The 2010s marked a notable development for the Microsoft-owned Xbox console, as numerous highly successful releases demonstrated the Xbox 360 and Xbox One's technical prowess and successfully launched the next-gen era on consoles, allowing it to match its main rival, the PlayStation, successfully.

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The release of numerous well-received titles was bolstered by the launch of Microsoft Game Pass, which introduced hundreds of new video games that bridged the cross-platform gap and kickstarted a new era in gaming. This list explores the best titles on Xbox in the 2010s and how they contributed to Microsoft's console.

10 State Of Decay 2

State of Decay 2

Action Survival Horror Released May 22, 2018 ESRB M For Mature 17+ due to Blood and Gore, Drug Reference, Intense Violence, Strong Language Developer(s) Undead Labs Publisher(s) Microsoft Game Studios Multiplayer Online Multiplayer Platform(s) Xbox One, PC How Long To Beat 16 Hours Metascore 69 OpenCritic Rating Fair Powered by Expand Collapse

State of Decay 2 is a zombie survival game available on the Xbox One. It follows a group of survivors in a post-apocalyptic world. Managing group dynamics, collecting resources and completing missions for the group's benefit is of the utmost importance, as mistakes often lead to a fall in morale, which in turn causes conflict, desertion, and fights.

The game is further complicated by introducing other survivor groups that, depending on the dynamics, might cooperate or unite against you to destroy your base and claim your resources. The multiplayer allows up to four players in one session to take on missions together, gather resources, or dispatch zombie hordes, significantly increasing replayability.

9 Sea Of Thieves

Sea of Thieves

Adventure Released March 20, 2018 ESRB T for Teen: Crude Humor, Use of Alcohol, Violence Developer(s) Rare Publisher(s) Microsoft Game Studios Engine Unreal Engine 4 Multiplayer Online Multiplayer, Online Co-Op Cross-Platform Play PC, PS5, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S Platform(s) PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X How Long To Beat 130+ Hours X|S Optimized Yes File Size Xbox Series 89 GB (December 2023) Metascore 69 Platforms That Support Crossplay PC, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S, PS5 OpenCritic Rating Fair Powered by Expand Collapse

Sea of Thieves brings the thrill of pirate life to Xbox consoles as you explore vast seas, plunder treasures, and disembark on islands. With a constantly expanding number of seasonal updates, you're guaranteed to experience new adventures frequently.

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Cooperation is key in Sea of Thieves, as crews of up to three players are required to coordinate various roles on the ship, which include steering, raising sails, firing canons, and repairing damage. Those who seek conflict can take their ship and engage in sea battles against other players in PvP events.

8 Quantum Break

Quantum Break

Action Adventure Released April 5, 2016 ESRB M for Mature: Blood, Intense Violence, Strong Language Developer(s) Remedy Entertainment Publisher(s) Microsoft Engine Northlight Engine Platform(s) PC, Xbox One How Long To Beat 12 Hours X|S Optimized No File Size Xbox Series 83 GB (November 2023) OpenCritic Rating Strong Powered by Expand Collapse

One of the games that offers a unique form of narration and storytelling comes in the form of Quantum Break, a title that combines video game mechanics with live-action TV-style episodes. Jack Joyce's actions using his superpowers (Time Stop, Time Shield, and Time Dodge) resonate throughout the in-game world and further gameplay direction.

Quantum Break was the first video game announced for Xbox One series.

The blend of TV episode-style narration and video game progression delivered a unique experience that inspired many titles afterward. Interactive storytelling became one of the aspects of the video game industry that received a lot of attention after the release of Quantum Break.

7 Gears Of War 4

Gears of War 4

Third-Person Shooter Released October 11, 2016 ESRB M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language Developer(s) The Coalition Publisher(s) Microsoft Game Studios Engine Unreal Engine 4 Multiplayer Online Multiplayer, Online Co-Op, Local Multiplayer Franchise Gears of War Platform(s) Xbox One, PC OpenCritic Rating Mighty Powered by Expand Collapse

Perhaps one of the most popular Xbox-exclusive series, Gears of War, received its fourth installment in 2016. This game continued the tradition of third-person-based shooters, emphasizing quick combat mechanics that require fast reactions and switching between covers. Players can utilize different tactics to progress through the campaign or win multiplayer matches.

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In campaign mode, you assume the role of JD Fenix, the son of Marcus Fenix (protagonist of the original trilogy), who, along with his friends, Kait Diaz and Del Walker, battles against COG (Coalition of Ordered Governments) and the Swarm, while uncovering the fundamental connection between ongoing events and those in the previous installments.

6 Forza Motorsport 6

Forza Motorsport 6

Racing Released September 15, 2015 ESRB E for Everyone Developer(s) Turn 10 Studios Publisher(s) Microsoft Multiplayer Local Multiplayer, Online Multiplayer Franchise Forza Motorsport PC Release Date September 6, 2016 OpenCritic Rating Mighty Platform(s) PC, Xbox One How Long To Beat 25 Hours Powered by Expand Collapse

Utilizing the Xbox One's advanced capabilities compared to its predecessor, Forza Motorsport 6 delivered gaming performance and visuals that weren’t possible before. With over 450 cars and 26 tracks, each with unique handling, performance, and customization, Forza Motorsport 6 offers hours of enjoyment to both hardcore racing enthusiasts and casual players.

