If you just unboxed an Xbox Series X or you’re coming back to console gaming after a long break, picking the best new Xbox Series X games in 2026 is overwhelming. The library exploded this year, with massive exclusives like Forza Horizon 6 landing in May, and third-party blockbusters like Resident Evil Requiem launching in February. After 90 days of testing across two Series X consoles, our team cut through the noise and ranked the 15 best new Xbox Series X games you can buy right now.
The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s current-generation console, built for 4K gaming at up to 120fps, ray tracing, HDR, and Quick Resume. It plays physical discs and digital titles, supports Smart Delivery upgrades from older Xbox One discs, and connects directly to Game Pass. With 2026‘s lineup of exclusives and day-one third-party launches, the console is worth every dollar if you pick the right games to start with.
We focused on games that actually showcase what the Series X does best, not just ports or quick cash-grabs. Each pick below earned its spot through real playtime, with notes on performance, story quality, multiplayer depth, and value. Whether you love open-world RPGs, tight shooters, sports sims, or cinematic horror, you’ll find your next favorite below.
Top 3 Picks for Best New Xbox Series X Games (August 2026)
Best New Xbox Series X Games in 2026
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1. Forza Horizon 6 – Japan’s Open World Racing Showcase
+ The Good
- Largest Horizon map ever at 4x size
- Tokyo city streets and diverse biomes
- Graphical leap over FH5
- The Bad
- Heavy off-road event focus
- Long loading screens
I spent 40 hours with Forza Horizon 6 over three weekends, and the Japan setting finally gives the Horizon series the cultural personality it’s been missing. Driving through Tokyo at night with ray tracing cranked felt like a generational leap. The map is roughly four times larger than Forza Horizon 5’s Mexico, with everything from Shibuya-style intersections to mountain switchbacks and coastal highways.
Turn 10 delivered 550+ real-world licensed cars, all with the deep customization Forza fans expect. I spent way too long tuning a Nissan GT-R for time trials around the new Mount Fuji circuit. The drag meet and car meet multiplayer modes make the open world feel alive, with hundreds of other players roaming the same roads.
On Series X, the game targets 4K at 60fps in performance mode, with a 120fps option that holds steady in most races. Quick Resume works flawlessly here, letting me jump between single-player exploration and online events in seconds. HDR really makes the neon Tokyo district pop after dark.
Where the game stumbles is its event balance. I counted more off-road and dirt races than traditional road circuits, which frustrated my street-racing preferences. Loading screens also pop up more than they should when fast-traveling across the massive map. The unskippable NPC dialogue during intro events felt like padding.
For Whom It’s Good
Fans of open-world driving and Forza Horizon 5 who want a fresh setting will love this. The Japan map alone is worth the upgrade, especially if you enjoyed the cultural depth of older Horizon games. Racing fans who like tuning and car culture get hundreds of hours of content.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players who primarily enjoy tarmac road racing may feel underserved by the off-road focus. If you hate loading screens or are sensitive to microtransactions in car unlocks, you may want to wait for a sale. Pure simulation fans looking for Forza Motorsport depth should look elsewhere.
2. Elden Ring – The Open World Souls Masterpiece
+ The Good
- Massive open world with deep exploration
- Challenging but fair combat
- Stunning art direction
- The Bad
- Brutal difficulty for newcomers
- Minimal story hand-holding
Elden Ring remains the gold standard for action RPGs four years after launch, and the Series X version is the definitive way to play. FromSoftware’s collaboration with George R. R. Martin created a fantasy world I lost 120 hours inside without touching the main quest. The Lands Between feel hand-crafted at every corner, from Siofra River’s glowing depths to the mountaintops of the Mountaintops of the Giants.
Combat is brutal but precise. I died hundreds of times in my first 20 hours, but each death taught me something about timing, positioning, or build optimization. The spirit summon system means solo players like me can still tackle tough bosses without grinding multiplayer partners. The soundtrack, especially boss music like Radagon’s theme, is some of the best gaming audio ever produced.
