These are the 25 best games to play on Xbox Series X / S

Xbox Series X/S offers a fantastic gaming experience. While the PlayStation 5 has outsold the Xbox and boasts a stronger lineup of exclusive games (especially now that Forza is also available on PlayStation), Xbox still has a huge collection of incredible, classic titles for anyone who owns either console.

Whether you enjoy award-winning games like Elden Ring and Baldur’s Gate 3, highly replayable indie favorites like Hades and Balatro, or timeless Xbox classics such as Forza, there’s a game for every type of player.

As a huge Xbox fan, I get asked all the time what games everyone needs to play on the Series X or S. Honestly, there are so many amazing ones! I definitely recommend checking out these classics – and the best part is, a lot of them are available through Game Pass, which is Microsoft’s awesome subscription service.

While the Xbox Series X will deliver the highest quality gaming experience, most games are still perfectly enjoyable on the more budget-friendly Xbox Series S.

25. Destiny 2

Release date: September 6, 2017
Developer: Bungie
Genre: First-person shooter

Destiny 2 is a constantly updated shooting game where players, as Guardians, defend the galaxy from powerful enemies. Although the main storyline recently wrapped up after ten years with ‘The Final Shape,’ there’s still a lot to do, including challenging Raids and player-versus-player combat.

Destiny 2 is incredibly engaging when it’s at its best. The six-player Raids are some of the most thrilling and coordinated experiences you can have in gaming, and the excitement of earning new rewards remains consistently satisfying.

The game’s quality can vary. While the ‘Final Shape’ expansion was truly exceptional, as a constantly evolving online game, it doesn’t always maintain that peak experience. It can also be difficult to learn if you’re playing alone. However, if you’re willing to put in the effort, it offers some of the most satisfying shooting mechanics you’ll find in any online game today.

24. Call of Duty: Warzone

Release date: March 10, 2020
Developer: Infinity Ward & Raven Software
Genre: First-person shooter / Battle Royale

This game throws you into massive Call of Duty maps where it’s a fight to be the last team standing. You can play alone or with a squad of up to four players, battling everyone else as a shrinking safe zone forces you into closer and closer encounters. Scavenge for weapons and armor, and keep an eye out for opponents dropping in from above.

Warzone quickly became a hit when it launched. Although many battle royale games already existed, like Fortnite and PUBG, Call of Duty proved it could compete effectively. Its fast-paced gameplay, realistic shooting, and exciting maps made it incredibly popular.

Warzone isn’t as massively popular as it used to be, but the developers still add new content with each season. That means there’s always something fresh to experience, and because it’s free to play, it’s a great deal for anyone with an Xbox.

23. Balatro

Release date: February 20, 2024
Developer: LocalThunk
Genre: Roguelike deck-builder

Balatro isn’t your typical poker game. It takes the core ideas of poker and transforms them into a uniquely thrilling experience. You’ll customize and improve your deck of cards, using Jokers that have game-changing abilities. The goal is to overcome increasingly difficult challenges by creating strong card combinations. It’s like the excitement of Texas Hold ’em combined with the strategic, replayable nature of a game like Slay the Spire.

We love this game because it’s easy to learn – you can start playing in just a few minutes! But despite its simplicity, each playthrough feels unique thanks to the random cards and effects you can combine. A single smart move can completely change your luck, rescuing a failing attempt and turning it into a success. Games are fast-paced, with surprisingly engaging action for a card game, and it’s incredibly addictive – you’ll always want to play just one more round!

22. Starfield

Release date: September 6, 2023
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Genre: Action RPG

Starfield is a space exploration RPG where you play as a member of Constellation, a group searching for mysterious alien relics. You’ll journey to different planets and star systems, explore diverse landscapes, complete quests, build and pilot your own spacecraft, and navigate conflicts between various groups and criminal elements.

Okay, so Starfield isn’t perfect – Bethesda had a bit of a rough start with the launch, and it’s not their best game ever, honestly. But as an RPG fan, I’m totally hooked. It’s amazing being able to explore an entire galaxy and really play the game my way. It’s a dream come true!

