The Xbox Series X games line up is full of exciting exclusives, optimized classics and new high-profile releases. Thanks to backwards compatibility, there's also hundreds of games available to play as soon as you boot up the console, and they'll look and run better than ever thanks to the Xbox Series X's powerful hardware.
Though there aren't any truly must-have Xbox Series X games at launch, Microsoft has a few aces up its sleeve. Xbox Game Pass is an incredible value proposition, giving gamers access to hundreds of games at a time, and the Xbox Series X is capable of playing games from four generations of systems. Microsoft has also spent a considerably chunk of time improving older games like Halo: The Master Chief Collection and Gears 5 so they look and run better than ever.
Remember, that basically all of the games below will also run on Xbox Series S, Microsoft's cheaper albeit less powerful Xbox, as well as Xbox One, Xbox One S and Xbox One X.
- Check out our Xbox Series X review
- Where to buy Xbox Series X: the latest stock updates
- Where to buy an Xbox Series S: the latest stock updates
Microsoft still has some heavy hitters on the way, such as Avowed, Fable and Forza Motorsport 8, but when Halo Infinite was delayed until sometime in 2021, the console lost a big launch title.
We've complied a list of Xbox Series X games that have been released or confirmed so far, including both first and third-party titles, alongside Xbox Series X games that we expect to see in the future.
Not sold on Microsoft's new Xbox? Here's where to buy PS5.
- Xbox Series X vs PS5: what we know so far
- PS5 games: all the games rumored and confirmed for the PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X vs Xbox Series S: which Xbox is right for you?
Every Xbox Series X game and Xbox Series X exclusive confirmed
With the Xbox Series S and Series X now available, these are the Xbox Series X games you can expect to play.
As Dusk Falls
Spanning 30 years in the American southwest, this "interactive drama" looks set to pull on some heartstrings, and grapple with some strained family dynamics (including a bank robbery?).
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla (out now)
Assassin's Creed Valhalla sees players take on the role of Viking raider Eivor, who leads their clan from their native home of Norway to the shores of Dark Ages England – with a hope of settling for good. But resistance from the Saxons won't exactly make it easy.
This new Assassin's Creed game leans more into RPG elements, allowing players to build and manage settlements, raid towns for resources, form alliances and even customize their character.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. It runs at 4K/60fps on Xbox Series X.
Atomic Heart
Set in an alternate universe during the "high noon of the Soviet Union", Atomic Heart is a first-person shooter with strong BioShock vibes. Developed by Mundfish, you'll play as a special agent for the Soviet government as you try to work out where your mission went horribly wrong in the twisted world around you.
We're not sure when it'll be out yet, but PC, PS5 and current gen players will also be able to enjoy this one.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Avowed
Moments after famed developer Obsidian showed off a glimpse of both Grounded and an expansion to The Outer Worlds during the Xbox Game Showcase, we also got our first look at an Elder Scrolls-style first-person RPG called Avowed.
We don't know much about it, other than that it's an expansive RPG, and you'll be able to dual-wield weapons and spells in a similar style to Skyrim. It's also set in the same universe of Pillars of Eternity.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Battlefield 6
Electronic Arts has confirmed that Battlefield 6 is coming to Xbox Series X and PS5 in 2021.
Speaking to GameSpot, EA said that Battlefield 6 will be "targeting new innovation that will be enabled by next-gen platforms". We're still largely in the dark about what Battlefield 6 is about, and whether it'll also be available on current-gen consoles, but we can't wait to find out more.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Borderlands 3 (out now)
Borderlands 3 is coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X, with players who already own the PS4 or Xbox One versions of the game being able to upgrade to the next-gen versions for free (which includes all your saves and content purchases).
In addition, the next-gen versions will include new Vault Hunter skill trees, additional add-on content, vertical split-screen, and four-player local co-op. While 2K Games has teased that crossplay may also be on the way.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. It'll run at 4K/60fps on Xbox Series X in both single-player and online multiplayer.
Bright Memory Infinite
Chinese FYQD Studio is behind the first game that was shown off in the May 7 Inside Xbox stream, Bright Memory Infinite.
It has a very sci-fi feel, but with swords and shields mixing with assault rifles and... magical beams of light acting as a grappling hook? There are even futuristic car chase sequences right out of Blade Runner – and while we don't know much about the game, our first in-engine look of it running on Xbox Series X definitely got out attention. (The game is reportedly made by a single person, too.)
