GamesRadar+
The best Xbox One exclusives 2018 - the releases you need to own.
If you've got an Xbox One X recently, or still have a trusty S/original, you're probably looking for the best exclusive releases to show what it can do. Especially with a world of Xbox One X enhanced games to play now.
With that in mind these are 10 of the best Xbox One exclusive games currently available. And, for the X owners out there, we've marked whether they're Xbox One X enhanced or not, so you'll know if you're going to get a little extra bang on your box.
Most recently we've added PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds to the list, especially as its 1vs99 deathmatch popularity shows no sign of letting up any time soon. Then there are some of last years other Xbox hits like Cuphead , with it's cartoon charm and merciless challenge, and Forza Motorsport 7 , quite possible the best racer out there right now. And that's all on top of established classics like Quantum Break , Gears of War 4 and obviously a Halo game or two.
Let's take a look.
10. Halo Wars 2 (Xbox One X Enhanced: yes)
Real-time strategy games rarely flourish on consoles, but Halo Wars 2 manages to comfortably map every tactical function you need to the gamepad, putting the focus on fast-paced, top-down action while saving you the headache of having to constantly fiddle with the controls. This sequel adds the invaluable ability to create control groups for your units (all faithfully recreating Halo's most iconic vehicles and enemies), which makes micro-managing your army mid-combat a breeze. Halo Wars 2's campaign tells a gripping war story with plenty of impressive cutscenes, and the orchestral score is up there with the series' best. If you're jumping into the online multiplayer, be sure to check out the innovative Blitz mode, which couples classic RTS gameplay with a deck-building mechanic to become Halo Wars 2's best innovation.
9. Quantum Break (Xbox One X Enhanced: yes)
It might've overextended a bit with its experimental TV tie-in elements, but Quantum Break from Remedy Entertainment (makers of Max Payne and Alan Wake) has moments where its mix of third-person shooting and temporal powers really soars. As Jack Joyce (played by Shawn Ashmore, the lead in a relatively star-studded cast), you've stumbled into time-manipulating godhood and must use your newfound superpowers to wipe out waves of armed goons and prevent the cataclysmic End of Time. It's worth playing Quantum Break just for those moments when you've trapped enemies in a prism-like stasis bubble, peppered them with soon-to-be-unfrozen bullets, then warp-dashed over to another baddie for a melee takedown, all in the span of a few seconds.
8. Ori and the Blind Forest (Xbox One X Enhanced: no)
The sheer artistry of Ori and the Blind Forest must be seen to be believed. This beautiful 2D platformer puts you in control of the adorable fluffball Ori, accompanied by a watchful spirit named Sein as you explore a lush, treacherous forest structured in brilliant Metroidvania fashion. It's all brought to life with beautiful hand-drawn art, silky smooth animation, and a stirring soundtrack that'd be right at home in a Hayao Miyazaki movie. As if the base game wasn't enchanting enough, the Definitive Edition expands Ori's adventure with new areas and additional abilities that shape how you nimbly dart around the expansive environments with invigorating fluidity. If you're not one to back down from a challenge - some difficulty spikes really test your skill and perseverance - Ori's adventure will enthrall you from start to finish.
7. Sunset Overdrive (Xbox One X Enhanced: no)
Insomniac Games made a name for itself with the beloved Ratchet & Clank series, famous for their varied assortments of outlandish weaponry - so the studio decided to take that expertise in crafting absurd artillery, build an open-world, Jet Set Radio-style metropolis bursting with color around it, and infuse the chaotic proceedings with a healthy dose of punk rock attitude. Sunset Overdrive lets you pull off some spectacularly absurd feats of mass destruction, where you can launch bowling bowls, fireworks, explosive teddy bears, and more, mowing down hordes of mutants, robots, and bizarre gang members while you grind along telephone poles with your physics-defying sneakers. Its attempts at edgy humor constantly fall flat, but the sheer fun and freedom of grinding, flipping, and air-dashing around Sunset Overdrive's urban playground make it well worth a go.
6. Halo 5: Guardians (Xbox One X Enhanced: yes)
It's nowhere near the best Halo game , but as sci-fi FPS adventures go, Halo 5: Guardians makes for a solid system exclusive. Master Chief shares the spotlight with newcomer Spartan Jameson Locke, leader of the four-strong Fireteam Osiris. Halo 5's campaign is best enjoyed in online co-op (supporting up to four players, though sadly there's no splitscreen option), and though the plot itself lacks sufficient oomph, the new focus on verticality in the level designs keeps the tense, tactical firefights feeling fresh. Meanwhile, the multiplayer is as exciting as ever, especially in the large-scale, multi-objective skirmishes of the 24-player Warzone mode. As for all the other tried-and-true modes, you really can't go wrong with Halo multiplayer in any capacity.
5. Forza Horizon 3 (Xbox One X Enhanced: yes)
Forza Horizon 3 is that rare breed of racing game with universal appeal, even if you're not typically keen on the genre. Getting behind the wheel of a high-end vehicle - chosen and customized from a selection of hundreds, with everything from Ferraris to 4x4s - then zooming around an open-world, near-photorealistic version of paradisal Australia is an absolute treat. Doesn’t matter if you're merely cruising to take in all the beautiful sights or excitedly flooring it in pursuit of a personal best time. The sheer variety of challenges to take on let you set the pace however you see fit, and the campaign's online integration puts you in full control of how many players you want to share the road with, if any. With accessible handling, drop-dead gorgeous visuals, and a near-endless supply of things to do, Forza Horizon 3 can take anyone for a thoroughly enjoyable ride. And when you're in the mood for a decidedly ridiculous drive across miles of orange plastic, the Hot Wheels DLC is just fantastic.
