8 Best Xbox Exclusives on Xbox Game Pass

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It’s common knowledge that Microsoft’s approach with Xbox is moving towards a decrease in exclusive games, sparking quite a buzz among devoted followers of the brand.

Here are some newly penned phrases that convey the original message while maintaining a natural and easy-to-read style:

1. Indiana Jones: The Great Circle has hit PlayStation 5 shelves today. Similarly, Forza Horizon 5 is now playable on PS5 as well.

2. The highly anticipated DOOM: The Dark Ages, the latest installment in the legendary DOOM series, will be released on all platforms come May 15th.

– Indiana Jones: The Great Circle is now available on PlayStation 5, and so is Forza Horizon 5. Coming up next, DOOM: The Dark Ages will launch on all platforms on May 15th as the latest addition to the legendary DOOM franchise.

It seems inevitable that more exclusive titles, such as top-notch ones currently available on Xbox Game Pass, may eventually become available on PlayStation 5 and possibly Nintendo Switch 2. At present, however, these outstanding games are exclusively playable on Xbox systems.

If you’re searching for games to dive into, whether on your PC or Xbox Series X|S, here are eight options that might catch your interest.

8.
Avowed

More Than Just Obsidian’s Elder Scrolls

Although Avowed might not have become the next major sensation in the role-playing game genre, it’s still a robust and thrilling adventure that strengthens the Xbox Game Pass collection significantly.

In my assessment, I pointed out that Avowed demonstrates the notion that larger doesn’t necessarily equate to superior. Unlike other developers who strive to create games that outmatch everything else on the market in terms of size, Obsidian remained faithful to their vision and provided a refined experience that left me utterly captivated.

Exploring the dungeons feels like a refreshing change, making me eager to uncover more about the world while battling the foes I encounter along the way.

Despite the primary narrative falling short on depth, the captivating ensemble of characters more than compensated, particularly when they teamed up with me during battle.

7.
Rare Replay

An Incredible Collection of Games

Essentially, Rare Replay is a compilation of games that can be found separately. However, since it’s exclusively for Xbox, it qualifies for our selection.

Instead of revisiting old favorites solely, this collection also offers an exciting journey through a variety of the best Rare games, even though certain classic titles are absent due to licensing restrictions. Over time, you’ll find yourself enjoying the new additions just as much!

Experience the pinnacle of collection games with Rare Replay! This treasure trove spans from Banjo-Kazooie to Blast Corps and all points in between, offering a nostalgic journey through Rare’s illustrious past. Relive cherished moments from your childhood favorites, as well as uncovering hidden treasures you might have overlooked during your youthful gaming adventures.

Although Rare might no longer hold the spotlight as a leading game developer, Rare Replay serves as a refresher on why they were once renowned as one of the top players in the industry.

6.
Fable 2

Hero Or Villain?

In the absence of news about the Fable series comeback, I frequently revisit its nostalgic roots by immersing myself anew in the realm of old Albion, reliving the enchanting world it once offered.

Fable Anniversary serves as a straightforward method to revisit the series’ history, yet despite my affection for it, it falls significantly short compared to Fable 2 in terms of complexity and content.

In terms of the Action Role-Playing Game genre, you won’t find many titles that surpass this one. While Peter Monyleux and his team didn’t quite reach their initial aim, the concept is more defined in this game.

In Fable II, they’ve expanded the foundation laid by the original in numerous aspects. Enhancements include user-friendly updates, a richer world for exploration, and a captivating approach to fantasy storytelling with a gripping plot. The game is clear about its identity and strives to deliver, although it may not always hit the mark perfectly.

If the upcoming Fable remake manages to recreate the enchantment of Fable 2 and maintains a light-hearted approach, it promises an enjoyable experience.

5.
Halo: Reach

The Best Halo Game

I’m firmly convinced that among all Halo games, Halo: Reach stands out as my favorite. While Halo: Combat Evolved was groundbreaking and truly innovative, and hours upon hours were invested in Halo 2 and 3, none have captivated me quite like Reach does.

In contrast to other games in the series, Halo: Reach offers an exceptional narrative experience coupled with a persistent sense of foreboding and desolation that permeates the gameplay from start to finish.

