Best Xbox Exclusive Games: Ultimate List of 15 Must-Play Games
Let’s face it: when it comes to Xbox exclusive games, there’s a lot to love and even more to discover. I’ve spent hours (and maybe a little too much caffeine) playing and diving into these titles to bring you my best recommendations. Stay here if you’re curious about games like Halo or Forza.
I’ve covered the most popular games and will point out which one is perfect for your unique tastes. Here, I’ve ranked the best Xbox exclusive games you need to know, with insights on the game, their standout features, whether you can find them on Xbox Game Pass, and more.
What makes a game exclusive feel truly special? It’s the perfect mix of gameplay mechanics, immersive worlds, and that “just one more mission” vibe. These games aren’t just time-fillers. They’re experiences that will stick with you long after you’re done. And I’ve got plenty of different genres here, from fantasy RPGs to some wicked sci-fi entries. We’re loaded.
And a heads up to you: I’ll be including some sweet game deals if you’re impatient to dive into a title that you see and like. No need to wait. You can buy that gem at the best price whenever you please.
Top Picks: Best Xbox Exclusive Games
Creating the ultimate list of Xbox exclusive games wasn’t easy. But I had to do it, right? These titles showcase the best: jaw-dropping visuals, unforgettable gameplay, and more. If you’re really lucky, it’s on Xbox Game Pass. Even if the game isn’t on Game Pass, I swear that some of these titles will completely lock you in.
If you want to forget about the real world for a while, here are the top picks:
- Forza Horizon 5 (2021) – Try out the pinnacle of open-world racing set in Mexico. Totally addictive.
- Gears 5 (2019) – Intense action, feely plot, and a killer co-op await you.
- Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 (2024) – take to the skies with stunningly realistic visuals and the ultimate flight experience.
- Quantum Break (2016) – a mind-bending mix of sci-fi storytelling and third-person action, complete with time-manipulation powers.
- Halo Infinite (2021) – the legendary sci-fi shooter returns with an expansive open-world campaign and classic multiplayer action.
Keep reading to see the full list of 15 games. I’ll also be breaking down each title. You’ll know why the game stands out: is it groundbreaking gameplay, immersive storytelling, or simply because it’s so fun?
Top 15 Xbox Exclusive Games: Complete Breakdown
From thrilling races to epic adventures, Xbox has some of the best exclusives in gaming. Whether you’re a speed demon or a storytelling fan, this list highlights the top Xbox-only titles you won’t want to miss!
1. Forza Horizon 5 (Best Racing Game)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9.6/10 | Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC | 2021 | Available |
When I first fired up Forza Horizon 5, I felt like I’d just stepped into the ultimate car lover’s paradise. You enter vibrant Mexico and then some. This game is about racing, freedom, adventure, and pure adrenaline. You can roar through desert dunes or weave through lush jungles. Honestly, the map feels alive. Every corner wants you to discover it.
What makes it shine is the attention to detail. The graphics are mind-blowing, especially with dynamic weather that keeps you on your toes. Plus, the car roster is massive. There’s something for everyone and multiplayer is seamless. You can join events with your friends or with strangers. 10 million players lined up to play it on its launch and it’s easy to see why.
It really can be one of the best racing games out there. And it’s all up for grabs on Game Pass. Fast car fans who can also appreciate epic landscapes are in for a treat with this Xbox exclusive game.
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2. Gears 5: Best Third-Person Shooter
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9.5/10 | Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC | 2019 | Available |
If you’re a fan of epic storytelling and visceral combat, Gears 5 hits all the right notes. This isn’t just another Xbox Exclusive game; it’s a saga. You follow Kait Diaz as she uncovers her family’s connection to the Locust Horde. Trust me, the emotional weight of her journey is something else. The campaign blends intense battles with moments that hit you in the feels.
Gameplay-wise, it’s polished to perfection. Every encounter feels rewarding. Chainsawing through enemies? Strategizing with your squad? Feels good. The visuals hold their own as well. Cinematic and jaw-dropping to say the least. And it’s very, VERY, addictive. It’s got endless replay value with great multiplayer modes.