4. Gears of War 4 (Xbox One X Enhanced: yes)
All the Locusts may have been wiped out, but humanity's war for survival is far from over. Gears of War 4 follows a new generation of lovable super-soldiers clad in bulky armor - Kait, Del, and Marcus Fenix's son JD - as they huddle behind cover and tear through legions of baddies with an assortment of bullets, explosives, and Lancer chainsaws. Whether you're playing solo or in two-person co-op (split-screen or online), Gears of War 4's campaign delivers one thrilling third-person shootout after the next, full of fast-paced, stop-and-pop combat against smartly designed opponents using a plethora of satisfying artillery. Diving into the PvP fray of online multiplayer is a great way to satiate any leftover bloodlust, and the revamped Horde mode (which introduces buildable structures generated by the Fabricator station) brings an appreciated tower defense vibe to the endlessly replayable PvE holdouts.
3. Cuphead (Xbox One X Enhanced: yes)
After all delays and hype Cuphead finally delivered when it arrived on Xbox One. Most importantly it proved it more that just a distinctive and beautiful art style. Under that cure exterior is a mix of bullet hell style bosses and tricky platforming that'll challenge the best of you. It's precise and well balanced mechanics cater mix a range of abilities and options that encourage replays, as well simply wanted to best your previous playthroughs and it's a great co-op option to play with a friend. It's wonderingly presented throughout with that gorgeous presentation extending to the music and more. An Xbox essential.
2. Forza Motorsport 7 (Xbox One X Enhanced: yes)
After a questionable previous installment Forza Motorsport 7 finally perfects it's racing game. Everything is as flawless as those 4K visuals with better AI, improved handling, more substantial collisions - everything you need to make the cars all feel great. The precision of the controls creates some great moments as you push cars to their limits - screaming around corners on the edge of the tyres grip. It all combines to deliver an experience that's both realistic and fun, as long as you don't mind working for it as some of the progression can be a little demanding as you try to collect cars and win events to get ever further. But, even though there's a hint of grind this is still one the greatest racers currently available.
1. PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (Xbox One X Enhanced: yes)
Sure PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds is a little rough around the edges, but then it's always been that way and that hasn't stopped it becoming the biggest game around. The key to it's success is the ruthless thrill seeking behind it's 1vs99 deathmatch. Yes, you'll probably die. No, you probably won't reach number one. But it's the tension behind that 'just maybe' feeling each time you play - parachuting into an island to scavenge guns and gear, possibly not even seeing another player until the final 30, and then creeping around with your heart in your mouth until you finally, inescapably head towards conflict with the survivors. It's still in Game Preview right now, with a new desert map on the way, and updates always adding new gear and improving play.
Recommended.
8 things to watch out for this week.
Who are the GamesRadar+ team?
Shadow of the Colossus review: "Still feels as thought provoking and artful as it did all those years ago on PS2"
Monster Hunter World review: "An incredible achievement"
UFC 3 review: "Half-brilliant, half going-through-the-motions"
Dragon Ball FighterZ review: "Flashy and a bit dumb. but god is it fun to watch"
The Inpatient review: "It's all utterly brilliant; terrifyingly so"
Journey's End review: "A harrowing, powerful WW1 drama well worth enduring"
Phantom Thread review: "Anderson crafts another classic of obsession and strange love"
Early Man review: "A primitive concept generates unsophisticated laughs"
Last Flag Flying review: "A salty road trip tinged with sadness"
Downsizing review: "Alexander Payne re-confirms his position as one of US cinema's premier filmmakers"
Star Trek Discovery S1.13 review: "It's incredible how much is packed into this one episode"
Star Trek Discovery S1.12 review: "Proves that the series is even cleverer than we originally thought"
Star Trek Discovery S1.11 review: "Swaps action for character revelations, but is no less thrilling"
Star Trek Discovery S1.10 review: "So shocking and emotional that you'll need a second watch"
The Walking Dead S8.08 review: "Is this really the best The Walking Dead has to give?"
Gaming deals, prizes and latest news.
Get the best gaming deals, reviews, product advice, competitions, unmissable gaming news and more!
No spam, we promise. You can unsubscribe at any time and we'll never share your details without your permission.
GamesRadar+ is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.
© Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury , Bath BA1 1UA . All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.
Upcoming.
