The Best Xbox Games of 2025

The year 2025 was a landmark period for the Xbox platform that featured a massive expansion of the Game Pass library and several high profile third party ports. Microsoft successfully integrated several major franchises from its recent acquisitions while independent developers pushed the boundaries of creative storytelling and art direction. Players enjoyed a consistent schedule of releases that utilized the full power of the Series X and S hardware to deliver stunning visuals and fast loading times. This list covers the most significant titles that defined the gaming landscape over the past twelve months.

‘Seven Days Until Morning’ (2025)

This survival horror experience arrived on Xbox consoles on December 1 2025. The game was developed and published by independent creators to offer a psychological journey through a deserted town. Players must manage limited resources while uncovering the mystery of a missing family across seven distinct chapters. The narrative focuses on atmosphere and environmental storytelling rather than traditional combat mechanics. It highlights the growing trend of focused indie horror titles on the platform.

‘Marvel Cosmic Invasion’ (2025)

Released on December 1 2025 this action title brings a new cast of superheroes to the Xbox Series X and S. The game was developed by Marvel Games in collaboration with third party studios to create a large scale galactic conflict. Players take control of various characters to repel an alien threat across multiple alien planets and space stations. The combat system emphasizes cooperative play and special ability combinations for maximum damage. It provides a significant addition to the superhero genre for the holiday season.

‘Crime Simulator’ (2025)

This open world simulation game was released on December 1 2025 and offers a detailed look at the underworld. Developed by independent teams and published for Xbox platforms the game features a complex economy and reputation system. Players can build their own empires by managing crews and completing various high stakes missions throughout a sprawling city. The gameplay focuses on strategic planning and the long term consequences of every illegal action. This title provides a deep sandbox experience for fans of crime dramas.

‘Yakuza Shadows of New York’ (2025)

Sega released this spin off title on December 3 2025 to bring the long running franchise to a new American setting. The game was developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and follows a former clan member navigating the streets of Manhattan. Players can explore highly detailed recreations of famous landmarks while engaging in the series signature brawling combat and quirky side activities. The story explores the intersection of different international criminal organizations in a global city. It marks a bold step forward for the franchise by moving away from its traditional Japanese locations.

‘Little Rocket Lab’ (2025)

No More Robots published this charming engineering simulator on October 7 2025. Developed by a small team the game tasks players with building a functional space program from a backyard workshop. Users must gather materials and solve physics based puzzles to launch their creations into the upper atmosphere. The title features a stylized art direction and a humorous narrative about family dreams and scientific ambition. It served as a notable timed exclusive for the Xbox ecosystem during the autumn months.

‘Rhythm Doctor’ (2025)

This unique musical experience arrived on Xbox on December 6 2025 after a successful period in early access. Developed by 7th Beat Games the title challenges players to perform lifesaving surgery by tapping to the beat of a patient heart. Each level introduces different rhythmic anomalies and visual distractions that test the focus of the player. The game features a vibrant pixel art style and a diverse soundtrack covering multiple genres. It became a favorite among fans of the rhythm genre for its simple controls and high difficulty ceiling.

‘Octopath Traveler 0’ (2025)

Square Enix released this prequel to its popular role playing series on December 4 2025. Developed by Acquire the game utilizes the signature HD 2D art style to tell the origin stories of a new set of eight heroes. Players navigate a vast fantasy world while utilizing a turn based combat system that emphasizes weakness exploitation and character synergy. The narrative structure allows for a non linear exploration of the continent and its diverse cultures. This title solidified the relationship between the publisher and the Xbox platform through its day one availability.

‘Ninja Gaiden Ragebound’ (2025)

Koei Tecmo brought this fast paced action title to the Xbox Series X and S in the latter half of the year. Developed by Team Ninja the game continues the tradition of punishing difficulty and intricate sword combat. Players take control of a legendary ninja as they battle demonic forces and rival clans across various supernatural environments. The combat system rewards precision and timing while offering a wide array of weapons and magical abilities. It successfully modernized the franchise for a new generation of players.