You could become a space pirate, raiding ships and building up a powerful fleet, or focus on establishing profitable trade routes between colonies and accumulating wealth. The game also lets you spend hours designing your perfect ship, or explore in-depth storylines with different factions, taking you to the more remote and unusual parts of the galaxy.

21. Blue Prince

Release date: April 10, 2029
Developer: Dogubomb
Genre: Puzzle

Okay, so the game starts with me inheriting this crazy mansion, and it’s not your typical place – the layout literally changes every single night! I’m running around, exploring each room, trying to piece together what’s going on, and basically drawing a map as I go. My main goal? To find Room 46. Sounds simple, right? Except, if I don’t make it before the day ends, the whole mansion resets and I have to start all over again. It’s super tense and really makes you think!

What makes it great: Each playthrough feels like navigating a constantly changing, intricate maze. It’s smartly designed without being overly complicated, and the shifting house keeps you guessing until the very end of the main story. Plus, with tons of optional challenges to solve, it offers a lot of replay value even after you’ve finished the core game. Be prepared to take notes, embrace the mystery, and feel a real sense of accomplishment as you get closer to uncovering the secrets of Room 46.

20. Hollow Knight: Silksong

Release date: September 4, 2025
Developer: Team Cherry
Genre: Metroidvania

You take on the role of Hornet, a quick and skilled fighter, as you journey through a brand new kingdom filled with tricky traps, tough enemies, and hidden mysteries. You’ll battle, climb, and create items to navigate dangerous landscapes and discover the story of this forgotten place.

After an eight-year wait, Silksong is finally here, and it’s fantastic! The platforming is noticeably improved thanks to Hornet’s quick and fluid movements, and the combat is more diverse than before, offering lots of different tools and upgrades. The game is filled with cleverly designed levels and beautiful, detailed graphics that make exploring every corner a pleasure.

It’s definitely challenging, and that’s part of what makes it so rewarding. Each defeat teaches you something new, and winning those tough boss battles always feels great, even when they’re incredibly frustrating. It might not be overwhelmingly emotional, but it’s likely to evoke some strong feelings.

19. Forza Motorsport (2023)

Release date: October 10, 2023
Developer: Turn 10 Studios
Genre: Racing

Forza Motorsport (2023) is a complete reimagining of the racing series, created to be the premier simulation experience for Xbox Series X and S. The game features dynamic tracks that change based on real-time conditions like temperature, tire wear, and weather, all of which impact how your car handles and your racing strategy. The new career mode, Builders Cup, focuses on long-term car improvement through practice, upgrades, and learning each track.

We love this game because Turn 10 has really prioritized realism. The way cars handle is incredibly detailed – each vehicle feels unique during a race, and changing track conditions actually impact how you drive. It offers the deep, technical experience sim racers want, but still maintains the smooth, user-friendly feel that Forza is famous for. If you prefer a more grounded and realistic racing experience over the arcade fun of Horizon, this is the best option available on Xbox Series X/S.

18. Tekken 8

Release date: January 26, 2024
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
Genre: Fighting

Tekken 8 carries on the epic rivalry between the Mishima family, but you don’t need to be familiar with all the backstory to have fun. It’s a fighting game focused on quick, offensive action, and a new ‘Heat’ system rewards aggressive plays. The game features a complete story mode, a classic arcade experience, and a diverse cast of characters – from traditional martial artists to robots and wrestlers.

Tekken 8 is a fantastic fighting game that truly shines. Battles are fast-paced and visually stunning, with fluid character animations and a constant sense of energy that keeps you engaged. The impacts are impressive but clear, and the controls are responsive, letting you adapt quickly. With a diverse cast of characters, each boasting a unique personality and fighting style, it’s easy to find someone you enjoy playing as. No matter if you’re in story mode, arcade mode, or battling online, Tekken 8 offers exciting, high-energy gameplay that’s incredibly addictive.

17. Alan Wake 2

Release date: October 27, 2023
Developer: Remedy Entertainment
Genre: Survival horror

Alan Wake 2, the newest game in the Remedyverse, is a scary psychological thriller. You play as both the author Alan Wake and FBI agent Saga Anderson, each dealing with personal struggles while investigating nightmares that have come to life due to Alan’s troubled state.