Crackdown 3 (Microsoft) [Pending] Natsuki Chronicle (Qute) Sea of Thieves (Microsoft) State of Decay 2 (Microsoft) [Pending] Shooting Love Trilogy (Triangle Service) [Pending] Yomi wo Saku Hana (Experience)
The Artful Escape (Annapurna Interactive) Ashen (Annapurna Interactive) Bacon Man: An Adventure (Skymap Games) Below (Capybara Games) Black Desert Online (Pearl Abyss) Brief Battles (Juicy Cupcake) Calibre 10 Racing Series (Bongfish) The Darwin Project (Scavengers Studio) Deep Rock Galactic Dive (Coffee Stain Publishing) Enki (Storm in a Teacup) Flying Tigers: Shadows Over China (Ace Maddox) Gemini (Echostone Games) Glitchrunners (Torque Studios) Grabbles (Noble Whale) The Last Night (Raw Fury) Ori and the Will of the Wisps (Microsoft) Ostrich Island: Escape from Paradise (MeDungeon Games) Raging Justice (MakinGames) Reservoir Dogs: Bloody Days (Big Star Games) Soccertron (Erosa Games) Spaera (Blazing Orb) Swordy (Frogshark) The Toilet Chronicles (The Pyxel Pub) Turok (Night Dive Studios)
[Import] Azito x Tatsunoko Legends (Hamster) [Import] Chaos;Child (5pb.) Dead Rising 3 (Microsoft) Dead Rising 4 (Microsoft) Disneyland Adventures (Microsoft) Fantasia: Music Evolved (Disney Interactive) Fighter Within (Ubisoft) Forza Horizon 2 (Microsoft) Forza Horizon 3 (Microsoft) Forza Motorsport 5 (Microsoft) Forza Motorsport 6 (Microsoft) Forza Motorsport 7 (Microsoft) Gears of War: Ultimate Edition (Microsoft) Gears of War 4 (Microsoft) Halo: The Master Chief Collection (Microsoft) Halo 5: Guardians (Microsoft) Halo Wars 2 (Microsoft) Hello Neighbor (tinyBuild Games) Kinect Sports Rivals (Microsoft) Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare (EA) Powerstar Golf (Microsoft) Project Spark (Microsoft) [Import] Psycho-Pass: Mandatory Happiness (5pb.) Quantum Break (Microsoft) Rare Replay (Microsoft) ReCore (Microsoft) Rise of the Tomb Raider (Square Enix) Rush: A Disney Pixar Adventure (Microsoft) Ryse: Son of Rome (Microsoft) ScreamRide (Microsoft) Shape Up (Ubisoft) State of Decay: Year-One Survival Edition (Microsoft) Sunset Overdrive (Microsoft) Super Lucky’s Tale (Microsoft) Titanfall (EA) Zoo Tycoon (Microsoft) Zoo Tycoon: Ultimate Animal Collection (Microsoft)
PS4 Games vs Xbox One Games.
This page contains information on the different console games exclusive to either PS4 or Xbox One. This list shows every known game available to one of the consoles (as well as the PC) but not to the other.
EditPS4 Vs Xbox One Exclusive Games Chart.
Any Game colored in Green or Blue is specifically a console exclusive and not availble on PC or iOS devices.
This is a comparison of titles currently known for both consoles, and only for those that have been confirmed for release and on specific platforms (Japan only games will not be listed).
EditPs4 Exclusive Games.
100ft Robot Golf Ace Combat 7 Act It Out! A Game of Charades Absolute Drift: Zen Edition Adrift Aegis of Earth: Protonovus Assault Alienation Akiba's Beat Akiba's Trip: Undead & Undressed Alone With You Amazing Discoveries in Outer Space Amnesia Collection Apotheon Asemblance Assault Suit Leynos Atelier Sophie: The Alchemist of the Mysterious Book Attractico Backgammon Blitz Basement Crawl Bears Can't Drift!? Besert and the Band of the Hawk Blade Ballet Blazerush Bloodborne Bound Boundless Brawl Broforce Brutal Calvino Noir Castle Game, The CounterSpy Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy Crypt of the Nerodancer Curses N' Chaos Darisburst Chronicle Saviours Darkest Dungeon Daylight Day of the Tentacle: Remastered The Deadly Tower of Monsters Days Gone Dead Star Dead Synchronicity: Tommorow Comes Today Death Stranding Detroit: Become Human Divide Disgaea 5 Doodle Devil Downwell Dragon Fantasy: The Black Tome of Ice Dragon Fin Soup Dragon Quest Heroes Dreams Driveclub Driveclub Bikes Dungeons 2 Dynasty Warriors 8: Xtreme Legends Complete Edition Earth Defense Force 5 Eitr Enter the Gungeon Escape Goat 2 Ether One Eve: Valkyrie Everybody's Gone to the Rapture Fat Princess Adventures Fairy Fencer F: Advent Dark Force Fate/Extrella: The Umbral Star Filthy Lucre Final Fantasy VII Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD remaster Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn Final Horizon Flame Over Full Throttle Remastered Galak-Z: The Dimensional Gal*Gun: Double Peace Gal Gunvolt Gauntlet: Slayer Edition Gnog God Eater Resurrection God Eater 2: Rage Burst God of War (2017) Grand Ages: Medieval Gran Turismo Sport Gravity Rush 2 Grim Fandango Remastered Grow Home Guilty Gear Xrd Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator Hardware: Rivals Hatoful Boyfriend Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA Colorful Sound and Future Tone Headmaster Here They Lie Helldivers Hitman Go Home Hotline Miami Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number Horizon: Zero Dawn The Huntsman: Winter's Curse I am Bread I am Setsuna Infamous First Light Infamous Second Son Infinifactory Inversus Invisible, Inc. Ironclad Tactics Jamestown+ Jazzpunk Director's Cut Jetpack Joyride Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes Kholat Killing Floor 2 Killzone Shadow Fall King of Fighters XIV, The Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 Remix Kingdeom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue Klaus Knack Knack 2 Knot Knock Knock Kromaia Omega Koi Lara Croft Go Last Guadian, The Last of Us Part 2, The Last Tinker: City of Colors, The Lego Harry Poter Collection Remastered Lichtspeer Life Goes On: Done to Death Lithium: Inmate 39 Loading HUman Machinarium Magicka 2 