These are the very best PS5 games. The PlayStation 5 library is large and growing, so we've rounded up a selection of our absolute favorites, ranging from new PS5 games to modern classics, big-budget AAA releases to indie gems, and everything in between. As a new year begins, it's a good time to catch up on games you may have missed, and this list should serve as a starting point. Every game on this list gets our mark of approval as the very best the platform has to offer. This list includes recent favorites like The 2024 Game Awards winner Astro Bot and one of GameSpot's Games of the Year, Metaphor ReFantazio, as well as more recent games like Nioh 3. Plus, there's no shortage of other first- and third-party hits, like Marvel's Spider-Man 2, Diablo 4, and Street Fighter 6. The PlayStation 5 is leading the market at more than 92 million units sold. The console has also gotten a facelift with the PS5 Slim model, the beefy PS5 Pro refresh, and a portable peripheral (of sorts) in the form of the streaming PlayStation Portal. For even more recommendations to get the most out of your PS5, be sure to check out our best PS5 controllers and best PS5 headsets. While you're at it, check out some of our selections for the best games on other platforms, best Xbox Series X games, best Xbox One games, and best Nintendo Switch games. Advertisement 
007 First Light 007 First Light proves that James Bond doesn't need to be a relic of a bygone era, as Hitman developer IO Interactive puts its signature spin on Britain's favorite secret agent. The studio charts a new origin for the world-famous character, establishing a new foundation that has everything a Bond fan could ask for: gadgets, guns, and one-liners. Every stage in this globe-trotting adventure is a playground of possibility, anchored by exceptional performances from the cast and a story that shows just how Bond earns his 00 status. It's arguably the best Bond adventure in decades, as IO Interactive makes excellent use of its license to thrill. Read our 007 First Light review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Alan Wake 2 The long-awaited sequel to the psychological thriller Alan Wake was worth the wait. The game follows Alan Wake as he seeks to escape from the Dark Place, while a concurrent campaign follows FBI agent Saga Anderson. The twisting (and very meta) story lets both characters inform and illuminate one another, delivering a visually striking and eerie experience full of moments like you've never seen in a game. Read our Alan Wake 2 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Astro Bot PlayStation mascot Astro had already debuted on PlayStation 5 with Astro's Playroom, a pre-installed tech demo that showed off the capabilities of the DualSense controller. In Astro Bot, the adorable little Sony mascot comes into its own with a full-fledged sequel that is also, as of now, the best-reviewed game of the year. Not only does Astro Bot squeeze technical wonder out of the PS5 capabilities, but it's also just a constantly surprising and impeccably well-crafted platformer that earns a place next to the very best the genre has to offer. It's a can't-miss on PS5, especially if you enjoyed the little taste from Astro's Playroom. See our Astro Bot review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Baldur's Gate 3 Larian's masterpiece RPG is an incredible display of player agency and choice. The game replicates the Dungeons & Dragons experience like no other, giving you the freedom to approach scenarios in almost any way you can imagine, truly crafting your own tale as you engage with a multitude of memorable characters. It's mechanically complex but approachable, often beautiful to watch, and always gripping. Read our Baldur's Gate 3 review. See at PlayStation Store Advertisement 
Blue Prince What if you inherited an old manor house, but it changed radically every time you entered it? That's the core premise of Blue Prince, one of this year's best-reviewed games. The first-person puzzle game has you exploring the Mount Holly house, with its ever-shifting layout that you help to draft as you goal. The primary goal is to reach the final room and earn your inheritance, but the house holds many mysteries that unfold beautifully as you make your way through. Read our Blue Prince review. See at PlayStation Store Advertisement 
Cairn We're living in a golden age of mountain-climbing games thanks to releases like Baby Steps and Jusant, but Cairn might just be the best of the bunch. An artistic trek through a beautifully realized landscape, Cairn invites you to slow down and soak in the scenery. Reaching for a new handhold is an intense battle of coordination and planning, but between those moments of high-altitude danger and zen-like reflection, Cairn tells an emotional story that pushes you to keep climbing higher. Read our Cairn review. See on the PlayStation Store Advertisement 
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 The Call of Duty series has been among the top sellers for years, but some CoD games are clearly better than others. Black Ops 6 is a smart and varied action spectacle, and the best the series has been in some time. The 1990s paranoid thriller sets you on thrilling missions set against the backdrop of global events in the 1990s. On the multiplayer side, the new omni-movement makes matches feel fast and fluid, especially with the addition of inventive new maps that let you explore the space in a variety of ways. A revision to the perks system helps you specialize to fit your playstyle. Call of Duty has earned its reputation for a reason, and this latest release shows why. Read our Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 campaign review and multiplayer review. See at Amazon Advertisement .jpg)
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Easily one of the biggest surprises of the year, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a harmonious fusion of turn-based JRPG gameplay and souls-like combat. The end result is a riveting gameplay experience full of fist-pumping moments of joy when you nail the timing on parries and dodges. The game also features a story that pulls no punches, thanks to an all-star cast flexing their dramatic muscles as they breathe life into a cast of lovable heroes and believable villains. Read our Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Control: Ultimate Edition While Control was a great game when it launched in 2019, it had some issues with performance on PS4, especially on base models. With the power of the PS5, Control runs amazingly well. The particle physics really pop in 4K, and the performance is silky smooth. The Ultimate edition comes with both of Control’s expansions, which expand on a story that’s full of surprises and gripping performances. In Control, you play as Jesse Faden, the new director of the Federal Bureau of Control, a secretive agency that investigates supernatural events. Control’s combat is thrilling, with a great mix of standard third-person gunplay and abilities that ooze with style. The story is thought-provoking and, at times, mind-bending. It’s also elevated by a foreboding atmosphere and beautiful art style. If you missed out on Control the first time around, you can now play it in its ideal form on PS5. See our Control review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Crimson Desert You can tell that Pearl Abyss spent years crafting Crimson Desert because the game has an astonishing amount of content. A grand fantasy adventure, Crimson Desert offers an unparalleled amount of freedom within its sandbox. Whether you want to continue along the story's golden path or get up to hijinks of the wacky variety, Crimson Desert will give you all the tools to make your journey across Pywel feel special. It's also one of the best-looking games of the year, so don't be too surprised to sink dozens of hours into this massive open-world experience. Read our Crimson Desert review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Years in the making, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is legendary developer Hideo Kojima at his best. It's a wonderfully weird and masterfully crafted post-apocalyptic adventure that's stuffed with small details to savor and substantially improved gameplay. Death Stranding 2 is also a surprisingly sincere experience, one full of moments of subtle reflection from a developer at the top of his game. Read our Death Stranding 2: On the Beach review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Deathloop Deathloop is set on Blackreef island, a strange place where the party never stops and everyone wants to kill our protagonist, Colt. The island is stuck in a time loop, and the only way to break it is by hunting down and killing a list of targets. Colt retains his memories from each loop but so do all of his targets. They know he's coming. Deathloop is an absolutely enthralling shooter that deftly weaves into systems into the loop in a coherent manner that gradually builds over time. It also tells a gripping tale and features some incredible acting. It earned a rare 10/10 in our review. See our Deathloop review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition A fast-paced action game with stylish combat is the perfect candidate for a PS5 upgrade. Enter Devil May Cry 5 Special edition, the definitive console version of Capcom’s 2019 action game. DMC 5 Special edition is impressive from a technical perspective and offers three different graphics and performance settings that offer different combinations of improvements such as ray-tracing, 4K resolution, or even gameplay at up to 120fps. It also comes with the Vergil DLC, which lets you play through the game as Dante’s twin brother. Two new modes are included as well: Turbo and Legendary Dark Knight. Turbo speeds the game up, while Legendary Dark Knight adds more enemies to the fight. Overall, the technical improvements and new content make DMC 5 Special Edition worth playing even if you already beat the original on PS4. It’s one of the best action games in recent years and includes one of the deepest combo systems ever in the genre. See our Devil May Cry 5 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred Diablo 4 was already a fantastic game when it launched, with Vessel of Hatred further polishing its grimdark gameplay systems. Lord of Hatred builds on that momentum, combining fantastic quality-of-life improvements with two new classes and a narrative that pulls no punches. The new Warlock and Paladin classes are a blast of fun that make you feel like a powerhouse in Sanctuary, endgame content is more approachable, and the much-needed update to skill trees is well-designed. Like Lord of Destruction and Reaper of Souls before it, Lord of Hatred elevates Diablo 4 and is a must-play part of Blizzard's dark fantasy series. Read our Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred review. Advertisement 