And let me tell you about Horde mode. It’s pure chaos and will have you HOOKED. You and up to four teammates face off against waves of increasingly tough enemies, building defenses and upgrading skills as you go. It’s part strategy, part survival, and all-out fun.
Gears 5 hit over 3 million players during its launch week and became one of the most-played Xbox Console exclusives. If you haven’t played it yet, you’re missing out.
3. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 (Best Simulation Experience)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 8.6/10 | Xbox Series X/S, PC | 2024 | Available |
I’ve never flown a plane but Microsoft Flight Simulator makes me feel like I could (don’t mix this game up with actual aviation classes). It’s a very convincing simulation, let me tell you that. Real-time weather features, insane photorealistic visuals, and a fully mapped globe will make you second-guess if it’s real or not. Seeing familiar places while you’re flying deserves its own Black Mirror episode, not going to lie.
The 2024 edition is really something else. They’ve added career modes, so you can go from hobbyist to pro. And the upgraded aircraft mechanics make every flight feel authentic. Whether you’re cruising in a Cessna or pushing a 747 to its limits, the details are wild. It’s no wonder this title is hailed as one of the best simulation games ever made.
What makes it unique is the hope it gives players. It lets you explore the world in ways we can only dream of IRL. This is a standout title for this generation.
Snag a cheap copy of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 >
4. Quantum Break (Best Cinematic Sci-Fi Adventure)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 8.9/10 | Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC | 2016 | Available |
Quantum Break feels like you’re starring as the main lead in a Sci-Fi Thriller. And yes, it’s as awesome as it sounds. Remedy Entertainment cooked up this wild sci-fi adventure where you’re Jack Joyce, a guy with time-bending powers stuck in the fallout of a failed experiment. Your mission is to save the timeline before it’s too late (basically). It’s intense.
Here’s the kicker: Quantum Break doesn’t just give you mind-blowing gameplay; it mixes things up with a live-action TV series woven into the story. And the gameplay is peak adrenaline. You can freeze enemies mid-attack, dodge bullets in slow motion, and chain time manipulation moves together. It all feels perfect. Also, the game visually stuns without fail. The shattered environments look like frozen art pieces.
It snagged a BAFTA Games Award for “Best Performer” in 2016, which says a lot about its top-tier voice acting and emotional storytelling. Oh, and it’s on Xbox Game Pass, so there’s no excuse. Play it and thank me later.
Grab a copy of Quantum Break >
5. Halo Infinite (Best Multiplayer Shooter)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9.3/10 | Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC | 2021 | Available |
Halo Infinite is the perfect entry point for newcomers to the Halo series. It brings Master Chief back with an open-world twist. This game gives you freedom to explore Zeta Halo while tackling missions your way. The campaign mixes action-packed battles with heartfelt moments. It serves as a great introduction to the lore and characters.
The multiplayer is absolute fire. It’s fast-paced, balanced, and ridiculously fun. The best part is that you don’t need prior Halo experience to dive in. It’s intuitive and genuinely addictive. With over 20 million players at launch, Halo Infinite has become one of the best multiplayer Xbox games to date.
It does a good job of striking a perfect balance between nostalgia for long-time fans and modern updates for newbies.
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6. Indiana Jones and The Great Circle (Best Action-Adventure)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9.8/10 | Xbox Series X/S | 2024 | Available |
This action-adventure Xbox exclusive throws you right into a golden era of treasure hunting, complete with Indiana Jones’s iconic hat and whip. It is pure high-stakes goodness. There are ancient artifacts to uncover, traps to dodge, and Nazis to outsmart. The visuals are wild too. Peek the ruins, jungle, and hidden tombs. You’ll see.
The gameplay blends combat, puzzles, and stealth play in such a satisfying way. It’s got some Uncharted vibes, but the whip mechanics and intricate artifact challenges make it stand out. The whip isn’t just for show. You’ll use it to swing across gaps, solve puzzles, and disarm enemies in the coolest ways. The environments are packed with details that make exploring an adventure in itself.