Megadimension Neptunia VII Mercenary Kings MLB The Show 17 Moon Hunters Mother Russia Bleeds Motor Strike: Immortal Legends Mystery Chronicle: One Way Heroics N++ Nidhogg Nidhogg 2 Nioh Ni no Kuni 2: Revenant Kingdom Nier: Automata Night in the Woods Nights of Azure Nitroplus Blasterz: Heronies Infinite Duel No Man's Sky Nobunaga's Ambision: Sphere of Influence Nom Nom Galaxy Omega Quintet Onechanbara Z2: Chaos One Piece: Pirate Warriors 3 One Upon Light The Order: 1886 Perfect Universe PixelJunk Universe PixelJunk Shooter Ultimate Pocket God vs Desert Ashes Primal Carnage: Extinction Psychonauts: in the Rhombus of Ruin Push Me Pull You Ratchet & Clank Republique Risen 3: The Titan Lords Risk of Rain Rez Infinite Rigs: Mechanized Combat Leauge Robinson: The Journey Road Not Taken Rocketbirds 2: Evolution Rockets Rockets Rollers of teh Realm Saint Seiya: Soldiers' Soul Salt and Sanctuary Secret Ponchos Seraph Shadow of the Beast Shenmue 3 Shu Silver Case Remastered, The SkyScrappers Small Radios Big Televisions SOMA Spider-Man Space Hulk: Ascension Spider: Rite of the Shrouded Moon Sportsfriends Square Heroes Stories: The Path of Destines Street Fighter 5 Super Motherload SuperHyperCube Surgeon Simulator Switch Galaxy Ultra Tales of Beseria Tales of Zesteria Tearaway Unfolded Tethered There Came an Echo Tiny Brains Titan Attacks Titan Souls Toren TorqueL Toukiden: Kiwami Transistor Tricky Towers Trine 3: Artifacts of Power Type: Rider Umbrella Corps Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Uncharted: The Lost Legacy Until Dawn Until Dawn: Rush of Blood Valkyria Chronicles Remaster The Vanishing of Ethan Carter Viking Squad Volume Wanderer Wand Wars Wild Guns Reloaded What Remains of Edith Finch Ys Origin.
© 1996-2018 Ziff Davis, LLC.
We have updated our PRIVACY POLICY and encourage you to read it by clicking here.
IGN uses cookies and other tracking technologies to customize online advertisements, and for other purposes. IGN supports the Digital Advertising Alliance principles. Learn More.
PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS.
XBOX ONE CONSOLE EXCLUSIVE.
NOT JUST A GAME. THIS IS BATTLE ROYALE.
Trailers and gameplay.
Play during Xbox Game Preview.
From the makers of the best-selling PC phenomenon, PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS drops players into a competitive survival battle where you’ll engage in a heart-racing fight to be the last player left alive.
The next generation of live game streaming.
Game features.
The battleground awaits.
Parachute onto a massive remote island with nothing but your wits and the clothes on your back. Explore, loot and locate weapons or use vehicles to find supplies and gear-up for fast-paced combat.
Fight alone – or team up.
Go solo or team up with other players as you engage in a heart-racing fight to the be the last person left alive.
Claim victory.
Defeat every player on the map to earn your bragging rights as the last player left standing.
Xbox One X Enhanced.
PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS is Xbox One X Enhanced, with High Dynamic Range technology to bring out the true visual depth of the battleground.*
Game details.
From the makers of the best-selling PC phenomenon, PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS drops players into a competitive survival battle where you’ll engage in a heart-racing fight to be the last player left alive. Loot supplies, find weapons and gear-up to take on the competition in a solo or team squad match. Emerge the lone survivor in a thrilling game experience full of unexpected, adrenaline-pumping moments.
Game Preview: Game is unfinished and work in progress, may change over time, and may not release as a final product. Game preview information at xbox.com/GamePreview. Xbox Live Gold required to play (sold separately).
Additional information.
Blood Violence More.
Publisher Microsoft Developer PUBG Corp.
Genre Survival Shooter Platforms Xbox One.
Multiplayer Online only 2-100 players.
Get the game.
Game Preview Edition.
Xbox Live Gold.
Join the battle on the world’s most advanced multiplayer network.** Xbox Gold required.
Elevate your game.
Xbox Design Lab.
Personalize your Xbox Wireless Controller with over 8 million possible color combinations.
Xbox Stereo Headset Adapter.
Xbox One Stereo Headset – Special Edition.
Which one is yours?
COPYRIGHT ©2017 PUBG Corporation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
PLAYERUNKNOWN'S BATTLEGROUNDS is a registered trademark, trademark or service mark of PUBG Corporation and its affiliates.
*Enhanced features for Xbox One X subject to release of a content update. Games information at xbox.com/xonexenhanced.
**Online multiplayer requires Xbox Live Gold subscription (sold separately). Some content may require download from Xbox Live (ISP fees apply).
Top 10 Upcoming Xbox One Exclusive Games.
For console gamers, the most important difference between the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 is the games. Sure, they differ in CPU and graphical power, but none of that matters unless it’s used to fuel awesome gaming experiences. To find out which console is worth your hard-earned cash, first look at the best exclusives on Xbox One. Then take a look at the upcoming Xbox One exclusives are in the works for below.
Bear in mind that Microsoft will also be releasing many of these on Windows 10 PC as part of its Play Anywhere program, so these games aren’t true exclusives. Still, if you don’t want to shell out cash for a gaming PC, these are games you won’t find on any other console.