We know it's coming to PC, too, and that owners of the previous Bright Memory title will get the new title for free.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Call of Duty Black Ops: Cold War (out now)
Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War is the next instalment in the Call of Duty franchise. Developed by Treyarch, Black Ops Cold War is a direct sequel to the original Black Ops title from the same developer.
The game's single-player story will take players into the tense political atmosphere of the 80s, where they can expect to encounter familiar faces from history as well as the original Black Ops title as they hunt down a mysterious Soviet agent known as “Perseus”.
Black Ops Cold War is available on current-gen consoles and next-gen platforms, with cross-platform and cross-generation support confirmed.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will hit 120fps in multiplayer and supports ray tracing.
Call of the Sea
Call of the Sea looks to be a narrative-led mystery game, tasking you with finding your lost husband among the jungles, oceans, and islands of the South Pacific.
It's already confirmed for both Xbox Game Pass and Smart Delivery, so you don't have to buy it at launch if you're a subscriber.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Chivalry 2
Chivalry 2 is a multiplayer first-person hack n' slash that sees players thrust into epic medieval battles where you can siege castles, unleash flurries of fiery arrows upon enemies and dominate in 64-player battlefields. Chivalry 2 has been confirmed for current-gen and next-gen consoles, with cross-play available across all platforms.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Chorus
Chorus is a space-flight combat simulator, with Mass Effect stylings and a neat Knight Rider gimmick – your spaceship being sentient – powering the galactic action.
There's some confusion around the name, given the font seems to write it as 'CHORVS', but we're sticking with 'CHORUS' for our collective sanity. Either way, with "mind-bending abilities" and plenty of space combat promised, this could be a great test of the Xbox Series X's graphical upgrade.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Control: Ultimate Edition (out now)
Remedy Entertainment has confirmed its critically-acclaimed supernatural action-adventure, Control, is coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X in an Ultimate Edition. Sadly, existing players won't get a free upgrade for this one unless they buy the ultimate version, but the game should look a lot nicer.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Cris Tales
Described as an "indie love letter to classic JRPG", Cris Tales is a beautifully-drawn action-adventure that allows you to see the path, present and future simultaneously as you travel across a dark, fairy-tale world.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
CrossfireX
We heard about CrossfireX back in 2019, but this new glimpse in the Xbox Games Showcase has brought it back to the forefront of our mind. It looks like classic over-the-top FPS fare, with fancy equipment and armor, wingsuits, stealthing, and some sort of villainous plot you have to stop. As the next title from Remedy (Control, Alan Wake), it's sure to be worth a look.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Cyberpunk 2077
CD Projekt Red was reticent to say whether or not its upcoming title will be releasing on the next generation of consoles. Thanks to a tweet by the developer, we now have confirmation that Cyberpunk 2077 will be coming to Xbox Series X - and the game will even make use of Microsoft's new Smart Delivery feature, allowing players to upgrade their Xbox One version of the game to the Xbox Series X version for free.
In addition, a "proper, full-blown next-gen version" of Cyberpunk 2077 will come to Xbox Series X – but it won't be available on the console at launch on December 10, 2020.
That's according to CD Projekt, the parent company of Cyberpunk 2077 developer CD Projekt Red, who revealed during an earnings call (via VGC) that an enhanced, next-gen version will be released at a later date.
“In terms of Microsoft’s console, like I said, we have officially confirmed both the update and the cross-gen availability, meaning that you’ll be able to play the game from the get-go on the next-gen,” CD Projekt SVP of business development Michal Nowakowski said during the call.
“However, when it comes to a proper, full-blown next-gen version, that’s going to come later, we haven’t announced when and I don’t have a new comment here on that."
A CD Projekt Red spokesperson confirmed to VGC that the “full-blown next-gen version” Nowakowski referred to is the previously announced Xbox Series X upgrade.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Demon Turf
Demon Turf is a "trippy" 3D platformer that sees badass protagonist Beebz fighting her way to become Demon Queen, by taking over all the Demon Turfs. Demon Turf is coming to Xbox Series X, PC and Nintendo Switch between 2020 and 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Destiny 2 (out now)
Destiny 2 is available on Xbox Series X at launch, and all its expansions are included as part of Xbox Game Pass, potentially granting it a whole new audience of players. A dedicated Xbox Series X version will launch around a month after Beyond Light, the latest expansion for the sci-fi shooter.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will run at 4K/60fps from December 9.
