The Xbox Series X offers gamers an impressive next-generation experience with powerful hardware capabilities that enhance gameplay. Microsoft’s flagship console delivers stunning graphics, fast load times, and access to a wide variety of titles through services like Xbox Game Pass. Finding the best games that truly showcase what this console can do helps players get the most value from their investment.
Gaming on the Xbox Series X in 2026 presents more options than ever before, with both exclusive titles and optimized third-party games available. From immersive role-playing adventures to high-octane racing games and competitive multiplayer experiences, the platform caters to diverse gaming preferences. The growing library continues to expand with both new releases and enhanced versions of classic titles.
1. Elden Ring
Elden Ring stands as one of the most impressive games available for Xbox Series X. This fantasy action-RPG was created through a collaboration between game director Hidetaka Miyazaki and novelist George R.R. Martin, resulting in a rich world filled with dark fantasy elements.
The game offers an expansive open-world experience where players can explore the Lands Between as the Tarnished, guided by grace to pursue a path beyond the foggy sea. This freedom to explore is complemented by challenging combat that FromSoftware fans will recognize.
Xbox Series X owners can enjoy the detailed environments and impressive visual effects that showcase improvements in model quality and scene density compared to previous FromSoftware titles. The game pushes technical boundaries with its lighting and environmental details.
Despite its technical achievements, some Xbox Series X players have reported performance issues regardless of settings selected. These concerns highlight that even powerful consoles may struggle with the game’s demanding requirements.
Performance comparisons between PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S show that both platforms offer compelling ways to experience the game, though each has different strengths and limitations.
Many critics consider Elden Ring to be FromSoftware’s best adventure to date. The game provides an experience that both Dark Souls veterans and newcomers can enjoy, with its challenging yet rewarding gameplay loop.
The combat system features a variety of weapons, magic, and abilities that allow players to customize their approach to overcoming the game’s formidable enemies and bosses. This flexibility in playstyle adds significant replay value.
2. Baldur’s Gate 3
Baldur’s Gate 3 stands as one of the finest RPG experiences available on Xbox Series X. This D&D-based adventure puts players in a world filled with rich storytelling and complex character interactions.
The game offers incredible depth with every level up providing new spells and abilities that enhance combat throughout the journey. This progression system keeps gameplay fresh and rewarding even dozens of hours into the adventure.
On Xbox Series X, the game delivers impressive visuals and performance. Players can enjoy the detailed environments and character models that bring the Forgotten Realms to life with stunning clarity.
Multiplayer options add another dimension to the experience. The game supports split-screen co-op for two players on a single Xbox, or online play for up to four adventurers. This makes Baldur’s Gate 3 perfect for both solo players and those who enjoy shared experiences.
The narrative focuses on survival, teamwork, and the temptation of power. Players face meaningful choices throughout the story that shape their journey and relationships with companions.
Combat combines strategic depth with visual spectacle. The turn-based system requires thoughtful planning but rewards creativity and understanding of D&D mechanics.
It’s worth noting that performance varies between Xbox models. While the Series X handles the game admirably, the Series S runs at 30 FPS and lacks couch co-op.
The game’s expansive world offers countless hours of exploration. From dark dungeons to lush forests, each area presents unique challenges and discoveries.
Character customization provides extensive options for creating the perfect protagonist. Players can select from various races, classes, and backgrounds that affect both gameplay and story interactions.
3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the most impressive RPGs available on Xbox Series X. The game has received significant enhancements for the new console generation, making it even more spectacular than before.
Players on Xbox Series X|S can enjoy vastly improved level of detail and faster loading times compared to previous versions. The next-gen edition also incorporates real-time ray tracing, creating more realistic lighting and reflections throughout the game world.
The Complete Edition includes all expansions and downloadable content, providing hundreds of hours of gameplay. Both the Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine expansions add substantial new areas, quests, and characters to an already massive game.
Combat in The Witcher 3 can feel somewhat floaty at times, but this minor issue doesn’t detract from the overall experience. The game’s strength lies in its fascinating characters and compelling storylines that branch based on player choices.
