When it comes to gaming, the Xbox has carved out a special place in the hearts of players everywhere. From thrilling adventures to intense multiplayer battles, Xbox has delivered some legendary games that have kept us glued to our screens (and probably ignoring our responsibilities). So, grab your controller and a snack—let’s dive into some of the best Xbox games ever released!While Xbox Game Pass did suffer a recent price increase, that doesn’t change the fact that it’s still generally an excellent way to play new games for less. The structure of Game Pass can be a little bit perplexing, so we’re going to not only break down the differences between the various tiers of service but also where you can grab a subscription for less with some deals.The Xbox Series X|S is four years old, and it’s built a huge library of great games.
With so much to choose from, we’ve curated a selection of the very best Xbox Series X|S games to play right now. We regularly review these choices to make sure we stand by them as the best the Xbox Series X|S has to offer, so this still stands as our highest recommendations on the console. The future of Xbox is a more expansive brand than just a console, encompassing its suite of services like Xbox Game Pass. The subscription service has emerged as a major pillar for Microsoft, as it offers a huge rotating library of free games, including first-party releases. Whether you’re looking for something new to play via the Game Pass subscription service or need buying advice for your next full game purchase, this list of games will steer you in the right direction. Most, but not all, of the games we’ve chosen are available on Xbox Game Pass. While the Series X boasts the best performance and visuals, the Series S also offers noticeable improvements and upscales to 4K. And lots can also be played on your Xbox One as well, either with Smart Delivery to optimize the experience or through Microsoft’s cloud-streaming tech for games that outpace the last generation. If you’d rather catch up with some older, but still excellent games, be sure to read our picks for the best Xbox One games, or upgrade your gaming gear with our picks for the best Xbox controllers and best Xbox headsets. And while you’re at it, check out our best PS5 games, best PS4 games, and best Nintendo Switch games too. Hey, did you know? Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Another recent change is that Microsoft announced a new tier, Xbox Game Pass Standard, that costs $15 per month and is available now. It doesn’t include Day 1 releases like Call of Duty, Indiana Jones and Microsoft Flight Simulator, but it’s still a cheaper way to access the subscription than Ultimate. We’ll continue to update this page as Xbox deals come and go, so be sure to check back often for the best prices available. Game Pass Core vs. PC. vs. Console vs. Standard vs. Ultimate While it’s a shame prices have gone up, the introduction of a new tier does help to alleviate it to some degree. Here’s a breakdown on what each tier offers. Game Pass Core Game Pass Core stays at $10 per month, but the annual rate has gone from $60 per year to $75 per year. It covers what was previously included with a Gold subscription, including access to online multiplayer for console gamers. This new membership also includes access to a library of over 25 titles, including popular games like Halo 5: Guardians and Fallout 4. See at Xbox PC Game Pass If you’re a PC gamer, PC Game Pass is still budget-friendly. It’s up from $10 to $12 per month, but it still includes access to a much larger library of hundreds of PC games and access to new games on Day 1, the day they go on sale. This subscription also includes an EA Play membership, which adds a whole bunch more games to your library and provides some
1. Halo: Combat Evolved
Ah, Halo—the game that made many of us realize that aliens can be as annoying as your little brother during a family dinner. Released in 2001, Halo: Combat Evolved introduced us to Master Chief, a super-soldier in a green jumpsuit that made everyone wonder if he forgot to do laundry. The game’s epic battles and compelling story turned it into a franchise juggernaut. Plus, who could forget the joy of driving a Warthog and immediately flipping it over?
2. Gears of War
If you’ve ever wanted to crush enemies with sheer muscle and chainsaw weaponry, Gears of War is your go-to game. With its cover system and iconic “Lancer” rifle, this series made us feel like tough warriors, even if we were just sitting in our pajamas. Nothing says “I’ve got my life together” like defeating the Locust while snacking on pizza rolls. The gritty story and intense gameplay keep us coming back for more, even if our thumbs do need some serious rehabilitation afterward.
3. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Ah, Skyrim—where you can be a hero, a villain, or that one guy who spends all his time picking flowers. Released in 2011, this open-world RPG gives you the freedom to explore the vast lands of Tamriel at your own pace. Want to be a dragon-slaying warrior? Go for it! Prefer to adopt every stray cat in Whiterun? Also valid. Just remember, “arrow to the knee” jokes may never die, but your game character definitely can if you’re not careful.
4. Forza Horizon 4
Do you like fast cars and beautiful landscapes? Then Forza Horizon 4 is the game for you! Set in a stunningly rendered version of Britain, this racing game lets you drive everything from sleek sports cars to trucks that could probably haul a small moon. The seasons change, so you can enjoy racing in the snow or pretending that you’re a professional driver while stuck in traffic. Just don’t forget to check your rearview mirror for that friend who thinks they’re a better driver than you!
5. Sea of Thieves
If you’ve ever dreamed of living the pirate life (minus the scurvy and questionable hygiene), Sea of Thieves is your chance. This multiplayer adventure lets you sail the high seas, search for treasure, and engage in epic ship battles. It’s like being in a pirate movie—until your crew accidentally sinks your own ship. And let’s face it, nothing beats the joy of yelling “Arrr!” while attempting to park your ship.
6. Minecraft
Though it’s not exclusive to Xbox, Minecraft deserves a shout-out for being the ultimate creativity tool. This blocky world lets you build, explore, and survive while reminding us that we could probably survive a zombie apocalypse if we just had enough wood and a couple of crafting tables. Plus, nothing says “I have my life together” like building a mansion only to be blown up by a creeper. Oops!
Conclusion
Xbox has given us some truly legendary games that not only entertain but also create unforgettable memories—often of the times we yelled at our screens or lost track of time. Whether you’re blasting aliens in Halo, racing in Forza, or sailing the seas in Sea of Thieves, these games have solidified their place in gaming history. So, grab a controller, settle into your favorite gaming chair, and celebrate these Xbox legends! Just remember: if your snacks are gone, it might be time to pause and rethink your life choices. Happy gaming!