Dirt 5 (out now)
A new Dirt game! Dirt is a classic racing game series from developer Codemasters, and we're not surprised to see it make the way to next-gen consoles. Expect... fast cars? Racing? Dirt 5 supports by Smart Delivery, too.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game has multiple performance modes targeting either 4K/60, 4K/30 and 1440p/120fps.
Dragon Age 4
We may not know much about Dragon Age 4 quite yet, but we do know it will come to next-gen consoles - though not until April 2022 at the earliest.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Dustborn
Dustborn is a single-player, story-driven, action-adventure that sees you leading a band of misfits across a divided USA on a mission to transport a package. You'll be able to get your hands on the game when it releases for current and next-gen consoles in 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Dying Light 2
During an interview with Wccftech at E3 2019, developer Techland confirmed Dying Light 2 is set for next-gen consoles.
"Techland always has an eye on the latest new toys!" Techland's chief technology officer, Pawel Rohleder, said. "To be more specific - yes, the plan since the beginning of production has been to make Dying Light 2 a cross-generation title."
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Echo Generation
Echo Generation was the first new Xbox Series X game shown off in the Xbox Games Showcase – though in the pre-show rather than the event itself. It looks to be a "turn-based adventure game", developed by game studio Cococucumber, with a 2021 release date on both Xbox One and Xbox Series X. There's more than a whiff of Stranger Things about it, with a synth-heavy soundtrack, cabins in the woods, and teenagers encountering the weird and supernatural (meteorites, robots, etc).
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Everwild
A surprise announcement during XO19 was Rare's next original title, Everwild, which has now been confirmed for Xbox Series X. The game as a gorgeous cel-shaded art style, and a clearly environmental angle through aiding your local ecosystem and the fantastical creatures that live in it.
We don't know much about Everwild just yet but Rare has said that it will "give you memorable, engaging and meaningful experiences for players everywhere to share."
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Exomecha
What is Exomecha? Described as a "free-to-play online competitive first-person shooter", it looks like you'll be battling in mechs and fighting off massive robot bosses. It also cites a "unique battle royale mode", because it's mandatory these days.
It's not an exclusive, given it's also coming to PC, but you will find it on both Xbox One and Xbox Series X.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Fable
The biggest announcement of the Xbox Games Showcase earlier this year, this brief Fable teaser was unsurprisingly saved until last. Showing off a magical, nature-dense world full of fairies (and frogs), it certainly looks like Fable – and sounds more like a reboot than sequel of sorts – though we're not sure exactly how far along this instalment from Playground games really is. Either way, it's excellent fan service, and we can't wait to see if it lives up to the Fable legacy. And yes, it's exclusive to PC and Xbox.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Far Cry 6
Far Cry 6 is coming to Xbox Series X sometime after April 2021 - and will utilize Smart Delivery.
Far Cry 6 takes place in a "tropical paradise frozen in time" called Yara. Yara is controller by dictator Anton Castillo (played by Breaking Bad's Giancarlo Esposito), who aims to restore the paradise to glory with help from his son, Diego - through any means necessary. However, a revolution is taking place in Yara which aims to take down Castillo. Players take on the role of protagonist Danny, a revolutionist in the fight against Castillo.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will run at 4K/60 on Xbox Series X.
FIFA 21 (out now)
EA has confirmed that FIFA 21 is joining Madden on Xbox Series X this year. Buying the game on Xbox One unlocks the game on Xbox Series X, too, but through something EA is calling 'Dual Entitlement' rather than Smart Pass. Progress will carry between the two versions, too.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Fortnite
Fortnite is available on the Xbox Series X at launch. After all, could you imagine players of one of the world's biggest games going without it for even a second? Fortnite runs at 4K 60fps on Xbox Series X, and 1080p 60fps on Xbox Series S.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will feature ray tracing and run at 4K/60fps.
Forza Motorsport
The next game in the racing series Forza, for you motorheads. We didn't really get any details about the game from its brief appearance in the July 23 showcase, but you can be sure there'll be fast cars and a lot of tracks to race down.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Gears 5 (out now)
Gears 5 may have released in 2019, but The Coalition has upgraded the game for Xbox Series X. Gears 5 on Xbox Series X runs at 60 FPS in 4K (compared to 30 FPS on Xbox One X), with Microsoft claiming the "transition from real-time cutscenes to gameplay is incredibly smooth". There is also "noticeable improvements" in other areas of the game including loading times.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will run at 4K/60, and also includes new 4K textures. Multiplayer will run at 120fps.
