Finding the best Xbox Exclusives can lead to gaming experiences that can’t be beat. These games, which are only available on Microsoft’s Xbox platform, are the best examples of new ideas, stories, and game mechanics. The Xbox platform has a lot of exclusive games that change the way people play games. These games range from captivating stories to immersive multiplayer adventures.
“Halo” is one of the best Xbox exclusives because it is part of an iconic series known for its gripping stories and innovative multiplayer modes. Players all over the world are still fascinated by Master Chief’s journey through the universe. Similarly, “Gears of War” is all about intense, adrenaline-fueled action. Its intense battles and cinematic storyline set the standard for the third-person shooter genre. Below, we have mentioned the best Xbox Exclusives.
What Makes Xbox Exclusives Stand Out?
There are several reasons why old games are still played today. A big part of it is nostalgia, because people love to play games from their childhood or earlier years. Also, many classic games have gameplay mechanics, stories, or art styles that never go out of style and are still fun for new generations of players. Also, older games are easy to pick up and play, even on newer devices, because they are simple and easy to get. Lastly, the fact that classic games are still played today is helped by communities and fan bases that work to protect and celebrate them.
Best Xbox Exclusives Comparison Table
Xbox exclusives showcase the platform’s diverse lineup of captivating games, offering unique experiences. Xbox offers diverse genres and narratives, from Halo’s epic sci-fi battles to Forza Horizon’s stunning racing landscapes. Talented developers’ exclusives enrich the gaming community and define Xbox.
| Game | Genre | Developer | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Flight Simulator | Flight Simulation | Asobo Studio | Windows, Xbox |
| The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind | Action RPG | Bethesda Game Studios | Windows, Xbox |
| Sunset Overdrive | Action-Adventure | Insomniac Games | Windows, Xbox |
| Grounded | Survival | Obsidian Entertainment | Windows, Xbox |
| Sea of Thieves | Action-Adventure | Rare Ltd. | Windows, Xbox |
Microsoft Flight Simulator
Features:
- Realistic flight simulation game with stunning graphics.
- Features accurate depictions of real-world landscapes and airports.
- Offers a variety of aircraft to pilot, from small planes to jumbo jets.
- Provides immersive weather effects and day-night cycles.
Microsoft Flight Simulator is amazing. What other game uses satellite data to map the entire world? Microsoft Flight Simulator by Asobo Studio is a masterpiece for both sim fans and casual players. The world (especially the handcrafted places) and the variety of planes and airports, each meticulously crafted, look great. Currently, this is one of the best Xbox Exclusives.
Pros
- Stunningly realistic graphics and immersive gameplay.
- Vast selection of aircraft and detailed airports.
- Real-time weather and live traffic simulation.
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for newcomers to flight simulation.
- Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly.
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
Features:
- Epic open-world role-playing game set in the fantasy world of Tamriel.
- Features a vast and immersive world to explore.
- Offers deep character customization and progression systems.
- Provides engaging quests, dungeons, and lore-rich storytelling.
Xbox was a big deal in the past because it had a lot of console ports that let you play games on a PC. Even though there were some problems, Xbox owners were the only ones who could play great PC games like Deus Ex: Invisible War, Thief: Deadly Shadows, and Doom But Morrowind was the first one that really changed the game. Overall, this is one of the best Xbox Exclusives.
Pros
- Deep and immersive open-world RPG experience.
- Rich lore, diverse quests, and memorable characters.
- Modding community provides endless content and improvements.
Cons
- Dated graphics and mechanics compared to modern RPGs.
- Some players may find the combat system clunky or outdated.
Sunset Overdrive
Features:
- High-energy action-adventure game set in a vibrant, stylized world.
- Features fast-paced traversal and combat mechanics.
- Offers a variety of outrageous weapons and abilities.
- Provides a humorous storyline and over-the-top gameplay.
One of the best Xbox One games ever, Sunset Overdrive is still fun to play today (though an Xbox Series X|S upgrade would be nice). Everyone in Sunset City turns into a grotesque mutant after drinking a tainted energy drink. You and some other survivors work together to get out of the city and find the company that made the drink. This is the best Xbox Exclusives that you can consider.
Pros
- Colorful and stylish visuals with a unique art direction.
- Fast-paced and chaotic gameplay with a variety of weapons and abilities.
- Humorous story and self-aware tone.
Cons
- Limited platform availability compared to other titles.
- Some players may find the humor and tone of the game divisive.
Grounded
Features:
- Survival adventure game set in a backyard environment.
- Features shrunken characters navigating a dangerous world of insects and hazards.
- Offers crafting, building, and exploration elements.
