Top Xbox One Games of All Time

As the Xbox One approaches its 12th year on the market, it continues to receive outstanding support from publishers, delivering exceptional games despite the shift towards the newer Xbox Series X/S consoles. Our team at IGN has meticulously curated a list of the top 25 Xbox One titles, reflecting the collective expertise and passion of our content team. This selection represents what we believe to be the pinnacle of gaming experiences available on the Xbox One. For those seeking more 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)

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25. Outer Wilds

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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, a captivating sci-fi game, combines a sense of wonder and magic with an open-ended exploration experience. Its handcrafted solar system invites players to uncover breadcrumbs of a compelling narrative and breathtaking sights. The time loop mechanic adds a thrilling twist, blending serene exploration with tense urgency. While it may take time to get accustomed to its mechanics, Outer Wilds is a journey well worth embarking on. Enhance your experience with the "Echoes of the Eye" expansion, available for $15 USD, and enjoy the free 4K/60fps update for Xbox Series X|S.

24. Destiny 2

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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 seasonal model initially raised eyebrows, but it has evolved into a narrative-rich experience that seamlessly connects story arcs across seasons. Its inclusion in Game Pass has broadened its appeal, attracting more players to its universe. Whether you're wielding Stasis to combat the darkness or enjoying the thrill of combat with unique weaponry, Destiny 2 has stood the test of time. Dive into expansions like "The Final Shape," available now, and explore our free-to-play guide for more ways to enjoy the game.

23. Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

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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 as a masterclass in atmosphere and storytelling. Ninja Theory's dedication to Senua's narrative creates an immersive experience that blends mechanical and conceptual design seamlessly. The game's serious subject matter is reinforced by its beautiful visuals and dense storyline, making it a must-play. Now optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Hellblade outperforms even high-end PCs. Look forward to the sequel, "Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2," available exclusively on Xbox Series X|S and PC.

22. Yakuza: Like a Dragon

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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 new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and a shift to turn-based RPG combat. The game's cast of quirky characters and humorous side missions elevate its absurdity, while the main storyline delves into themes of betrayal and marginalization. Experience the drama and comedy of Like a Dragon, followed by its sequel, "Infinite Wealth," and the upcoming "Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii" in 2025. Check our guide to the Yakuza series for more details.

21. Gears Tactics

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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 transforms the iconic Gears of War franchise into a turn-based strategy game reminiscent of XCOM. Retaining the series' signature cover-based combat and executions, it delivers a strategic experience with a compelling narrative and high-quality character development. This seamless transition into a new genre showcases the versatility and enduring appeal of the Gears universe. The original Gears also holds a spot on our list of the best Xbox exclusives.

20. No Man's Sky

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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's comeback story is one of the gaming industry's most inspiring tales. Through continuous updates, Hello Games has enriched the game with new features like Expeditions, overhauled space stations, and cross-platform bases, responding to community feedback. This dedication has transformed No Man's Sky into a beloved title, earning it a place on our list of the best survival games. Anticipate more with "Light No Fire," Hello Games' upcoming survival adventure announced at The Game Awards 2023.

19. Elder Scrolls Online

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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 compelling reasons to dive in on Xbox. It's an evolving online RPG with regular updates, including the beloved Morrowind expansion. Enhanced for Xbox Series X, it's the perfect way to immerse yourself in Tamriel while awaiting The Elder Scrolls 6. Plus, its inclusion on Xbox Game Pass makes it accessible for casual play. For a complete timeline, see our guide on how to play the Elder Scrolls games in order.

18. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

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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 delivering a challenging combat experience, where mastering parries and Force abilities is key, especially on higher difficulties. The game's narrative takes you on a galaxy-spanning adventure with a memorable cast of characters. Its engaging story and stellar gameplay make it a standout title. Continue the journey with the sequel, "Star Wars Jedi: Survivor," available on Xbox One and recognized as one of the best Star Wars games.

17. Titanfall 2

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Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: October 28, 2016 | Review: IGN's Titanfall 2 review | Wiki: IGN's Titanfall 2 Wiki

Titanfall 2 surpasses its predecessor by delivering a remarkable single-player campaign alongside an enhanced multiplayer experience. The campaign's smart design and variety set it apart, making it one of the best shooter campaigns of the generation. Its multiplayer mode expands with more Titans, modes, and maps, keeping players engaged. Note that Titanfall 3 was in development but was canceled in favor of Apex Legends, which follows on our list.

16. Apex Legends

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Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: February 3, 2019 | Review: IGN's Apex Legends review | Wiki: IGN's Apex Legends Wiki

Apex Legends brings Respawn's signature gunplay to the battle royale genre, offering a dynamic and evolving experience since its 2019 launch. Regular seasonal updates introduce new Legends, map changes, weapons, and quality-of-life improvements, keeping the game fresh and engaging. The addition of holiday events and quests ensures Apex Legends remains a staple in gaming rotations, rivaling the likes of Fortnite.

15. Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain

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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, encompassing both The Phantom Pain and Ground Zeroes, stands as the most ambitious entry in the series. Its expansive sandbox offers a plethora of creative mission approaches with a vast array of weapons, vehicles, and gadgets. Stealth is rewarded, but the game accommodates aggressive tactics, providing a rich experience for open-world stealth enthusiasts. Though the full scope of Hideo Kojima's vision was altered due to creative differences with Konami, MGS 5 remains a significant achievement.

14. Ori and the Will of the Wisps

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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 foundation laid by its predecessor, Ori and the Blind Forest, enhancing the world with more vibrant environments and a robust moveset focused on combat. Its platforming, puzzles, and emotional narrative make it one of the best platformers available. Despite reported tensions with Microsoft, Moon Studios has continued to innovate, releasing "No Rest for the Wicked," a Dark Souls-inspired ARPG, into early access in 2024.

13. Forza Horizon 4

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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 also a standout car game of the last decade. Its depiction of a dynamic, season-changing Great Britain offers a socially engaging experience over hardcore simulation. With a vast car selection, evolving landscapes, and an uplifting soundtrack, Forza Horizon 4 encapsulates the joy of driving. The series continued its success with Forza Horizon 5, IGN's 2021 Game of the Year, also available on Xbox One.

12. Gears 5

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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' hallmark third-person cover-based shooter gameplay while exploring Kait Diaz's compelling backstory. Its engaging narrative, alongside the traditional Versus and Horde modes, is enhanced by the new Escape mode. The Coalition is expanding the Gears universe with a prequel, "Gears of War: E-Day," and multiple new projects using Unreal Engine 5. Additionally, a Gears of War movie and adult animated series are in development with Netflix.

11. Halo: The Master Chief Collection

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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 Halo: The Master Chief Collection is a comprehensive package of six Halo games, highlighted by the remastered Halo 2 Anniversary. With updated multiplayer features and continuous enhancements, it offers the quintessential Halo experience for both long-time fans and newcomers. This collection has fully realized its potential, making it an essential addition to any Xbox One library.

10. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

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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 delivers FromSoftware's signature challenging gameplay with a focus on precise, skill-based combat. Set against a supernatural backdrop of Japanese history, it offers a unique atmosphere and narrative distinct from the Souls-Borne series. Its demanding action may not appeal to everyone, but those who persevere will find an immensely rewarding experience. FromSoftware's latest, Elden Ring, also achieved critical acclaim, earning Game of the Year honors in 2022.