Gotham Knights
Gotham Knights is coming to Xbox Series X in 2021. Essentially the successor to the Batman: Arkham games, it comes from Warner Bros Montreal, the studio behind the game Arkham Origins. You play as Batgirl, Nightwing, Red Hood or Robin, and not Batman himself – he's dead. The Court of the Owls and Mr Freeze will feature as villains in this action RPG, which you can enjoy in two-player co-op as well as in singleplayer.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Gothic
After gauging interest with a playable teaser, developer THQ Nordic has confirmed that it's going to remake its 2001 cult classic and bring it to Xbox Series X.
Nordic is planning to "stay as faithfully as possible to the original experience" and modernise gameplay mechanics but it's also promised fans that it'll be playing close attention to player feedback from the playable teaser; already the developer has said that it's hearing calls for a "grittier and less colourful world".
Development is still in the very early stages, though, and we shouldn't expect to see it launch on Microsoft's console in 2020.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Grand Theft Auto 5
Third time’s a charm for Rockstar Games, which is set to bring GTA 5 to next-gen consoles in what the company is calling a "new and enhanced" edition. What exactly is new or enhanced remains to be seen or what this means for the still-rumored GTA 6 release date. We’d like to finally see some single-player DLC added, if possible. What we do know is that the the enhanced version will come in 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Graven
Graven is an action-adventure RPG/first-person puzzler that sees you exploring a "dark fantasy world as a wrongly convicted man of faith". It's coming in 2021 to current and next-gen consoles.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite was the first title that Microsoft confirmed for Xbox Series X.
Originally intended as a launch title for Series X, the game was delayed until 2021 in August, dealing the Xbox Series X a massive blow. The game will hopefully be worth the wait, though.
According to Microsoft, Halo Infinite (like all exclusive Xbox game Studios titles) will use the new Smart Delivery feature. That means you only have to purchase the game once, and you'll have the access to the best available version for whichever Xbox console you choose to play on.
You can the latest footage above, which offers real in-game combat and truly gave us the chills.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. Halo Infinite's multiplayer will be capable of 120fps.
Hitman 3
Hitman 3 will be coming to current and next-gen consoles in January 2021. The game will finish up the World of Assassination storyline that began with the series 2016 reboot and the reveal trailer even shows off some gameplay footage from the Dubai level. It’s just as eye-popping as you’d expect it to be, with Agent 47 infiltrating a skyscraper by scaling the outside against the desert backdrop and donning the various disguises the series is known for.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Hood: Outlaws and Legends
Hood: Outlaws and Legends is a third-person medieval action game developed by Sumo Digital. We don't know much about the gameplay but PvPvE seems to feature quite heavily, pitting two teams of players against AI in this gritty world.
Hood: Outlaws and Legends has been confirmed for Xbox Series X - as well as PS5 - and we can expect to see it sometime in 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Hogwarts Legacy
Although it was announced at Sony's big PS5 price reveal event, we can confirm that Hogwarts Legacy from developer Avalanche and publisher Warner Bros. Games will be coming to next-gen Xbox consoles. According to the devs, Legacy is an open-world, single-player, action RPG set in the 1800s wizarding world, well before the rise of Voldemort and the death of Harry's parents. Players will get to make a custom witch or wizard and take them through the perils of attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry when the game comes out in 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC
Immortals Fenyx Rising
Originally called Gods and Monsters, Immortals Fenyx Rising sees players taking on the role of Fenyx, a red-headed mortal who can perform various godly abilities and wield exotic weaponry. It’s up to Fenyx to restore order to a fantastical world that’s been thrown into chaos by Typhon, one of the deadliest creatures in Greek mythology.
Immortals is arriving on Xbox Series X at the same time as all other platforms - December 3.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will run at 4K/60fps on Xbox Series X.
