio's continued excellence.

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 atmospheric storytelling and puzzle design. Its non-verbal narrative and meticulously crafted world leave a lasting impact. Playdead's next project promises to continue this legacy of excellence.

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 is a unique and heartwarming multiplayer experience that requires cooperation to progress. Its whimsical setting and engaging story make it a standout title, and Hazelight Studios' next game, "Split Fiction," is highly anticipated.

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 is an exceptional action-adventure game that excels in storytelling and gameplay. Its unique setting and telekinesis mechanics create a captivating experience. Remedy's ongoing projects, including Control 2 and Alan Wake 2, promise to expand this intriguing universe.

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 pinnacle of the series, offering stunning visuals and diverse mission approaches. Its rebranding as "Hitman: World of Assassination" consolidates the trilogy's content, and while the franchise takes a hiatus, IO Interactive's focus on Project 007 keeps fans excited.

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 delivers a relentless and exhilarating single-player FPS experience. Its fast-paced combat and challenging encounters make it a standout title on Xbox One, and its inclusion in our list of best Steam Deck games underscores its versatility.

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 engaging combat make it a must-play, and the upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows promises to continue this trend.

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 narrative masterpiece, setting a new standard for open-world games. Its detailed world and compelling story make it one of the greatest games ever made, and its status as one of the best-selling games of all time is well-deserved.

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 is a monumental RPG that offers a vast, detailed world filled with compelling stories and challenges. Its expansions and overall production quality set it apart as one of the best Western RPGs ever. CD Projekt Red's future 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 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. The anticipation for GTA 6, set to release in 2025, only adds to its enduring legacy.

Upcoming Xbox One Games

There are several exciting Xbox One games slated for release in 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.