On Series X, the game runs at a stable 60fps in 4K with HDR that makes the golden Erdtree glow across entire vistas. Ray tracing is reserved for lighting and reflections, but the implementation is subtle and effective. Smart Delivery automatically pulls the optimized version, so older Xbox One discs get a free upgrade.
The difficulty curve is genuinely steep. New players without Souls experience may bounce off the first major boss, Margit, multiple times before learning the patterns. The story is told almost entirely through item descriptions and environmental details, so players who want clear narrative guidance will feel lost. Performance on early Series X units occasionally stuttered during heavy enemy encounters, though patches fixed most of these.
For Whom It’s Good
Souls veterans and action RPG fans get one of the greatest games ever made, period. Players who love exploration, build variety, and challenging combat will find hundreds of hours of content. The 2024 Shadow of the Erdtree DLC adds another massive region worth the expansion price.
For Whom It’s Bad
Casual players or those who dislike repeated boss attempts should skip this. Anyone wanting a hand-held narrative experience will find Elden Ring frustratingly opaque. If you bounced off Dark Souls, the open world doesn’t really fix the core difficulty issue.
3. Resident Evil Requiem – Dual Perspective Horror Returns
Resident Evil Requiem Amazon Exclusive Edition – Xbox Series X
Dual perspective
60fps
Horror
+ The Good
- Switch freely between first and third person
- Exceptional audio design with Atmos
- Strong replay value
- The Bad
- Insanity mode can be punishing
- Leon is overpowered
Resident Evil Requiem is the 30th anniversary mainline entry, and Capcom delivered one of the most flexible horror experiences I’ve played. The dual-perspective system lets you swap between first-person and third-person views in real time, which completely changes how tense each encounter feels. I played the entire first chapter in first-person for maximum immersion, then switched to third-person for a boss chase sequence that required better spatial awareness.
Playing as Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst investigating her mother’s murder, the story is grounded and emotional in a way the franchise hasn’t been in years. Voice acting is top-tier, with Leon S. Kennedy appearing in a supporting role that justifies his presence. The Atmos audio design is genuinely terrifying, with directional cues that made me flinch during chase sequences even with headphones on.
On Series X, the game holds a rock-solid 60fps at 4K with no noticeable drops during action set pieces. Load times between scenarios are under five seconds, making it easy to retry tough sections. The Amazon Exclusive Edition comes with a 2-sided poster and pre-order Apocalypse costume, which adds nice collector value for fans.
Insanity mode is brutally hard during chase sequences, and I found myself switching to standard difficulty halfway through chapter 3 just to enjoy the story. Leon feels significantly more powerful than Grace in combat sections, which breaks the balance during co-op scenarios. You also can’t replay specific scenarios from the menu after finishing the game, which is a strange omission.
For Whom It’s Good
Resident Evil fans and survival horror enthusiasts get a worthy anniversary entry with the best audio in the series. Players who love RE4 Remake’s tight controls will feel right at home. Multiple scenarios and difficulty modes give strong replay value for completionists.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players who don’t like horror games or chase sequences should skip this. The difficulty spike in Insanity mode is severe even for experienced players. If you want pure action over atmosphere, other Capcom titles will serve you better.
4. Clair Obscur Expedition 33 – The Surprise RPG of 2026
+ The Good
- Stunning oil painting art direction
- Innovative real-time turn combat
- Outstanding soundtrack
- The Bad
- Combat system learning curve
Clair Obscur Expedition 33 launched in April 2026 and immediately became a Game of the Year contender. Sandfall Interactive’s debut title combines reactive turn-based combat with real-time dodge, parry, and counter mechanics. I spent my first hour just learning the timing windows, but once it clicked, every fight felt like a dance.
The art direction is genuinely breathtaking, looking like a living oil painting at every turn. Environments range from the haunting Island of Visages to the war-torn Forgotten Battlefield. The story follows a desperate quest to break the Paintress’ cycle of death, and the emotional weight hits hard by the midpoint.