Every corner hides something worth checking out. If you’re a history buff, an action junkie, or just someone who loves a well-crafted journey. This one’s a no-brainer. Trust me, you’ll be hooked from the get-go. Time to channel your inner adventurer and get lost in this Indiana Jones universe completely.
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7. Hi-Fi Rush (Best Rhythm-Based Action Game)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9.7/10 | Xbox Series X/S, PC | 2023 | Available |
If you’re into quirky action, great tunes, and stylish visuals, Hi-Fi Rush is worth every second. Imagine a world where your combat moves sync to the beat of a cool-cat soundtrack. You play as Chai, a wannabe rockstar with a robotic arm. You’re thrust into a cyberpunk-y world. The visuals are like stepping into a neon comic book and the humor is spot-on. The story may not be groundbreaking, but it’s the gameplay that steals the show.
Hi-Fi Rush’s rhythmic combat system is unique. Every punch, dodge, and combo lands perfectly in sync with the background beats. Every battle becomes a spectacle. Even if you’re rhythm-challenged like me, the game rewards you for trying. When you nail those combos it’s like..Chef’s kiss.
Plus, with glowing reviews (scoring 87 on Metacritic) and a growing community of speedrunners and modders, this game’s already cemented itself as a standout exclusive. And accessibility features make it playable for everyone.
This game’s got something to love regardless of whether you’re a casual gamer or a combo-chaining pro. And yes, it’s on Game Pass, so there’s zero reason not to dive in and jam out.
8. Psychonauts 2 (Best Creative Platforming Adventure)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9.4/10 | Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC | 2021 | Available |
Psychonauts 2 is like stepping into someone else’s dream – literally. As Razputin, a young psychic with dreams of joining the elite Psychonauts, you dive into people’s minds to uncover their deepest secrets. And let me tell you, the game levels are wild. Each stage serves. Think trippy and themed worlds with lots of psychedelic vibes.
The gameplay combines tight platforming with clever puzzles. The writing is hilarious, sharp, and surprisingly heartfelt. The game knows how to pull you in with charm, newcomer or not. And seriously a platformer-puzzle game with this wild background story is so niche and unique. Truly something extraordinary.
The game has garnered a loyal fanbase to no surprise and is a clear must-play for gamers who like quirky adventures with depth. Plus, its visuals are pure eye candy, and the soundtrack matches the game’s offbeat vibe perfectly.
Psychonauts 2 snagged a nomination for Game of the Year at the Game Awards 2021, proving its appeal is no joke. It’s a gaming experience you won’t forget.
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9. Halo: The Master Chief Collection (Best Atmospheric Shooter)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9.2/10 | Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC | 2015 | Available |
If you ask me, Halo 3: ODST is where the series takes a bold, moody detour. Unlike the usual Master Chief heroics, this DLC is all about a lone soldier in the ruins of New Mombasa. The story feels grounded and the atmosphere oozes tension. Plus, it has a really cool jazz-inspired soundtrack.
Revamped visuals and buttery-smooth gameplay make it a timeless experience. Whether you’re a veteran craving nostalgia or a newcomer diving into PC games or Microsoft Xbox classics, this is worth playing. Plus, the community’s still alive with custom games and mods. Want a fresh experience from an older entry? This is it.
Thanks to Xbox Game Studios, this masterpiece is in the Halo: The Master Chief Collection and ready to play on Game Pass.
Grab a cheap copy of Halo: The Master Chief Collection >
10. Lost Odyssey (Best Forgotten Gem RPG)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9.1/10 | Xbox 360 | 2007 | N/A |
This title is criminally underrated and that’s why I’m covering this obscure hidden gem of an Xbox exclusive. It throws you into a breathtaking world. You follow Kaim, an immortal warrior burdened by centuries of memories. The story wrecks you in the best way. Themes of love, loss, and redemption stir you up. Experience tear-jerking moments from the “Thousand Years of Dreams” vignettes (mini-stories that feel like poetry in motion).
Enjoy classic turn-based combat with a clever twist: timing-based attacks that keep you on your toes. And let’s talk visuals: they were ahead of their time back in 2007 and still hold their charm. If you’re into story-heavy JRPGs, this one’s a masterpiece waiting to steal your heart.