1. Halo Wars 2.
Release Date : February 21, 2017.
A real-time strategy game set in the Halo universe, Halo Wars 2 puts you in charge of an army of Spartan soldiers along with futuristic military vehicles like Warthogs and Scorpions that will be familiar to anyone who’s played a Halo game. The idea is to wipe out the threat posed by a “terrifying new enemy.” Whether you’ve played the original or not, this is a safe bet for any RTS fans out there.
And the award for most unlikely video game title goes to Cuphead , a game that could also take an award for not looking like a video game at all. Done in the striking art style of 1930s cartoons, Cuphead puts you in the shoes of the title character, who has made a deal with the devil and has to defeat bosses to repay his debt.
Gameplay-wise, you run around and fire off projectiles to defeat enemies. The bosses are huge, with widely varying move sets and abilities. All in all, this promises to be a game unlike any other. If it’s as enjoyable to play as it is to look at, Cuphead is sure to please any action platformer fan.
3. Crackdown 3.
The Crackdown series follows a futuristic cop in a corrupt, open-world city overrun by violent gangs. What’s remarkable about it is how you start out as a pretty normal guy, but thanks to incremental upgrades, by the end of the game you can leap up the sides of skyscrapers and wipe out swarms of bad guys single-handedly.
We haven’t seen much of the third installment, but we do know that it will offer a cooperative campaign, destructible environments, and will take advantage of the Xbox One’s cloud computing feature. Watch the trailer above to get an idea of what to expect once the game comes out.
4. Sea of Thieves.
Microsoft’s Rare Studio is behind this sea-faring title about being a pirate. You and other players will take to the seas, sailing ships, engaging in cannon battles, fighting fantastical creatures, and looking for treasure. Not much else is known about the game, but it looks promising so far.
5. Scalebound.
Developed by Platinum Games, the makers of such excellent action games as Bayonetta 2 and Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance , Scalebound looks like a fantasy game of epic proportions. You play as an adventurer who travels to a distant world full of enormous monsters. Luckily for you, you soon befriend a dragon who helps you take on these vicious beasts.
Really, that’s about all we know so far about the game, but the trailer looks suitably grand. If the game is anything like that (or like the excellent titles Platinum has made in the past), it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on.
6. State of Decay 2.
Looking to have some fun by surviving a zombie apocalypse? This is the game for you. State of Decay 2 follows in its predecessor’s footsteps by offering up a grueling survival role-playing game. Since surviving with friends is always more fun than surviving alone, it features up to four-player co-op multiplayer, so your buddies can drop in or out of your game at any time. Check out the trailer above if you could use more zombies in your life.
7. Phantom Dust.
This game has been on quite a journey. While it was first released on the original Xbox in 2004 to positive reviews, Microsoft announced that a full reboot was in the works for Xbox One. Fans of the original were excited for it, until Microsoft shut down the development team. Apparently Microsoft has resurrected the project, a game that mixes an action RPG with card collecting.
8. Gigantic.
The MOBAs just don’t stop coming, do they? Gigantic is the latest in a long line of “multiplayer online battle arenas” that pit two teams of five unique fighters against each other as they vie for control of the map. The idea is to power up your team each match to turn them “gigantic,” which provides a big leg up in battle. The best thing about it is that it will be free-to-play, so you won’t have to spend a time to give it a shot.
When it comes to developers, Capybara Games is one of the most creative teams around. Capy is responsible for the fantastic strategy puzzler Might and Magic: Clash of Heroes , the artistic adventure game Superbrothers: Sword and Sworcery EP , and the mind-bending shooter Super Time Force . If the developer’s next title lives up to the company’s high standard, you won’t want to miss it.
The title in question is Below , a top-down action adventure game that stars a tiny hero on an enormous island. Unlike in most games, death is permanent here, meaning you have to start from square one each time you perish. That’s a risky choice that could lose a lot of potential customers. To find out if it pays off, we’ll have to wait for its release.
Very little is known about this quiet, dark, atmospheric game, but the teaser trailer above sure makes a statement. It’s an action RPG about a group of wanderers in a dark world that’s full of ash and mysterious creatures (including a horned sky whale).
According to developer Aurora44, “At its core, Ashen is about forging relationships. Players can guide those they trust to their camp – together, you might just stand a chance.” I’m not sure what that means, but I’m interested to hear more.
13 Best Xbox One Exclusive Games.
The console famously doesn't have many essential games, but we still managed to find thirteen of the best Xbox One exclusives for you to try out.
T here are many reasons why the Xbox 360 was such a success for Microsoft. It came out earlier than the PS3 and was available at a more sensible price, but the biggest factor in it winning the war -as is the case in almost every console generation- was the exclusive games it boasted.
During the 360’s lifetime, returning franchises from the original Xbox were given welcome updates alongside fresh IPs making themselves mascots for a new generation. There was also stellar third-party support, but most consumers were swayed enough by the likes of Halo and Gears of War to stick around. Its games were so good that even widespread technical issues couldn’t harm the Xbox 360 cause a disaster. That really says something.
But then the Xbox One was announced: an all-in-one media center which didn’t even seem that hot on letting people play games. Many controversial decisions from Microsoft, such as bundling the Kinect with the base console at a higher price, were deterrents for many 360 gamers to upgrade, which caused Microsoft to do u-turns on their decisions.
The damage had already been done.