Dispatch We're far removed from the glory days of Telltale Games, but Dispatch shows just how good a tightly constructed narrative adventure can still be. A workplace drama set in the world of capes and tights, developer AdHoc Studio's ambitious game merges episodic storytelling with a refreshingly novel take on superhero drama. Polished writing gets you emotionally invested in each character, while the actual art of successfully dispatching heroes to combat threats to society makes for an engaging challenge. Read our Dispatch review. Advertisement 
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree Elden Ring was the runaway hit of 2022 and our Game of the Year. We've been patiently awaiting the promised Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, and this year From Soft delivered in a big way. The DLC provides a massive new area to explore, dense with secrets to uncover and new challenges to overcome. The smart balancing system lets you experience the feeling of progression even with your most overpowered build, and it deepens and expands upon the beloved Elden Ring lore in rich, sometimes shocking ways. Read our Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree review. See on Amazon Advertisement 
The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered Oblivion is an odd game to remaster. It's admittedly a rough diamond, caught between two distinct eras of The Elder Scrolls games and full of "quirky" gameplay issues, but that's what makes it so charming in the first place. Bethesda Game Studios and Virtuos Studios knew this as well, as the studios seemingly managed the impossible: Overhaul Oblivion without losing any of its essence. The results speak for themselves, because Oblivion Remastered is a bridge to the past that is worth crossing thanks to its modern enhancements. Read our The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered review. Advertisement 
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Final Fantasy VII Remake impressed us with how it rethought the very structure of what a classic game remake could be. The second in the planned trilogy, Rebirth, expands its scope outside the steampunk city of Midgar and into a lush open world, giving you no shortage of activities and minigames to occupy your time as you pursue the deadly Sephiroth. While this middle chapter loses some of the focus of its predecessor, it makes up for it by further polishing the already tightly designed combat, introducing a wide cast of new and familiar faces, and deepening the mysteries at the heart of the remake trilogy. Plus, we just can't get enough Queen's Blood, the new card game that's so good it could stand on its own as a separate release. See our Final Fantasy VII Rebirth review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Ghost of Tsushima Ghost of Tsushima was the last major exclusive to release on PS4 and made the most of the hardware since it already looked incredible and ran extremely well. The free PS5 upgrade makes the details of Tsushima’s lush open world even more rich and expressive. If you missed out on Ghost of Tsushima at the end of the PS4’s lifecycle, the upgrade, which supports gameplay at 60fps and 4K resolution, makes it look and feel like a native PS5 game. You play as Jin Sakai, a samurai who barely staves off a violent death and sets off on an adventure to thwart the first Mongol invasion of Japan. Ghost of Tsushima has great, fluid combat and well-integrated stealth mechanics. The open-world quest structure does feel fairly familiar, but all of the other aspects make it worth the occasional repetition. Outside of the campaign, there’s a surprisingly awesome co-op multiplayer mode dubbed Legends that adds numerous new layers to an already-great game. You can also opt for the Director's Cut, which includes a brand-new story expansion that adds to the overall narrative. See our Ghost of Tsushima review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Ghost of Yotei Ghost of Yotei sticks very closely to the template set by Ghost of Tsushima, making for a comfortably familiar game if you spent a few hours with its predecessor. It might offer few surprises in the gameplay department, but Ghost of Yotei still excels as a tentpole PS5 release: it's gorgeous, you can sink dozens of hours into its romanticized slice of feudal Japan, and its gripping tale of revenge is full of surprises along the way. Read our Ghost of Yotei review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
God of War / God of War Ragnarok God of War is one of the most stunning PS4 games, and it is even prettier on PS5. The PS5 update adds a performance mode with 4K resolution that runs at 60fps. God of War is one of the best PlayStation exclusives in a long time already, so it’s definitely worth revisiting or playing for the first time on PS5 if you haven't yet. Its sequel, God of War Ragnarok, is a massive expansion of the concept and a continuation of the story. It's just as visually outstanding, while refining the already stellar combat and giving you new tools and RPG-like features to help you make the combat your own. It also continues, and possibly concludes, the apocalyptic story that the first game began, making these two a perfect duology to experience on your PS5. See our God of War Ragnarok review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Hades 2 The original Hades was a sublime roguelite, but its sequel takes everything that made the first game great and transforms it into an exceptional follow-up. A good roguelite is all about working toward that one perfect run, an idea that Hades 2 excels at with its polished gameplay, varied arsenal, and powerful boons from the gods. At its core lies a captivating narrative, a story that'll keep you coming back for more, and as a sum of its parts, Hades 2 is a sublime sequel. Read our Hades 2 review. Advertisement 
Hitman: World of Assassination IO Interactive’s Hitman reboot trilogy has proven to be one of the most inventive and interesting stealth-action series ever made. Hitman 3 caps off the World of Assassination trilogy on an all-time high note for the franchise as a whole. The hallmark of the trilogy has been player choice in intricate sandbox-style levels, and that is readily on display in Hitman 3, giving players a dizzying number of ways to tackle objectives as Agent 47. Brilliant level design is complemented by lively characters who draw you into this mesmerizing and often absurd world. Hitman 3 also places a greater emphasis on its story, which trickles down to the atmosphere to create a campaign that feels more consequential. With the "World of Assassination" update, you can play through all three games of content along with the engaging roguelike Freelancer mode. See our Hitman 3 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Horizon Forbidden West Horizon Forbidden West is an excellent demonstration of the power of the PS5. Arguably the most beautiful open-world game ever made, Horizon Forbidden West is a visual triumph whether you're playing in performance or graphics modes. Aloy's second adventure takes place after the events of Zero Dawn, with the heroine on a new quest to unearth answers to the past in order to save the future of the world. Horizon Forbidden West has a nice mix of stealth and action-oriented combat when it comes to the signature machines (robot dinosaurs). If you're looking for a gorgeous open-world game with near endless activities, Horizon Forbidden West is bursting at the seams with content. The main quests are the stars of the show, but there are a bunch of compelling sidequests that encourage players to explore. While there might actually be too many systems in Forbidden West, those who like these sorts of open-world games will undoubtedly appreciate how much there is to see and do. See our Horizon Forbidden West review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 The historical epic RPG Kingdom Come: Deliverance was a surprise hit in 2018, and now its sequel has come to expand upon the world. This is a role-playing game with an emphasis on actually playing a role, as both the combat and conversation systems are rich with layers to explore and craft your own path through the world. The combat has been streamlined and feels more fluid, but not at the expense of its predecessor's depth. And the quests are well-written and draw you deeper into the world. Read our Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 review. See on Amazon Advertisement 
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess Capcom has had a string of wins with its established franchises, recently releasing a steady stream of well-received new games like Street Fighter 6 alongside remakes like Resident Evil 4. Kunitsu-Gami shows the publisher hasn't lost its step for new franchises, producing an inventive blend of demon-slaying action and tower defense strategy that each feel intense and satisfying in their own ways, and especially combined together. Inspired by Japanese folklore, you need to constantly balance purging the demons, rescuing villagers, and building traps. It's a lot to manage, but spinning these plates simultaneously creates a compelling gameplay loop that's hard to put down. Read our Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess review. See at PlayStation Store Advertisement 
Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight We've gone years without a solo Batman game, but fortunately, TT Games has arrived to save the day with its new Lego Batman adventure. While the core premise of exploring familiar worlds, bashing everything in sight so that you can build obstacle-clearing gadgets, and collecting all the things that remain in place, Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight enhances that formula and makes it feel better than ever. Clever puzzles, a focused roster of characters, and meaty combat on their own feel terrific, but the game also serves as a brilliant celebration of all things Batman. Read our Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Lumines Arise A synesthesia-fueled sequel. Lumines Arise successfully transitions the cult-classic puzzle game series to the Tetris Effect field. Each puzzle is as engrossing as ever, Journey Mode is complemented by several other modes, and the game is a must-have for PlayStation VR2 owners. It might have a high skill ceiling, but once you find your flow, Lumines Arise quickly becomes an experience that effortlessly evokes emotions with its beautiful level design. Read our Lumines Arise review. Advertisement 
Marathon Bungie's return to its Marathon roots is a fresh spin on the classic IP, one that's full of fist-pumping highs thanks to its extraction shooter setup and painful lows when things don't go according to plan. It's that constant sense of risk and reward that makes Marathon stand out, while clever ideas like the Contracts system to keep the story flowing alongside a customization system that incentivizes experimentation all add up to create a memorable trip to the abandoned ruins of Tau Ceti IV. Read our Marathon review. 
