Highlights

• Xbox Series X|S boasts a growing library of games, including indies and triple-A titles available on Xbox Game Pass.
• Gears 5, Tales of Arise, and Resident Evil Village are some of the exceptional games available on the console.
• The Xbox Series X|S offers a diverse range of gaming experiences from action-RPGs to survival horror titles.

The Xbox Series X|S launched in November of 2020, and since then has seen a growing library of games available on the console - both from indies and triple-A studios, many of which are available on Xbox Game Pass.

If you're looking for the next great game to delve into, or if you've just grabbed an Xbox Series console and want some good picks to get started with, these are the best games you can play on the Xbox Series X|S.

Updated April 19, 2024 By Ben Jessey: By this point, the Xbox Series X|S has a large catalog of exceptional games. So, it's hard to fit them all into one collection. In an attempt to highlight more of them, we've updated this piece to add a few extra ones.

Gears 5

All of the main Gears games are great in their own right. So, it's no surprise that Gears 5 happens to be an excellent title, too. It doesn't completely change the series, as it includes the familiar third-person shooting mechanics. Yet, as always, the cover system and gunplay feel very responsive and satisfying.

Also, the story is compelling in this one. For once, it isn't about a member of the Fenix clan. It's more about Kait Diaz and her family, which is a nice change of pace, especially as it turns into a pretty fascinating tale.

Tales Of Arise

Tales of Arise is an action-packed JRPG that tells a captivating story about two worlds, Dahna and Rena. Before the game, Rena took over Dahna and forced the people of the planet to be their slaves. You follow the adventures of a runaway slave and a young woman from Rena who has a vendetta against her own world. Together, they attempt to stop the oppression of the people of Dahna.

The two leads and many of the other characters are really interesting. The combat and exploration are equally impressive. Battles are wild, exciting, and, most of all, fun. And despite not being an open-world game, there are a lot of fascinating and beautiful places to see.

Resident Evil Village

In their review of Resident Evil Village, Jade King says the game "craft[s] an experience that feels both refreshing and nostalgic in equal measure." This is because Village attempts to blend the old, scary Resident Evil titles with the more action-packed later instalments. The result is both unnerving and exciting.

The horror game puts you in the shoes of Ethan Winters, who also served as the protagonist in the previous game. In this title, he attempts to retrieve his kidnapped daughter, which means facing off against all sorts of weird and dangerous creatures. Thankfully, in most sequences, you have an array of weapons to help you out.

Tunic

Tunic is one of the most adorable Xbox Series X|S games. The title's sweet art style makes both the protagonist and the environment look lovely. Yet, this can also trick you into thinking you're heading into a casual, laid-back experience. In reality, this is a very challenging action-adventure game, primarily because you aren't guided in any way.

There are no tutorials or objective markers. You have to figure it out on your own. The only help you get is from the manual pages you can find in the game. This helps make Tunic a unique experience and brings back memories of when games didn't hold your hand as much. Plus, it feels all the more rewarding when you solve a puzzle or defeat a dangerous enemy with your sword and items. In their review, Khee Hoon Chan says, "there's no denying the irresistible charm of Tunic."

Tekken 8

At the end of their review of Tekken 8, George Foster says, "Tekken is back, and it's just as strong as it's ever been." That's a bold claim, considering how critically acclaimed the series has been throughout its entire history. Yet, there is a lot to love about this Tekken game.

The developers have made a few changes to the fighting mechanics to make it as fast-paced and fluid as ever. Plus, the story mode tells a truly compelling tale. And the cherry on top is that the game contains several features that make it easier for newcomers to get acclimatized to the series.

Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition

The base Devil May Cry 5 pre-dates the Xbox Series X|S, but it was later released on newer systems as a special edition. This version doesn't present a huge change from the original, except you get an additional playable character in Vergil and upgraded visuals. Thankfully, though, it's just as exciting and fun to play as it was in 2019.

The game is incredibly action-packed as you fight all sorts of creatures in fast-paced battles, where you're encouraged to kill your opponents in ruthless and flashy ways. It's all very satisfying, and the combat has plenty of variety as you play as different characters, who each feel distant to control. The story is equally wild and entertaining, making this one of the best action games in recent memory.

Dead Space

Sometimes, you may hear about a game getting a remake and think that it doesn't need one, as the original holds up very well. For some people, that was the case for the original Dead Space until this exceptional remake came out.

At its core, it's still Dead Space, but it looks, sounds, and plays much better. Plus, the story of Issac Clarke exploring a spooky abandoned ship filled with monsters is all the more engaging now that the character actually speaks. As a result, Jade King, in her review, calls it the "definitive version of Isaac Clarke's first chapter."