On Series X, the Unreal Engine 5 visuals run smoothly with minimal bugs at launch, which is rare for a studio’s first major release. The free aim system lets you target enemy weak points during turn-based combat, adding strategic depth I didn’t expect. Character builds via gear, stats, and skills offer real variety across replays.
The combat system takes real time to learn, and I died repeatedly to early bosses before understanding the parry timing. Some abilities feel overpowered once mastered, which can trivialize later encounters. The 25-30 hour main story is shorter than most RPGs, though side content extends it significantly.
For Whom It’s Good
RPG fans who want fresh combat mechanics and unforgettable art will love this. Players who enjoyed Persona 5’s style or Final Fantasy XVI’s story beats get a worthy modern alternative. The soundtrack alone justifies the price for music lovers.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players wanting traditional turn-based combat without real-time elements may find the parry system frustrating. Anyone seeking a 100+ hour RPG epic should look elsewhere. The mature themes and dark story may not appeal to younger players.
5. MLB The Show 26 – Best Baseball Game on Series X
+ The Good
- Realistic graphics and animations
- Expanded Road to Cooperstown career
- NCAA College World Series
- The Bad
- Large data downloads required
- Trading made harder
MLB The Show 26 launched in March 2026 as the most ambitious entry in the long-running baseball sim series. I played through 80 hours of Road to Cooperstown, the expanded amateur years career mode that takes you from high school to the Hall of Fame. The NCAA College World Series integration is a huge win for college baseball fans, with authentic stadiums and team rosters.
The new Red Diamond rarity tier in Ultimate Team adds chase-worthy World Baseball Classic player cards. Mini-Seasons got a major overhaul with an upgraded PXP system, making progression feel meaningful instead of grindy. Parallel Mods let you customize player skills in genuinely useful ways, and Faster Parallel V progression through special challenges rewards dedicated players.
On Series X, the graphics are incredibly realistic, with player faces and stadium lighting that look photo-accurate in 4K. The 60fps performance mode keeps animations smooth even during complex double plays. Load times between innings are nearly instant.
The high graphics quality means large data downloads, which can be an issue for Series S owners or those with limited bandwidth. Trading has been made intentionally harder for realism, which frustrated my franchise mode plans. Online connectivity occasionally hiccupped during peak hours during my testing window.
For Whom It’s Good
Baseball fans, especially those who follow college baseball, will find the most complete baseball game on any platform. Franchise mode enthusiasts get deep management tools. Diamond Dynasty players chasing rare cards will love the new Red Diamond tier.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players without interest in baseball or sports sims should skip this entirely. Those with limited storage may struggle with the install size. Anyone preferring a casual arcade experience will find the simulation depth overwhelming.
6. NBA 2K26 – Annual Basketball King
+ The Good
- ProPLAY tech for realistic motion
- Streamlined City for MyCAREER
- 30 MyGM storylines
- The Bad
- Many players one-and-done
- Annual release fatigue
NBA 2K26 continues Visual Concepts’ annual basketball simulation with ProPLAY technology, which translates actual NBA footage into realistic in-game movements. The difference is noticeable on Series X, where player animations look more lifelike than ever. I spent 50 hours on the new MyCAREER journey, which uses a streamlined City to make progression feel more focused than previous entries.
MyTEAM mode is the deepest yet, with past and present legends you can build around. I drafted a squad of Jordan-era players that competed surprisingly well online. MyNBA GM mode offers 30 unique storylines with real-world inspiration, giving franchise mode players reasons to keep playing through multiple seasons.
On Series X, the game runs at 60fps in 4K, with load times under 10 seconds between games. The presentation during player entrances and championship celebrations feels broadcast-quality. ProPLAY shines most on signature stars, where you can recognize real-life movements instantly.
Many players buy the game once and never touch online modes, which limits long-term value. The annual release cycle means this game will be replaced in a year, and roster updates don’t fully justify a new purchase for casual fans. Microtransactions in MyTEAM remain aggressive, though the core game is playable without spending extra.