‘Grounded 2’ (2025)

The sequel to the hit survival adventure entered early access on Xbox in 2025. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Xbox Game Studios the game expands the scope of the backyard to include new biomes and terrifying insects. Players must gather resources and build elaborate bases to survive the dangers of being shrunken down to a tiny size. The cooperative gameplay remains a central focus with new crafting recipes and specialized character roles. It continues the success of the original by offering a unique take on the survival genre.

‘Keeper’ (2025)

Double Fine Productions released this imaginative puzzle adventure in the summer of 2025. Published by Xbox Game Studios the title features the unique humor and art style that the developer is known for. Players solve environmental puzzles by manipulating gravity and interacting with a cast of eccentric characters in a floating world. The narrative explores themes of responsibility and legacy through a series of increasingly complex challenges. It was praised for its creative level design and charming world building.

‘Silent Hill F’ (2025)

Konami expanded its legendary horror franchise with this new entry released in late 2025. The game was developed by Neobards Entertainment and moves the setting to 1960s Japan during a mysterious fungal outbreak. Players must survive terrifying encounters while exploring beautiful but haunting environments filled with traditional Japanese architecture. The story was written by acclaimed novelists to provide a fresh perspective on the psychological horror the series is known for. It represents a significant departure from previous entries in terms of setting and visual style.

‘Mortal Kombat The Legacy Kollection’ (2025)

Warner Bros Games released this definitive bundle of classic fighting titles in 2025. The collection was developed by specialized studios to ensure that the original arcade experiences were perfectly preserved on modern Xbox hardware. It includes remastered versions of the early games with updated online play and archival materials for fans. Players can experience the evolution of the franchise from its digitized roots to the complex fighting systems of the later entries. This release served as a celebration of the long history of the iconic brand.

‘Lego Party’ (2025)

This family oriented multiplayer game was released by 2K in the spring of 2025. Developed by specialized internal teams the title features dozens of minigames that utilize the physics and creativity of the plastic brick world. Players can customize their own avatars and compete in various challenges ranging from racing to building competitions. The game supports local and online play for up to four people in a single session. It offers a lighthearted and accessible experience for gamers of all ages.

‘Lego Voyagers’ (2025)

2K continued its partnership with the Lego Group by releasing this space exploration adventure in 2025. Developed by Visual Concepts the game allows players to build their own starships and travel between different planets made entirely of bricks. Each world features unique quests and characters that require specific builds to overcome various obstacles. The gameplay emphasizes creativity and discovery in a massive galaxy filled with secrets. It provides a more expansive and adventurous take on the traditional brick building formula.

‘MotoGP 25’ (2025)

Milestone released the latest entry in the premier motorcycle racing series in 2025. The game features the full roster of riders and tracks from the current season along with significant improvements to the physics engine. Players can progress through a deep career mode that includes team management and technical development of their bikes. The Xbox version utilizes the hardware to provide realistic weather effects and high frame rate racing. It remains the most authentic simulation of professional motorcycle racing available on consoles.

‘WWE 2K25’ (2025)

Visual Concepts and 2K Sports released the newest wrestling simulation in the early months of 2025. The game features an updated roster of superstars and legends along with improvements to the animation system for more fluid combat. Players can engage in various match types including the return of several fan favorite modes with new customizations. The career mode focuses on the journey of a rising star through the ranks of the professional wrestling world. It continues the steady improvement of the franchise after its successful soft reboot in previous years.

‘NBA 2K26’ (2025)

The annual basketball simulation arrived in the fall of 2025 with a focus on realism and social features. Developed by Visual Concepts and published by 2K the game introduces new defensive mechanics and a more detailed MyCareer story. The Xbox Series X and S versions feature enhanced lighting and player models that push the boundaries of sports game visuals. Players can explore an expanded city hub and compete in various online tournaments against others. It maintains its position as the dominant basketball title on the market.

‘F1 25’ (2025)

Electronic Arts and Codemasters released the official game of the 2025 Formula One World Championship. The title includes all the new rules and car designs from the current season along with a revamped career mode. Players can experience the life of a driver through a cinematic story or manage their own team in the My Team feature. The game includes cross play functionality and improved accessibility options for new players. It provides a thrilling and high speed simulation for fans of world class motorsport.