- Provides cooperative multiplayer gameplay for up to four players.
The main idea behind Grounded is a great Honey, I Shrunk the Kids-style video game where you and up to three other players are shrunk down to the size of ants and have to stay alive in the dangerous backyard wilderness. You’ll have to look for food and water, gather materials for a shelter and weapons, and fight your way through hordes of angry bugs in order to get back to your normal size. Overall, it is one of the best Xbox Exclusives that you can consider.
Pros
- Unique premise of survival in a backyard setting.
- Cooperative multiplayer gameplay with friends.
- Regular updates and new content additions.
Cons
- Early access status means some features may be incomplete or buggy.
- Limited content compared to other survival games.
Sea of Thieves
Features:
- Open-world pirate adventure game set in a shared multiplayer world.
- Features cooperative gameplay aboard ships with friends or other players.
- Offers exploration, treasure hunting, and naval combat.
- Provides a dynamic world with emergent player interactions and events.
Some problems happened when Sea of Thieves first came out, but Microsoft and Rare stuck with it and turned it into one of the best multiplayer games out there. With its evolving gameplay, exploring the high seas with friends, following maps to find hidden treasure, and fighting megalodons or other crews is always fun. Still, it is one of the best Xbox Exclusives that you can consider.
Pros
- Open-world pirate adventure with cooperative multiplayer.
- Beautifully crafted ocean and dynamic weather systems.
- Constant updates and events keep the game fresh.
Cons
- Lack of structured progression may not appeal to all players.
- Requires cooperation with other players, which can lead to frustrating experiences with random teammates.
How to Access Xbox Exclusives
Getting to Xbox-only games depends on the platform you’re using and the games you want to play. Here are some ways to get Xbox-only games:
Xbox Consoles: If you want to play Xbox-only games, you need to own an Xbox console. It could be an Xbox One, an Xbox Series S, or an Xbox Series X. It is designed so that Xbox consoles can only run Xbox-only games, such as games made by Xbox Game Studios.
Xbox Game Pass: Xbox Game Pass is a paid service that lets you play a huge library of games, including Xbox-only games, on your Xbox, PC, and mobile devices. As part of their Game Pass subscription, subscribers can download and play Xbox-only games. This is a cheap way to get access to a lot of different games.
PC: You can get a lot of Xbox-only games on your PC through the Microsoft Store or other digital stores, like Steam. Some Xbox Game Studios games, like those in the Halo or Forza series, come out on both Xbox and PC at the same time.
Cloud Gaming: Xbox Cloud Gaming, which used to be called Project xCloud, lets Xbox users stream games to smartphones and tablets that are compatible. With this service, you can play Xbox-only games without having to buy a special gaming console or a powerful PC.
Xbox Play Anywhere: The Xbox Play Anywhere programme lets you play some Xbox-only games from other devices. This means that if you buy the game digitally on either Xbox One or PC, you can play it on both without having to buy two separate copies.
Tips for Choosing the Right Xbox Exclusive for You
The best Xbox-only game for you will depend on your gaming style, interests, and preferences. To help you make the right choice, here are some ideas:
Genre Preference: Think about what kind of games you like to play the most. Action-adventure, role-playing, racing, platformers, shooters, and other genres are all available as Xbox-only games. Pick a game that fits with the types of games and gameplay you like.
Story and Narrative: Rate the depth and breadth of the stories in Xbox-only games. Some games have deep, engaging stories with interesting characters and plots, while others are more about the gameplay and exploring an open world. Pick a game with a story that grabs your attention and keeps you interested while you play.
Gameplay Mechanics: Think about how Xbox-only games are played and what features they have. Look for games that have new ways to play, controls that work well, and fun loops of gameplay. Pick a game that lets you play the way you like to play, whether that’s fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, or deep exploration.
Multiplayer and Social Features: If you like playing games with other people and talking to them, look for Xbox-only games that have strong multiplayer modes, cooperative gameplay, or online multiplayer features. You could play competitive multiplayer games, cooperative missions, or games with a shared world where you can play with other players online.
Graphics and Visuals: Look at how good the graphics are, how the games look, and the art style of Xbox-only games. Choose games that have beautiful graphics, well-thought-out environments, and impressive visual effects that show off what the Xbox can do. Pick games with graphics that pull you into the world and make virtual worlds come to life.
FAQs
Although the graphics aren’t great, Valheim, a great PC game, became an Xbox console exclusive on Xbox Game Pass in March 2023. Don’t miss it.
The PlayStation Exclusive Uncharted series is unfortunate. Uncharted is a PS4/Sony exclusive, so if you want it, you’ll get one.