Street Fighter 6

Street Fighter has been one of the most famous fighting game series since the arcade days. Street Fighter 6 is among the best in the said series. It offers smooth and satisfying fighting mechanics and is a treat for the eyes with its beautiful visuals. The game also provides plenty of content, including a deep RPG-like mode set in the Street Fighter world.

That may sound like an odd inclusion in a fighting game, but it works quite well. And it's optional, as you can ignore it entirely and still experience a full-fledged fighting game. In fact, in their review, George Foster says, "As a fighting game, Street Fighter 6 is pretty much flawless."

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is a sequel to 2019's Fallen Order, and like its predecessor, it's a classic Soulslike game. This means you use dodges and parries to protect yourself from being quickly wiped out by your adversaries.

The game isn't as punishing as a Dark Souls title, however, due in part to all the fancy Force powers you have at your disposal. Whether you are using the force or your lightsaber skills, the combat is engaging. The reason why you have both those options is because you're playing as a Jedi. He is named Cal Kestis, and alongside his allies, he is searching for a place safe from the Galactic Empire. In their review, Stacey Henley calls it "an intimate, well-crafted story."

A Plague Tale: Requiem

A Plague Tale: Requiem is set in 14th century France, during the 100 Years War and the time of the Black Plague. So, throughout the game, you must deal with Inquisition soldiers and infected rats. While the rats go after anyone, the soldiers target you because your little brother is a unique individual with unusual blood.

You control his older sister, who usually can't contend with these soldiers in regular fights. Therefore, you must use stealth and strategy to get by for much of the game. As for circumventing the rats, you usually have to complete clever puzzles to forge a path through them. This makes for a unique action-adventure experience that boasts brilliant visuals and a captivating story, making it a worthy follow-up to its predecessor, A Plague Tale: Innocence. In their review, Issy van der Velde says the game "weaves narrative drama and exploration with tense combat sections."

Assassin's Creed Valhalla

Assassin's Creed Valhalla is set during the Viking age, and you play as a Viking named Eivor. Early in the game, they decide to set off on a new adventure in England. So, they travel across the ocean and set up a settlement. Your job is to build it up and make alliances with nearby regions. The story is a strong one, even if it is a bit long.

What's better, though, is the combat and climbing mechanics. They're both smooth and satisfying. The environment is excellent, too, as it's vast, detailed, and filled with things to do. As a result, it's a great exploration game.

Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy

After the questionable Marvel's Avengers game, it was hard to get excited for the next Square Enix-published Marvel game. Yet, Guardians of the Galaxy happens to be a wonderful action-adventure title. Much of this is down to the brilliant story and characters. The narrative revolves around a threat called 'The Promise,' which is a danger to the galaxy. So, to live up to their name, the titular characters must be on hand to guard it.

In classic Guardians fashion, though, they don't let impending doom stop them from making plenty of great jokes, as the game is filled with humor. Yet, the protagonists aren't just silly all the time, as some of the game's best quotes are deeply powerful ones. So, the title boasts some really good writing in both the comical and serious moments. The unique combat where you fight and instruct your team at the same time is good, too.

Lost Judgment

The Judgment spin-off series has managed to step out of the main Yakuza series’ large shadow and become its own thing. Lost Judgment is great proof of that since it doesn’t focus too much on Yakuza clans. Instead, it’s a lot more about high school students and faculty. This may sound a bit tame for the Yakuza series, but that’s not the case, as the compelling main story touches on plenty of serious topics, from bullying to suicide. Plus, the whole narrative revolves around a murder investigation.

Meg Pelliccio, in her review, calls it an "intricately woven plot" with an "interesting cast of characters." One of those characters is Takayuki Yagami who is an easy-to-like protagonist that is tasked with solving the murder case. Equally easy to like is the abundance of exciting side content in the game and the fast-paced beat 'em-up combat.

Life Is Strange: True Colors

Like the previous Life Is Strange games, True Colors is a narrative adventure title. This time, you play as a young woman named Alex Chen who reunites with her brother after years away. They meet up in the small town of Haven. As this is Life is Strange, what starts as a wholesome premise quickly goes downhill. Without going into spoilers, some messed up stuff starts happening.

Thankfully, Alex has a unique power where she can see and manipulate people's emotions. So, perhaps she can use this ability to get to the bottom of what’s going on. It’s an emotional and gripping game all the way through. Reviewer Jade King says the title "truly is something special."

Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

There has been a surprising amount of Star Wars Lego games. So, you’d be forgiven for not being interested in the Skywalker Saga. But if you’re a Star Wars and Lego fan, then you should be interested.

After all, this is easily the most complete Lego Star Wars game ever. It covers all the main nine Star Wars movies and contains an unbelievable amount of characters. As reviewer James Troughton puts it, the "Skywalker Saga goes above and beyond to bring Star Wars’ galaxy to life." Plus, it's also better as a game since combat is much improved. It boasts satisfying cover shooting and decent lightsaber combat.

Marvel's Midnight Suns

Marvel's Midnight Suns is a unique game, in general, never mind a unique superhero game. After all, it's an action RPG with turn-based combat and deck-building mechanics, with a few social simulation elements thrown in. In their review, Eric Switzer says it "pursues a vision - one made of seemingly disparate parts and strange ideas - and succeeds at practically every turn."

The missions and turn-based combat are very enjoyable, as is hanging around with the likes of Spider-Man. The Web-Slinger is just one of many heroes on the roster, as you get a full team of Marvel characters led by your customizable protagonist, The Hunter. You come together to stop your character's evil mother, who is a danger to the world.

Cyberpunk 2077

Cyberpunk 2077 had one of the worst launches in recent memory, as it came out with a litany of bugs and barely functioned. Pretty much all of that has been fixed, though. The Xbox Series X|S version is now an incredible action RPG with smooth combat and a beautiful open world.

The story is compelling, too. It revolves around a customizable merc called V, who is attempting to make their name in the futuristic Night City. In an effort to acquire money and notoriety, they participate in a heist that changes their life forever. It's a fascinating main tale, but you shouldn't overlook the slew of excellent side quests, too, as they're equally interesting.

Elden Ring

FromSoftware made some of the best games of the previous console generation. So, of course, the company also put its stamp on the Xbox Series X|S era with Elden Ring. In her review, Jade King claims it "combines Dark Souls’ natural sense of discovery with the foreboding atmosphere of Bloodborne..."

This is seen in its intriguing open world that's called The Lands Between. The place is filled with different places to go and things to see. And while exploring, you're likely to run into a whole host of enemies, from standard foes to serious bosses. As this is a FromSoftware game, these battles are very difficult. Much of the fun comes from overcoming these adversaries using strategy and perseverance.

Resident Evil 4 Remake

Resident Evil 4 was one of the best games on either the Gamecube or PS2 back in 2005. Now, the remake is among the greatest Xbox Series X|S titles. While the story, characters, and general formula are the same, pretty much everything else has been rebuilt from the ground up.

Therefore, this action-heavy survival horror title feels fresh. The visuals are impressive, the shooting is fun, and the whole experience is scarier than the original. Altogether, you have an incredible Resident Evil game that made reviewer Eric Switzer say, "I just don't think games get much better than this."

It Takes Two

The Xbox Series X|S is home to some fantastic co-op games. Few are as creative and clever as It Takes Two. It's hard to pin down what genre it really fits into. This is because the game continually changes up mechanics for each level, which is why reviewer Kirk McKeand called it "the most varied game I have ever played."

This sounds like it could be confusing, but the switch-up of mechanics is always done seamlessly and is well explained. Most of all, though, each new mechanic is fun, and the cooperative play is brilliant. That would be enough for any game to be great, but this title also offers a surprisingly deep story and beautiful visuals.

Hitman: World Of Assassination

The game formally known as Hitman 3 is now Hitman: World of Assassination, which not only includes the levels from the third reboot game but also the previous two. So, it's jam-packed with content. This wouldn't mean much if the core gameplay experience was weak. Thankfully, it's one of the best stealth games on the console.

Part of the reason is the diverse and open levels that allow you to go about your business (aka killing people) how you see fit. The game also contains a high level of detail and an impressive amount of replayability. So, to put it simply, it's classic Hitman, and Kirk McKeand says in their review it's "an outstanding refinement of that unique 21-year-old recipe."

Cocoon

Cocoon is one of the more original and creative puzzle games available on the Xbox Series X|S. In it, you play as an unnamed insect that can move worlds. This is because the worlds are contained in orbs that you carry around. And you can use the orbs to travel between distinct places.

That's not all you do, though, as while you're making your way through each place, you solve any puzzles in your path. Most of them are creative and challenging. Yet, the controls are really simple. So, it's only your mind being tested, not your video game skill. Your mind is certainly being tested when it comes to understanding the story, as there is no clear narrative or plot. You have to work out the meaning behind everything yourself. Reviewer Jaime Latour says it's "maybe a bit too mysterious." However, it doesn't hurt the overall enjoyment of the game.

