The Best Games Only Available On The Original Xbox

Summary

Many classic Xbox games like Halo: Combat Evolved and Fable have been re-released on later consoles.
Lots of great racing games, like Forza Motorsport and Project Gotham Racing 2 are in the Xbox library.
Steel Battalion, Jet Set Radio Future, and other Xbox exclusives offer immersive gameplay and high replayability.

As a seasoned gamer with over three decades of experience under my belt, I must say that these games truly transported me back to the golden age of gaming. Each one offers a unique and immersive experience, showcasing the creativity and innovation that the gaming industry was brimming with during those days.

Microsoft made a splash in the video game console industry for the first time with the groundbreaking launch of their console, the Xbox. It surpassed competitors like the Sega Dreamcast and Nintendo GameCube in sales, even attempting to rival the dominant PlayStation 2. Iconic games such as Halo: Combat Evolved and Fable, which went on to have numerous sequels, were born from this pioneering console.

Just as many fellow gamers, I’ve noticed that some beloved Xbox exclusives, such as the two we’re discussing here, have been brought back to life on later consoles, often in remastered or remade versions. There are also fantastic titles like Dead or Alive 3 and Panzer Dragoon Orta now accessible for digital purchase on contemporary hardware. However, what sets my heart racing is the dwindling number of exceptional games that can still only be experienced on the original black Xbox.

10. Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix

High Octane Dancing Action

Platform: Xbox
Released: 2003-11-19
Developer: Konami
Genre: Rhythm

Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix, although not exclusively an Xbox game since a slightly altered version was also found in arcades, is a standout title within the series that laid the groundwork for subsequent dancing-themed rhythm games like Just Dance. This game boasts over 50 tracks, with many more available through DLC, and it was highly praised by fans during its time as one of the top dance games.

I can’t help but feel proud to be part of such a successful journey! Following the immense popularity of this entry, numerous sequels were exclusively launched on Xbox and its subsequent consoles. It’s fascinating to note that some almost made it onto this list. The inclusion of the brand-new Xbox Live online service was a stroke of genius, enabling countless players like myself to let loose in multiplayer mayhem, dancing our socks off together!

9. Amped 2

If Tony Hawk Made A Snowboarding Game

Experience even more pulse-pounding action with the new installment “Amped 2“, a follow-up to the original Xbox launch game “Amped“. With Xbox Live, you can engage in multiplayer action. The game offers an array of character customization and numerous levels for thrill seekers to explore. As you speed down the slopes, show off your skills by performing tricks and hunting for hidden collectibles.

An additional gameplay option features snow skating, a blend of skateboarding and snowboarding that emphasizes its resemblance to the widely acclaimed Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series. You can manage 14 pro athletes, execute numerous tricks, and it even spawned a sequel on the Xbox 360.

8. Steel Battalion

A Unique And Very Collectible Mech Game

Currently, launching a game similar to Steel Battalion, with its distinctive 44-button controller, would be almost unthinkable. In fact, even back in 2002, some of the developers working on it were doubtful about its success. However, the demand for the game was so high that initial stocks sold out rapidly, necessitating the production of additional controllers.

As a movie critic reflecting on this nostalgic piece of gaming history, I must admit that while the title failed to rake in significant profits, it has endured as an icon, particularly the unique green-buttoned controllers that set it apart from its contemporaries. Delving into the gameplay, it’s a captivating experience that immerses you deeply. Every button press matters, and players find themselves meticulously managing their bipedal mecha amidst intense combat scenarios, creating an unforgettable gaming journey.

7. Steel Battalion: Line Of Contact

The Unique Online Only Sequel

Platform: Xbox
Released: 2004-02-26
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 4
Genre: Vehicular Combat

Building on the somewhat cumbersome peripheral from the initial game, a follow-up was launched, incorporating online capabilities through Xbox Live. Steel Battalion: Line of Contact now supports up to ten players engaging in 5-on-5 combat, continuing the tradition of piloting massive Vertical Tanks on the battlefield.

As a die-hard Steel Battalion fan, I’m sad to say that the servers for the Campaign Mode are no longer operational. However, fear not! Enthusiasts like myself, or those who are simply curious, can still dive into the Free Mission game modes. The raw, intense gameplay remains, just as it did in the original release, but now we’ve got the added thrill of unpredictable human opponents to contend with.

The Free Mission game modes are:

Capture the Container: Similar to traditional Capture the Flag games, but instead, retrieving a container from the enemies and returning it to one’s home base.
Conquest: Straightforward team battles, much like the Campaign mode.
Battle Royale: No teams, every player for themselves, and the last one standing is the winner.