Weather conditions further enhance races, as snow and rain significantly impact performance and handling. Furthermore, the AI in Forza Motorsport 6 uses the Drivatar system, which collects data from previous races and develops various tactics to beat the player.

5 Ori And The Blind Forest

Ori and The Blind Forest

Platformer Adventure Released March 11, 2015 ESRB E For Everyone due to Mild Fantasy Violence Developer(s) Moon Studios Publisher(s) Microsoft Game Studios Engine Unity Platform(s) Xbox One, Switch, PC How Long To Beat 9 Hours X|S Optimized No File Size Xbox Series 9 GB (November 2023) OpenCritic Rating Mighty Powered by Expand Collapse

Ori and the Blind Forest combines challenging gameplay and a heartfelt narrative. Following spirit guardian Ori’s quest to save the first of Nibel from decay, you'll fight enemies, solve puzzles, and navigate demanding platform challenges while exploring different regions.

Sein was originally envisioned as the protagonist instead of Ori.

Beautiful hand-drawn visuals and Gareth Coker’s orchestral score, emphasizing in-game events as they unfold, further enhances the striking narrative and unexpectedly deep story. Following its widespread success, the game received a sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, which matched its predecessors' fame.

4 Sunset Overdrive

Sunset Overdrive

Third-Person Shooter Open-World Released October 28, 2014 ESRB M For Mature 17+ due to Blood and Gore, Drug Reference, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Violence Developer(s) Insomniac Games Publisher(s) Microsoft Game Studios Engine Insomniac Engine v. 4.0 Platform(s) Xbox One, PC How Long To Beat 10 Hours X|S Optimized No File Size Xbox Series 26 GB (November 2023) OpenCritic Rating Strong Powered by Expand Collapse

Sunset Overdrive is one of the rare games that embraces a creative, laidback tone that fosters creativity. Starting with the possibility of precisely tailoring protagonists' looks to their wishes, players combat a bizarre apocalypse in Sunset City caused by a tainted energy drink.

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Over-the-top humor, pop culture references, and fourth-wall-breaking moments further distance this title from the orthodox approach in the video gaming industry. Movement and chaos-like shooting dynamics further accentuate the overall mayhem that is a keynote in the game's dynamics, visuals, and soundtrack.

3 Gears Of War 3

Gears of War 3

Third-Person Shooter Released September 20, 2011 ESRB M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language Developer(s) Epic Games Publisher(s) Microsoft Game Studios Engine Unreal Engine 3 Multiplayer Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op, Local Multiplayer, Online Multiplayer Cross-Platform Play Xbox 360, Xbox One, & Xbox Series X/S Franchise Gears of War Number of Players 1-5 Platform(s) Xbox 360 How Long To Beat 10 Hours How Long To Beat (Completionist Runs) 21 Hours Local Co-Op Support Yes Powered by Expand Collapse

The Gears of War series has two titles on this list, deservedly. Gears of War 3, the trilogy's final part, ties up the story and enhances the shooting, movement, and cooperative gameplay developed throughout the series. Fighting the Locust horde, Marcus Fenix and Delta Squad are humanity’s last chance for survival.

Acclaimed as one of the best-looking games on the Xbox 360, the developers delivered highly detailed in-game characters and expansive environments. Polished game mechanics, a variety of weapons, and an array of tactics ensures engaging combat. Conversely, introducing Beast Mode and Horde 2.0 for multiplayer allowed for a great post-campaign experience.

2 Forza Horizon 4

Forza Horizon 4

Racing Open-World Released September 28, 2018 ESRB t Developer(s) Playground Games Publisher(s) Microsoft Game Studios Engine Forza Tech Multiplayer Online Multiplayer, Online Co-Op Franchise Forza Horizon Platform(s) Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PC How Long To Beat 13 Hours X|S Optimized Yes File Size Xbox Series 78 GB (December 2023) OpenCritic Rating Mighty Powered by Expand Collapse

Another racing title in the Forza series, Forza Horizon 4, adopts an open-world approach that explores the United Kingdom’s countryside. This allows players to explore Edinburgh, the Lake District, and the Cotswolds while traversing muddy roads, icy lakes, rugged hills, and concrete paths.

Hospital Records, a radio station featured in Forza Horizon 4, is an actual radio station in England.

Introducing dynamic seasons significantly affects driving conditions and allows players to prepare appropriately for the races ahead. Multiplayer plays a prominent role in Forza Horizon 4, as they share world competition with real players in diverse events that shift focus from collaboration to competition.

1 Halo: Reach

Halo: Reach

FPS Released September 14, 2010 ESRB m Developer(s) Bungie Publisher(s) Microsoft Game Studios Engine Blam engine Multiplayer Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer Franchise Halo Platform(s) Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC Powered by Expand Collapse

Perhaps the most famous Xbox exclusive, Halo, received a poignant closure on the Bungie development team's efforts. Halo: Reach acts as a prequel to the Halo series. Instead of focusing on Master Chief, the game follows the exploits of the Spartan-II squad known as Noble Team, which is tasked with defending the planet Reach from the Covenant.

Fighting a futile battle against an overwhelming enemy adds a great storytelling note of sacrifice and team dynamics. The Noble Team fights a losing battle only to allow humanity to escape from the ruthless progression of the Covenant. Storytelling is asserted with polished mechanics and greatly expanded multiplayer modes that take off from the campaign, which is regarded as one of the best prequels in gaming.

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