Alan Wake 2

Reviewer Jade King says Alan Wake 2 "easily stands alongside the giants of the [survival horror] genre, and often surpasses them." This could be considered surprising as Remedy doesn't typically go full-on survival horror for their titles. But Alan Wake 2 certainly fits into the genre as it has plenty of spooky and unnerving moments. Yet, the game also has humor, great storytelling, and plenty of wackiness.

The story follows two people. The titular character is naturally one of them, and he's in a creepy and surreal reality called The Dark Place. Also along for the ride is the detective, Saga Anderson, who is investigating a murder in the strange town of Bright Falls. As both characters, you must face off against plenty of strange monsters, which is where Alan Wake 2's unique combat system comes into play. You're encouraged to use your torch to burn away the darkness that protects the enemies before you finish them off with more traditional weaponry.

Persona 5 Royal

The original Persona 5 wasn't released on the Xbox Series X|S, but the not-quite-remake Persona 5 Royal was, and it was worth the wait. The title is one of the most creative and original you will ever play. The narrative revolves around a vigilante group of teens who intend to 'change the hearts' of evil adults by going into a special realm. It sounds complex, but the game explains the concept well.

Each evil adult you target has their own palace built from their subconscious. You explore them and take part in exciting turn-based battles in the process. When you're not inside these strange places, the game turns into a life simulator. Both parts of the game are interesting and engaging. All of it makes reviewer Santi Leguiza say that Royal is "as immaculate as it was years ago—a masterful port of a masterpiece."

Ori And The Will Of The Wisps

As a sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, Ori and the Will of the Wisps continued the simple yet gripping tale of Ori in this beautifully stunning Metroidvania. If you never played the original, then of course that is the go-to, but if you have, then the follow-up is perfect for fans who enjoyed the game.

A new adventure in a new land, and with a new friend, Ori and the Will of the Wisps will keep you enamored for the entire journey. Jamie Latour said it is "undeniably a captivating, marvelous game" in their review.

Hi-Fi Rush

One that many may not have heard of, or at least seen it pop up on Game Pass and then never tried it, Hi-Fi Rush is an incredibly stylish and action-packed rhythm game that is worth playing. If you want to jump into something simple that'll keep you entertained for a while, you can't go wrong here - and, as mentioned, it launched on Game Pass, too, so it's completely accessible if you are on the fence.

It stands out well amongst the many games available, and easily takes its place as one of the best games to play on Xbox Series X|S. One of the most memorable? Perhaps not. One of the most fun? Absolutely.

Psychonauts 2

The follow-up to the classic platformer on the original Xbox, Psychonauts 2 continues the adventures of Raz as he works as a Psychonaut, delving into people's minds and attempting to stop a conspiracy within the organization.

As a platformer that harkens back to the days of early 3D video games, Psychonauts 2 blends nostalgia with modern capabilities to create a worthwhile experience. Reviewer George Foster says it "is leaps and bounds ahead of the original game in pretty much every way." Even if you haven't played the first game (which is playable on Series X with Backwards Compatibility), this game is absolutely worth the time.

Sea Of Thieves

If you've ever felt the urge to leave landlubbing life behind and take to the seas, but you don't have the slightest bit of knowledge, funds, or realistic desire to actually do so... well, that's where Sea of Thieves comes in. Or, you know, if you just want to be a pirate for a bit.

Play solo, or with a crew of friends or strangers, and head out on your ship as you seek treasure and riches. Beware of other players though, as they might try to take your treasure. Or they might just attack you for fun. Either way, with ongoing content, Sea of Thieves is one of the best games to play on Xbox Series X|S, and one of the best multiplayer games on the console.

Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth

For the first time in the series history, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth takes you overseas as it's primarily set in Hawaii. You play as Ichiban Kasuga from the previous game and series protagonist Kazuma Kiryu. The former is looking for his mother, while the latter is dealing with cancer. In classic Like A Dragon fashion, the narrative quickly becomes more profound and complex as you play through it. And as always with this series, it's a compelling story.

The wacky turn-based combat is fun, too. It builds on the foundations set in the previous instalment, which was the first to go a turn-based route. The title also boasts some great visuals, wonderful characters, and enjoyable sub-stories. In fact, reviewer Meg Pelliccio believes it "raises the bar in every way to take its rightful place as the new peak of the series."

Immortality

An interesting game that varies from most others, Immortality is an interactive movie video game. A movie star who was featured in three unreleased films goes missing, and you must investigate the case, with a unique take on found footage revealing the story as you piece it together.