It’s not on Game Pass, sadly, but this is one of those older titles you need in your collection.
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11. Fable 2 & 3 (Best Choice-Driven Adventure)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 9/10 | Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One via backward compatibility | 2008 and 2010 | Available |
The Fable series is pure chaos wrapped in charm and I mean it. In Fable 2 or Fable 3, you’re dropped into Albion – a fantasy world that’s whimsical, dark, and ridiculously fun. Your choices rule everything. If you want to be a noble hero or unleash your villain arc, you CAN. Oh, and there’s British humor. The game pokes fun at its own genre in a cheeky way.
Fable 2 nails it with its storytelling and unforgettable characters. Fable 3 takes it further by putting you on the throne. You’re ruling Albion, making decisions that can either save your kingdom or, well, destroy it. The moral dilemmas hit hard and you’ll feel every choice. Plus, both games are backward compatible, so they’re polished and ready for today’s consoles.
Here’s the kicker: they’re on Xbox Game Pass. If you love choice-driven games like The Witcher or Dragon Age, you’ve gotta try these. Fable really delivers adventure, comedy, and chaos all at once. It’s like having the power to shape your kingdom while laughing at the absurdity of it all. What’s not to love?
12. Starfield (Best Space Exploration RPG)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 8.8/10 | Xbox Series X/S, PC | 2023 | Available |
Starfield is a next-level experience, no joke. Bethesda’s massive space RPG hands you the keys to an entire universe. Explore over 1,000 planets! You can hop from lively space hubs buzzing with life to untouched alien landscapes. The story is a wild mix of interstellar politics and ancient secrets. There’s also a touch of space piracy for a rogue thrill.
What makes Starfield so addictive is the sheer depth of its gameplay. Building and customizing your ship is just the start. You also get to pick your crew and decide your alliances. You can shape your path as a noble explorer or become a clever outlaw. It’s like Skyrim but in space, with quests and choices that keep you hooked.
The groundbreaking visuals make every moment feel movie-like. Enjoy the view of planetary sunsets or witness a battle in the VOID. It already made waves as one of the most played games on Xbox. If you’re ready to lose yourself in exploration and adventure, give some space in your Library for this one.
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13. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II (Best Psychological Adventure)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 7.5/10 | Xbox Series X/S, PC | 2024 | Available |
It’s like playing a movie, if that makes sense. The sequel to the critically acclaimed Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice dives even deeper into Senua’s tortured mind as she battles her demons. Follow her to navigate a bleak, haunting world inspired by Norse mythology. If you’re a fan of Berserk, this is probably right up your alley. The story feels raw and personal. It touches on themes like mental health in a way most games haven’t.
What makes this game stand out is the WILD visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5. Seriously, you’ll be questioning if you’re watching a movie or playing a game. Combat is visceral and tickles the brain. You get to blend strategy with brutal melee. The voice acting and binaural audio will get you lost in sauce.
The game has accumulated over 100,000 community mentions on social media platforms like Reddit and Twitter. So, if you loved the first game or if you’re new, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is a must-play.
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14. State of Decay 2: Juggernaut Edition (Best Zombie Survival Game)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ 7/10 | Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC | 2018 | Available |
If you’re into survival games with some serious killer instinct, State of Decay 2 might be your jam. This entry lets you hack zombies and create a thriving community in the midst of it all. The Walking Dead vibes are strong in this one. The open-world map is huge and every decision you make impacts your survival. Gameplay is all about balancing risk and reward.
You’ll scavenge for supplies, build up your base, and form bonds with survivors. Pro tip: don’t get too attached. Permadeath means every mission has life-or-death stakes. And the game has come far since its launch. With new updates, expanded maps, and DLCs, it’s packed with content.
Oh, and it’s worth mentioning that the game has crossed over 10 million players globally. For fans of PC games and strategic survival, this is worth the try.
