10 Best Essential Xbox Exclusives Every Gamer Should Play

Published on September 30, 2025

When it comes to Xbox exclusive games, few things get gamers more excited than diving into titles you can’t find anywhere else. These games are more than just entertainmen , they’re system-sellers, the reason many players choose Xbox over other platforms. From epic sci-fi sagas like Halo Infinite to the jaw-dropping realism of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, the best Xbox exclusives define what it means to own an Xbox console.

So, what are the best Xbox exclusive games worth playing right now? The answer depends on what excites you most. Do you crave fast-paced action shooters, sprawling RPGs, or artistic platformers? Whether you’re on Xbox Series X, Xbox One, or checking out top Xbox exclusive games on Game Pass, there’s an experience built just for you.

In this guide, we’ve pulled together a complete list of the best Xbox Series X exclusives, the biggest Xbox exclusives of all time, and even a few hidden gems. We’ll break down what makes each game special, how it stacks up against the rest, and why it deserves a spot in your library. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to the question: “What are the best Xbox exclusive games for me?”

Whether you’re chasing the most popular Xbox exclusive games or want to explore overlooked treasures, this list will help you decide quickly and confidently. Let’s jump into the worlds that make Xbox one of the best places to play.

The Best Xbox Games and Timeless Exclusives

Choosing your next adventure can feel overwhelming with so many titles vying for attention. That’s why we’ve created straightforward breakdowns of the best Xbox Series X games alongside the timeless Xbox exclusives that shaped the brand. Each game is highlighted with its standout features, availability on Game Pass, and the reasons it deserves a spot in your collection. Whether you want cutting-edge next-gen experiences or classics that never lose their magic, this guide makes it easy to decide.

Here are the top Xbox exclusive games you need to know about:

1. Forza Horizon 5 : The ultimate open-world racing experience.

2. Halo Infinite : A legendary sci-fi shooter reborn for Series X.

3. Gears 5 : A cinematic third-person shooter with gripping co-op.

4. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 : Hyper-realistic aviation at its peak.

5. Sea of Thieves : A shared-world pirate adventure full of surprises.

6. Psychonauts 2 : A creative platformer with humor and heart.

7. Ori and the Will of the Wisps : An emotional and beautifully crafted platformer.

8. Hi-Fi Rush : Rhythm-based combat set to a rocking soundtrack.

9. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle : A cinematic action-adventure on the horizon.

10. Halo: The Master Chief Collection : Remastered classics bundled together.

1. Forza Horizon 5 : Racing at Its Finest

Why it’s great: Forza Horizon 5 takes open-world racing to another level, setting players loose in a massive recreation of Mexico. From lush jungles and arid deserts to vibrant cities and hidden ruins, the variety of environments makes every race and road trip feel fresh. The car roster is equally impressive, featuring hundreds of vehicles that cater to every driving style , whether you love drifting in a tuned sports car, cruising in classic muscle, or tearing through the dirt in off-road beasts. The dynamic weather system keeps you on your toes, turning sunny stretches into sudden storms that test your skill and adaptability.

Why it ranks: This isn’t just a racing game , it’s a celebration of speed, freedom, and exploration. Forza Horizon 5 is widely regarded as one of the top Xbox exclusives thanks to its jaw-dropping visuals, seamless multiplayer integration, and endless replay value. It’s also a true technical showcase of the Xbox Series X, running in crisp 4K with buttery-smooth performance. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore racing fan, this game is the definitive proof of why Xbox delivers some of the best exclusives in gaming.

Ready to take the wheel? Get Forza Horizon 5 now and experience why it’s considered one of the best Xbox exclusives of all time.

2. Halo Infinite : The Return of a Legend

Why it’s great: Halo Infinite marks the triumphant return of Master Chief in one of the most ambitious entries in the franchise. The campaign blends classic Halo combat with a bold new open-world approach, letting you explore the sprawling ring at your own pace. Add in tight gunplay, fluid mobility, and a multiplayer mode that feels both nostalgic and modern, and you’ve got one of the best Xbox exclusive games ever made.

Why it ranks: Halo has always been one of the biggest Xbox exclusives, and Infinite keeps the crown secure. It manages to stay true to the series’ roots while pushing the boundaries of what a sci-fi shooter can be. The open exploration, evolving seasonal content, and competitive online modes make it a must-play for fans old and new.

 Ready to jump into the fight? Get Halo Infinite now and experience the definitive Xbox shooter today.