Manipulate clips from the movies, TV shows, and interviews involving the star, and eventually, you'll begin to understand what's really going on. It's an impressive and entertaining mystery game you can get completely enveloped in, and definitely worth playing on Xbox Series X|S.

Death's Door

Taking the role of a grim reaper, Death's Door takes the afterlife and makes it a whole lot cuter. As a collector of souls, you play as a little crow who must venture into a land untouched by death in order to get back the soul that was stolen from you.

This is a cute little isometric game that takes after games such as The Legend of Zelda and Titan Souls, offering up some fun combat and intriguing puzzles. Earn new abilities and make your way through each region as you fight to achieve your goal - it's a game that is worthy of most players' time.

Microsoft Flight Simulator

This one can be fun for many reasons, but regardless, Microsoft Flight Simulator is a fantastic game. You might have a genuine interest in the piloting profession and wish to explore that; you might want to glide through the skies as you destress after a day at work; or, you may just want to find your own house before accidentally crashing into a bunch of structures around the world.

Using the globe and 3D maps as the game map, you can travel anywhere in the world via a selection of vehicles, large and small. Whether you're flying a helicopter over the skies of LA, or in a Boeing going from one side of the world to the other, "there's a feeling of freedom that you don't really get with any other game," according to reviewer, Dave Aubrey.

Deathloop

Stuck in a time loop and forced to repeat the same day over and over again, Deathloop sees you play as Colt Vahn as he attempts to end this cycle that he's trapped in. On a small island with radical figures, he must take them all down in a single day before everything resets - or die trying, and it'll reset anyway.

With a changing world that will adjust depending on the order of events and how you handle things, this is one big puzzle game as you make your way through each mission. To make matters worse, you will be hunted by Julianna, which will either be AI or can be controlled by other players invading your game online. In Kirk Mckeand's review, he says Julianna "completely alters how you approach levels," so she adds another wrinkle to the whole experience.

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice sees us follow the journey of Senua, a young girl that suffers from Psychosis, as she travels realms of Norse Mythology and battles foes and gods in an attempt to revive her lost love.

To represent Senua's condition, you'll hear various voices throughout the course of the game, which is represented incredibly well to make you on edge and uncomfortable. Also, the more you die, the more Senua suffers from a physical affliction - die too many times, and the game will end. It can be a challenge, but is a fantastic look into love, loss, and how Senua deals with everything she has gone through and continues to go through.

Grounded

Many games will make you realize just how big the world is, but Grounded takes that a step further. In this survival game, you (and some friends) will play as kids who've been shrunk down to a minuscule size. Fend for yourself in a now colossal garden, all the while figuring out what happened and how to return to normal size.

While most survival games follow the same formula, the setting of Grounded makes for a unique experience. No chopping down trees and crafting elaborate log cabins; instead, chop down grass blades and build armor out of bug exoskeletons. Oh, and watch out for garden spiders.

Halo Infinite

Though it ended up coming quite a bit later than anticipated, Halo Infinite launched in 2021 - and fans loved it, considering the previous game had been met with less praise. Reviewer Jade King says Infinite is "Halo through and through, right down to the graceful gunplay and masterful musical cues," which isn't something people said about Halo 5.

What made it even more popular was the fact that the multiplayer modes for Halo Infinite are free - paired with continued content updates, it meant players had a lot to get stuck into. While still not considered the peak of Halo, it is still one that people love, and will be a game waiting for anyone that picks up an Xbox Series X|S.

Forza Horizon 5

Without a doubt, Forza Horizon 5 is the game that needs to be installed on every Xbox Series console out there. While Forza Horizon 4's UK setting was a fresh and interesting location to race, the beautiful landscapes of Mexico make this entry a must-play.

Whether you're a huge fan of racing and cars, or if you don't really know anything about them and just want to zoom around what reviewer Sam Watanuki calls a "beautifully chaotic yet incredibly fine-tuned open world," this game is an easy choice. With so much to explore, challenges to complete, DLC to play around with, and community-made content, this game will always have a place on Xbox Series X|S.

Baldur's Gate 3

Not many RPGs in recent memory have received as much praise as Baldur's Gate 3. For example, reviewer Ryan Bamsey says everything about the game "is fine-tuned to provide a gripping experience that provokes wonder and joy." He even called the title a "masterpiece."

That's very high praise, but it's what Baldur's Gate 3 deserves. After all, it's an exquisite turn-based RPG set in the world of Dungeons and Dragons. The storytelling and characters are brilliant, and the combat is enjoyable, too. In fact, there's not much about the game that isn't great.