Just Dance 2021
The latest entry in the Just Dance series will be disco dancing its way to Xbox Series X. Featuring tracks from Dua Lipa, Eminem and The Weeknd, Just Dance 21 is due for release on Xbox Series X and S on November 24, a little after its release date of November 12 for current gen platforms.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
What would a next-gen console be without next-gen Lego? Nothing, that's what. So it's lucky that Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X. That means you can play through nine Star Wars stories in one game - what a time to be alive! Coming in 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Little Nightmares II
Suspense-adventure (read: creepy) Little Nightmares is back. The sequel looks even more spine-chilling than its predecessor, but at least this time it seems you get a buddy to join you on your terrifying adventure. Expect puppets, headless creatures and slender-man looking gentlemen.
Little Nightmares II is coming to PS5, Xbox Series X, Switch and PC on February 11.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Madden NFL 21 (out now)
That's right! The next Madden game is coming to Xbox Series X. The NFL game will bring American football to your console with high-quality graphics and (hopefully) super smooth gameplay on the high-spec console. Also confirmed for Xbox Smart Delivery.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Marvel's Avengers (out now)
Marvel's Avengers will be getting a free next-gen upgrade to be playable on PS5 and Xbox Series X in 2021. This upgrade will improve the game's graphics, make load times faster and add ray-tracing, while also allowing current-gen players to move their progress onto the next-gen consoles. In addition, it will introduce cross-play for PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Metal: Hellsinger
Metal: Hellsinger is aiming to take Doom's crown as the most metal game of all time. Featuring an original soundtrack with vocals from the likes of Trivium's Matt Heafy and Arch Enemy's Alissa White-Gluz, the rhythm FPS marries headbanging metal with shooting up demons - with accurate shots intensifying the music and increasing your power. It's coming to current-gen and next-gen consoles in 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
NBA 2K21 (out now)
NBA 2K21 has a pretty dazzling next-gen version coming for launch on Xbox Series X. Expect an incredibly realistic-looking game on next-gen hardware – which, considering the existing graphical standards of the series, is saying something. You'll be able to buy it from launch on November 10.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
New Genesis: Phantasy Star Online 2
This free-to-play online game first launched on Xbox One and PC, and it's set to join the next-gen Xbox Series X in 2021, alongside the launch of new planet to explore and fight your way through (Earth, if you've heard of it?).
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Observer: System Redux
Observer has already graced current-gen consoles, but developer Bloober Team has revealed that it is remastering the sci-fi horror for PS5 and Xbox Series X - for release on November 10, along with the new Xbox consoles. This remastered version will feature enhanced gameplay, next-gen graphics and new story content.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps (out now)
Yes, this game already exists, but we now have confirmation that the latest Ori platformer is coming to Xbox Series X, with refresh rates of up to 120Hz in 4K HDR.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will be capable of 6K/60fps or 4K/120fps in HDR.
Outriders
People Can Fly (Bulletstorm's developer) has confirmed that its upcoming co-op shooter Outriders will land on both PS5 and Xbox Series X in February 2021. It's been described as "a co-op RPG shooter for a new generation set in an original, dark and desperate sci-fi universe".
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Overcooked: All You Can Eat
A scrumptious bundle which includes Overcooked and Overcooked 2, Overcooked: All You Can Eat spruces up two classic co-op games for Xbox Series X. With all the DLC included, as well as some new content, this remaster supports cross-play, online multiplayer and a saucy 4K resolution at 60fps.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Paradise Lost
Due for release on PS5 and Xbox Series X later this year, Paradise Lost is a first-person adventure about a young boy who finds a Nazi bunker while exploring a post-apocalyptic Polish wasteland and aims to uncover the truth behind the nuclear attack which devastated his homeland 20 years prior.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Planet Coaster: Console Edition
Confirmed to launch on Xbox Series X on November 12, Planet Coaster is a tycoon game where you try to run a successful theme park. You can even customize the different rides to your liking. Since the PC version lets you make a lot of granular tweaks to your park, we're intrigued to see how well the controls work on console.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Poker Club
Due for release in 2020, Poker Club is apparently "the most immersive poker simulation ever made" and sees you living the life of a poker pro, joining a club and competing in online tournaments.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Pragmata
Another offering from Capcom, we don't know very much about Pragmata. The game's trailer shows a spaceman protecting the world (and a little girl) from otherwordly forces, and the character walking through desolate futuristic streets; it looks like something Hideo Kojima would concoct. It'll be a while before we get our hands on Pragmata, which will release for Xbox Series X and PS5 in 2022.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Psychonauts 2
The long-awaited Psychonauts 2 is coming to Xbox Series X, and it looks like it might just be worth the wait. There looks to be a musical feel to the game, with Jack Black lending his vocals to the soundtrack – we hope he's just as present as the 'mote of light' following the player around the game.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Rainbow Six Quarantine
Rainbow Six Quarantine was first confirmed during Ubisoft's E3 2019 press conference. It was never given a solid release date but it has since been delayed into the 2020-2021 financial year. It's a three-person co-op game set in the future of Rainbow Six's universe, whatever that is.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Rainbow Six Siege (out now)
Rainbow Six Siege director, Leroy Athanassof, has confirmed in an interview with Windows Central that Ubisoft's plan is to have the online tactical shooter be available on Xbox Series X from the console's launch day. Not only that but the next-gen versions will boast 4K/120fps support.