Xbox Series X owners can choose between performance and quality modes. Quality mode prioritizes visual fidelity with ray tracing effects, while performance mode targets smoother framerates for more responsive gameplay.
The game’s open world remains one of the most detailed and immersive in gaming. From the war-torn fields of Velen to the bustling city of Novigrad and the stunning islands of Skellige, each region feels distinct and alive.
The next-gen edition also includes a built-in Photo Mode, allowing players to capture the beauty of the game’s world. This feature takes advantage of the enhanced visuals on Series X|S hardware.
4. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 stands as one of the most visually impressive games available for Xbox Series X. This groundbreaking simulator allows players to explore the entire world from the cockpit of various aircraft.
The graphics in Flight Simulator 2024 are simply stunning. From detailed aircraft models to realistic landscapes and dynamic weather cycles, the visual fidelity pushes the Xbox Series X hardware to new heights.
Players can experience the thrill of flying across accurately recreated global destinations with remarkable detail. The game provides an authentic aviation experience that balances simulation depth with accessibility for casual players.
On Xbox Series X, the game performs well overall, though some users have reported screen tearing issues compared to the previous 2020 version. This appears to be related to v-sync differences between the two versions as discussed by players in forums.
The convenience of console gaming shines through with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Players appreciate being able to start flying with just a press of the controller’s X button, making the simulation genre more accessible than ever before.
Flight Simulator 2024 was specifically developed for modern hardware including Xbox Series X|S and PC. The game invites players to take simulation to new heights with its comprehensive world modeling and attention to detail.
The gameplay experience offers something for everyone, from casual sightseers to dedicated aviation enthusiasts. Controls are well-adapted for the Xbox controller while still providing depth for those who want to master realistic flight mechanics.
5. Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 stands as one of the most visually impressive titles available for the Xbox Series X. CD Projekt Red’s ambitious open-world RPG takes players to the neon-soaked streets of Night City, a sprawling metropolis where corporations rule and body modification is the norm.
The Xbox Series X version benefits tremendously from next-gen enhancements. Players can expect faster load times, improved visual features, ray tracing, and dynamic 4K support that bring Night City to life with unprecedented detail.
A major gameplay update has significantly improved the experience since its initial release. The enhancements fix many of the issues that plagued the game at launch, delivering the experience that fans had originally hoped for.
The game shines in its character development and storytelling. Players take on the role of V, a mercenary seeking immortality while navigating complex relationships and factions throughout the city. Keanu Reeves’ portrayal of Johnny Silverhand adds another layer of depth to the narrative.
Combat offers flexibility with multiple approaches available for any situation. Players can focus on gunplay, stealth, hacking, or melee combat depending on their preferred playstyle. The extensive skill tree allows for deep character customization.
The 2.2 update further refined the gameplay experience with additional polish and features. These continual improvements demonstrate the developer’s commitment to the title and its community.
For those looking to get the complete experience, the Ultimate Edition includes the base game and the critically acclaimed Phantom Liberty expansion. This represents the definitive way to experience everything Cyberpunk 2077 has to offer.
The game has earned its place among fans of the cyberpunk genre, with some Reddit users even calling it one of the best cyberpunk games currently available. Its blend of storytelling, visuals, and gameplay makes it a standout title for the Xbox Series X.
6. Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite stands as a cornerstone title for the Xbox Series X, offering both a compelling campaign and free-to-play multiplayer experience. The game continues the story of Master Chief in his battle against a new threat called The Banished, expanding the iconic Halo universe.
On Xbox Series X, players can enjoy enhanced features like 120 FPS and significantly reduced load times. These technical improvements create seamless gameplay that truly showcases the next-generation capabilities of the console.
The campaign introduces an open-world approach, a first for the series. This design choice gives players unprecedented freedom to explore the mysterious Zeta Halo ring at their own pace, completing objectives and discovering secrets along the way.
Multiplayer in Halo Infinite returns to the arena-style combat the series is known for. The free-to-play model has made it accessible to more players than ever before, creating a vibrant and competitive community.
Visual fidelity is impressive throughout the experience. The game takes full advantage of the Xbox Series X hardware to deliver stunning environments, detailed character models, and dynamic lighting effects that bring the Halo universe to life.