Marathon Standard Edition $35.49 (was $40) | Releases March 5 Preorder at Fanatical View at other stores Preorder on the PlayStation Store Preorder on the Xbox Store 
Marathon Deluxe Edition $51.59 (was $60) | Releases March 5 Preorder at Fanatical View at other stores Preorder on the PlayStation Store Preorder on the Xbox Store Advertisement 
Marvel's Spider-Man 2 Following the blockbuster success of the first Spider-Man game from Insomniac and its interstitial sequel Miles Morales, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 lets the two Spider-Men join forces in a sprawling and gorgeously rendered New York City. The two are come face to face with Kraven the Hunter, who has come to New York targeting Spidey's rogues gallery. The dual protagonists lets you play with two sets of powers, while the cinematic story is a treat for long-time web-heads. Read our Spider-Man 2 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Metaphor: ReFantazio Persona series director Katsura Hashino has returned with his first new game since 2016, and it's a fantastic one. Metaphor: ReFantazio is similar structurally to the Persona series, but it features a new original storyline set in a fantasy world, and a wide array of characters to find and classes to unlock. The turn-based RPG combat unfolds beautifully into deep layers of strategy, and the story is an affecting meditation on the power of storytelling. Metaphor: ReFantazio is one of the few games in our history to earn a 10/10 review. Read our Metaphor: ReFantazio review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Mina the Hollower A love letter to classic top-down Legend of Zelda games, Mina the Hollower is a nostalgic treat. Not only does it feel like an adventure game from yesteryear, but developer Yacht Club Games has also packed in Bloodborne-inspired combat that feels organic and perfectly meshes with the design principles, creating a perfect link between two distinct worlds. Read our Mina the Hollower review. See on PlayStation Store Advertisement 
MLB The Show 25 The annual baseball season means a new MLB game, and this year's MLB The Show 25 is the best it's been in years. A revised progression system makes Road to the Show better than it's been in years, and this iteration makes significant tweaks to the defensive and free agent systems. The Storylines mode remains a standout, delivering another season of the Negro Leagues story, albeit without a new individual story to set it apart. All in all there's a reason The Show has gained a reputation as a premiere annual sports franchise and this year's doesn't disappoint. Read our MLB The Show 25 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection Who would have thought that one of the best Monster Hunter games in the entire franchise would be its spin-off, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection? That's what makes this threequel such a pleasant surprise, as it takes the key elements of the Monster Hunter IP and freshens them up with thrilling turn-based combat and a story that keeps you on your toes. Read our Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Monster Hunter Wilds Monster Hunter Wilds takes the basic framework we've come to know and expect and improves it in numerous ways. The new style of open world allows you to seamlessly move back and forth from the village where you'll organize hunts to the actual area where you'll engage in combat. The core loop of hunting and crafting new gear remains as engaging as ever, and it's made all the better when played online with friends. Capcom has sanded off some of the edges--making for a simpler experience overall, but one that is still not especially welcoming to newcomers. What's here is still a very deep action-RPG you can spend countless hours with, and the urge to go on just one more hunt remains as strong as ever. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Nioh 3 Nioh 3 doesn't stray too far from the playbook that it wrote in its previous outings, as this Team Ninja-developed game requires 110% of your attention at any given time when facing off against deadly adversaries. A solid jumping-on point for newcomers, Nioh 3 features a refined sense of gameplay that enhances its core systems, making it easily the best entry in the series to date. It asks a lot of a player with a combat style that emphasizes careful planning and quick reactions, but in return, it provides a satisfying experience to savor. Read our Nioh 3 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
No Man's Sky No game had a better comeback story last generation than No Man’s Sky, the ambitious space-exploration sim from Hello Games that originally launched to mixed reception in 2016. In the years since, Hello Games has changed the narrative from unfulfilled promises to exceeding expectations. From adding a bevy of new features like base-building and space fleet management to introducing entirely new ways to play thanks to multiplayer, No Man’s Sky has become a wonderful experience. On PS5, No Man’s Sky runs in 4K at 60fps, has more detailed planets, and features better lighting and shadows. For a game that focuses on exploration and discovery, No Man’s Sky’s visual and technical improvements make it an even worthier voyage across space. See our No Man's Sky Next review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Pragmata It feels like Capcom can't stop winning in 2026, as after the release of Resident Evil Requiem and Monster Hunter Stories 3, the company's next game is a sci-fi adventure full of heart and interesting gameplay systems. An excellent shooter built around the idea of hacking your opponents to weaken them before you deliver a killing blow, Pragmata balances that strategic depth with a heartfelt story. With millions of units already sold and a sequel looking likely, we can't wait to see what the future holds for this new breakout hit from Capcom. Read our Pragmata review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown 2024 opened with a pleasant surprise, as the classic and influential platforming series Prince of Persia returned as a metroidvania. The mysterious Mount Qaf is a perfect setting for an exploration-focused adventure, with biomes ranging from a royal library to a dank catacombs. Combat is tight and focused, with enough depth and nuance in its parry and counter system to provide a satisfying challenge, and flexible difficulty options to let players of almost any skill level feel appropriately tested. What stands out most about The Lost Crown, though, is its array of thoughtful metroidvania choices. Subtle visual cues and smart map options make it clear that this was a labor of love from fans of the genre, and the result is a new leader in the space. Expect to see other metroidvanias following the Prince's lead. Read our Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown review. See at Walmart Advertisement 
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart A PS5 exclusive, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a thrilling adventure in the action-platforming series, and it looks and feels incredible on next-gen hardware. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart introduces a lovable new character, Rivet, who teams up with the iconic duo after they're thrust into an alternate dimension. With gorgeous visuals, immersive DualSense functionality, and new traversal tools that refine platforming and combat, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart was one of the first games that felt truly "next-gen" and is a must-play for any PS5 owners. See our Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Resident Evil 4 Resident Evil 4 is one of the most revered third-person action games of all time, and one that helped set the standard for years to come. Capcom's decision to remake the classic couldn't have come lightly, but the studio pulled off the feat with aplomb and met the understandably high expectations. The remake of Resident Evil 4 is not just a significant visual improvement over the original. It's a thoughtful reimagining of the best parts of RE4, and a reinvention of the pieces that were less successful. The result is a game that is both recognizable and fresh, paying homage to a fantastic game and making it feel utterly modern in the process. See our Resident Evil 4 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Resident Evil Requiem Resident Evil Requiem is the best of the franchise's two distinct eras, as it expertly juggles the sweat-inducing terror of its survival-horror past with the tight power fantasy of the later survival-action games. Grotesquely gorgeous to look at and full of moments that put a new spin on the bioterror of the franchise, Requiem is both a love letter to Resident Evil and an exciting glimpse of what its future could be. Read our Resident Evil Requiem review. See at Best Buy Advertisement 
Returnal Returnal is not a game for everyone--it's extremely difficult and its roguelite structure can feel overwhelming at first--but those who keep playing will be rewarded with one of Housemarque's best games. Essentially a AAA-level third-person shooter with arcade sensibilities, it retains the essence of Housemarque's older, smaller games like Nex Machina and Resogun, with dodging through enemy projectiles and memorizing their attacks playing a huge role. But on top of this is a surprisingly deep story focused on an astronaut named Selene and a planet that she just can't seem to escape, even in death. Shortcuts and a little bit of luck can make the run between the game's six different biomes much less daunting, and little tidbits of exposition and world-building make even your failed runs feel worthwhile. And that's good, because you're likely going to have a lot of them before you see the ending. See our Returnal review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Saros Saros might look like Returnal 1.5 on the surface, but you don't have to dig too deep to see how Housemarque has improved on its predecessor's formula of roguelike third-person action. Featuring exhilarating moment-to-moment action and gorgeous visuals on PS5, Saros is also a roguelike for the masses with smart options that keep you in the fight for longer. Various gameplay systems also guarantee a sense of progression and satisfaction with each run, while an unlockable toolkit of intelligently designed gameplay modifiers gives you a fighting chance when you explore the hostile alien landscape of Carcosa. Read our Saros review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Silent Hill F Swapping the misty streets of the US for Japan, Silent Hill F is a strong reminder as to why the survival-horror series has been a cult-classic for so many years. More than just an intense and surreal journey that unfolds across labyrinthine streets, Silent Hill F is both gorgeous and grotesque. The game also tackles heavy themes throughout its narrative, and combined with masterfully crafted gameplay and replayability, it cements its status as the definitive Silent Hill experience. Read our Silent Hill F review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Split Fiction Hazelight has made a name for itself as the premiere cooperative game studio, and Split Fiction is just the latest display why it's earned the title. The platform action game follows the story of two aspiring writers--one sci-fi author and one fantasy author--whose worlds are smashed together by a high-tech firm. What makes Split Fiction stand out is Hazelight's characteristic inventiveness, consistently surprising the players with new challenges that test their cooperative prowess. Read our Split Fiction review. See at Amazon Advertisement .jpg)