Ubisoft doesn't want players to face being split up from their friends just because some have jumped into the new generation when others haven't so it's also been confirmed that the game will support cross-gen play. That means Xbox Series X players will still be able to play with the Xbox One friends.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will be able to run at 120fps.
Recompile
In what might be the first game that lets you play as a sentient virus, Recompile sees you infiltrate the digital, virtual world of The Mainframe. The game combines traditional exploration-based platforming with a dynamic narrative that encourages player choice. Will you go in all guns blazing, or hack enemies to turn them against each other? Ultimately, your choices will affect the future of Recompile’s world.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Resident Evil 8: Village
While the series has focussed on glossy third-person remakes of classic survival horror adventures recently in the shape of Resident Evil 2 and 3, the future of the mainline series is firmly first-person. Resident Evil 8: Village is coming to the Xbox Series X, and looks as if it will feature a return to the creepy European setting of the series’ high-point, Resident Evil 4. From werewolf-like monsters to the return of Chris Redfield, it looks as terrifying as it is beautiful.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Ride 4
The next entry in the fast-paced, motorcycle racing series will be coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X on January 21, 2021, and promises " hundreds of bikes, dozens of tracks and a whole new level of realism".
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Riders Republic
If you're an extreme sport fan then you may want to check out Ubisoft's Riders Republic when it lands on current and next-gen consoles on February 25, 2021. The multiplayer playground sees you having access to bikes, skis, snowboards and wingsuits - what more could you ask for?
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Scarlet Nexus
From Bandai Namco, this unsettling action game sees you fighting off flowery enemies to protect humanity. It has an art style clearly informed by modern 3D anime, with a teenage protagonist with the gift of 'psychokinesis', laying waste to some sort of sentient plant life – with human legs? We don't get it, but from the outset this looks like a hack-and-slash adventure worth a lazy afternoon. It's been confirmed for Smart Delivery too.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Scorn (Xbox Series X exclusive)
Oh boy, this trailer was disconcerting. Scorn appears to take place in a grim, gray, and bloody world, with mysterious stone statues and intestine-lookalike worms combining for... something. We got some serious Alien / Prometheus vibes – fitting, given the clear influence from Alien designer H.R. Giger – and know it's a first-person horror game, set in "a nightmarish universe of odd forms and somber tapestry".
It's said to be an Xbox Series X exclusive, though it also appears to have a Steam page, so we imagine it will be a timed exclusivity window. We expect a release in 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Second Extinction: Reclaim Earth
Earth has fallen. Rally your squad. Shoot dinosaurs. This FPS game sees you gunning down dinos to help retake earth from these scaly beasties. The name isn't inspiring, but the trailer suggests there may be some cooperative or competitive element to keep things interesting.
Xbox Series X Optimied? Yes.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
Xbox Series X's name and design was officially revealed during the Game Awards 2019. Alongside a look at the next-gen console we also recieved an official announcement that there's another Hellblade on the way - and it's coming to the next Xbox.
We don't know much about what Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 will be about but the announcement trailer, harnessing the Series X's next-gen technology, was extremely impressive - and it's likely the game will make use of Smart Delivery.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One
Sherlock Holmes I presume? There have been many variations of Sherlock Holmes games but this one sees a younger version of the detective traveling to the Mediterranean to uncover the truth behind his mother's death. The famous detective will be making his Xbox Series X debut in 2021.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Stalker 2
Over a decade after the last S.T.A.L.K.E.R. game hit PC, a full-on sequel is coming to next-gen. The FPS survival horror series has been due an update for a while now, and this latest entry is sure to whet a lot of gamers' appetites. Using improved graphics and processing power to terrify us even further feels somewhat evil, though.
