Even as we move further into the current console generation, the Xbox One’s library remains an essential part of gaming. From legendary shooters to indie standouts and tactical surprises, these 10 games still hold up in 2025 as the best the platform has to offer.
1. Halo 5: Guardians
Release Date: October 27, 2015
While it divided fans with its story, Halo 5 is still a solid, fast-paced shooter with some of the best multiplayer in the series. Spartan Locke and Master Chief lead separate missions as players dive into a galaxy-spanning mystery. The movement mechanics and Warzone mode remain highlights.
2. Tunic
Release Date: March 16, 2022
Tunic blends old-school Zelda vibes with modern, Souls-like challenge. Playing as a tiny fox in a mysterious world, players must decipher cryptic in-game language, battle tough enemies, and explore a beautifully isometric world. It’s clever, minimalistic, and one of the best indies on Xbox.
3. Rise of the Tomb Raider
Release Date: November 10, 2015
Lara Croft’s snowy Siberian adventure still shines in 2025. Packed with tight combat, fluid platforming, and compelling tomb exploration, Rise set a new standard for modern action-adventure games. It's cinematic, intense, and rich with secrets.
4. Halo Infinite
Release Date: December 8, 2021
A return to form, Infinite gave fans a semi-open-world campaign, incredible sandbox gameplay, and a refined multiplayer suite. Chief's bond with his new AI companion, the Weapon, is central to the narrative. Its evolving live-service multiplayer keeps it relevant years after launch.
5. Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Release Date: November 11, 2014
Still one of the best values in gaming, MCC offers every mainline Halo campaign (up to Halo 4) in remastered glory. With updates over the years and a thriving community, it’s a definitive package for both newcomers and longtime fans.
6. Gears 5
Release Date: September 10, 2019
Kait Diaz’s story took the Gears series in a new emotional direction, while delivering stellar third-person shooter mechanics. The semi-open levels and polished visuals added freshness to the formula. Co-op, Horde, and Versus modes still hold up in 2025.
7. Gears Tactics
Release Date: November 10, 2020 (Xbox One)
A bold shift for the franchise, Gears Tactics delivers turn-based strategy with brutal executions and cinematic flair. It maintains the series’ grim tone while adding meaningful customization and tactical depth. It's one of the most overlooked Xbox strategy gems.
8. Hades
Release Date: August 13, 2021 (Xbox One)
Supergiant’s award-winning roguelike blends lightning-fast action with rich storytelling. As Zagreus, you fight your way out of the Underworld while getting to know the gods of Olympus. Its evolving dialogue, replayability, and beautiful art make it a must-play even in 2025.
9. Minecraft Dungeons
Release Date: May 26, 2020
A family-friendly dungeon crawler set in the Minecraft universe, this game offers quick, satisfying co-op action. With simple loot mechanics, seasonal updates, and a charming art style, it’s an easy recommendation for both newcomers and veterans of the genre.
10. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Release Date: April 11, 2018 (Xbox One)
With Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II on the horizon, it’s worth remembering the original’s impact. This intimate, psychological journey through grief and psychosis still feels powerful today, thanks to its haunting audio design and performance-driven storytelling.
From epic battles and iconic franchises to indie gems with heart, these Xbox One titles prove the console’s legacy is still going strong in 2025. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or diving in for the first time, this list offers something unforgettable for every type of gamer.
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