Street Fighter 6 Street Fighter 5 was a divisive part of the long-running fighting franchise, and clearly Capcom intended Street Fighter 6 to be a reset. It appears to be mission accomplished, as the latest game is getting praise across the board for being an excellent entry for fighting game veterans as well as a great entry point for those who have had trouble penetrating the scene. A newly refined combo system also helps novices learn not just how to pull off complicated moves, but also the strategy behind when and why to do it. Perhaps the wildest revision is a new World Tour mode, which has you create a custom fighter with their own blend of moves that you learn from several masters--famous Street Fighter characters like Ken and Chun-Li. And the fighters themselves are a diverse set of strange and inventive new characters alongside classic faces like Blanka and Dhalsim. It all comes together to be the best Street Fighter package in years. See our Street Fighter 6 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
The Talos Principle 2 The philosophical first-person puzzler The Talos Principle demanded a sequel as ambitious and heady as it was, and the second game delivers. Talos Principle 2 is once again a contemplative experience that raises big questions even as you stay occupied with a series of clever puzzles. You'll explore deep existential questions and unravel the nature of the world. The first game was an unexpected treat but The Talos Principle 2 shows that developer Croteam can still create a delightful puzzle box even when we think we know what to expect. Read our The Talos Principle 2 review. See at PlayStation Store Advertisement 
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 Pulling off sick tricks, defying gravity, and grabbing a few collectibles along the way were hallmarks of the Tony Hawk Pro Skater franchise, and this remaster of the best games in the series matches the quality of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2. While the changes to Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4 might be disappointing to fans of the original, you're still getting a slick remaster full of iconic locales to revisit, familiar faces to jog your memory, and gameplay that'll reawaken your skateboarding muscle memory. Read our Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 review. See at Amazon Advertisement 
Trails In The Sky 1st Chapter The Trails series might just be the longest-running JRPG franchise you've never dipped your toes into. With multiple entries, spin-offs, and decades of history behind it, where does one even start? Right at the beginning, as Trails In The Sky 1st Chapter revitalizes the IP with a remake of the very first game that meets the expectations of the modern gamer. Trails In The Sky 1st Chapter hits that sweet spot for preserving its original story and enhancing it for a new generation, keeping things lean, simple, and approachable. It's a faithful remake with a wonderful cast of characters, and we're hoping to see the rest of the vintage Trails games get the same treatment. Read our Trails In The Sky 1st Chapter review. See at Amazon Advertisement...
These are the very best Xbox Series X|S games. The Xbox Series X|S is approaching six years old, and it's built a huge library of great games. With so much to choose from, we've curated a selection of the very best Xbox Series X|S games to play right now. We regularly review these choices to ensure we stand by them as the best the Xbox Series X|S has to offer, so this still stands as our highest recommendation for the console. As 2026 continues, this should serve as a starting point for finding the absolute cream of the crop. The future of Xbox is a more expansive brand than just a console, encompassing its suite of services like Xbox Game Pass. The subscription service has emerged as a major pillar for Microsoft, offering a vast rotating library of free games, including first-party releases. Whether you're looking for something new to play via the Game Pass subscription service or need buying advice for your next full game purchase, this list of games will steer you in the right direction. Most, but not all, of the games we've chosen are available on Xbox Game Pass. While the Series X boasts the best performance and visuals, the Series S also offers noticeable improvements and upscales to 4K. And lots can also be played on your Xbox One, either with Smart Delivery to optimize the experience or through Microsoft's cloud-streaming tech for games that outpace the last generation. If you'd rather catch up with some older, but still excellent games, be sure to read our picks for the best Xbox One games, or upgrade your gaming gear with our picks for the best Xbox controllers and best Xbox headsets. And while you're at it, check out our best PS5 games, best PS4 games, and best Nintendo Switch games too. Sign up for Game Pass Ultimate Advertisement 007 First Light IO Interactive being handed the keys to the James Bond franchise is what you'd call a match made in heaven. The studio has established itself as a powerhouse in open-world design and immersive gameplay, but with 007 First Light, IO proves that it knows how to tell a damn good story as well. Fusing its talent for creating intricate, elegantly designed levels with rock-solid fisticuffs and shooting gameplay, 007 First Light isn't just a fantastic James Bond game; it's the definitive origin story for the secret agent that we've been waiting decades for. Read our 007 First Light Review. See on Amazon Advertisement 
Alan Wake 2 Remedy's Alan Wake is a cult classic of the survival horror genre, and since then the studio has been building its own universe with story ties to other releases like Control. Alan Wake 2 is the sequel 13 years in the making, and it delivers. The story follows the author Alan Wake and FBI agent Saga Anderson through a mind-bending dual campaign. It leans more into horror than its predecessor and contains some truly unforgettable moments. Read our Alan Wake 2 review. See on Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora I’m not afraid to admit I’m an Avatar-head. Yeah, I’m Na’vi-pilled, I think Jake Sully is coated with the goat sauce, and I hope James Cameron lives to direct Avatar 12. But, whether you love the storytelling of Avatar or not, the world of Pandora is a vivid setting begging to be explored. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora lets you do just that, as you journey through Pandora on your own mission, free to uncover every nook and cranny. This title has been somewhat played down because of its franchise ties, but it’s a graphically stunning title that offers fun action gameplay and could be a showstopping test for your TV. Featured in this image 
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Avowed The studio behind The Outer Worlds has been busy. Not only is a sequel to its sci-fi RPG due later this year, but it delved back into a fantasy setting this year with Avowed as well. Obsidian's latest doesn't quite have as many deep and interlocking systems as similar-looking games like Fallout and Elder Scrolls, but it's a refined take that lets you skip to the fun and customize your character's combat to your liking. It's some of the best first-person RPG combat around, and definitely worth a try on that basis alone. Plus it takes place in the Pillars of Eternity universe, helping flesh out that universe for fans. Read our Avowed review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Arc Raiders One of the biggest hits of 2025, Arc Raiders isn't just a well-designed extraction shooter. It's also a game where the community has come together to craft stories and moments you won't find anywhere else. The threat of being sniped by an opportunistic player is always present, but more often than not, you'll find yourself engaged in missions and events that make for perfect chatter around the office cooler. It's those constant surprises, unseen betrayals, and scrappy adventuring in a NASA-punk world that have helped propel Arc Raiders into the spotlight. Read our Arc Raiders review. Advertisement 