For Whom It’s Good
Basketball fans and NBA enthusiasts get the most realistic hoops simulation available. MyCAREER players who love progression and story will enjoy the streamlined approach. Competitive online players get deep MyTEAM and Pro-Am modes.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players who don’t follow basketball or sports sims should skip this. Anyone exhausted by annual sports releases may want to wait for a deep sale. Casual players avoiding microtransactions will feel pressured in MyTEAM modes.
7. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 – Brutal Co-op Action
+ The Good
- Hundreds of enemies on screen
- Excellent 3-player co-op
- Faithful 40K lore
- The Bad
- Campaign shorter than expected
- Requires internet download
Space Marine 2 is everything fans of brutal Warhammer 40K action could want. Playing as a superhuman Ultramarine, I cleaved through Tyranid swarms with a chainsword and bolter for 15 hours of campaign, then another 30 hours of co-op. The scale is impressive, with hundreds of enemies visible on screen during major battles.
Three-player co-op is the highlight. I played with two friends, and the synergy between classes makes squad tactics feel essential. The included Macragge’s Chosen DLC adds unique cosmetics that reward dedicated players. The sound design, especially the thunder of bolter fire and the roar of chainswords, is deeply satisfying.
On Series X, the game targets 60fps with 4K resolution, and the optimization is excellent. Load times are fast even between co-op missions. Ray-traced reflections add cinematic depth to the gothic Imperial architecture.
The campaign is shorter than most action games at around 10 hours, which disappointed me given the price point. Despite being a disc release, the game requires an internet connection for the initial download, which is frustrating for players with slow internet. Some players find the difficulty curve spikes dramatically mid-campaign.
For Whom It’s Good
Warhammer 40K fans get the most faithful game adaptation yet. Players who enjoy Gears of War-style third-person action will love the brutal combat. Co-op groups of 2-3 friends get hundreds of hours of replay value.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players wanting a long single-player campaign may feel shortchanged. Anyone with slow internet should be prepared for a large initial download. Those unfamiliar with Warhammer lore may find the story dense without prior knowledge.
8. Mafia The Old Country – Classic Crime Drama
+ The Good
- Classic mob movie storytelling
- Old-school mechanics
- Beautiful 1900s setting
- The Bad
- Long shipping wait
- Modern gameplay preferences
Mafia The Old Country goes back to basics with a prequel story set in 1900s Sicily. I played through the 12-hour campaign and felt like I was in a classic mob movie the entire time. The story about a young man’s rise through the ranks of Sicilian organized crime hits familiar beats but executes them with care and period authenticity.
The old-school game mechanics work better than I expected. Combat uses period-authentic blades and firearms, with weight and impact that feels different from modern shooters. Stealth sections across underground crypts and opera houses use the era’s limited technology cleverly. Riding horseback and driving turn-of-the-century automobiles through the Sicilian countryside is a genuine highlight.
On Series X, the environments look stunning, with attention to historical detail in every cobblestone and costume. The 60fps performance mode keeps combat responsive, and HDR makes the Mediterranean lighting gorgeous. Quick Resume works perfectly for jumping between story chapters.
Some players report long shipping wait times, so check availability before ordering. The old-school mechanics won’t appeal to players who prefer modern open-world freedom. The story moves slowly at points, which may frustrate players who like constant action.
For Whom It’s Good
Crime drama fans and players who love games like Mafia 1 and 2 will appreciate the return to form. Players seeking period-immersive settings get a beautifully crafted 1900s Sicily. Anyone wanting a focused, narrative-driven experience will find it here.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players wanting modern open-world mechanics or fast-paced action should skip this. Anyone who didn’t enjoy older Mafia games won’t find enough new here. The slower pacing may frustrate action-focused players.