Halo Infinite’s multiplayer customization offers extensive options for personalizing Spartan armor. Players can earn or purchase various cosmetic items to create a unique look on the battlefield.
Recent updates have continued to improve the game since its initial launch. Developer 343 Industries has remained committed to adding new content and refining the experience based on community feedback.
For those with Xbox Game Pass, Halo Infinite is included in the subscription, making it an easy addition to any Xbox Series X library. The campaign and all its future expansions are available to subscribers at no additional cost.
7. Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 stands as one of the most visually impressive games available on Xbox Series X. The game takes players to the diverse landscapes of Mexico, offering an expansive open-world driving experience filled with stunning scenery and dynamic weather conditions.
Players can explore vast regions ranging from deserts and jungles to cities and volcanic mountains. The environment changes with the seasons, creating unique driving conditions that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.
The game features over 500 vehicles from manufacturers around the world. Each car is meticulously detailed both visually and in terms of performance characteristics, giving automotive enthusiasts plenty to appreciate.
Forza Horizon 5 shines with its limitless, fun driving action across Mexico’s vibrant landscapes. The game’s physics provide an excellent balance between arcade accessibility and realistic handling, making it approachable for casual players while offering depth for racing enthusiasts.
The social elements of the game deserve special mention. Players can team up with friends for Horizon Arcade challenges that keep everyone engaged without disruptive loading screens or menus.
Graphically, the game demonstrates the power of the Xbox Series X with realistic lighting, detailed textures, and smooth performance. The game runs at 4K resolution with impressive framerates, showcasing what modern gaming hardware can achieve.
Sound design complements the visual experience with realistic engine noises tailored to each vehicle and an expansive soundtrack that spans multiple radio stations and genres.
For Xbox Series X owners looking for a showcase title, Forza Horizon 5 delivers an exceptional experience. According to fan polls, it ranks highly in the series, with many players considering it among the best Forza Horizon games alongside Forza Horizon 4.
8. Alan Wake 2
Alan Wake 2 stands as one of the most visually impressive titles available on the Xbox Series X. Released 13 years after the original game, this horror-thriller sequel continues the story of the troubled writer while introducing new gameplay mechanics and characters.
The game excels technically on the Series X hardware, with excellent performance that fully utilizes the console’s capabilities. Players will notice the fluid frame rates and stunning visual fidelity that bring its terrifying world to life.
Alan Wake 2 offers players two distinct worlds to explore. Each environment features its own unique characters and threatening scenarios. The majestic landscapes of Cauldron Lake and the seemingly peaceful towns of Bright Falls and Watery provide contrasting yet equally immersive settings.
The horror elements have been significantly enhanced in this sequel. The atmospheric tension builds masterfully throughout the campaign, making it one of the most effective horror experiences on the platform.
Combat has evolved from the original game while maintaining its core light-versus-dark mechanics. Players must strategically use light sources to weaken enemies before defeating them, adding a tactical layer to encounters.
The narrative remains a highlight, weaving complex storytelling with supernatural elements. The writing quality matches what made the original game so memorable while pushing the story in new directions.
Recent updates have expanded the game further. The anniversary update added The Lake House DLC, providing additional content for players who have completed the main campaign.
Many critics consider Alan Wake 2 to be one of the best games of this console generation. Its combination of storytelling, atmosphere, and technical achievement makes it a standout exclusive for Xbox Series X owners seeking a premium horror experience.
9. Immortals Fenyx Rising
Immortals Fenyx Rising stands as one of the more underappreciated gems in the Xbox Series X library. The game completely went under the radar due to lack of marketing, despite being considered by many as the best thing Ubisoft has produced in years.
Performance-wise, the game runs exceptionally well on Xbox Series X. It takes full advantage of the console’s capabilities through Smart Delivery, allowing access to both the Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S versions with appropriate enhancements for the newer hardware.
The gameplay offers a compelling third-person action-adventure experience. Players can customize their character at the beginning, setting the stage for an epic journey through a colorful, mythology-inspired world.
What makes Immortals truly special is how it lets players wield the powers of the gods. Using abilities like Achilles’ sword and Daidalos’ wings creates varied combat and exploration possibilities that remain engaging throughout the adventure.