Remedy Entertainment is known for its complex, connected stories, and Alan Wake 2 is their most impressive game yet. While you can enjoy it without prior knowledge, playing their other games adds extra depth. The story features genuinely shocking moments and delivers truly unsettling horror – it’s sure to please fans of Stephen King. With its blend of live-action cutscenes, beautiful lighting, and deliberate pacing, each chapter is unforgettable, making Alan Wake 2 one of the most visually stunning and cinematic games currently available on Xbox.

16. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Release date: February 4, 2025
Developer: Warhorse Studios
Genre: Action RPG

You play as Henry, the son of a blacksmith who becomes a knight, set in the turbulent world of 15th-century Bohemia. The game involves combat, commerce, skill-building, and conversation as you navigate a harsh medieval landscape.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a fantastic sequel that builds upon everything players loved about the first game. It truly delivers on its promises with incredibly realistic, yet engaging, combat, meaningful conversations, and a remarkably immersive world. While it’s a slow-paced adventure that demands patience, the payoff in key moments is among the most satisfying experiences gaming has to offer.

15. Hitman: World of Assassination

Release date: January 20, 2021
Developer: IO Interactive
Genre: Stealth

This game brings together all the missions from the recent Hitman trilogy into one complete experience. You take on the role of Agent 47, a professional assassin who travels the globe to complete contracts. The game offers open-ended levels where you can use disguises, create distractions, or orchestrate elaborate accidents – the way you eliminate your targets is up to you.

The recent Hitman games are incredibly fun to play again and again because there are so many different ways to complete each level. But what really makes them special are the unexpected, spontaneous moments – like when an ordinary person walks in at the wrong time and you end up distracting them with something silly, like a rubber duck, in a panic.

Trying new things, making mistakes, and learning as you go is really enjoyable, and it’s satisfying when your plans finally work out. Plus, with levels from three games combined, there’s a ton of content to keep you playing for a long time.

14. Metaphor: ReFantazio

Release date: October 11, 2024
Developer: Studio Zero
Genre: RPG

This game puts you in charge of a group of heroes in a war-torn medieval world shaped by ancient prophecies. You’ll freely explore cities and dangerous dungeons, and when you encounter enemies, the action shifts to a strategic, turn-based battle system.

We love this game because it blends the compelling characters and storytelling of the Persona series with the vastness and depth of a classic fantasy RPG. It features unforgettable characters, beautiful artwork, and a dynamic combat system that makes every battle exciting.

The game offers a huge, immersive world you can easily lose yourself in for hours. Though gaining levels can sometimes feel repetitive, like in classic Japanese role-playing games, it never detracts from the overall engaging experience.

13. Hades

Release date: September 17, 2020
Developer: Supergiant Games
Genre: Roguelike

You play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, and your goal is to escape the Underworld. Every time you try to climb out, you’ll unlock new weapons and abilities, and meet gods who can either aid or challenge you along the way.

As a huge fan, I can honestly say Hades is one of the best roguelikes I’ve ever played. What really sets it apart is how the story unfolds with every attempt, even when you don’t succeed. It feels like you’re always making progress, both with the main story about Hades and with the fascinating side characters. They’re all so well-developed and keep you completely hooked!

With incredibly fun battles and truly memorable boss fights, this game is seriously addictive – you’ll always want to play “just one more time.” It’s easy to lose yourself for hours, even doing things like decorating your house in the game’s starting area!

12. Street Fighter 6

Release date: June 2, 2023
Developer: Capcom
Genre: Fighting

The newest Street Fighter game offers both a complete single-player story mode and the chance to compete against players online. A standout feature is World Tour mode, where you can design your own character and roam Metro City in an RPG-like experience, learning special moves from your favorite Street Fighter characters.

Street Fighter 6 is a standout fighting game thanks to its innovative Drive System. This system gives all characters a shared energy bar used for various moves like attacks, quick dashes, blocking, and escaping, creating exciting and unpredictable matches that are still accessible to beginners. The game also features simplified controls, making special moves easier to perform for new players while still offering depth for experienced ones. Beyond traditional fighting, the World Tour mode provides a refreshing change of pace, and the Battle Hub fosters a vibrant online community. Regular updates and new characters keep the game fresh and make it one of the most enjoyable and approachable fighting games available on Xbox Series X/S.

