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Top Xbox One Games of All Time

by Olivia Apr 05,2025

The Xbox One, now in its 12th year, continues to receive exceptional games from publishers, even as Microsoft gears up to focus on the newer Xbox Series X/S consoles. We've meticulously curated a list of the 25 best Xbox One games, chosen by the entire IGN content team through extensive deliberation. These titles represent the pinnacle of what the Xbox One has to offer. For those looking for more options, don't miss our list of free Xbox games.

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

  1. 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 blends sci-fi with a captivating sense of magic, inviting players into an open-ended exploration of a handcrafted solar system. With enticing breadcrumbs, tantalizing story teases, and breathtaking sights, the game constantly draws you into its world. The time loop mechanic adds both urgency and intrigue to the serene exploration. The expansion, Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye, offers a wonderful return to its universe for $15 USD, and a free 4K/60fps update is available for Xbox Series X|S owners.

  1. 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's new seasonal model has evolved into a compelling narrative that weaves together story elements from season to season. Its inclusion in Game Pass has expanded its player base, offering both new and returning players an engaging experience. Whether you're battling with Stasis or exploring with cool guns, Destiny 2 has stood the test of time, with expansions like The Final Shape available now. Check out our free-to-play guide for more on what you can do without spending a dime.

  1. 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 masterpiece of atmosphere, storytelling, and the integration of mechanics with conceptual design. Ninja Theory's dedication to Senua's story has created a powerful narrative that delves into serious themes. The game's optimization for Xbox Series X|S showcases its stunning visuals, and a sequel, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, is now available exclusively on Xbox Series X|S and PC.

  1. 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, Ichiban Kasuga, and shifts from traditional beat 'em up to a turn-based RPG. The game blends humor and drama, featuring a cast of quirky characters and side missions that highlight its absurdity. The sequel, Infinite Wealth, is also available on Xbox One, along with the upcoming Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii in 2025. Check our guide for the full Yakuza series timeline.

  1. 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 classic elements like cover-based combat and executions while delivering a compelling story through high-quality character development and in-engine cutscenes. The original Gears also made our list of the best Xbox exclusives.

  1. 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 remarkable comeback, with Hello Games continually supporting the game with updates that enhance gameplay and add new features. From Expeditions to overhauled space stations, the game has evolved into a beloved experience. It also features 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 announced at The Game Awards 2023.

  1. 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 on Xbox offers a robust online RPG experience that improves with each update, including the addition of Morrowind. It's optimized for Xbox Series X and available on Xbox Game Pass, making it an accessible and enjoyable MMO. Our guide to the Elder Scrolls series provides a complete timeline for those interested.

  1. 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 with its combat system, requiring precise parries and strategic use of Force powers, especially on harder difficulties. Its engaging story takes players across the galaxy with a memorable cast of characters. The sequel, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, is now available on Xbox One and is among the best Star Wars games ever.

  1. 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 a standout single-player campaign and enhanced multiplayer features. The campaign, while light on story, shines with its innovative gameplay design. Although Titanfall 3 was canceled in favor of Apex Legends, the sequel remains a highlight of the Xbox One generation.

  1. 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 thrived since its 2019 launch, with regular seasonal updates adding new Legends, map changes, and quality-of-life improvements. Its battle royale format offers a compelling alternative to games like Fortnite, keeping players engaged with a variety of content.

  1. 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, including both The Phantom Pain and Ground Zeroes, is the most ambitious entry in the series, offering a complex sandbox with numerous gameplay options. While its story may feel incomplete, the game remains a landmark for open-world stealth enthusiasts.

  1. 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 foundation laid by Blind Forest, enhancing the world, combat, and storytelling. It's one of the best platformers available, offering creative puzzles and emotional depth. Moon Studios has since released No Rest for the Wicked, a Dark Souls-inspired ARPG, into early access.

  1. 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 just the best in its series but one of the greatest car games ever made. Set in a dynamic, season-changing Great Britain, it offers a diverse selection of cars and a vibrant, fun-filled experience. The latest entry, Forza Horizon 5, was IGN's 2021 Game of the Year and is also available on Xbox One.

  1. 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' signature cover-based shooter gameplay while delivering a heartfelt story centered on Kait Diaz. Multiplayer modes like Versus, Horde, and the new Escape mode offer diverse experiences. The Coalition is working on a prequel, Gears of War: E-Day, and multiple new projects using Unreal Engine 5, as well as a Gears of War movie and an adult animated series with Netflix.

  1. 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 offers a comprehensive Halo experience with remastered campaigns and an updated multiplayer suite. It's an essential collection for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.

  1. 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 skill-heavy combat system. Its supernatural setting and engaging story distinguish it from FromSoftware's other works. The studio's latest, Elden Ring, was crowned Game of the Year in 2022 by both IGN and The Game Awards.

  1. 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 that captivates with its polished visuals, thoughtful design, and impactful story. Its puzzles and narrative will linger in your mind long after you've finished. Playdead's next game, a third-person science fiction adventure, is set to be published by Epic.

  1. 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 multiplayer experience that requires cooperation between two players, either locally or online. Its whimsical story and engaging gameplay make it a must-play. Hazelight Studios' next game, Split Fiction, is set to release in March.

  1. 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 storytelling, engaging mystery, and innovative use of telekinesis. Its sequel, Alan Wake 2, ties into its lore, and Control 2 is in development for next-gen consoles and PC. Remedy is also working on a Control multiplayer game and remakes of Max Payne 1 and 2.

  1. 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 engaging missions. The game has been rebranded as Hitman: World of Assassination, combining the entire trilogy into one package. IO Interactive is currently focusing on Project 007, a James Bond game.

  1. 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 the Xbox One, with a gameplay loop centered around intense combat against hordes of demons. Its dynamic combat and powerful progression system make it a standout title.

  1. 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-fledged open-world RPG. Set in a Norse-Viking world, it offers a wealth of activities and brutal combat. The next game, Assassin's Creed Shadows, is set in Feudal Japan. Our guide to the Assassin's Creed series provides a comprehensive timeline.

  1. 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 set in a meticulously detailed open world. Its narrative of honor and loss, combined with a rich environment, makes it one of the greatest games ever made. It has quickly become one of the best-selling video games of all time.

  1. 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 sets a high standard for RPGs with its vast, detailed world and sophisticated content. Its engaging story, impressive production values, and expansive expansions make it a landmark title in gaming. CD Projekt Red is developing The Witcher 4, featuring Ciri, and an Unreal Engine 5 remake of The Witcher 1.

  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 offers an expansive, detailed open-world experience that remains unparalleled. Its single-player story is a crime epic, and GTA Online provides years of content with diverse activities. Rockstar has confirmed GTA 6 for a 2025 release, featuring a return to Vice City and a female protagonist.

Upcoming Xbox One Games

In 2025, look forward to titles like 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.