It’s been years since the Xbox One was released and there’s still the impression that it’s a console that has yet to hit its stride. A big reason for that might be its exclusives, or lack thereof. While Sony have been hitting it out of the park with efforts like Horizon: Zero Dawn and Uncharted 4, Microsoft’s unit-shifting mainstays have underwhelmed. It might not have helped itself by trying to bring about the death of the “true” exclusive with its Play Anywhere feature. Of all the games available on the system, it only has just over thirty that you can’t find anywhere else. To make matters worse, they’re mostly Kinect titles.
While there are still plenty to come in 2017, it’s time to look at some of the best Xbox One exclusives we’ve seen so far. Bear in mind that the Xbox One doesn’t really boast a great deal of true exclusives as many of their big-hitters can also be found on PC; consider this to be a list of console exclusives instead. In addition, we’re avoiding remasters and collections, so Rare Replay and The Master Chief Collection don’t make the cut (as good as they are). This is also an updating list – if something like Sea of Thieves delivers on its promise, it will be added.
13. Ryse: Son of Rome.
An Xbox One launch title, Ryse looked like the next generation of console gaming had arrived without necessarily playing like it. It’s a visual feast which lacks any real meat, turning to repetitive combat far too often.
There’s nothing wrong with that if a murderthon is what you’re after, something which Ryse will oblige in bringing to you in spades. Its Roman setting is well-realised and its characters relatively well fleshed-out, though you may walk away from it still feeling peckish. Absolutely worth checking out if you like blood and guts, though, so approach it with an open mind if you want to be pleasantly surprised.
12. Halo Wars 2.
The sequel to the beloved RTS original on Xbox 360, Halo Wars 2 might have launched to a bit of a whimper, but it’s hard to deny its charms. It can’t hold a candle to almost any RTS on PC, but it bridges a gap between hardcore and casual strategy games well enough to appeal to players of both.
Expanding the Halo universe, Halo Wars 2 introduced new villains and heroes while improving upon its predecessor in key areas, though it can feel flat at points during its campaign. It isn’t going to change the lives of RTS, or even Halo, fans, but if you’re looking to scratch an RTS itch from the comfort of your couch with some competent gamepad controls, you will most likely be satisfied.
11. Candleman.
One of only a few out-and-out exclusives on this list, Candleman is a puzzle platformer which many gamers have probably let pass them by. Despite releasing only this year, it’s been harshly overlooked and already seemingly forgotten about, but it really shouldn’t be.
It may not go down as an all-time classic, but Candleman’s novel premise and unique presentation should still win plenty of hearts. The player is only given a short amount of time to discover solutions to puzzle as the light dips in and out of the room, which also gradually reveals the narrative with aesthetic cues rather than pure exposition dumps. It’s sincere, if a little short, and is definitely worth checking out if you haven’t yet.
10. D4: Dark Dreams Don’t Die.
Madder than the Mad Hatter after stubbing his toe, D4: Dark Dreams Don’t Die isn’t going to be for everyone. It graduated from the school of lunacy as Deadly Premonition, which is probably explained by it also being developed by Access Games and executive produced by SWERY.
Already a cult favourite, D4: Dark Dreams Don’t Die is an episodic story-driven game which is difficult to explain. It features scuffles with a woman cat (not Catwoman), QTE fistfights on aeroplanes, and cel-shaded visuals that capture the eye. Don’t worry about the Kinect features and just descend into madness, but make sure you don’t descend too far – it doesn’t look like it will be getting the sequel it needs.
9. Titanfall.
I, probably like a few others, could defend Titanfall until I’m blue in the face. While it’s hard to argue that the lack of a campaign did nothing to hurt its longevity, Respawn’s wild new FPS was a thrillride while the going was good.
Featuring parkour, giants robots, and an almost impossibly frenetic pace, Titanfall was a shot in the arm for the FPS genre on the Xbox One, but for whatever reason, most people didn’t stick around for long. The playerbase dwindled and its lobbies emptied over time, leading many gamers to claim that it had “died”. While that wasn’t entirely the case (it maintained a dedicated following through its lifetime), things were improved for its sequel, Titanfall 2: a game with less sales but remarkably higher acclaim. It’s almost moot to check the original Titanfall if you haven’t yet, though you can get it for “free” with EA Access.
8. Quantum Break.
Here’s a fun little fact for you: I totally forgot about Quantum Break until about two thirds of the way through writing this. Ironically, plenty of people forgot to even check out the game upon release – it struggled to meet sales expectations. Make no mistake, though, Remedy’s video game/movie hybrid is worth checking out.
Featuring neat time mechanics and some decent performances from its cast, the video game portion of Quantum Break offers a solidly enjoyable experience. It’s when the control is taken out of the player’s hands, however, that the game suffers. Its cutscenes, however well produced, just leave players itching to get back into the fray, which contributes towards Quantum Break feeling like a worthwhile experiment with mixed results. It’s still worth experiencing so hunt around for a pre-owned copy if you can.
Chubby gremlin in charge of this place.
WRITE FOR US.
Cultured Vultures is a community dedicated to helping writers of all experiences and backgrounds to have their work seen and read. We like words and we like sharing them.
Some of the coverage you find on GeekSeek/Cultured Vultures may contain affiliate links, which may provide us with small commissions based on purchases made from visiting our site.
The 3 biggest games on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch this holiday season.
Mario is on the verge of starring in his biggest game in years.
Forget about that smartphone game — "Super Mario Odyssey" is a massive, insanely-good, open-world Mario game. And it's only available on Nintendo's Switch.