3. Gears 5 : Grit and Glory

Why it’s great: Gears 5 takes everything fans love about the franchise , intense third-person shooting, jaw-dropping visuals, and heart-pounding action , and adds a deeply personal story centered around Kait Diaz. The campaign blends cinematic storytelling with brutal firefights, while the Horde and Escape modes deliver hours of addictive co-op fun. Whether you’re sawing through enemies with the iconic Lancer or teaming up online with friends, it’s pure adrenaline from start to finish .

Why it ranks: Even years after release, Gears 5 remains one of the most popular Xbox exclusive games, thanks to its blend of cinematic quality, satisfying combat, and versatile multiplayer modes. It’s a benchmark for Xbox shooters and a must-play for anyone who craves both story and spectacle.

Ready to jump into the action? Buy Gears 5 here and experience one of the best Xbox exclusives ever made.

4. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 : Next-Level Realism

Why it’s great: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 isn’t just a game—it’s a technical marvel. You can fly literally anywhere in the world with photorealistic accuracy, from major cities to remote islands. Real-time weather systems bring turbulence, storms, and calm skies to life, while the expanded aviation career mode lets you step into the role of a commercial pilot, cargo hauler, or even an air ambulance operator. Each aircraft, from tiny Cessnas to jumbo jets, has been recreated with painstaking detail, making the experience feel authentic and thrilling.

Why it ranks: This title stands tall among the best Xbox Series X exclusives because it pushes the console to its limits, delivering unmatched realism and immersion. No other game gives you the freedom to explore Earth in this level of detail—it’s as much an adventure as it is a simulation.

If you’ve ever dreamed of piloting across continents or simply want to see what your Series X is truly capable of, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is a must-have. Don’t just playtake to the skies.

Grab your copy today and experience the most breathtaking journey Xbox has to offer.

5. Sea of Thieves : Multiplayer Adventure

Availability: Included with Xbox Game Pass or purchase separately

Why it’s great:
Set sail on the high seas in one of the most adventurous Xbox exclusive games ever made. In Sea of Thieves, you and your crew take control of a pirate ship and carve your own story—whether that’s hunting for treasure, battling skeletons, or waging ship-to-ship combat against other players. The game is alive with constant updates from Rare, adding new quests, cosmetics, and seasonal content that keep the waters unpredictable. Every voyage feels fresh, and the shared-world design ensures you’ll never run out of surprises.

Why it ranks:
Few games capture the spirit of cooperative play like Sea of Thieves. It’s one of the best Xbox exclusives for friends who want to laugh, strategize, and sometimes sink gloriously together. Its combination of exploration, teamwork, and spontaneous chaos makes it one of the most unique top Xbox exclusive games available today.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living the pirate life, this is your chance. Grab your crew, raise the anchor, and discover why Sea of Thieves has become one of the most popular Xbox exclusive games of all time.

Buy Sea of Thieves here or play instantly with Xbox Game Pass.

6. Psychonauts 2 :  Creative Brilliance

Why it’s great: Psychonauts 2 takes you inside the wild, colorful minds of its characters, delivering some of the most imaginative level design in modern gaming. You play as Raz, a young psychic agent-in-training, using telekinetic powers to solve puzzles, battle quirky enemies, and unravel emotional storylines. Every stage feels like a new world, blending humor, heart, and platforming perfection

Why it ranks: This game isn’t just fun, it’s one of the most artistic standouts among the best Xbox exclusive games. It mixes sharp writing with inventive gameplay, making it equally rewarding for newcomers and fans of the original cult classic.

 If you’re looking for a platformer that feels fresh, clever, and full of personality, Psychonauts 2 is an easy recommendation.

Get Psychonauts 2 today and experience one of the top Xbox exclusives firsthand.

7. Ori and the Will of the Wisps : Emotional Platforming

Why it’s great: Ori and the Will of the Wisps isn’t just a platformer , it’s a work of art. Every frame looks like a hand-painted masterpiece, and the soundtrack will tug at your emotions as much as the story itself. The platforming is silky smooth, with responsive mechanics that make every jump, dash, and climb feel satisfying. The game also introduces new abilities and combat elements that keep the action fresh while maintaining its trademark elegance.

Why it ranks: As one of the most acclaimed Xbox exclusives, Ori delivers the perfect mix of challenge, beauty, and heart. It’s widely considered among the best Xbox exclusive games for anyone who values story-driven adventures with depth and replayability

Ready to experience one of the most emotional and visually stunning Xbox exclusives ever made? Get Ori and the Will of the Wisps today and dive into its unforgettable world.