Blue Prince Blue Prince is an incredible puzzle adventure game that is bound to stay with you for a long time. As the inheritor of the stately Mount Holly manor, you are tasked with reaching the mysterious Room 46 in order to keep your new property. But this is no ordinary mansion, as the layout of rooms shifts every day. Each time you open a door you determine which room will be "drafted" on the other side, letting you create your own pathway. But as you learn more about the house, and how the rooms and their systems interact, you'll learn there's much more to Mount Holly than meets the eye. Read our Blue Prince review. See on the Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 The Call of Duty series has been among the top sellers for years, but some CoD games are clearly better than others. This year's iteration, Black Ops 6, is the best the series has been in some time. The campaign is a smart and varied action spectacle that keeps you on your toes as it explores paranoid thriller tropes set against global events in the 1990s. Meanwhile, the multiplayer's new omni-movement makes matches feel fast and fluid, especially with the addition of inventive new maps that let you explore the space in a variety of ways. A revision to the perks system helps you specialize in interesting ways. Call of Duty has earned its reputation for a reason, and this latest release shows why. This is also the first year that the newest Call of Duty has been available on Game Pass at launch, so if you're a subscriber to Xbox's signature service you can hop right in. Read our Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 campaign review and multiplayer review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 There's a lot to love about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, from its exquisite art direction through to its elegant marriage of turn-based RPG and souls-like influences, but one of the factors that makes it so mesmerizing is that it's consistently satisfying to play. Whether you're pumping your fist in delight after you execute a perfect series of parries or you're reeling from the emotional rollercoaster of its story, Expedition 33 will keep your eyes glued to it whenever you boot it up to continue your journey across its beautiful world. Read our Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 review. Featured in this image 
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Control Ultimate edition When Control originally launched in 2019, it seemed to be too taxing for console hardware. The next-gen release of Control: Ultimate edition remedies these issues. On Xbox Series X, Control can run in 4K, and it retains a steady 60fps. Alternatively, you can enable a graphics mode (not available on Series S) that runs at 30fps with ray tracing. Either option looks great, especially when making use of Jesse's powers. Control is a narrative-focused action game revolving around a mysterious government agency that investigates supernatural activity. With excellent and varied gameplay that feeds into the well-written tale, Control is one of the best action games in recent memory. Read our Control review. See on Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Doom: The Dark Ages Doom: The Dark Ages is an intoxicating blast of unrelenting brutality. Once all the gears start meshing and you've built up an arsenal of weapons powerful enough to level the solar system, the game becomes an overpowerfantasy as you slam the metaphorical pedal to the death metal soundtrack and bulldoze your way through the worst that Hell can throw at you. The flow-state of combat keeps you perched forward on your couch--if you've fine-tuned the difficulty to nail the balance of power and challenge--and solid first-person action alongside mechanized warfare sweetens the over-the-top action you'll gleefully throw the Doom Slayer into. Read our Doom: The Dark Ages review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree From Software's Elden Ring is a masterpiece in open-world game design. With an absolutely massive world teeming with secrets, scenic vistas, and an almost overwhelming amount of activities to complete, Elden Ring was the defining game of 2022. Now the long-anticipated Shadow of the Erdtree expansion has been released, and it is once again an arresting and incredible action experience with seemingly boundless freedom to explore its massive landscape. Both the lore and the suite of gameplay opportunities have been greatly expanded, giving players new story details to explore and weapons to master. The combat is once again a challenge that will test even the most-experienced Tarnish to hone their skills and explore The Lands Between. Read our Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered Oblivion Remastered is a prime example of how nostalgia remains one of the most powerful forces in existence. It's also a new gold standard for what a remaster can be, as Bethesda Game Studios and Virtuos Studios have pulled out all the stops to improve on the original game and polish up some of its rougher spots, modernizing it for a new audience while making certain that enough of its signature jankiness has been kept intact. It's a perfectly imperfect RPG adventure that looks better than ever. Read our The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered review. Featured in this image 
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Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade It might have taken a while to finally land on Xbox, but the first chapter in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy is still worth checking out. While it does suffer from unnecessary padding, this new spin on the beloved Final Fantasy 7 franchise is still a bold and exciting rewrite of what came before, and it also offers exciting gameplay alongside killer visuals. See on Xbox Store Advertisement 
Forza Horizon 6 UK-based developer Playground Games has been one of Microsoft's best studios for over a decade now, and Forza Horizon 6 shows just how good the studio is at cracking out AAA system-sellers. Forza Horizon 6 doubles down on what makes the series stand out--hundreds of fast cars to collect, unique showdown races, and so much more--but this year's entry in the franchise also feels like a love letter to the arcade racing genre. It's a gorgeous tour across Japan and a celebration of car culture packed into an experience that constantly rewards you for putting the digital pedal to the metal. Read our Forza Horizon 6 review. Read our Forza Horizon 6 review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Grounded Obsidian has had a surprisingly quick output since being acquired by Microsoft, including dabbling in some unusual projects. Grounded isn't the most off the beaten track that the studio has ventured--for that, see Pentiment below--but it's also not exactly what we would have expected from the studio most famous for games like The Outer Worlds. This is a sandbox survival game that takes place entirely in a suburban backyard, a la Honey, I Shrunk The Kids. It spent some time in early access but has since launched as a full release, challenging players to build their miniature survival camp and take on massive spiders and other threats, all while unfurling a surprisingly rich narrative. While the studio has now released Grounded 2, sadly bugs and poor optimization prevent it from dethroning its predecessor. Read our Grounded review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Hades 2 The original Hades stood out from the pack with its polished gameplay and a narrative that organically tied into the overall experience of accumulating power across your underworld journey. Hades 2 does all that and more, polishing the unique gameplay systems of its predecessor to deliver an adventure full of breathtaking action and quirky Greek deities. At its core, Hades 2 still encapsulates everything that's brilliant about roguelike games, as each run brings you one step closer to finally overcoming impossible odds. That gameplay loop feels better than ever in Hades 2, and its sharp writing, secrets, and opportunities to move the story forward will keep you coming back for more. Read our Hades 2 review. See on Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Halo: The Master Chief Collection Halo: The Master Chief Collection has been around since 2014, but Microsoft and 343 have slowly built it into a living monument to its most iconic franchise. Now not only does the MCC encompass the original three Halo games and a suite of multiplayer options that spans the entire series history, but also includes Halo 3 ODST, Halo 4, and the highly regarded Halo Reach. Altogether, it's an incredible homage to one of gaming's most storied franchises. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Hi-Fi Rush After making its name on spooky games like Ghostwire: Tokyo and The Evil Within, Tango Gameworks surprised players with this bright and colorful rhythm-action game. Hi-Fi Rush stars Chai, a lovable loser who accidentally gets his MP3 player embedded in his chest during a cybernetic surgery, which also granted him a robotic limb. What follows is a character action game in the model of a Devil May Cry, but set to catchy tunes. The animated art style is particularly a standout, taking a cel-shaded look to a whole new level and blurring the line between cinematics and gameplay. Read our Hi-Fi Rush review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Hitman: World of Assassination Given the prowess of IO Interactive's first two entries in the World of Assassination trilogy, it's not really a surprise that Hitman 3 was an exceedingly good conclusion to Agent 47's latest arc. That said, Hitman 3 expanded on the foundation of its predecessors in some surprising ways. The game has since rebranded as "World of Assassination," encompassing the full trilogy with added features. New spins on the loop, including a delightful murder mystery level, make Hitman: World of Assassination feel fresh and inventive, too. In addition to tremendous level design and choice-driven gameplay, Hitman 3 does a better job of focusing on its story and the many lively NPCs that inhabit the sandbox-style levels. This is Hitman at its finest, though you should definitely play the entirety of the World of Assassination trilogy. You can also import the levels from Hitman and Hitman 2 and play them in one place with enhancements. The latest addition, the roguelike mode Freelancer, makes an already excellent game even better. Read our Hitman 3 review. See on Amazon Featured in this image 
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Hollow Knight: Silksong It feels weird to live in a world where Hollow Knight: Silksong is a tangible reality, but there it is. Team Cherry’s sequel to the infamous Hollow Knight, Silksong dials up the action, the visuals, and the brutality. Whether you enjoy that likely depends on whether you enjoyed the first entry, but there’s no denying this is platforming perfection. With a gorgeous 2D art style and deep colours that sink into the screen with a decent OLED, Silksong looks beautiful in every frame. Similarly, it runs buttery smooth on the Series X, placing you so close to the action you nearly feel every hit. Featured in this image 