The puzzle-solving elements deserve special mention. The game balances combat with ancient puzzles that challenge players’ intellect without becoming frustrating.
Some players have gone so far as to call it the best game they’ve ever played. While that might be subjective, there’s no denying the game offers exceptional value with its rich content and polished gameplay.
The visual style combines vibrant aesthetics with Greek mythology in a way that feels fresh and appealing. Characters are expressive, environments are diverse, and the overall artistic direction creates a world worth exploring.
For Xbox Series X owners looking for a game that balances action, exploration, puzzles, and storytelling, Immortals Fenyx Rising deserves serious consideration. It showcases what the console can do while providing dozens of hours of engaging gameplay.
10. Sea of Thieves
Sea of Thieves offers Xbox Series X players a thrilling pirate adventure in a shared-world environment. This game allows crews of real players to band together and experience the authentic pirate lifestyle on the high seas.
The game shines on Xbox Series X with significant performance improvements over previous console generations. Players will notice enhanced graphics, approximately double the frame rates, and faster loading times thanks to the SSD technology in the Series X.
Sea of Thieves: 2024 Edition brings the quintessential pirate experience to life. Gamers can hunt for buried treasures, engage in intense naval battles, and face terrifying sea monsters in this immersive open-world adventure.
The visual presentation takes full advantage of the Xbox Series X hardware capabilities. The stunning water effects and dynamic lighting create a beautiful and atmospheric setting that pulls players into its world of pirates and exploration.
Rare has consistently supported Sea of Thieves with regular content updates since its launch. These updates add new storylines, gameplay mechanics, and cosmetic items that keep the experience fresh for both new and returning players.
Multiplayer stands at the core of the Sea of Thieves experience. Players can form crews with friends or strangers to sail their ships, with each person handling different responsibilities like navigation, combat, or repairs.
The game encourages both cooperation and competition between players. While crews work together to complete voyages, they must also watch for rival pirates who may attempt to steal their hard-earned treasures.
Xbox Series X owners benefit from cross-play functionality, allowing them to join adventures with friends on Xbox One and PC. This inclusive approach ensures players always have plenty of fellow pirates to sail with or battle against.
Performance Features
The Xbox Series X delivers cutting-edge technical capabilities that transform gaming experiences through visual fidelity and system responsiveness. These performance enhancements represent a significant leap from previous console generations.
Graphics and Resolution
The Xbox Series X supports multiple display modes that cater to different player preferences. Gamers can choose between Performance Mode targeting 60fps with 4K output, or Graphics Mode offering 30fps with ray tracing in compatible titles. This flexibility allows players to prioritize smooth gameplay or visual richness.
Ray tracing technology creates realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows that were impossible on previous hardware. Games like Alan Wake 2 and Cyberpunk showcase these capabilities with impressive environmental effects.
For displays with high refresh rates, select titles like Doom Eternal support 120Hz output, delivering incredibly smooth motion that enhances fast-paced action sequences. This feature provides competitive players with more responsive controls and fluid visuals.
Load Times and Responsiveness
The custom SSD in the Xbox Series X dramatically reduces load times compared to previous generations. Games that once took minutes to load now start in seconds, allowing players to jump into action almost immediately.
Quick Resume functionality lets gamers switch between multiple games without losing progress. The system maintains several game states simultaneously, making it possible to resume exactly where you left off even after switching between different titles.
Dynamic Latency Input (DLI) technology reduces controller response time, creating a more immediate connection between player inputs and on-screen actions. This enhancement is particularly noticeable in precision-focused games like first-person shooters and racing titles.
Games specifically optimized for Xbox Series X take full advantage of these responsiveness features, creating seamless experiences that keep players immersed without technical interruptions.
Enhancements for Xbox Series X
The Xbox Series X delivers significant technical improvements that transform gaming experiences. These enhancements utilize the console’s powerful hardware to maximize performance and visual quality.
Smart Delivery and Backward Compatibility
Xbox Series X supports Smart Delivery, which automatically provides the best version of a game for your console. When players purchase a game once, they receive optimized versions across different Xbox generations at no additional cost.