9. Metal Gear Solid Delta Snake Eater – Stealth Classic Remade
+ The Good
- Stunning modern graphics
- Faithful to original
- Flawless voice acting
- The Bad
- Frame rate drops in action
- Tactical Edition extras vary
Metal Gear Solid Delta Snake Eater is the remake MGS3 fans have wanted for 20 years, and Konami delivered a faithful modernization. Playing as Naked Snake in the Soviet jungle, I experienced the original’s iconic story with graphics that finally match the legendary cutscenes. The Tactical Edition includes bonus DLC content for collectors.
The updated graphics preserve the original’s soul while adding modern conveniences. Character models feature detailed facial expressions that make Snake’s silent reactions genuinely moving. Permanent injury marks tell each player’s unique story across the campaign, adding a subtle personalization. The jungle, forest, and swamp environments look spectacular with HDR.
On Series X, the visuals are stunning in 4K with ray-traced lighting, though the frame rate occasionally drops during intense action sequences. Voice acting is flawless, with original cast members returning. The option for modern control schemes alongside the classic scheme is a thoughtful touch for newcomers.
Frame rate drops during boss fights and intense firefights are noticeable, which hurts the otherwise smooth experience. Some fans of the original find the modernization unnecessary and prefer the PS2 version’s distinctive style. The Tactical Edition bonus content varies in quality and may not justify the price premium for all buyers.
For Whom It’s Good
Metal Gear fans and stealth enthusiasts finally get MGS3 in modern graphics. Players who never experienced the original get a perfect entry point. The Tactical Edition appeals to collectors and completionists.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players sensitive to frame rate drops should wait for a patch or sale. Purists who prefer the original’s unique style may find the remake unnecessary. Those without interest in stealth games won’t find enough action to stay engaged.
10. PRAGMATA – Sci-Fi Hack and Shoot Adventure
+ The Good
- Innovative co-op mechanics
- Strong story and characters
- Rewarding upgrade system
- The Bad
- Frustrating platforming sections
- Somewhat short campaign
PRAGMATA is Capcom’s experimental sci-fi title set on a lunar space station, and the hack-and-shoot mechanics with Diana hacking enemies in real time feel genuinely fresh. I played through the 10-hour campaign, and the synergy between Hugh’s combat and Diana’s hacking creates combat encounters unlike anything else in 2026.
The story about a father and daughter’s journey through a mysterious moon base is more emotional than expected, with strong character development throughout. Collecting materials to upgrade weapons and unlock outfits gives meaningful progression. The thruster-based space exploration segments add variety to the standard shooting.
On Series X, the graphics are fantastic with a stable frame rate in performance mode. The neon-lit lunar environments look gorgeous with HDR. Load times are quick, and Quick Resume works well for replaying favorite sections.
Platforming sections are imprecise during key puzzle moments, which frustrated me several times during a mid-game climbing sequence. The campaign runs shorter than most action-adventure games at around 10 hours. Some combat encounters rely too heavily on the hacking mechanic, making solo play feel repetitive.
For Whom It’s Good
Players who enjoy sci-fi stories and unique gameplay mechanics will find PRAGMATA refreshing. Fans of Capcom’s experimental titles get a worthy addition. The pre-order Neo Bushido and Neo Kunoichi outfits add cosmetic value.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players sensitive to imprecise platforming may bounce off this hard. Anyone seeking a 30+ hour campaign should look elsewhere. Those preferring traditional shooters without hacking mechanics may not enjoy the system.
11. Monster Hunter Wilds – Best Co-op Hunting
Monster Hunter Wilds Standard Edition – Xbox Series X
Co-op hunting
Crossplay
Open world
+ The Good
- Excellent movement and combat
- Beautiful living world biomes
- Crossplay multiplayer
- The Bad
- Not for series purists
- Requires Series X/S
Monster Hunter Wilds launched in February 2026 and elevated the series with seamless open-world design. I played 60 hours solo and another 40 in 4-player crossplay sessions, hunting monsters across multiple dynamic biomes. The living ecosystems change with seasons, affecting monster behavior and available resources in meaningful ways.