Though thereВ are plenty of gamesВ on all three major game consoles this holiday, a few blockbustersВ are exclusive to each. Starting with "Super Mario Odyssey," we've put togetherВ the three heavy-hitter "exclusive" games for Sony's PlayStation 4, Microsoft's Xbox One, and Nintendo's Switch console this holiday season.
This sure is a real shot of gameplay from "Super Mario Odyssey." Nintendo.
View As: One Page Slides.
1. "Super Mario Odyssey" on the Nintendo Switch.
Just as "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" was a massive evolution of the long-running, celebrated "Legend of Zelda" franchise, "Super Mario Odyssey" challenges and evolve the "Super Mario" formula.
"Super Mario Odyssey" is an open-world, nonlinear game starring Mario. That means you're not running from a beginning point to, say, a flagpole. We're talking big open worlds that are packed with details: secret areas to find, puzzles to solve, and — bizarrely — even some old-school 2D Mario thrown in for good measure. Seriously!
This is an area you enter, and play, in "Super Mario Odyssey":
Instead of reaching an endpoint, your goal in "Super Mario Odyssey" is to collect moons, of which there are many in each world. The closest comparison is to "Super Mario 64." It may be too early to call it, and there are a dozen other incredible games this year, but "Super Mario Odyssey" — to me — is the game to get this holiday season.
Check out "Super Mario Odyssey" in action right here:
2. "PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds" on the Xbox One/Xbox One X.
"PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds" boasts a bizarre name and a brilliant concept: 100 people on a massive island, armed with their wits and a scattered arsenal, fighting to the death. Whoever survives at the end of the match wins — and there can only be one.
Each match of "Battlegrounds" starts the same way: You're in a derelict airplane with 100 other actual people; as you fly over a deserted island you're able to choose where you'll parachute down. Since you're unarmed, if you land near anyone it's up to you to choose whether to run (an attempt to arm yourself and/or escape) or to fight (with your fists!) to death. As the match progresses, the area of the island you're able to occupy shrinks — thus forcing you closer and closer to your opponents.
It sounds intense because it isВ intense . There is no single-player, no "campaign" mode. Just the terrifying island and 100 actual people.
OF NOTE: This game is an "exclusive" insofar as it's only coming to the Xbox One this holiday season. The game is already available, albeit unfinished, on the PC; it will also head to the PlayStation 4 further down the line, though it's not clear when.
Release date: В December 12.
Check out "Battlegrounds" in action right here:
3. "Gran Turismo Sport" on the PlayStation 4/PlayStation 4 Pro.
If you like racing, you're probably already thinking pretty seriously about this year's entry in the long-running "Gran Turismo" series. The franchise is known for its microbial level of detail lavished on the world of cars, racing, and gear differentials — "Sport" is no different in this respect, but it's planned as the first in a "new generation" of "Gran Turismo" games.
Notably, there's an "arcade" mode that allows players to have a bit more video-game-esque fun instead of focusing solely on the simulation side of the game — a nod, no doubt, to the competition from Microsoft's "Forza Motorsport" and "Forza Horizon" franchises.
As usual, the newest "Gran Turismo" is a graphics powerhouse:В "Gran Turismo Sport" may be the best-looking game released this year, and it'll look even better if you have a PlayStation 4 Pro and a 4K TV. It's available now.
Check out "Gran Turismo Sport" in action right here:
BONUS: Huge new downloadable content for "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" — "The Champions' Ballad" — only on the Nintendo Switch.
After the outrageously successful launch of "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" earlier this year, Nintendo's looking to strike gold once again with its $20 "Season Pass." If you purchased the pass, you've already got access to the first content — the "Master Trials" DLC — and you'll get access to the second, more story-focused content later this year.
In it, you'll play as Link once again, following up the conclusionВ to "Breath of the Wild." Little is known about "The Champions' Ballad" expansion, but it looks as if a variety of characters from the original game's story will return. Nintendo says it will add "a new dungeon, an original story, and even more new challenges" when it arrives.
BONUS: Huge new downloadable content for "Horizon Zero Dawn" — "The Frozen Wilds" — only available on the PlayStation 4.
If you haven't already played the incredible "Horizon Zero Dawn," you're in luck: It's one of the best games of 2017 (some might even call it the best game of 2017 so far). In "Horizon Zero Dawn," you play as Aloy — a brilliant and tough lady out to discover as much as she can about her own origins, amid a bizarro future Earth that is ruled by mechanical animals (including massive dinosaur-like machines).
In the game's first expansion, available now, a new areaВ was added to the already very large map. In this new area, there are new mysteries to uncover, new tribes to interact with, and plenty of angry machines to contend with. Here's the synopsis: Like with the expansion toВ "Breath of the Wild," the expansion to "Horizon Zero Dawn" is a direct continuation of the game's conclusion. Rather than exploring the world from the main game, a whole new area is being added that's set (at least partially) in Yellowstone National Park.В.
Get the latest Microsoft stock price here.
SEE ALSO: 6 reasons you should buy a Nintendo Switch instead of a PlayStation 4 or Xbox One this year.
Recommended For You Powered by Sailthru.
The 3 biggest games on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch this holiday season.
Mario is on the verge of starring in his.
Recommended For You.
Tech Insider Emails & Alerts.
Get the best of Business Insider delivered to your inbox every day.
The 5 Best Xbox One Exclusive Games Right Now.