11. Silent Hill f

Release date: September 25, 2025
Developer: NeoBards Entertainment
Genre: Survival horror

This story is set in 1960s Japan and follows a young woman confronting a terrifying fungal plague that dramatically and disturbingly alters her reality. It builds suspense gradually, punctuated by shocking and frightening events.

We appreciate this Silent Hill installment because of its atmosphere. It’s a calm yet unsettling environment built for slow-burn tension, rather than relying on constant, startling moments.

This game deliberately focuses less on fighting and more on avoiding terrifying creatures, emphasizing clever escapes and problem-solving. This approach feels right for the young main character and creates a genuinely scary and surprisingly insightful horror experience – one of the most memorable in recent years.

10. Split Fiction

Release date: March 6, 2025
Developer: Hazelight Studios
Genre: Adventure

This game puts you and a friend in the shoes of two writers who are stuck inside their own stories. A powerful corporation is stealing their creativity, and you must journey through bizarre worlds, repair damaged storylines, and rewrite the narrative itself to escape.

Split Fiction builds on the cooperative gameplay of It Takes Two, but takes creativity to the next level. Each level feels distinct with constantly changing mechanics and puzzles that truly require teamwork. Unlike some games, it consistently introduces fresh ideas instead of repeating them. The game features grander set pieces, seamless transitions between different genres, and a sense of innovation in every chapter. Plus, the final chapter offers a surprisingly original experience for a video game, making it a truly memorable title on Xbox.

9. GTA V

Release date: September 17, 2013
Developer: Rockstar Games
Genre: Action

Grand Theft Auto V lets you experience the criminal underworld of Los Santos through the eyes of three different characters – Michael, Franklin, and Trevor – as they pull off daring and dangerous heists.

Even after ten years, Grand Theft Auto 5 is still one of the best open-world games available. Los Santos is a huge, detailed city with endless activities and hidden areas, providing hours of exciting gameplay. Until the next installment arrives, it’s hard to beat the feeling of speeding through the city, evading the police, and trying to survive as long as possible. The game looks and runs fantastic on Xbox Series X and S thanks to recent updates.

8. Persona 5: Royal

Release date: March 31, 2020
Developer: P-Studio / Atlus
Genre: RPG

You’re a high school student in Tokyo with a double life. During the day, you go to school and make friends. But at night, you become a Phantom Thief, venturing into a virtual world to steal the dark desires of corrupt adults and reveal their misdeeds.

Persona consistently delivers beloved games, and this one is no exception. It’s visually striking, with a unique style present in everything from the menus to the way characters fight, all set to an incredibly memorable soundtrack. The characters are interesting and well-developed, the story keeps you hooked, and the blend of everyday school life with exciting dungeon exploration makes it easy to lose yourself in the game. It’s a truly immersive RPG that you could easily spend over 100 hours playing and still not want it to end.

7. Cyberpunk 2077

Release date: December 10, 2020
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Genre: Action RPG

In this game, you’re V, a mercenary in the dangerous city of Night City. After a risky job, you unexpectedly begin sharing your mind with the rebellious rock star Johnny Silverhand. As you complete missions, enhance your cybernetic implants, and make choices that define your path, you’ll impact the world around you.

Cyberpunk 2077 has improved dramatically over the years and is now the game it was originally envisioned to be. Night City is a vibrant, dangerous, and detailed place with many unforgettable stories. The game looks and performs exceptionally well on the Xbox Series X, offering a truly immersive experience and the freedom to explore its expansive world whenever you want.

6. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Release date: April 24, 2025
Developer: Sandfall Interactive
Genre: RPG

The game takes place in a world controlled by the enigmatic Paintress, who erases people once they reach a certain age as part of an annual event. Expedition 33 embarks on a journey to end this cycle, navigating strange and beautiful environments while battling the Paintress’s creations in strategic turn-based combat.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a standout RPG thanks to its immersive atmosphere and bold design. The game boasts a unique visual style, a compelling soundtrack that builds suspense, and a world unlike anything you’ve seen recently. Instead of standard turn-based combat, it offers a fresh, engaging system that requires skillful timing. All of these elements combine to create a truly memorable and captivating adventure that’s easy to get lost in.