8. Hi-Fi Rush :  Rhythm and Action Combined

Why it’s great: Hi-Fi Rush is unlike any other Xbox exclusive game. Every punch, dodge, and combo lands perfectly in sync with the soundtrack, turning combat into a living music video. The world itself pulses to the beat, from environmental animations to enemy movements, making gameplay feel both stylish and satisfying. You play as Chai, a wannabe rockstar with a robotic arm, fighting through a neon-soaked cyberpunk city with rhythm-infused flair.

Why it ranks: This is one of the best Xbox Series X exclusives for players who want something fresh and creative. It blends action and rhythm genres seamlessly, offering a unique experience that stands out among the top Xbox exclusive games.

If you’re looking for a high-energy adventure that mixes music, combat, and personality, Hi-Fi Rush should be at the top of your list.

Don’t wait , buy Hi-Fi Rush today or jump into it through Xbox Game Pass to experience the beat-driven mayhem yourself.

9. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle : Iconic Adventure

Why it’s great: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle drops you straight into the shoes of the world’s most famous archaeologist. Expect whip-cracking combat, clever puzzles, and breathtaking set pieces that feel ripped from a blockbuster film. The game transports you across ancient temples, exotic jungles, and hidden tombs, blending exploration with cinematic storytelling.

Why it ranks: As one of the biggest Xbox exclusives announced for 2024, this adventure promises to capture the heart of classic action fans and newcomers alike. With MachineGames at the helm, known for their storytelling prowess, this game could redefine the best Xbox Series X exclusives list.

Ready to step into Indy’s boots and uncover the secrets of the Great Circle?

Don’t wait , pre-order Indiana Jones and the Great Circle today and be among the first to embark on this legendary quest.

10. Halo: The Master Chief Collection : Nostalgic Powerhouse

Why it’s great: This collection bundles every mainline Halo campaign from Combat Evolved through Halo 4, all remastered with upgraded visuals and smoother performance. It’s not just a trip down memory lane—the collection also includes Halo 3: ODST with its moody, atmospheric story and one of the best jazz-inspired soundtracks in gaming. On top of that, multiplayer remains thriving, thanks to updated matchmaking, custom lobbies, and mod support that keep the community alive.

Why it ranks: As one of the top Xbox exclusive games, this is the definitive way to experience Master Chief’s journey. It combines nostalgia with modern polish, making it equally perfect for first-time players and long-time fans who want the complete Halo experience on Xbox Series X exclusive games hardware.

Relive the battles that defined a console generation .

Get Halo: The Master Chief Collection today and jump into the fight across legendary campaigns and multiplayer arenas.

Xbox has built a legacy on unforgettable exclusives. From the speed and spectacle of Forza Horizon 5, to the emotional storytelling of Ori and the Will of the Wisps, and the larger-than-life adventures in Halo Infinite, these titles are the backbone of the Xbox experience. The best Xbox exclusive games aren’t just fun—they define the console, showcase the power of Xbox Series X exclusive games, and give you reasons to keep coming back for “just one more mission.”

Whether you’re chasing nostalgia with the Halo: Master Chief Collection, diving into the creativity of Psychonauts 2, or trying one of the biggest Xbox exclusives like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, there’s something here for every kind of gamer. If you’re still asking yourself “what are the best Xbox exclusive games right now?”—this list is the answer.

Now it’s your turn to play. Pick your favorite from this list of top Xbox exclusives and start building the library that makes Xbox the best place to game.

FAQs 

Q: What are some Xbox exclusive games I should start with?
A: Start with Forza Horizon 5 for racing, Halo Infinite for shooters, and Ori and the Will of the Wisps for platforming. These are among the most popular Xbox exclusive games and a great entry point.

Q: What are the best Xbox Series X exclusives?
A: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, Scorn, and Hi-Fi Rush are standout Xbox Series X exclusive games that truly show off next-gen hardware.

Q: Are the best Xbox One exclusives still worth playing?
A: Absolutely. Gears 5, State of Decay 2, and Sea of Thieves are still thriving and hold their place as some of the best Xbox One exclusives.

Q: Which Xbox exclusives are on Game Pass?
A: Most of the best Xbox exclusives, including Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Psychonauts 2, and Sea of Thieves, are available on Game Pass. This makes it easy to try them without buying individually.

Q: What are the biggest Xbox exclusives of all time?
A: The Halo series, the Gears of War series, and Forza Horizon 5 are widely recognized as the biggest Xbox exclusives ever released.

Q: What are the best Xbox exclusive games for fans of story-driven adventures?
A: Quantum Break, Lost Odyssey, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle are top picks if narrative and immersion matter most.