Given that Reach is a precursor tale, we’re already aware of its conclusion. There was considerable anticipation surrounding the misfortune and decline of Reach long before the game’s creation. Nevertheless, this doesn’t diminish our hopes for Noble Team’s triumph, despite the persistently mounting challenges they face.

Halo: Reach, developed by Bungie, boasts gameplay at its heart that’s truly iconic. The game also offers an outstanding soundtrack by Martin O’Donnell and Michael Salvatori. This final work served as a poignant farewell for Bungie as they departed from the Halo franchise.

4.
Sunset Overdrive

A Video Game Amusement Park

It seems surreal that Sunset Overdrive continues to be an Xbox exclusive title, considering Insomniac Games’ historical ties with Sony and their significant contributions to popular PlayStation series such as Spyro the Dragon, Ratchet & Clank, and Resistance.

In 2019, after the successful launch of Marvel’s Spider-Man the previous year, Sony obtained this game that originally debuted on Xbox in 2014. However, it’s now available under their umbrella.

Despite the fact that Insomniac’s collection is truly impressive, Sunset Overdrive stands out as one of their top achievements. Regrettably, its dialogue and humor don’t always hit the mark, but when assessing it purely in terms of gameplay, it’s a resounding triumph.

Picture yourself immersed in a game, crafted by the masterminds at Insomniac Games, blending the captivating aspects from their past creations while tipping its hat to timeless classics like Jet Set Radio and Prince of Persia. This game has earned its title as a cult classic and is undoubtedly worth every moment you invest in it.

3.
STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl

A Wonderful Eurojank Experience

The main problem with STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl at launch was its numerous bugs and technical difficulties.” This version maintains the original meaning while using simpler, more conversational language.

The review indicated that “STALKER 2 is enjoyable with much untapped potential, yet it’s not quite ready to be deemed excellent. It’s effortless to invest over 100 hours into the game, particularly if you’re a fan of its predecessors. Nevertheless, persistent performance problems, inconsistencies in various aspects, and a somewhat awkward presentation are currently hindering the game. It needs significant improvements before it can truly shine.

Good news, sports fans: the overhauls have indeed come, with more planned in the future.

Fundamentally, STALKER 2 offers an extraordinary journey that the developers at GSC Game World are still refining. Despite its rough edges, I believe it adds to the nostalgia of your expedition.

In time, you might find yourself questioning why we didn’t value this game more in the past, given its continued evolution with updates.

2.
Forza Horizon 4

Racing Through the British Countryside

As Forza Horizon 5 transitions to PlayStation 5, it’s no longer eligible for our list of top Xbox exclusives on Game Pass. Let’s instead discuss the exciting upcoming title within the Horizon series!

Prior to the launch of Horizon 5, Forza Horizon 4 stood out as the benchmark for open-world racing games. The inclusion of changing seasons adds a level of novelty, making repeated playthroughs of the same tracks and locations feel more dynamic.

Undeniably, it’s the robust base that makes everything count, and Playground has nailed that aspect. For decades, Forza Horizon has stood tall as the epitome of the racing genre, and it’s in the gameplay where it really outshines the competition.

Crowned with an exceptional car collection and visually stunning graphics that can fool you into thinking it’s designed for Xbox Series X|S, rather than Xbox One, this game offers a formula for an exhilarating experience.

1.
Gears 5

A Worthy Entry In The Iconic Xbox Franchise

As a passionate gamer, I’ve got to say, Gears 5 was a fantastic comeback from the stumbles in Gears of War 4. It skillfully advances the series while keeping its core essence intact, and that’s something I really appreciate.

Sequels of cherished video games can be a challenging endeavor, particularly when standing beside a titan in the gaming industry such as Epic Games. Initially, The Coalition seemed to struggle, but with Gears 5, they’ve demonstrated their competence in managing this popular franchise.

In the debate over who should be the central character, it was decided to center the story around Kait Diaz instead of J.D. Martinez, as he wasn’t particularly captivating for the lead role. However, Kait delivers a more compelling performance in this leading position, making the emotional scenes even more impactful.

Without a doubt, what makes Gears of War stand out is its top-notch third-person cover shooting gameplay, and Gears 5 certainly delivers on that front. Whether you prefer playing alone, with friends, or against others, it’s got you covered. As much as I look forward to celebrating E-Day, I can’t wait for a follow-up to Gears 5 to arrive soon.

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2025-05-04 19:10