5. Forza Horizon 5

Release date: November 9, 2021
Developer: Playground Games
Genre: Racing

Okay, so basically, this game drops you into Mexico and lets you loose! There are tons of races and events to jump into, and you unlock a massive collection of cars as you play. The best part? It’s seriously gorgeous – some of the best graphics I’ve seen on my Xbox. It’s a really visually stunning racing game.

Forza Horizon 5, released in 2021, remains a standout title in the series due to its incredibly lively and welcoming atmosphere. The game is visually stunning, offers a huge variety of things to do in its open world, and instantly makes you feel a sense of freedom while driving. Once you start exploring the Mexican landscape, it’s easy to get completely lost in the experience.

4. Resident Evil 4 Remake

Release date: March 24, 2023
Developer: Capcom
Genre: Third-person horror shooter

The game follows Leon Kennedy, who travels to Spain on a mission to save the President’s daughter. He quickly discovers a dangerous cult and a terrifying parasite, and faces off against hostile enemies – some of whom even carry chainsaws!

Resident Evil 4 is often considered the best game in the series, and the 2023 remake successfully brought its intense horror back to life with improved graphics and more intelligent enemies.

There are tons of zombies, but luckily you have a lot of creative – and sometimes silly – ways to fight them off. It’s genuinely scary, but also hilarious and completely over-the-top.

3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Next Gen

Release date: May 19, 2015
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Genre: Action RPG

In this game, you take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a professional monster hunter. Your main quest is to find Ciri, his adopted daughter, while navigating a continent ravaged by war. You’ll journey through towns and countryside, accepting contracts to slay monsters, exploring a vast world on horseback, and making decisions that determine the story’s outcome.

Even after almost ten years, The Witcher 3 is still considered one of the best games ever made, especially when it comes to its story and the vast world you can explore. It’s easy to get completely immersed in its captivating fantasy setting. With fun and engaging combat, a satisfying character progression system, and incredibly well-developed characters, it’s an adventure that will stay with you for a long time.

This updated version looks and runs great on newer Xbox consoles thanks to better graphics and faster performance.

2. Baldur’s Gate 3

Release date: August 3, 2023
Developer: Larian Studios
Genre: RPG

The game centers around a character infected with a mind flayer parasite who is on a quest to find a cure. However, it’s more than just a simple story – you have complete control over how things unfold. You’ll decide who joins your group, who you become allies with, where you travel, and ultimately, what kind of world you leave behind. It’s a complex RPG where your choices truly matter.

Baldur’s Gate 3 stands out because your choices genuinely matter, shaping the game in a way few RPGs manage. It feels like playing multiple games in one, with a huge number of possible outcomes that all feel equally important. This makes it incredibly flexible, intelligent, and fun to play again and again.

Depending on how you play, you could fall for Shadowheart, or you might not even add her to your team. However, the game always adapts to your choices and provides a truly rewarding experience.

1. Elden Ring

Release date: 25 February, 2022
Developer: FromSoftware Inc.
Genre: Action-Adventure RPG

Elden Ring plunges you into the challenging world of the Lands Between, where you create your own hero and battle colossal creatures and powerful demigods. You’re free to explore in any order, but uncovering the secrets of this dark world requires courage and perseverance – you’ll have to discover everything for yourself.

FromSoftware truly outdid themselves with this game, and it became incredibly popular for good reason. The expansive world begs to be explored, constantly tempting you with mysteries in the distance or intriguing sounds nearby. We’ll always remember the moment we descended into Siofra River and realized how much more adventure awaited – it was an unforgettable experience.

Elden Ring consistently delivers fresh surprises with its inventive ideas, secret locations, and unexpected battles. The game’s combat system is flexible, letting you tackle obstacles however you prefer. It’s a truly standout title and a must-play for Xbox Series X/S owners.

2025-11-27 05:56