While Microsoft’s original Xbox One was left dragging its heels compared to Sony’s fourth-generation PlayStation console, both the slimmer Xbox One S and 4K-capable Xbox One X have flourished. Now excellent homes for all sorts of games, from AAA blockbusters to platform exclusives, now’s the time to pick up the Xbox One controller and start playing.
Whether you’ve opted for the dirt-cheap Xbox One S or splurged on the 4K superiority of the Xbox One X, or heck – still have your dust old Xbox One under your TV, you’ll be wanting some decent games to play. That’s where we come in.
Here at Expert Reviews, we’ve always got an Xbox controller in our hands and as such, can let you know which Xbox One games are worth playing in 2017. From racing titles to blockbuster shooters, all the bases are covered for every budget. Here are 2017’s best games you need to play in 2017 on your Xbox One, Xbox One S and Xbox One X.
Best Xbox One games in 2017
1. Forza Motorsport 7
Xbox One X Enhanced? Yes: 4K and HDR
Turn10’s Forza Motorsport 7 is currently the best game on Microsoft’s family of Xbox consoles. It looks utterly gorgeous on the One and One S, but if you’re lucky enough to own an Xbox One X, you’re in for a real treat. With HDR and 4K textures, Forza Motorsport 7 is a must, plays like a dream, and is one of the best sim-racing games of this generation. Vroom Vroom.
Forza Motorsport 7: Standard Edition – Xbox One
2. Destiny 2
Xbox One X Enhanced? Yes: 4K and HDR
Destiny returns, and this time its story is actually worth playing. While the original’s plot was a convoluted mess, and something worth skipping, this sci-fi shooter sequel is well worth picking up and – crucially – playing side by side with your friends. Having refined the shooting gameplay and added a bunch of new weapons and abilities, Bungie has created a sequel that feels fresh, and is miles better than its predecessor.
Destiny 2
3. Resident Evil 7
Xbox One X Enhanced? Yes: HDR
After the over-the-top mess of Resident Evil 6, creators Capcom have returned to the long-running horror series’ roots – with a spooky house and scary (ahem) residents. The Xbox One version doesn’t have PS VR support, but this intense burst of a horror game is brilliant on a normal screen, with fantastic sound design that will have you squirming on the sofa.
Resident Evil 7 Biohazard (Xbox One)
4. The Witcher 3
Xbox One X Enhanced? No: In development
The Witcher 3 arguably sets a new benchmark when it comes to immersive storytelling, managing to weave a complex tale across a sprawling, beautiful game environment. Combat is a pleasure, as are the conversations you’ll have with the game’s host of memorable characters. With hours worth of side quests and two excellent servings of DLC available, you’ll be adventuring with Geralt of Riviera for months to come.
The Witcher 3 (Xbox One)
5. Gears of War 4
Xbox One X Enhanced? Yes: 4K and HDR
The original Gears of War helped to define the cover shooter, but running and ducking gameplay has become somewhat unfashionable in the wake of Doom’s kinetic ballet. It’s a surprise, then, that Gears of War 4 is so much fun to play. The enjoyable romp takes place 25 years after the events of Gears of War 3 and comes with an excellent co-op mode. It’s not revolutionary, but it boasts some spectacular set pieces and a suitably pulpy story.
Gears Of War 4 (Xbox One)
6. Rocket League
Xbox One X Enhanced? No: In development
Cars with rockets hitting balls into nets! Rocket League has been a bit of a sensation since its launch, letting players across PC, PS4 and Xbox One tear up virtual pitches with rocket-propelled automobiles. The game plays a bit like football, if football was created by a 5-year old who liked to play with remote-controlled toys.
Rocket League Collector’s Edition (Xbox One)
7. Overwatch
Xbox One X Enhanced? No
From its colourful design to its stripped-back shooter toolset, Overwatch offers an accessible, addictive and very welcoming experience for players. Seven million people played Overwatch within a week of its release, and it has continued to dominate the multiplayer scene since. It’s a well-polished shooter that’s easy on the eyes, and a lot of fun to spend a few hours on.
Overwatch Game of the Year Edition (Xbox One)
8. Dark Souls 3
Xbox One X Enhanced? No
Like the Dark Souls and Bloodborne games before it, Dark Souls 3 is a masterclass in game design. You’ll come across so many memorable locations during your playthrough that you’ll find yourself chatting with them as if you’ve just got back from a (particularly violent) holiday. Dark Souls 3 is hard, yes, and that may put some players off – but I’d urge you to give it a go. Once you’ve gotten used to the game’s rhythm of death, pushing further into the darkness becomes an experience like no other.
Vía Expert Reviews