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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