6. RalliSport Challenge 2

One Of The Best Racing Games Of Its Time

Platform: Xbox
Released: 2004-05-04
Developer: Digital Illusions CE
Genre: Racing, Motorsport

Significantly surpassing its predecessor, RalliSport Challenge 2, represents an exhilarating car racing game developed by the talented minds at DICE, Swedish studios. Notable enhancements have been incorporated, such as a Career Mode, dynamic environmental changes, and a heightened emphasis on realism, particularly in vehicle handling and damage depiction.

With over 90 diverse tracks and approximately 40 unique vehicles, the game offers limitless playability. This title also leverages Xbox Live features. The graphics back then were exceptionally fashionable, and a wide variety of race options are available, including traditional ones like:

Career: Race through the game’s many tracks across four difficulty levels (Amateur, Pro, Champion, Superrally).
Crossover: Racing on a looped circuit with switching lanes.
Hill Climb: A race up an incline.
Ice Racing: A race on an ice track.
Rally: A solo race from point A to B, timed against opponents.
Rallycross: A race against opponents on a track.
Single Race: A casual mode, racing against one’s own time or against opponents.
Time Attack: similar to Rally, racing against the times set by opponents.

5. MechAssault

Approachable Mechanized Warfare

Platform: Xbox
Released: 2002-11-12
Developer: Day 1 Studios, FASA Studio
Genre: Action, vehicular combat

MechAssault, a less complex mech game, gained fame as one of the initial titles utilizing Xbox Live. Although its single-player campaign is engaging, its online feature was groundbreaking for its era, paving the way for numerous multiplayer modes that have since become commonplace.

This game offers everything a player might want, ranging from Capture the Flag to Team Deathmatch. One of the reasons it outperformed games like Steel Battalion could be its user-friendly controls. Although some argue that the immersive experience in Steel Battalion is superior, simpler gameplay using a standard controller can provide maximum fun for both casual and experienced players alike.

4. Project Gotham Racing 2

Driving In Real Cities To Earn Kudos

The first installment of this series was widely acclaimed, but it’s generally believed that Project Gotham Racing 2 surpasses it. With a vast collection of over 120 vehicles, numerous real-world cities, and the renowned Nurburgring in Germany, there’s an abundance of content for racing enthusiasts to enjoy.

Just as before, the Kudos system is back, rewarding players for not just speedy driving, but also stylish maneuvers to unlock new rides. Moreover, inside the game, there’s a garage where you can play Geometry Wars, an addictive arcade game that became so popular it even inspired its own series.

3. Unreal Championship

Bringing The Arena Battling Action To Consoles

Platform: Xbox
Released: 2002-11-12
Developer: Digital Extremes, Epic Games
Genre: First-person shooter

Fundamentally, Unreal Championship is similar to the console version of the widely recognized FPS game, Unreal Tournament. It’s another game leveraging the Xbox Live service and interestingly, it was the first game to receive a post-launch update patch. In the single-player mode, players assemble teams and progressively move up the rankings, culminating in championship matches that determine the ultimate victor.

At that particular moment, it was highly acclaimed as one of the top first-person shooter (FPS) games, particularly for a console title. As with any game from the Unreal series, multiplayer gaming takes center stage, although the online modes can also be enjoyed offline against AI bots.

The different game modes available are:

Bombing Run: Score points by either placing or shooting the bomb into the enemy goal.
Capture the Flag: Steal the flag from the enemy base and return it to the friendly base.
Deathmatch: Standard free-for-all; the last player standing wins.
Double Domination: Capture and control two points on a map for ten seconds.
Survival: 1v1 battles where the winner stays on and the loser queues up to battle again, with the overall winner being the first to reach a predetermined score.
Team Deathmatch: Same as Deathmatch, but in teams.

2. Forza Motorsport

Fun And Customizable Driving Action

Initially designed as a rival to PlayStation’s popular Gran Turismo series, Forza Motorsport marks the beginning of the franchise. It made an impressive debut, garnering widespread acclaim for its extensive car customization options, authentic damage modeling, and user-friendly gameplay.

More than 200 diverse cars are available to manage, ranging from economical daily commuters to speedy racing machines. Each vehicle offers numerous customization options, both aesthetically and for performance upgrades. Real-life race tracks are included, and the ‘Drivatar’ AI system, which learns driving styles based on player behavior, was a unique feature when it debuted.

1. Jet Set Radio Future

The Sequel To The Dreamcast Classic

In the opinion of many, the GGs have returned in a work widely hailed as a masterpiece. The cel-shaded animation style gives Jet Set Radio Future an ageless charm, and its exceptional gameplay significantly improves upon the original Dreamcast game. Both games serve as compelling reasons to own the two consoles they were released on.

This game stands out with its multiplayer mode, expansive open-world settings, fresh characters, and polished gameplay mechanics. Additionally, its exceptional soundtrack is worth noting. The smooth transition between tricks and the thrill of hunting for graffiti tags create a rewarding gaming experience that remains enjoyable even after over two decades since its debut.

2024-12-27 08:05