As a PC and Xbox exclusive, you won't see this on PS5, either.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
State of Decay 3
State of Decay 3 will, unsurprisingly, be the sequel to the undead open world game State of Decay 2. The title wasn't universally loved, with some criticizing repetitive mechanics, but the increased possibilities of the Xbox Series X console could have some surprises in store.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Steelrising
We don't know a whole lot about Steelrising, apart from that it's a Souls-like action game that sees you joining a revolution against King Louis XVI's automata army. Coming to PC and next-gen consoles.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League
King Shark, Harley Quinn, Deadshot and Captain Boomerang team up in the newest game from Batman: Arkham developers Rocksteady Studios. You can play this game in co-op and singleplayer – and as the name suggests, the Justice League is in your sights. We've been introduced to Superman, so it'll be intriguing to see who else turns up. The game isn't arriving until 2022, though.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Tell Me Why (out now)
The latest adventure from Life Is Strange developer Dontnod looks to be a brother-sister drama, where two siblings kept apart for most of their lives are reunited and start to dredge through their (predictably dramatic) past. It had previously been announced for PC, but it's also available on Xbox Series X.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
TemTem
TemTem, toted as the online PC version of Pokemon will be heading to Xbox Series X in 2021. If you're keen to check out the six islands of Airborne Archipelago before then, it's currently in Early Access on Steam.
TemTem is also heading to PS5 and Nintendo Switch.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC
Tetris Effect: Connected (out now)
This fascinating remix of Tetris is getting a multiplayer expansion – and while the 2018 game actually featured as a timed PS4 exclusive, this expansion looks to return the favor for Xbox Series X (and PC).
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
The Ascent
If Cyberpunk 2077 isn't enough dystopian sci-fi for you, The Ascent may have you covered. With dirty, high-tech cities, alien populations living side by side, and talk of supernovas causing havoc, will The Ascent be an imitator or an innovator? We'll find out soon enough.
We do know the game will be a top-down shooter, and is the first game from developer Neon Giant.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
The Gunk
From the makers of Steamworld comes this 3D action game, that appears to center around cleaning up pollution and massive areas of black 'gunk' that the game is named after. There seems to be a combat element, too, what with a monstrous beast roaring in the closing moments of the trailer.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
The Lord of the Rings: Gollum
Announced in March 2019, Daedalic's Gollum game has now been confirmed for PS5 and Xbox Series X.
The developer confirmed to Edge, that The Lord of the Rings: Gollum will be a "stunning next-gen adventure". Previously Daedlic confirmed Gollum will release in 2021 for PC and "all relevant console platforms at that time". Whether the game will be cross-generation (releasing on PS4 and Xbox One also) is still unconfirmed however.
But what will the game actually be about? Gollum is an action-adventure which focuses on the ring-obsessed creature. According to Daedalic, the narrative-driven game "tells Gollum's story from a perspective never seen before ... while staying true to the legendary books."
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
The Medium
The Medium is a next-gen psychological horror game from the developer behind Blair Witch – and with the composer behind the Silent Hill series helping to score the action. It's coming on December 10, 2020.
Players will inhabit the body of a spiritual medium called Marianne, bordering this world and the next. We can pretty much guarantee it will sound terrifying, and with it being so many years since a Silent Hill game, we can't wait to see if The Medium is a worthy successor.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
The Outer Worlds: Peril on Gorgon (out now)
The Outer Worlds is being optimized for Xbox Series X – the game's currently available on Game Pass for console, so hopefully you'll be able to try it out on the newer machines for no extra cost.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Unknown 9: Awakening
As one of the only new games announced at Gamescom Opening Night Live, Unknown 9: Awakening was revealed with a fancy CGI trailer. It showed a young girl named Haroona who's struggling to understand her mystery, supernatural abilities.
Unknown 9: Awakening is scheduled to come to Xbox Series X and PC, although no release date was given. The CGI trailer gives us an idea of the concept behind the game, but we'll have to wait to see more of how develops.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2
The sequel to Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines is here! With telekinesis, monstrous puppets, and (of course) plenty of vampirism, this looks like a must-buy game for Xbox Series X. It sounds like it will have a banging soundtrack too.