‘Ninja Gaiden 4’ (2025)

The long awaited fourth entry in the modern trilogy was released by Koei Tecmo in late 2025. Developed by Team Ninja the game serves as a direct sequel that introduces new combat mechanics while retaining the high speed action of its predecessors. Players navigate a global conflict that takes them from modern cities to ancient hidden realms. The story explores the heavy burden of the ninja and the consequences of wielding forbidden power. It was one of the most anticipated action titles for the platform during the holiday season.

‘Fatal Fury City of the Wolves’ (2025)

SNK brought its legendary fighting franchise back to the spotlight on April 24 2025. The game features a return to the streets of South Town with a cast of both returning veterans and new fighters. Players utilize a complex fighting system that includes the return of the tactical Rev System for enhanced combat options. The Xbox version features low latency online play and a comprehensive tutorial mode for newcomers. It successfully revived interest in the classic fighting series for a modern audience.

‘The First Berserker Khazan’ (2025)

Nexon published this dark fantasy action game in the early months of 2025. Developed by Neople the title is set in the Dungeon and Fighter universe and focuses on the story of a betrayed general seeking revenge. Players engage in visceral combat using a variety of weapons and supernatural abilities to overcome massive foes. The art direction features a unique cel shaded look that brings the brutal world to life. It was noted for its fluid animation and challenging combat encounters.

‘Dynasty Warriors Origins’ (2025)

Koei Tecmo released this fresh take on the massive battle genre on January 17 2025. Developed by Omega Force the game focuses on a more grounded and tactical approach to the Three Kingdoms era. Players take control of a single protagonist whose choices influence the flow of the legendary conflict across ancient China. The engine allows for thousands of soldiers to be on screen at once to create truly epic battlefields. It represents a significant shift for the series toward deeper role playing elements and strategic decision making.

‘Elden Ring Nightreign’ (2025)

FromSoftware and Bandai Namco released this standalone expansion to their massive open world hit in 2025. The game introduces a new region of the world focused on the theme of eternal darkness and cosmic horror. Players can discover new weapons and spells while facing some of the most challenging bosses ever designed by the studio. The narrative expands on the lore of the Outer Gods and the history of the Lands Between. It provided a significant reason for players to return to one of the most celebrated worlds in gaming.

‘Battlefield 6’ (2025)

Electronic Arts released the latest entry in the large scale military shooter franchise in late 2025. Developed by DICE the game returns to a near future setting with a focus on massive destructible environments. Players can engage in battles with up to 128 people on Xbox Series X and S with a variety of vehicles and specialized classes. The new engine provides realistic physics and weather effects that dynamically change the battlefield. It was praised for returning to the core elements that made the franchise a success.

‘South of Midnight’ (2025)

Compulsion Games and Xbox Game Studios released this visually stunning action adventure on April 8 2025. Set in a magical version of the American Deep South the game follows a young woman named Hazel as she hunts mythical creatures. The art style utilizes a stop motion aesthetic that gives the world a unique and hand crafted feel. Players use magical weaving abilities to navigate the environment and engage in rhythmic combat. It stands out as one of the most creative first party titles released for the platform during the year.

‘Avowed’ (2025)

Obsidian Entertainment and Xbox Game Studios launched this first person fantasy role playing game on February 18 2025. Set in the world of Eora the story follows an envoy investigating a mysterious plague that is corrupting the land. Players can dual wield weapons and magic to create diverse combat styles while making choices that impact the political landscape. The game features the deep writing and companion systems that the developer is known for. It became a cornerstone of the Xbox role playing lineup for the year.

‘The Alters’ (2025)

11 bit studios released this unique survival and base building title in mid 2025. Players take control of a worker stranded on a hostile planet who must create clones of himself to survive. Each clone represents a different path his life could have taken which leads to complex interpersonal dynamics within the base. The gameplay involves resource management and strategic planning to keep the facility running while avoiding planetary threats. It offers a thought provoking narrative about identity and the choices that define a person.

‘Two Point Museum’ (2025)

Sega and Two Point Studios released this humorous management simulator on March 4 2025. Players are tasked with designing and running a successful museum while managing eccentric staff and curious visitors. The game features the signature visual style of the series and includes a wide variety of exhibits from ancient history to bizarre oddities. Users must balance education and entertainment to keep the facility profitable and prestigious. It provides a deep and entertaining management experience with a lighthearted tone.