You’ve just bought an Xbox One and maybe a game or two, but now you’re wondering what else to pick up. Or maybe you’re on the fence and leaning in Microsoft’s direction. Or maybe you just want to compare notes.
Either way, these are the finest experiences you can only have on Microsoft’s flagship console (or Windows, since Microsoft’s doubled down on cross-play titles) as we near the end of 2016.
Forza Horizon 3.
Microsoft’s friendlier version of its Forza racing series turns three and celebrates with a glorious open-world romp through Australian dream-locales like Byron Bay and Yarra Valley. Cooperate with other players, and compete cross-platform, whether you’re racing on Xbox One or Windows. You’re now also the director of Oz’s global racing festival (instead of just a player), giving you custom control of races and events, including who can or can’t compete in them.
Buy this game if… You want to pilot any of 350 outrageously beautiful cars through gobsmacking scenery in a sprawling sandbox you can explore at leisure. You can buy it here.
Steer clear if… Racing or obsessing over automotive minutia isn’t your thing.
What critics said: “…captures the childish glee of playing with toy cars and combines it with the adrenaline of throwing yourself around in a very expensive hunk of metal.” (Trusted Reviews); “A must have for casual car fans and hardcore gearheads alike.” (EGM); “As an open world racer Forza Horizon 3 is epic and diverse, as a racer it’s satisfying yet deep, and as a place to hang out it’s a whole heap of fun.” (VideoGamer)
Gears of War 4.
Leaping 25 years forward in the series fiction, Gears of War 4 imagines a future in which the cataclysmic measures that eliminated the original trilogy’s enemies also triggered global storms and other post-apocalyptic tropes. Still a tactics-focused third-person shooter, you play as the son of the original trilogy’s protagonist, doing battle with a new enemy dubbed The Swarm.
Buy this game if… Thinking about where to hide or hunker matters as much to you as where you point your weapon. You can buy it here.
Steer clear if… Shooters aren’t your thing.
What critics said: “A gleefully gritty, gruesome, and grand continuation of the franchise.” (NZGamer); “…does everything required to bring the franchise roadie-running into 2016 without losing what made it so good to begin with.” (Trusted Reviews); “ Gears of War 4 is exactly what you’ve come to expect a Gears of War game to be over the years—an impressive visual showcase in the campaign, with the accompanying competitive and cooperative modes to keep you busy long after the credits roll.” (Attack of the Fanboy)
Halo: The Master Chief Collection.
It’s the first four Halo games remastered and packaged as one. As if that’s not enough, you can play the campaign levels any way you like, since everything’s unlocked from the start. And 343 includes special curated playlists that remix some of the best solo or multiplayer levels along thematic lines. If you want to shoot it out on maps that emphasize sniper-play, for instance, you can, by way of the “Team Snipers” playlist.
Buy this game if… You want to see what all the Halo hullabaloo’s about, or revisit Microsoft’s storied franchise with souped up high-definition visuals. You can buy it here.
Steer clear if… Shooters aren’t your thing.
What critics said: “There’s more love and care lavished on The Master Chief Collection than you see in countless other big-money, brand new blockbuster releases.” (Digital Spy); “…an instantaneous embrace of past and present that combines gaming’s powerful sense of nostalgia with its perpetual arms race of processing and graphical power.” (Eurogamer); “This is the new gold standard for remakes. Well done, 343 Industries.” (Destructoid)
Ori and the Blind Forest.
Ori and the Blind Forest sees a catlike, snow-white biped with wings who darts like a sylph across the screen on a journey to revivify an evanescent forest. It’s technically a Metroidvania, gaming’s hipster portmanteau of the 2D Metroid and Castlevania games wherein players leap between platforms while navigating labyrinthine maps. But it may be more aptly described as a painting in motion: a vivid, lively adventure chock full of both familiar and novel platforming ideas.
Buy this game if… You’re up for an inventive exploration-focused platforming game evocative of the visual stylings of Japanese filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. You can buy it here.
Steer clear if… You’re no fan of 2D platforming games.
What critics said: “A staggeringly beautiful puzzle-platformer that remains a masterpiece.” (God is a Geek); “Immaculately detailed environments coupled with engaging gameplay, all driven home by an emotionally driven plot makes this journey one for the ages.” (DarkStation); “…a beautiful, surprisingly poignant, and simply well-designed take on a familiar genre.” (CGMagazine)
Sunset Overdrive.
Sunset Overdrive is developer Insomniac’s first try at an open world game, tapping the same screwball vein as its Ratchet & Clank series, only with a grownup twist. Imagine a punk-informed quasi-parkour game by way of a zany skateboarding simulation by way of a metropolis-sized circus playground that knowingly winks at you as it periodically deconstructs itself.
Buy this game if… Grinding, back-flipping and zip-lining on wires, cables, pipes, railings and pretty much the edge of anything while blasting lunatic mutants sounds appealing. You can buy it here.
Steer clear if… You hate goofball humor or you’re not into open-world games.
What critics said: “…you’re some kind of grind-fu god, working a style meter that requires continuously deft finger work into an acrobatic lather … Insomniac calls Sunset Overdrive a ‘traversal shooter,’ as if that explains anything. I’d just call it a damned good time.” (TIME)
SPONSORED FINANCIAL CONTENT.
You May Like.
Stories From.
Sign Up for Our Newsletters.
Subscribe & Save.
Sign Up for Our Newsletters.
TIME may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice.
Комментариев нет:
Отправить комментарий