With the previous game releasing in 2004, there's a lot of hype for this title, and the next-gen specs look set to make it a first-person vampire game to remember.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Warframe (out now)
Leyou Technology, parent company of Warframe developer Digital Extremes, has revealed that its free-to-play online sci-fi shooter Warframe will be coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X.
In an earnings report by Leyou Technology, the company stated that it's "preparing to expand Warframe to more platforms, such as the next-generation consoles and other devices".
However, there's no indication of when Warframe will land on PS5 or Xbox Series X.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Warhammer 40,000: Darktide
This "visceral 4-player co-op action game set in hive Tertium" will see you and your friends fighting off hordes of enemies, with a host of ammunition and military gadgets to do it. It's from the developers of Warhammer fantasy Left4Dead-style game Vermintide, too, so it should be pretty great. Coming 2021 to PC and Xbox Series X only.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes.
Watch Dogs: Legion (out now)
First announced at E3 2019, Watch Dogs Legion was initially confirmed for a March 2020 release. The game eventually released on October 29, 2020 – Watch Dogs: Legion utilizes Smart Delivery, meaning you'll get to play the London-set open world game from November 10 on the Xbox Series X.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game will run at 4K/30fps and includes ray tracing.
WRC 9
It's been officially confirmed that the latest version of the FIA World Rally Championship will officially hit Xbox Series X and PS5. The racing title will release in September 2020 for PC, Switch, Xbox One and PS4, but will also release on next-gen consoles at some point.
“The introduction of new-generation gaming consoles is a wonderfully exciting step and we’re delighted WRC 9 will be the first rally game to become available to gamers on such platforms,” WRC Promoter managing director Oliver Ciesla said.
According to the game's website, WRC 9 will feature rallies in Kenya, New Zealand and Japan from the 2020 WRC calendar, alongside over 400km of roads from all 13 scheduled rounds of the 2020 season.
WRC 10 and WRC 11 have also been confirmed.
Xbox Series X Optimized? TBC.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon (out now)
Want to play a Yakuza game on Xbox Series X? You'll be able to from the console's launch.
Like A Dragon technically came out in Japan this January (on PS5), though, so it's only the Western release that's being timed for next-gen consoles. It's been confirmed for Smart Delivery too. You can play it from launch.
Given how beloved the Yakuza series is, too, it'll be sure to get a lot of attention – with this title seeing you play as young man Ichi as he navigates the organized crime world of urban Japan – but the trailer above shows it off better than we could summarize it.
Xbox Series X Optimized? Yes. The game runs at 4K/30fps or 1440p/60fps.
Rumored Xbox Series X games
Starfield
Bethesda has quite a lot of projects in the works, but the one we seem to know the least about is Starfield. All we know so far is that Starfield is the gaming behemoth's first new IP in 25 years and will be a single player RPG set in outer space.
Having only seen an announcement trailer, we don't expect Starfield to release until at least 2020 which means it will land in the prime window to become an Xbox Series X game. Bethesda hasn't let slip if this will be the case, but it seems likely we will be venturing into Bethesda's galaxy on next-generation consoles.
The Elder Scrolls 6
As we said, Bethesda has been pretty busy behind the scenes since E3 2018. Not only is Starfield on the cards, but the long-awaited Elder Scrolls 6 has also been confirmed to be in the works.
Bethesda's Todd Howard has already stated that The Elder Scrolls 6 won't be coming out until after Starfield. So it'll be a while before we venture into Tamriel again, likely on next-generation consoles.
Grand Theft Auto 6
Ok, yes, we are being a bit hopeful here - mainly because Grand Theft Auto 6 has not been announced by Rockstar Games. But it's almost guaranteed that we will see a new instalation in the Grand Theft Auto series, and it's not going to be for a while.
Therefore, it is likely that a release date will fall into the next generation, making GTA 6 an Xbox Series X game.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake
Again, the Final Fantasy 7 Remake has not been confirmed to be an Xbox Series X game but Square Enix has confirmed the title will come to PS4 first - with an Xbox One and PC release likely in the future .
Given the age of the Xbox One, and the ambitious nature of the game - it's coming in multiple episodes across a multi-year release schedule - a cross-generation title with next-gen platforms isn't out of the question. So we're definitely hoping to see the Final Fantasy 7 Remake on Xbox Series X.
Check out everything we know so far about Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 2.
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