‘Oblivion Remastered’ (2025)

Bethesda Softworks released a comprehensive remaster of the classic fantasy role playing game in May 2025. The title features updated visuals and performance improvements for Xbox Series X and S along with several quality of life changes. Players can explore the province of Cyrodiil with modern lighting and high resolution textures while revisiting one of the most beloved entries in the series. It includes all the original expansions and downloadable content in a single package. This release allowed a new generation of fans to experience the origins of the modern open world genre.

‘The Outer Worlds 2’ (2025)

Obsidian Entertainment and Xbox Game Studios released the sequel to their satirical space role playing game in late 2025. The story moves to a new solar system with a fresh cast of characters and more expansive environments to explore. Players navigate a world dominated by corporate interests while making decisions that determine the fate of entire colonies. The game features improved combat mechanics and deeper customization options for both the player and their companions. It maintains the dark humor and player freedom that defined the original experience.

‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ (2025)

Ubisoft released this massive open world epic on February 14 2025 to take the franchise to feudal Japan. Players take control of two different protagonists including a female shinobi and an African samurai with distinct playstyles. The game features a detailed recreation of the Japanese landscape with a focus on stealth and traditional sword combat. The narrative explores the conflict between the Assassins and Templars within the context of the Sengoku period. It was one of the largest third party launches for the Xbox platform during the year.

‘Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4’ (2025)

Activision released this remastered collection of the classic skating titles in 2025. The game features updated visuals and a modernized control scheme while preserving the addictive gameplay of the original versions. Players can skate through iconic levels with a massive roster of professional skaters and a curated soundtrack of punk and hip hop. The Xbox version includes full online multiplayer support and a robust park creator mode. It successfully brought the peak of the skating genre to modern hardware.

‘Gears of War Reloaded’ (2025)

The Coalition and Xbox Game Studios released this comprehensive remaster of the original trilogy on August 26 2025. The collection features completely overhauled visuals and performance for modern consoles along with updated multiplayer features. Players can experience the entire story of Delta Squad from the beginning with cinematic improvements and refined gameplay mechanics. It includes all the maps and modes from the first three games in a unified package. This release served as a bridge for fans waiting for the next major entry in the franchise.

‘Doom The Dark Ages’ (2025)

id Software and Bethesda released this prequel to the modern trilogy on May 15 2025 for Xbox and other platforms. The game explores the origins of the Slayer in a dark fantasy setting inspired by medieval warfare. Players utilize a new shield saw and a mace alongside traditional firearms to battle waves of demonic enemies. The combat is slower and more methodical than previous entries while maintaining the signature brutality of the series. It was highly praised for its unique visual direction and innovative melee combat systems.

‘Silent Hill 2’ (2025)

Konami brought the highly anticipated remake of the legendary horror title to Xbox consoles in late 2025. Developed by Bloober Team the game features an over the shoulder camera and modernized gameplay while remaining faithful to the original story. Players follow James Sunderland as he explores the fog covered town of Silent Hill in search of his deceased wife. The Xbox version utilizes the hardware to provide atmospheric lighting and 3D audio for an immersive horror experience. It successfully brought a classic of the genre to a modern audience with high production values.

‘Like a Dragon Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii’ (2025)

Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio released this unique action adventure on February 28 2025. The game follows Goro Majima as he becomes stranded on an island and takes up a life of high seas piracy. Players can engage in traditional brawling combat or take command of a ship to battle other pirates across the Pacific Ocean. The story features the trademark mix of serious drama and absurd humor that the series is famous for. It was noted for its creative departure from the standard urban environments of previous games.

‘Shinobi Art of Vengeance’ (2025)

Sega brought back its classic action franchise with this new high fidelity entry in 2025. The game features fast paced side scrolling combat with modern 3D visuals and a focus on precision movement. Players navigate a variety of urban and supernatural environments while using shuriken and magic to defeat waves of enemies. The difficulty remains high to honor the roots of the series while providing accessible options for newer players. It was a standout title for fans of classic arcade action on modern hardware.

