The Must-Play Launch Titles That Defined Xbox Consoles

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Summary

  • Halo: Combat Evolved put Xbox on the map with its groundbreaking gameplay and multiplayer mode.
  • Oddworld: Munch’s Oddysee and Cel Damage were standout launch Xbox titles that offered creative gameplay.
  • King Kong on Xbox 360 and Killer Instinct on Xbox One were successful, unique launch titles for their consoles.

Recognizing that Microsoft entered the video game industry somewhat later than others, they understood the necessity of introducing their first console, the Xbox, with powerful launch titles to make it stand out. This strategy proved effective as the system immediately garnered positive reviews and commercial success.

Regrettably, over time, the Xbox series of systems shifted their emphasis away from releasing high-quality games that would be immediately available for purchase. However, throughout its lengthy history, there are still many remarkable launch titles to discover. These games could have been developed in-house at Microsoft or produced by third-party studios, but they were undoubtedly some of the finest launch games on Xbox consoles. Here are eight exceptional video games that graced the screens of these systems.

8. Halo: Combat Evolved (Xbox)

A Revolutionary First-Person Shooter That Put Xbox On The Map

Halo: Combat Evolved is widely recognized as one of the top and influential launch games in video game history. It not only motivated countless gamers to purchase an Xbox on its release date, but it also demonstrated that Microsoft was capable of producing groundbreaking and top-tier exclusives for their new console.

Initially, the first Halo game delivered an impressive package: it boasted a thrilling sci-fi ambiance, a captivating storyline with deep intrigue, endearing characters, innovative weaponry, and a superb battle system. Moreover, its multiplayer mode was not only entertaining but also laid the groundwork for what would later grow into one of the most popular shooter games in the industry. Although the Halo series has experienced some decline in popularity lately, it’s clear why so many fans continue to appreciate and enjoy Halo: Combat Evolved even today.

7. Oddworld: Munch’s Oddysee (Xbox)

A Creative IP That Made The Jump From PlayStation

As a dedicated gamer, I can tell you that the Oddworld series was my go-to when it came to 2D platformers back on the original PlayStation. These games were undeniably strange yet captivating, and they managed to build a loyal fanbase. However, when their creator Lorne Lanning realized that the PS2 wasn’t as powerful as he had hoped, he made the strategic decision to create the third installment exclusively for Microsoft’s freshly minted console – the original Xbox. Consequently, Oddworld: Munch’s Oddysee became a notorious exclusive and a launch title for this new gaming platform.

In the early stages of its involvement in the gaming industry, Microsoft recognized the importance of offering strong intellectual properties (IPs) on their Xbox console. Therefore, acquiring the third installment of the quirky and visually striking Oddworld series was a strategic move for both parties. Unconventional, yet engaging, Munch’s Odysee showcased the series’ unique art style, humor, and platforming gameplay that appealed to Xbox users and fans alike, resulting in positive reception.

6. Cel Damage (Xbox)

A Wacky Vehicular Combat Game With Timeless Graphics

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve always had a soft spot for the original Xbox. While it’s often remembered for its dark and realistic games like Halo or Splinter Cell, what truly sets it apart is its exceptional technical prowess. This console could effortlessly bring to life not just gritty realism, but also vibrant, colorful graphics. A perfect demonstration of this hidden capability is the game Cel Damage, developed by the now-defunct studio Pseudo Interactive – a title that showcases the Xbox’s versatility in a way few other games did back then.

Cel Damage, much like Twisted Metal or Vigilante 8, is an action-packed vehicle combat video game featuring racers who are humorous, cartoonish characters based on popular tropes and archetypes. The game’s speed and chaos are exhilarating, and it truly shines with its impressive cel-shaded graphics that make you feel as though you’re controlling a dynamic 2D animated character in a vibrant comic book world.

5. Peter Jackson’s King Kong: The Official Game Of The Movie (Xbox 360)

The Best Version Of One Of The Best Licensed Games Ever Made

The 2005 film adaptation of King Kong, directed by Peter Jackson, is widely considered one of the top video games created from a movie. It was launched on various platforms such as PC and PS2, but also served as a launch title for the Xbox 360, making it visually and mechanically superior on Microsoft’s seventh-generation console.