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15. Avowed: Premium Edition (Most Anticipated RPG)
| Our Score: | Platforms: | Release year: | Availability on Xbox Game Pass: |
| ⭐ TBA | Xbox Series X/S, PC | 2025 | TBA |
Avowed is shaping up to be one of the most exciting releases of this generation. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, the masterminds behind The Outer Worlds and Pillars of Eternity, this title dives into a vibrant fantasy world steeped in lore. Set in Eora (yep, the same world as Pillars of Eternity), it promises magic-infused combat, intricate storytelling, and deep player choice.
Avowed stands because of the pedigree of its developer. Obsidian is known for delivering some of the most engaging RPGs in recent years. The trailer showcases lush visuals. And with Obsidian’s knack for crafting complex characters and moral dilemmas, this game feels like a spiritual cousin to Skyrim. Though it hasn’t launched yet, fan anticipation is sky-high.
The debut trailer alone racked up millions of views in its first week on YouTube. If you’re counting the days for a fresh fantasy epic, keep this one on your radar.
What About The Best Xbox Series X Exclusive Games?
When it comes to Xbox Series X exclusive games, the lineup is packed with titles that show off the console’s power and innovation. Here are three standout picks that make the Series X shine. If you’re looking for the best Xbox series X games, these entries are worth exploring IMO:
- Scorn (2022): It’s a grotesque and pretty atmospheric horror game. If you like being scared, be ready to get immersed in a biomechanical universe that will blow your mind. The game serves next-gen graphics and captivating gameplay.
- The Medium (2021): So, Medium will have you exploring two worlds simultaneously, which is really the highlight here. It makes for a very immersive horror experience and it serves insane sound design and visuals. It really elevates your Xbox Series S experience, for real. It’s another horror entry for the horror fans.
- Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess (2024): It feels like stepping into a living myth. The mix of hack-and-slash combat and jaw-dropping Japanese mythology is awesome. It’s dark, chaotic, and somehow beautiful.
Pick one of these entries up if you haven’t tried them and want to explore more titles. I swear you’ll love them. If you scare easily then go for Kunitsu-Gami but if you love horror entries, Scorn and The Medium will eat you and leave no crumbs.
What About The Best Xbox 360 Exclusive Games?
If you’re a veteran of the Xbox console, then maybe you’re still on the hunt for Xbox 360 exclusive games and the best Xbox 360 games out there. Chances are, there might be some games that aren’t in your library yet. Even seasoned gamers might have missed some hidden gems that defined this legendary console. Check these out:
- Crackdown Series: The first game was released in 2007 but there are newer entries now like 2019‘s Crackdown 3. It’s a fun open-world playground with some flamboyant vertical gameplay and lots of action.
- Blue Dragon (2006): If you don’t mind playing an older hidden gem, this game is a surprisingly good turn-based combat JRPG. IMO, it has a great storyline that can catch you if you let it. Do you like plot and strategy? Try this old-timer out.
- Project Gotham Racing 4 (2007): It’s considered one of the best Xbox 360 games to date in the racing genre even if it’s an older entry. The game manages to serve with dynamic weather and tight gameplay mechanics that cater to speed junkies and casual gamers.
Have these titles stood the test of time? Find that out for yourself. It’s a great way to relive epic and good old gaming days. These games are the true renegades and have more than contributed to shaping the current Xbox games in your library. And who doesn’t like a nostalgia trip, like seriously? There is a simplicity about old games that stands out and never dies, at least for me.
FAQs
Who has more exclusives, PS5 or Xbox?
PS5 has more exclusives. Even so, Xbox makes up for this with Xbox Game Pass, offering a massive library of high-quality games.
What is the most sold Xbox exclusive game?
Technically, it’s Kinect Adventures! with over 24 million copies, but here’s the catch: it was bundled with the Kinect sensor for Xbox 360. It sold like crazy but more because of the hardware. If you’re thinking of standalone hits, Halo 3 still holds a special place.
Why does Xbox give away their exclusives?
Xbox focuses on accessibility through Game Pass. It’s all about getting players into their ecosystem and offering great value for subscriptions.
Are there any games available on Xbox that are not available on PC?
Yes. A few gems like the original Crackdown remain console-exclusive.