‘Kingdom Come Deliverance II’ (2025)

Warhorse Studios and Deep Silver released this massive medieval role playing sequel on February 11 2025. The story follows Henry of Skalitz as he becomes embroiled in the political turmoil of 15th century Bohemia. Players experience a realistic simulation of the middle ages with a complex combat system and deep character progression. The game features a massive open world with detailed cities and lifelike non player characters that react to the actions of the player. It solidified its place as one of the most immersive historical simulations ever created.

‘Final Fantasy XVI’ (2025)

Square Enix brought its epic fantasy action game to the Xbox Series X and S in 2025 after a period of exclusivity. The title follows the story of Clive Rosfield as he seeks revenge in a world dominated by powerful beings called Eikons. The game features a real time combat system and massive cinematic boss battles that push the limits of the hardware. The Xbox version includes all the performance updates and downloadable content released previously. Its arrival was a major milestone for Japanese role playing games on the platform.

‘ARC Raiders’ (2025)

Embark Studios released this highly anticipated third person shooter in 2025 as a free to play experience. Players form squads to battle a mysterious mechanized threat from space that descends on the planet in massive waves. The gameplay emphasizes cooperation and the use of the environment to overcome overwhelming odds. The title features stunning visuals and a focus on high stakes action with a destructible world. It quickly gained a large following on Xbox for its polished gameplay and unique art direction.

‘Borderlands 4’ (2025)

Gearbox Software and 2K Games released the next major entry in the iconic looter shooter series in 2025. The game features a new cast of Vault Hunters and a return to the chaotic and humorous tone that fans expect. Players explore new planets and collect billions of unique weapons while following a story that expands the lore of the universe. The cooperative gameplay remains the core of the experience with improved social features and character builds. It remains the gold standard for cooperative action on the platform.

‘Monster Hunter Wilds’ (2025)

Capcom released the latest entry in its massive monster hunting franchise on February 28 2025 for Xbox consoles. The game features a seamless open world with dynamic weather patterns that change the behavior of the local wildlife. Players can hunt a variety of new and returning creatures using fourteen different weapon types with refined mechanics. The title includes full cross play support and a deep focus on environmental interaction during combat. It was one of the most critically acclaimed titles of the year for its technical innovation and addictive gameplay loop.

‘Blue Prince’ (2025)

Raw Fury published this innovative architectural puzzle game in 2025 to critical acclaim. Developed by Dogubomb the title tasks players with exploring a shifting mansion where the layout changes based on the rooms they choose to place. The goal is to reach a mysterious room at the heart of the estate before the day ends. The game features a unique art style and a focus on logical thinking and spatial reasoning. It was praised for its creative mechanics and mysterious narrative that rewarded multiple playthroughs.

‘Hollow Knight Silksong’ (2025)

Team Cherry finally released the highly anticipated sequel to its masterwork in 2025 after years of development. Players take control of Hornet as she explores a massive new kingdom filled with dangerous creatures and ancient secrets. The game features the same precise platforming and challenging combat that made the original a classic while introducing new silk based abilities. The hand drawn art style and atmospheric music create an immersive world that is both beautiful and haunting. It was one of the highest rated titles on the Xbox platform for the entire year.

‘Clair Obscur Expedition 33’ (2025)

Sandfall Interactive and Kepler Interactive released this breathtaking turn based role playing game on April 24 2025. Set in a world inspired by the French Belle Epoque the story follows a group of explorers on a mission to stop a mysterious entity called the Paintress. The game features a unique reactive combat system that allows players to perform real time dodges and parries during turn based encounters. Its high fidelity visuals and emotional storytelling made it a standout exclusive for the Series X and S. It was widely regarded as one of the best new intellectual properties of the generation.

‘Split Fiction’ (2025)

Hazelight Studios and Electronic Arts released this innovative co-op adventure in December 2025 to universal acclaim. The game follows two writers trapped inside their own clashing stories who must work together to escape a malfunctioning machine. Like the previous hits from the studio the title can only be played with two people in split screen or online modes. It features a massive variety of gameplay styles that constantly change to match the narrative context of the fantasy and sci-fi worlds. This title was celebrated as the best game of the year for its unmatched creativity and emotional impact.

Tell us which of these incredible Xbox titles you spent the most time playing this year in the comments.