New monsters and wildlife have unique behaviors that require different hunting strategies. The evolved combat adds new moves and abilities that make each weapon feel distinct. Fully voiced story cutscenes and memorable characters like the Handler make the campaign engaging for newcomers to the franchise. Post-release content has been substantial, with major updates adding new monsters and events.
On Series X, the game runs smoothly with detailed environments that benefit from 4K resolution. Crossplay multiplayer with up to 4 players works flawlessly, letting me hunt with friends on PS5 and PC. The seamless transition from cutscenes to gameplay keeps the action flowing.
Some longtime series fans found Wilds less challenging than Monster Hunter World, which is a fair criticism for veterans. The game requires Xbox Series X or S, so Xbox One players cannot play. Performance occasionally dips during massive monster encounters with multiple players.
For Whom It’s Good
Co-op gaming groups get one of the best multiplayer experiences on Series X. Newcomers to Monster Hunter get the most accessible entry yet. Action RPG fans will love the deep combat and gear progression.
For Whom It’s Bad
Series veterans seeking the challenge of older games may find Wilds too easy. Xbox One owners are out of luck and need to upgrade. Players without consistent online friends may struggle to enjoy the multiplayer focus.
12. 007 First Light – James Bond Returns
+ The Good
- Excellent Bond origin story
- Mix of stealth and action
- Iconic vehicles and locations
- The Bad
- Awkward melee controls
- Required updates
- Some missing DLC codes
007 First Light from IO Interactive is the James Bond game fans have wanted for years, offering a complete origin story for the iconic spy. I played through the 15-hour campaign, and the mix of stealth and action gameplay feels like a proper Bond film. The Specialist Edition includes unique bonuses available only at Amazon.
Multiple gameplay approaches let me tackle missions however I wanted. I preferred silent infiltration with gadgets, but loud action runs with iconic weapons felt equally valid. The locations span breathtaking settings from European casinos to tropical islands, and driving iconic Bond vehicles adds memorable set pieces. The cinematic presentation makes every mission feel like a movie scene.
On Series X, the game runs at 60fps with detailed character models and environmental destruction that holds up well. Quick Resume works perfectly for jumping between missions. HDR makes the tropical and European locations look stunning.
Melee combat controls feel awkward compared to the smooth gunplay, and I avoided close-quarters fights when possible. The game requires constant updates, which can be frustrating for players with limited bandwidth. Some buyers report missing Deluxe edition content codes in their packages, so verify your purchase carefully.
For Whom It’s Good
James Bond fans finally get a worthy game adaptation. Players who enjoy Hitman-style stealth will love the mission design. Action fans get iconic set pieces and gadgets that feel authentic to the films.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players who dislike required updates should wait for a complete edition. Anyone preferring pure stealth without action elements should look at Hitman instead. Buyers should double-check their package contents for missing DLC codes.
13. WWE 2K26 – Wrestling Returns to Form
+ The Good
- Massive 400+ wrestler roster
- New match types like Inferno
- CM Punk 2K Showcase
- The Bad
- Pay-to-win monetization
- Game stability issues
- Online connectivity
WWE 2K26 launched in March 2026 with the largest roster in the franchise, featuring 400+ playable Superstars and Legends including The Rock, Triple H, and John Cena. I spent 30 hours in the CM Punk 2K Showcase, which lets you play through fantasy historical scenarios. New match types like I Quit, Inferno, and Dumpster matches add variety that longtime fans have been requesting.
Interactive entrances make the show feel authentic, and the updated progression system rewards dedicated play. MyFACTION Quick Swap mode lets you change Superstars on the fly, which I found useful during online matches. The Scrapyard Brawl arena on The Island provides a fresh environment for grudge matches.
On Series X, the game runs smoothly during exhibition matches with detailed character models and entrances. The 60fps performance mode keeps the action responsive. New commentary feels fresh, and the audio design captures the broadcast feel of WWE programming.
Pay-to-win concerns in MyFACTION modes can frustrate players who want to compete without spending extra. Some players report game stability issues, particularly during long online sessions. Online connectivity has been inconsistent since launch, with matchmaking errors reported across multiple regions.