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Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Indiana Jones has had video game adaptations before, but MachineGames' new game is the definitive take on the famous relic hunter. The story is rich and engaging and fits right in with some of Indy's other great adventures. The character and worldbuilding help create a new original story set against the backdrop of Dr. Jones' other classic adventures. And in fitting with the character's improvisational style, the gameplay is a tightly designed clockwork of action, stealth, and immersive-sim elements. It's also available on Game Pass, so subscribers can don their stylish fedoras for free. Read our Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Kiln If any studio could successfully pull off the idea of a pottery power fantasy, it would be Double Fine. The developer has been on a tear lately with recent releases like Psychonauts 2 and Keeper, and Kiln continues that trend with an imaginative brawler where you craft your very own ceramic warrior. Absurdly fun--and devastating when your newly glazed urn gets smashed--it's a multiplayer game that revels in being silly. To paraphrase Australian comedy group Aunty Donna, it's time to get in the Kiln, boys. See on the Xbox Store Advertisement 
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 The sequel to the surprise hit 2018 Kingdom Come: Deliverance expands upon the original in just about every way. Sporting an emphasis on actually playing a role, combat and dialogue systems are layered to allow you loads of flexibility. The combat has been made more fluid with some smart streamlining, but not at the expense of the original KCD's depth. And the quests are surprising stories in their own right, broadening the scope historical epic. Read our Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 review. See on Amazon Featured in this image 
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Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess One of Capcom's newest games is also its newest franchise, a demon-slaying action game that blends tower-defense elements. You'll purge demons, rescue villagers, and build traps in a setting and story inspired by Japanese folklore. It's a combination of elements that can feel almost overwhelming, but learning how to manage the various demands at once, and how the systems feed into and enhance each other, makes a package that feels special. See our Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess review. See on Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Marathon In 2026, launching a live-service extraction shooter feels like a heck of a gamble, considering just how big the graveyard has gotten for ambitious forever games. So far, it looks like Bungie's return to its classic franchise has a strong future, as Marathon nails a risk-and-reward gameplay loop that feels consistently exciting. Since launch, the game has grown through new content and fine-tuning, with its high-level events being some of the best edge-of-your-seat content that Bungie has ever produced. It's an intense game with breathtaking visuals, and we can't wait to return to Tau Ceti IV for another run at fame and glory. Read our Marathon review. Advertisement 
Metaphor: ReFantazio Persona series director Katsura Hashino has returned with his first new game since 2016, and it's a fantastic one. Metaphor: ReFantazio is similar structurally to the Persona series, but it features a new original storyline set in a fantasy world, and a wide array of characters to find and classes to unlock. The turn-based RPG combat unfolds beautifully into deep layers of strategy, and the story is an affecting meditation on the power of storytelling. Metaphor: ReFantazio is one of the few games in our history to earn a 10/10 review. Read our Metaphor: ReFantazio review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Microsoft Flight Simulator Microsoft Flight Simulator might just be your next big obsession. A graphical powerhouse with an astonishing attention to detail, you can set off on flights anywhere in the world, and customize your journey exactly as you like. Whether you want to sit back in auto and watch the world go by or press every single button over an (actual) eight-hour flight, Microsoft Flight Sim has a wealth of options, aircraft, and every location you can imagine. Plus, it has some amazing Halo content if you fancy getting a bit silly with it. Featured in this image Microsoft Flight Simulator View Game Hub Follow Advertisement 
MLB The Show 25 MLB The Show 25 is the latest installment in the long-running baseball franchise, and once again it's the next-best thing to hearing the crack of the bat in-person. Road to the Show has gotten significantly improved through a revised progression system. Small but noticeable adjustments to the free agent and defensive systems help further refine what was already a solid experience. And the latest season of the Negro Leagues Storyline mode helps delve into the history of America's pasttime. Read our MLB The Show 25 review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection The main Monster Hunter series has experienced some incredible highs over the last couple of years, but the spin-off Monster Hunter Stories is pretty great too! Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection elevates the formula of the previous games, polishing its turn-based combat and monster-taming to a mirror sheen while also introducing some new gameplay ideas to the mix. Flashy visuals, high-energy combat, and a compelling story make for one of the best Monster Hunter games yet. Read our Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection review. 
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection $70 | Releases March 13, 2026 Preorder at Amazon Preorder at GameStop Advertisement 
Monster Hunter Wilds Monster Hunter Wilds is the next evolution of the classic action-RPG series. It streamlines numerous aspects of the game to remove or mitigate some areas of friction: Things like tracking monsters, eating meals, and traversal have been streamlined to varying degrees. Some of that may not sit well with Monster Hunter veterans, but the core gameplay loop of hunting monsters, crafting better gear, and then using that gear to hunt even more dangerous monsters remains as deeply satisfying as ever. A new approach to having a somewhat seamless open world removes some of the rigidity of the best for the better. It still may not be the friendliest game to newcomers, but what awaits those willing to invest the time is an experience that remains unrivaled. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate Already one of the best fighting games in recent memory, Mortal Kombat 11 is even more impressive on the powerful Xbox Series X hardware. Featuring 4K resolution and new visual flourishes, the gruesome action on screen is rendered in a ridiculous amount of detail. The base game already had an ample amount of content, including multiple single-player modes and competitive multiplayer. The Ultimate edition tosses in the Aftermath story expansion and Kombat packs including 12 additional fighters. Mortal Kombat 11 is one of those rare fighting games that balances solo and multiplayer content well, and it's also the type of fighter that's appealing to both casual players and die-hard fans alike. Read our Mortal Kombat 11 review. See on Amazon Featured in this image 
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No Man's Sky No Man's Sky, much like Sea of Thieves, has improved mightily since launch. Over the years, developer Hello Games has released steady and substantial updates that have brought the space exploration game closer to its original, ambitious vision. No Man's Sky now features far more tangible activities, including base-building and even racing vehicles across tracks in multiplayer. No Man's Sky's next-gen update allows the game to run in 4K at 60fps. The performance enhancements also extend to lighting and shadows, which makes each of the randomly generated planets look even more detailed and alive. No Man's Sky is on Xbox Game Pass, so subscribers should absolutely check it out to see if they enjoy its loop. Read our No Man's Sky Next review. See on Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Octopath Traveler 0 In a year where the majority of high-profile RPGs were either remakes or remasters, Octopath Traveler 0 was a breath of fresh air. Granted, it is a console adaptation of the mobile game Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent, but there's more than enough new content and upgrades to make it stand apart from the free-to-play game. The excellent combat system, combined with the charming HD-2D visuals, episodic storytelling, and relaxing townbuilding, makes for a deep game that can keep you entertained for an absurd number of hours. Read our Octopath Traveler 0 review. Advertisement 
Ori and the Will of the Wisps Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a gorgeous platformer from Moon Studios that truly benefits from the power of the Xbox Series X. The stirring sequel runs in 4K at 120fps and supports HDR. Since Ori and the Will of the Wisps is filled with evocative, colorful settings and fast-paced platforming sequences, the boost in performance makes the already stellar experience even better. Ori and the Will of the Wisps is more of an action-platformer than its predecessor and introduces a number of new moves to employ in combat against enemies both big and small. The sprawling map is deftly designed to force you to make full use of Ori's expanded arsenal, which creates a more dynamic and satisfying adventure. If you haven't played Ori and the Blind Forest, you should play that first to get the full emotional weight of the understated but profound tale. Both games are available in the Xbox Game Pass library. Read our Ori and the Will of the Wisps review. See on Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Pentiment Like Grounded, Pentiment is another example of Obsidian exploring new ground, and this adventure game certainly isn't your typical big-budget blockbuster. You play as Andreas Maler, a 16th century illuminator who becomes caught up in the mystery of a murder at an Abby. The game unfolds over the course of decades as you see how layers of history are built on top of each other, building toward a stirring conclusion. It's unlike anything you've ever played before. Read our Pentiment review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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A Plague Tale: Requiem Escaping the Black Death doesn’t sound like a huge pile of fun, but A Plague Tale: Requiem manages to deliver a gripping narrative with dark themes and some truly grotesque mechanics. Expect rats. Lots of rats. However, whether it’s the engagingly tense stealth gameplay or the macabre world itself, there is something so riveting about this sequel. If you own an Xbox Series X, you can expect great performance, even with hordes of rodents doing your bidding. Featured in this image 