Backward compatibility extends beyond just playing older games. Many titles receive enhancements when played on Series X. Games like Fallout 3, Final Fantasy XIII, and Ninja Gaiden 2 feature improved resolutions and framerates without requiring developers to release new versions.
Popular enhanced backward compatible titles include Control Ultimate Edition and Dead Space, which demonstrate the console’s ability to breathe new life into older games. The enhancements often include 4K resolution support, faster loading times, and HDR implementation.
Optimized Control Settings
Games optimized for Xbox Series X take advantage of the new controller features and system capabilities. These optimizations include support for haptic feedback, providing more immersive gaming through precise vibration patterns that match in-game actions.
The improved latency in the Xbox wireless controller reduces input lag, making competitive games more responsive. This is particularly noticeable in titles like Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster and Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition.
Many optimized games also support custom controller mappings and specialized control schemes. Titles such as Alan Wake 2 and Elden Ring feature control settings that can be tailored to individual playstyles, improving accessibility and comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Xbox Series X offers an impressive catalog of games with stunning graphics, lightning-fast load times, and immersive gameplay experiences. Players often have specific questions about which titles best showcase the console’s capabilities or provide the most enjoyable gaming experiences.
What are the top-rated games currently available for Xbox Series X?
The highest-rated games for Xbox Series X include several standout titles that have received critical acclaim. Elden Ring tops many lists with its challenging combat and vast open world.
Baldur’s Gate 3 has also received exceptional reviews, offering deep role-playing mechanics and branching storylines that respond to player choices.
Other highly-rated titles include The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt with its enhanced next-gen version, Cyberpunk 2077 following its substantial updates, and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 with its photorealistic visuals.
Which games fully utilize the capabilities of the Xbox Series X?
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 stands as one of the most technically impressive games, leveraging the console’s power to render detailed landscapes and weather systems in real-time. The photorealistic visuals and vast scale demonstrate what the hardware can achieve.
Cyberpunk 2077 showcases ray-tracing capabilities and faster load times that weren’t possible on previous console generations. The Night City environment feels more immersive with enhanced lighting effects.
Games like The First Descendant also push graphical boundaries with detailed textures, particle effects, and minimal loading screens, making full use of the Xbox Series X hardware.
What are the best multiplayer games to play on Xbox Series X?
For competitive players, Halo remains a premier multiplayer experience on Xbox with its refined gameplay and variety of modes. The free-to-play multiplayer component offers excellent value.
Sports fans might enjoy EA Sports College Football 25, which has gained popularity for its authentic presentation and online competitive modes.
Cooperative gameplay shines in titles like Dead Island 2, allowing friends to team up against zombie hordes with visceral combat and progression systems.
Can you recommend a list of must-play games on Game Pass for Xbox Series X owners?
Game Pass subscribers should prioritize Starfield, Bethesda’s massive space RPG that lets players explore hundreds of planets. The subscription provides immediate access to this premium title.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla offers dozens of hours of Viking adventure through medieval England with enhanced visuals on Series X.
The service also includes Shadow of the Tomb Raider and Minecraft, both optimized for the console with improved frame rates and graphical fidelity compared to previous generations.
What are the latest critically acclaimed Xbox Series X games?
Avowed has received significant attention as a first-person RPG set in the world of Pillars of Eternity with an emphasis on player choice and consequence.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II builds upon its predecessor with improved medieval realism and an historically authentic open world that critics have praised for its attention to detail.
Monster Hunter Wilds continues the popular monster-hunting formula with enhanced graphics and new gameplay mechanics that have resonated with both critics and players.
Which gaming experiences are exclusive to the Xbox Series X console?
The Xbox ecosystem features several games that can’t be played on PlayStation or Nintendo platforms. Starfield represents one of the biggest Xbox exclusives, offering a massive sci-fi RPG experience.
Avowed remains exclusive to the Xbox ecosystem, providing a fantasy RPG experience that PlayStation owners can’t access.
The upcoming Ninja Gaiden 4 appears to be another potential exclusive that action game enthusiasts will only be able to experience on Xbox platforms.
