Gamer Koala

The Best Xbox Games of All Time

Xbox logo over a Fable landscape

The original Xbox burst onto the gaming scene in 2001 in North America and, in 2002, in Japan, Europe, and Australia, ultimately releasing some of the best Xbox games of all time. It was the first foray into gaming consoles for Microsoft. Despite it being their first, the original Xbox had some incredible exclusives and great ports.

The Xbox introduced a new era of console gaming. In addition to playing games, it also featured the ability to play CD-ROMs and DVDs. The Xbox quickly became a favorite among gamers by combining powerful hardware and innovative features.

Let’s explore the 10 best Xbox games that left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. Be sure to also check out our game rankings for the Xbox 360 and Xbox One.

10. SSX 3

Cover art for SSX 3 on Xbox

Game Info – SSX 3

U.S. Release: Xbox (2003)
Developer: EA Canada
Game Type: Snowboard Racing
Multiplayer: Yes

To start off our best Xbox games list, let’s jump right into some snowboarding action. SSX 3 is a snowboarding game that offers exhilarating tricks and high-speed races down the slopes. Players tackle challenging courses, perform insane stunts, and compete against other riders.

With its impressive visuals, tight controls, and addictive multiplayer modes, SSX 3 captured the thrill and excitement of extreme snowboarding.

9. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

Cover art for Prince of Persia Sands of Time on Xbox

Game Info – Prince of Persia: Sands of Time

U.S. Release: Xbox (2003)
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
Game Type: Platform
Multiplayer: No

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time is an action-adventure game combining acrobatic platforming and manipulation. Players control the Prince as he navigates dangerous environments, solves puzzles, and battles supernatural creatures.

The Sands of Time leveled up the action-adventure genre with its captivating story, fluid movement mechanics, and inventive time-rewinding feature.

8. Jet Set Radio Future

Cover art for Jet Set Radio Future on Xbox

Game Info – Jet Set Radio Future

U.S. Release: Xbox (2002)
Developer: Smilebit
Game Type: Extreme Sports
Multiplayer: Yes

Jet Set Radio Future is a cel-shaded action game that blends rollerblading, graffiti, and a futuristic setting. Players control a gang of skaters as they navigate vibrant environments, evade authorities, and leave their mark through graffiti.

With its unique art style, infectious soundtrack, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Jet Set Radio Future delivered a fresh and stylish gaming experience.

7. Burnout 3: Takedown

Cover art for Burnout 3 on Xbox

Game Info – Burnout 3: Takedown

U.S. Release: Xbox (2004)
Developer: Criterion Games
Game Type: Racing
Multiplayer: Yes

Burnout 3: Takedown is an exhilarating racing game focusing on aggressive driving and high-speed collisions. Players compete in various race modes, aiming to cause as much chaos and destruction as possible.

With its adrenaline-fueled gameplay, stunning crashes, and addictive multiplayer, Burnout 3: Takedown became the ultimate arcade racing experience on the Xbox.

6. Splinter Cell

Cover art for Splinter Cell on Xbox

Game Info – Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell

U.S. Release: Xbox (2002)
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
Game Type: Stealth Shooter
Multiplayer: Yes

Splinter Cell is a stealth-action game where players assume the role of Sam Fisher, an elite secret agent. Players must utilize stealth, gadgets, and strategy to complete missions and thwart terrorist threats.

With its emphasis on tactical gameplay, intense atmosphere, and cinematic presentation, Splinter Cell offered a unique espionage experience that resonated with players.

5. Ninja Gaiden

Cover art for Ninja Gaiden on Xbox

Game Info – Ninja Gaiden

U.S. Release: Xbox (2004)
Developer: Tecmo
Game Type: Action Adventure
Multiplayer: No

Ninja Gaiden is an action-adventure game that follows the journey of Ryu Hayabusa, a master ninja seeking revenge. Players navigate intricate levels, engaging in fast-paced combat against various enemies. Fans of the old Nintendo series of Ninja Gaiden games were blown away by the Xbox update.

With its challenging difficulty, fluid combat system, and impressive visuals, Ninja Gaiden provided an adrenaline-fueled experience that kept players on the edge of their seats.

4. Project Gotham Racing 2

Cover art for Project Gotham Racing 2 on Xbox

Game Info – Project Gotham Racing 2

U.S. Release: Xbox (2003)
Developer: Bizarre Creations
Game Type: Racing
Multiplayer: Yes

Project Gotham Racing 2 is a racing game that emphasizes skill and precision. Players compete in various cities worldwide, showcasing their driving abilities across multiple race modes.

With its realistic (for the time) graphics, responsive controls, and addictive gameplay, Project Gotham Racing 2 became a favorite among racing fans and solidified the franchise’s reputation.

3. Fable

Cover art for Fable on Xbox

Game Info – Fable

U.S. Release: Xbox (2004)
Developer: Lionhead Studios
Game Type: ARPG
Multiplayer: No

Not only one of the best Xbox games of all time, but also one of the best Xbox exclusive franchises. Fable is an action role-playing game that puts players in the shoes of a hero destined to shape the world of Albion. Players make choices that determine their character’s morality and appearance, influencing the reactions of NPCs and the overall storyline.

With its dynamic world, fun combat, and moral dilemmas, Fable offered players a truly immersive and interactive experience.

2. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

Cover art for Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic on Xbox

Game Info – Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

U.S. Release: Xbox (2003)
Developer: Bioware
Game Type: RPG
Multiplayer: No

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is an epic role-playing game set in the Star Wars universe. Players create their own character and embark on a quest that spans the galaxy, making choices that shape their character’s destiny.

With its deep storytelling, memorable characters, and robust combat system, Knights of the Old Republic captivated players with its immersive Star Wars experience.

1. Halo: Combat Evolved

The Best Xbox Game of All Time

Cover art for Halo on Xbox

Game Info – Halo: Combat Evolved

U.S. Release: Xbox (2001)
Developer: Bungie
Game Type: FPS
Multiplayer: Yes

Of course the number one spot is Halo… Can you imagine a best Xbox games list without this game-changing title leading the pack? Halo: Combat Evolved is a first-person shooter that revolutionized the genre. Players assume the role of Master Chief, a supersoldier battling against alien forces known as the Covenant.

With its immersive single-player campaign, intense multiplayer modes, and innovative weapon mechanics, Halo became a flagship franchise for the Xbox and remains one of the most beloved game series ever.

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