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Pragmata is one of this year's best surprises, a completely original IP that mixes rock-solid gameplay with earnest storytelling and gorgeous graphics. Not just a one-trick pony with its engaging hack-and-shoot gameplay, Capcom's new release is a heartfelt story that's short and sweet. The gameplay-first design and subtle metroidvania influences make for a special experience, with Hugh and Diana's relationship being the glue that holds it all together. Read our Pragmata review. Advertisement 
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown Prince of Persia is known for being a precise and influential platformer series, but this latest entry makes it feel right at home in the metroidvania genre. The new direction fits the series like a glove, allowing Ubisoft to combine exploring a wide and varied map with series-favorite elements like precise platforming and tough combat challenges. Breaking with tradition, you don't play as the prince himself, but rather a member of his royal guard dispatched to save him from a betrayal within your ranks. The story that follows takes a few narrative shortcuts and can feel muddy, but it hints at a well-realized world full of mystery and magic. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is one of the best new metroidvania games in years, and will likely serve as a template for others to follow. Read our Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown review. See at Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Psychonauts 2 Remarkably, Psychonauts 2 is even better than its predecessor. After suffering multiple delays, Psychonauts 2 released over the summer to critical acclaim. The return to the psychic camp for kids was long overdue, and Double Fine made the most of this sequel. It retains the humor and charming storytelling of the original while refining the platforming gameplay and upping the psychedelic nature of the levels. From a gameplay perspective, Psychonauts 2 is a huge improvement over its predecessor, both when traversing the levels and fighting baddies in combat. Where Psychonauts 2 really shines, however, is in its portrayal of its characters. Revolving around empathy and growth, Psychonauts 2 has an impactful message. It's easily one of Double Fine's best games, and you can play it on Xbox Game Pass. Read our Psychonauts 2 review. See on Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Resident Evil 4 Resident Evil 4 was already considered one of the greatest action horror games of all time, and as a result it had been ported to other platforms countless times since release. After successful remakes of the previous games, expectations were set high for an RE4 remake, and Capcom delivered. This isn't just the best Resident Evil 4 has ever looked, it's also a beautifully refined take on the modern classic. It revises just enough to modernize and smooth out any rough edges while remaining utterly recognizable, and then builds new challenges on top of that to test even the most experienced players. It's a true testament to the enduring quality of Resident Evil 4. Read our Resident Evil 4 review. See at Best Buy Featured in this image 
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Resident Evil Requiem A love letter to its survival-horror and survival-action eras, Resident Evil Requiem is the best of both worlds. One half of the game is pure fight-or-flight fun as you encounter a new breed of bioterrorism, the second is a beautifully balanced surge of adrenaline as you shoot, hack, and roundhouse kick your way to victory. With 2026 marking the 30th anniversary of Resident Evil, Requiem shines as a perfect tribute to Capcom's long-running franchise. Read our Resident Evil Requiem review. Advertisement 
Rogue Legacy 2 Rogue Legacy 2 is beautiful for its simplicity. It's not too hard, but still provides a challenge as you fight your way through its metroidvania-like environments. As a roguelike, prepare to die pretty often--but the available upgrades and rewards are satisfying enough to incite that, "Just one more run," mentality. Rogue Legacy 2's replayability yet accessible approach mean it more than deserves a spot on our list. Read our Rogue Legacy 2 review. Buy Now Advertisement 
Sea of Thieves Sea of Thieves has come a long way since launching in 2018. Rare has turned Sea of Thieves from a somewhat shallow pirate adventure into a swashbuckling success thanks to steady updates that have drastically overhauled the experience. Most importantly, Sea of Thieves now has an abundance of content, ranging from story missions to skeleton fleet hunts and much more. With better systems and more tangible rewards at stake, the core Sea of Thieves experience is more satisfying. On the next-gen consoles, Sea of Thieves runs at a smooth 60fps in 4K on Series X and in 1080p on Series S. The reduced load times on both consoles really help limit interruptions during your voyage, too. Sea of Thieves is well-worth diving into on Xbox Series X, and it's available on Game Pass. Read our Sea of Thieves review. See on Amazon Featured in this image 
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South of Midnight The weakest part of South of Midnight is undoubtedly its passable gameplay, but fortunately, everything else about this Southern Gothic adventure helps to elevate the experience. With an emotional story at its core, fascinating folklore to explore, a strong art direction, and one of the best soundtracks of the year, it's a charming and atmospheric game to check out. Read our South of Midnight review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Split Fiction Split Fiction is Hazelight's first game since It Takes Two, and it carries itself with the same spirit of constant reinvention. As dual authors whose worlds get a high-tech merging, you have to navigate through smashed-up fantasy and sci-fi environments while constantly dealing with new challenges that will have you laughing alongside your co-op partner. Hazelight already gained its reputation as a premiere co-op studio and this just further cements it. Read our Split Fiction review. See at Amazon Featured in this image 
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Star Wars: Jedi Survivor If you have already played Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, just know that Jedi: Survivor is a fantastic sequel that builds on every strength. Cal Kestis’ fight against the Empire is a blast, and lightsaber-swinging gameplay feels phenomenal. Here, the Star Wars universe also feels lived in and palpable. On Xbox Series X, an already gorgeous game looks and runs like a dream. A white knuckle ride steeped in Star Wars lore, the Force is definitely with Jedi: Survivor. Featured in this image 
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The Talos Principle 2 The Talos Principle 2 expands and builds upon everything that made the cult debut memorable. The first-person puzzle game has you slowly peel back the layers of the world as you learn more about the web of mysteries at its heart, while also raising fascinating philosophical questions. This is a game that uses the medium to explore heady topics, and it's unlike anything else. Read our Talos Principle 2 review. See at Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Tetris Effect: Connected Tetris Effect: Connected is magical on Xbox Series X. With 4K resolution and up to 120 fps, the particle effects that are so integral to Tetris Effect's presentation are even more detailed and stunning. Beyond the enhancements, Tetris Effect: Connected is just a delightfully inventive take on the best puzzle game ever made. It turns Tetris into an all-encompassing visual and audio experience thanks to an explosion of colors seen both in and outside the grid and the reactive tunes that will have you nodding along to the beat. In addition to an already great stable of modes, the Connected edition comes with great cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes to play locally or online. It's a relaxing experience, and one that's perfect to play for short spurts over the course of months (or even years). Read our Tetris Effect Connected review. See on Xbox Store Featured in this image 
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Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine came out more than a decade ago, and fans of the action spectacle have been thirsting for a sequel ever since. It's finally arrived, and it's just what the Primarch ordered. The sequel adds refinements to make the combat feel more fluid than ever, as you crunch your way through hordes of Orks. It also makes excellent use of the Warhammer 40K license, building a world with a huge sense of scale while remaining approachable for those who don't know a Purgator from a Justicar. See our Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2 review. See on Amazon Featured in this image 
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Wax Heads We mustn't dwell. No, not today…not on Wax Heads day! Papers, Please meets Empire Records, Wax Heads is a treat for any fan of music crafted by real human beings. Not just a cozy puzzle game that asks you to learn more about your customers, Wax Heads is also a statement against an entertainment industry that will cut any corner possible to make an extra buck, especially when it involves using AI to replace people with bland and soulless music. See on Xbox Store Advertisement...