Initially, “King Kong” offers a remarkable first-person shooting experience, boasting relentless adversaries and smooth handling that meticulously replicates iconic film scenes. However, what sets this licensed game apart are two distinctive elements. Primarily, the absence of a heads-up display increases the difficulty and tension levels. Secondly, players can control King Kong during certain stages, pitting him against enormous foes. Each rendition of this “King Kong” game is commendable, but users on Xbox 360 received the superior experience.

4. Kameo: Elements Of Power

A Forgotten Hidden Gem By Rare

Similar to its predecessor, the Xbox 360 was known for hosting a variety of games, many of which featured dark and gritty themes with high-quality graphics. However, there were numerous developers who created vibrant and humorous games for this console as well. One such developer was Rare, who, following a challenging development period, ultimately launched Kameo: Elements of Power on November 22, 2005 – the very same day the Xbox 360 hit the market.

The game titled “Kameo” is an engaging third-person action-adventure where the protagonist, Kameo (an elf girl), can morph into various elemental creatures to combat enemies and solve puzzles. Despite not being Rare’s greatest creation, its vibrant visuals and enjoyable mechanics earned it favorable reviews. However, due to lackluster sales and subsequent neglect by gamers and Microsoft, it has largely slipped from memory.

3. Killer Instinct (Xbox One)

The Start Of One Of The Best Fighting Games Of Its Generation

Following Microsoft’s purchase of Rare in the early 2000s and its numerous intellectual properties, fans of fighting games eagerly requested a new installment for the well-known Killer Instinct series. Their wishes were granted in the 2010s when Microsoft enlisted Double Helix Games to develop a contemporary remake. This reboot was released on November 22, 2013, simultaneously with the Xbox One.

The 2013 revival of the “Killer Instinct” series proved to be an effective resurgence for the venerable fighting game franchise. Many of its legendary characters, such as Jago, Sabrewulf, and Glacius, were reintroduced with detailed 3D models that retained the core elements of the original games. The revamp was initially acclaimed for its graphics and mechanics, although it faced criticism for its limited content. Despite this, it served as a strong launch title for the Xbox One and continued to improve with subsequent updates.

2. Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition (Xbox Series X/S)

The Enhanced Edition Of One Of The Best Hack-And-Slash Games Ever Made

Though primarily associated with the PlayStation, games from the Devil May Cry series have been playable on Xbox systems since 2008’s Devil May Cry 4. The latest installment in the main series was initially launched for both Xbox One and PlayStation 4. However, Capcom later unveiled an upgraded version that debuted as a launch title on both new-generation gaming consoles.

Special Edition quickly rose to become one of the top video games for newly acquired Xbox Series X users on its debut day. This is particularly true for those who hadn’t experienced the original game. The game retains its exceptional combat system, difficult boss battles, and entertaining storyline (all optimized by the technological advancements of the Xbox One). Moreover, it offers an extra campaign where Vergil can be controlled as a character, along with a brand-new Turbo Mode that adds a touch of chaos.

1. Gears 5 (Xbox Series X)

The Most Recent Franchise Entry Got A Solid Upgrade

Interestingly, Microsoft didn’t introduce any brand-new exclusive games when they launched their latest video game console, the Xbox Series X/S. However, they did enhance several of its top Xbox One games immediately upon release. A notable example is Gears 5, which is the fifth installment in the widely acclaimed Gears of War series.

Gears 5, with its captivating third-person shooting mechanics, stunning visuals, and top-notch multiplayer modes, had garnered immense acclaim on Xbox One. However, the Xbox Series X/S elevated the entire experience to a higher level in terms of appearance, sound, and gameplay feel. Excitingly for enthusiasts, Microsoft’s latest console is set to debut a fresh Gears title with the release of Gears of War: E-Day, which is expected soon.

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2025-03-06 05:27