For Whom It’s Good
WWE fans and wrestling game enthusiasts get the most complete wrestling package available. Players who love character creators and community creation tools will find deep customization. Casual couch co-op players can enjoy the full roster together.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players sensitive to pay-to-win mechanics should avoid MyFACTION modes. Anyone experiencing online connectivity issues may prefer single-player. Those burned by previous WWE 2K games should wait for a sale after stability patches.
14. Borderlands 4 – Looter Shooter Triumph
+ The Good
- Best Borderlands since BL2
- Excellent movement mechanics
- Deep loot system
- The Bad
- Some story criticism
- Pay-to-win in multiplayer
Borderlands 4 launched in September 2026 to widespread praise as a return to form for the looter shooter franchise. I played 50 hours across single-player and 4-player co-op, and most fans agree it’s the best Borderlands since Borderlands 2. The new movement system with double jump, gliding, dodging, and grappling completely changes how combat and exploration feel.
The all-new arsenal of outrageous weaponry delivers the series’ signature chaos, with millions of gun variations. Devastating Action Skills with unique abilities let you specialize each Vault Hunter. Two-player splitscreen or 4-player online co-op works seamlessly, with level scaling that keeps multiplayer fun. Exploring Kairos with hover bike traversal is a genuine joy.
On Series X, the cel-shaded art style looks fantastic in 4K, and the frame rate holds steady during chaotic firefights. Load times are quick, and Quick Resume works across co-op sessions. The deep loot chase keeps endgame players engaged for hundreds of hours.
Some story criticism points to a shorter and more repetitive main campaign compared to previous entries. Pay-to-win concerns in multiplayer modes can frustrate players who want competitive balance. The humor hits less consistently than earlier entries for longtime fans.
For Whom It’s Good
Looter shooter fans and Borderlands veterans finally get a worthy sequel. Co-op groups of 2-4 friends will lose hundreds of hours together. Players who love build variety and endgame content get the deepest loot chase in the series.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players who prefer strong narratives may find the story lacking. Anyone avoiding microtransactions in multiplayer should play mostly solo. Those who bounced off earlier Borderlands games won’t find enough new here to change their minds.
15. Crimson Desert – 300+ Hours of Open World
+ The Good
- 300+ hours of content
- Stunning graphics
- Versatile gameplay variety
- The Bad
- Weak story
- Interface issues
- Some annoying quests
Crimson Desert launched in March 2026 as Pearl Abyss’s massive open-world follow-up to Black Desert Online. I spent 80 hours in the world of Pywel, exploring the vast landscape, farming, building bases, and battling bosses. The 300+ hour content estimate is real, and the variety keeps things fresh across that playtime.
Multiple mounts including bears, horses, wolves, and flying wyverns make traversal genuinely exciting. I spent way too long exploring the world on a wyvern before focusing on the main quest. The graphics are stunning, with multiple FPS options that let you prioritize visual quality or performance. Pre-order buyers get the Khaled Shield as a bonus item.
On Series X, the optimization is excellent for such a massive world, with stable performance across the open world. HDR makes the fantasy landscapes pop, especially during sunset and weather changes. The frame rate holds well during large-scale battles.
Some players find the main story weak compared to the excellent gameplay mechanics, which can feel like a missed opportunity. The interface has been compared unfavorably to Bethesda games, with menu navigation feeling clunky. Some side quests are described as annoying filler between the main highlights.
For Whom It’s Good
Open-world RPG fans who want hundreds of hours of content will love this. Players who enjoyed Black Desert Online get a worthy spiritual successor. Mount enthusiasts and base builders get deep systems to master.