The Marvel Comics fandom has enjoyed several great games over the years, but at long last, Arc System Works is stepping into the ring to deliver a brand-new fighting game experience in Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls. There's some interesting stuff that Arc System Works is doing to make this game stand out--like adopting a 4v4 team format for matches and offering simplified controls--but at the end of the day, it's the roster that'll serve as the main draw for a project like this. Fortunately, the studio has a rich library of characters to draw upon, and it's also looking to put its spin on fan-favorite heroes and villains like Captain America, Spider-Man, and Doctor Doom. "There are so many amazing Marvel characters that it was quite a struggle to choose our roster, but we did have some criteria for the selection process," producer Takeshi Yamanaka said in a PS Blog post. "First and foremost, we wanted to include characters who we feel to be the 'face' of Marvel. At the same time, we also needed to select characters that would give us a balance of battle types and styles. Lastly, we wanted to sprinkle in a few surprises and leave room for characters who have never been playable in a fighting game before." Naturally, characters like Captain America and Iron Man were a lock, but there are also a few surprises so far in the form of Ms. Marvel and Robbie Reyes, the Ghost Rider. At the time of writing, Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls has eight confirmed characters, and we're expecting the roster to grow as launch approaches and with DLC additions to the cast. This isn't the first time we've seen a Marvel fighting game--although we'd really like to forget Marvel: Rise of the Imperfects--but Arc System Works has built a name for itself in this genre with its work on franchises like Guilty Gear, BlazBlue, and various licensed brawlers. If this isn't enough Marvel content for you, you can also check out our feature on every upcoming superhero game, as Blade, Iron Man, and other mystery projects are currently in development. Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls launches for PC, PS5, and PS4 on August 6, 2026. Advertisement 
Captain America The First Avenger is an all-rounder, able to trip enemies up with shield attacks, deliver anti-air counters, and quickly close the distance to deliver a supersoldier beatdown. Advertisement 
Iron Man A billionaire-philanthropist-genius, Iron Man's armor is equipped to excel at the mid-range, and he can follow up projectile attacks with some ground-and-pound offense. Advertisement 
Ms. Marvel A close-quarters brawler, Ms. Marvel uses her stretchy powers to bring enemies closer to her so that she can wallop them. Advertisement 
Spider-Man The Amazing Spider-Man does whatever a spider can, including using his webs to zip around the battlefield so that he can unleash unpredictable attacks. Advertisement 
Star Lord Who? Oh right, Star Lord! Peter Quill is a gunslinger capable of trick shots with his Element Guns, and his Unique ability, Element Blast, gains different properties depending on the element currently equipped. Advertisement 
Storm Anyone looking to mix it up with a highly technical character will want to select Storm. The mutant mistress of weather can wield the forces of nature, giving her several options when dealing with foes. Advertisement 
Ghost Rider Chains and hellfire allow Ghost Rider to be a long-range specialist, and as his unique Vengeance Gauge builds up, his skills begin to deal even more damage. Advertisement .jpg)
Danger Another technical character who is tricky to master, Danger is all about finding the right option at the right time to take down opponents. Her Unique skill, Calibrate, allows her to adapt to opponents quickly, and she's a menace when she's airborne. Advertisement .jpg)
Magik Wielding the Soulsword and the magic of Limbo, Magik can also attack from all sides using her portal powers. She can even open a gateway to send projectiles back at the caster, making her deadly from any range. Advertisement .jpg)
Wolverine The ultimate rushdown brawler, Wolverine charges through enemy attacks and uses his adamantium claws to deal heavy damage. Once his Berserker Rage is charged, he becomes a ferocious adversary. Advertisement 
Peni Parker The interdimensional gadget whiz Peni Parker will be joining Spider-Man's team, alongside hotshot rookie hero Ms. Marvel and the space pirate Star-Lord. Like her previous appearances in comic books and in the Spider-Verse films, Peni pilots SP//dr, a powerful mech suit created by her father. Advertisement 
The Promoter Every fight needs someone to drive the hype, and that's where the Promoter enters the scene. An Elder of the Universe--a mysterious race of alien beings who have existed since the dawn of reality--the Promoter is pulling strings in the background, as she invited heroes to battle in a high-stakes tournament to determine the fate of the planet. Advertisement 
Hulk The Gamma-irradiated powerhouse of the Avengers, Hulk's moveset revolves around channeling his anger to increase his strength and speed. Once his Gamma Gauge reaches its maximum level, Hulk can dish out devastating attacks using his raw power. Advertisement 
Black Panther (Shuri) The current ruler of Wakanda, Shuri, has taken up the mantle of the Black Panther. Her character combines speed and acrobatics with a wild offense, and her high-speed mobility skill, Bast's Blessing, allows her to dash in multiple directions. Advertisement 
Dr. Doom A genius scientist and sorcerer, Dr. Doom excels at mid-to-far range attacks thanks to various projectile attacks. Anyone looking to close the distance will have to watch out for Doom's unique ability to nullify projectile attacks, and he can also teleport himself around the battlefield. Advertisement 
Magneto The Mutant Master of Magnetism, Magento, transforms the battlefield around him, hurling objects at players. Whenever these objects connect and create debris, Magneto can manipulate them further to enhance his already formidable powers. Advertisement 
Green Goblin Spider-Man's greatest villain is as obsessed as ever with defeating the webhead, and in Marvel Tokon, he can move at high speeds thanks to his signature glider. The Green Goblin is also equipped with an arsenal of weapons, including Razor Bats and Pumpkin Bombs, that make him perfect for players who like to disrupt their opponents. Advertisement 
Carnage Rounding out the Knights of Doom is the homicidal Carnage. After serial killer Cletus Cassidy was bonded with a symbiote, Carnage was born, and Spider-Man had to face off against a ruthless monster. In battle, Carnage can use his symbiote tendrils to unleash attacks, form parts of his body into bladed weapons, and infect opponents with life-draining attacks. Advertisement 
Blade It looks like Marvel's Blade is coming to PC and console after all--but as part of a fighting game roster. The legendary Daywalker wields the demon-slaying sword Muramasa, and an arsenal of gadgets and guns complements his aggressive fighting style. One of Blade's unique abilities, Heartstopper, allows him to throw a stake that pins the opponent in place, and when Muramasa glows red, his sword skills become even more powerful. Advertisement 
Loki Burdened with glorious purpose, Loki uses his natural powers of deception to stay one step ahead of his opponents. Utilizing trickery, Loki can frustrate the competition with feints and counters using illusions, unleash projectiles based on ice and magic, and confuse challengers with erratic movements. Advertisement 
Deadpool Armed with a fighting game manual from another universe, Deadpool channels Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, and Guilty Gear references in his attacks. He uses guns, grenades, and swords in combat, and thanks to his superhuman regeneration power, he's ready to damage himself with high-risk techniques and bounce back. Advertisement 
The Champion Mr. Main Event himself, The Champion of the Universe, is a god-like being who has spent billions of years searching for the ultimate fight. Joined by his sidekick, The Promoter, The Champion is an elegant brawler waiting for his tournament to produce the ultimate challenge. Advertisement...