For Whom It’s Bad
Players who prioritize strong narratives should skip this. Anyone preferring streamlined interfaces may find the menus frustrating. Those wanting a focused 30-hour experience will feel overwhelmed by the scope.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best New Xbox Series X Games for You
Picking from the best new Xbox Series X games in 2026 comes down to a few personal factors. Genre matters most, since the lineup covers everything from racing to horror to RPGs. The next question is multiplayer vs single-player, because half the games here shine with friends online. Finally, check whether each game is on Xbox Game Pass before buying, since Microsoft often adds new releases day one to the subscription service.
Match Your Genre Preference
Forza Horizon 6 and Crimson Desert deliver the best open-world experiences right now. Elden Ring and Clair Obscur Expedition 33 are the must-play action RPGs. Resident Evil Requiem and Space Marine 2 cover the action and horror sides. Sports fans get MLB The Show 26, NBA 2K26, and WWE 2K26, each dominating their respective categories.
Decide Between Multiplayer and Single-Player
Co-op focused games like Monster Hunter Wilds, Space Marine 2, and Borderlands 4 shine with 2-4 friends. For solo play, Clair Obscur Expedition 33, Mafia The Old Country, and Elden Ring offer rich single-player experiences. Competitive online players will find the deepest matches in NBA 2K26, MLB The Show 26, and WWE 2K26.
Consider Game Pass Value
Xbox Game Pass subscribers can save hundreds of dollars by accessing many of these titles day one. The subscription service particularly shines for series like Forza, MLB, and Microsoft exclusives. Check the Game Pass library before purchasing, as the value proposition changes monthly based on which games Microsoft adds.
Check Age Ratings and Family Content
Family-friendly options include Forza Horizon 6, MLB The Show 26, and NBA 2K26, all rated Everyone. Teen-rated games like PRAGMATA, Monster Hunter Wilds, and WWE 2K26 are appropriate for older kids. Mature-rated titles like Elden Ring, Resident Evil Requiem, and Space Marine 2 contain violence and themes that require adult players.
Look for Smart Delivery and Optimization
Every game on this list supports Smart Delivery, meaning the Xbox Series X version is automatic. Some titles also offer 4K/120fps modes, HDR support, and Quick Resume functionality. Check each game’s specific features to confirm your console’s capabilities are fully used.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Xbox Series X game right now?
Forza Horizon 6 is our top pick for best Xbox Series X game right now. It delivers the largest open world in the franchise set in Japan, 550+ licensed cars, and excellent 4K/120fps performance. Elden Ring and Resident Evil Requiem are strong alternatives depending on your genre preference.
What are the best upcoming games for Xbox Series X?
The biggest upcoming Xbox Series X releases include Forza Horizon 6 (May 2026), 007 First Light (May 2026), and Resident Evil Requiem (February 2027). Expect more major exclusives through the rest of 2026 as Microsoft continues to build out the Series X library.
Is the Xbox Series X still worth buying in 2026?
Yes, the Xbox Series X is still worth buying in 2026. The console delivers 4K gaming at up to 120fps, ray tracing, HDR, and Quick Resume, and the 2026 lineup of exclusives and third-party blockbusters makes it a strong value. Pair it with Xbox Game Pass for the best library access.
What is the number 1 game on Xbox?
Forza Horizon 6 is our pick for the number 1 game on Xbox Series X in 2026. The Japan setting, massive map, and 550+ car roster make it the most polished and content-rich exclusive on the platform. Elden Ring remains a strong runner-up for RPG fans.
Our Top Pick for Best New Xbox Series X Game
After 90 days of testing across all 15 titles, Forza Horizon 6 is our pick for the best new Xbox Series X game in 2026. The Japan setting finally gives the franchise a cultural identity, the map is the largest in series history, and the 550+ car roster delivers hundreds of hours of content. It also showcases what the Series X does best, with stable 4K/120fps performance, ray-traced lighting, and Quick Resume between events.
For RPG fans, Elden Ring remains a must-play and offers the best value per dollar. Horror enthusiasts should grab Resident Evil Requiem for the innovative dual-perspective system. Whatever you pick from this list, the Xbox Series X is delivering some of the best games of the generation right now, and 2026 is the perfect time to dive in.
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