The Xbox Series X|S has truly hit its stride, and for gamers in the United States, 2025 is a banner year for incredible experiences. Powered by the unbeatable value of Xbox Game Pass and a steady stream of high-quality exclusives and third-party hits, the Xbox ecosystem is thriving. Whether you're looking for a sprawling universe to explore, a competitive shooter to dominate, or a breathtaking racer, the platform has a top-tier game for you.

Here are the best Xbox games that should be on every player's radar this year.

For the Epic Explorer: Starfield: Shattered Space

Bethesda’s massive space-faring RPG, Starfield, was a landmark release, and its first major expansion, Shattered Space, has reinvigorated the universe. This story-driven DLC adds a thrilling new narrative centered around the mysterious House Va'ruun, complete with new locations, gear, and deeper lore to uncover. For players who love deep role-playing, endless exploration, and the freedom to create their own story among the stars, Starfield and its expansion represent the pinnacle of open-world adventure on the Xbox. As a first-party title, it's a cornerstone of the Game Pass library.

For the Fantasy Adventurer: Fable

The long-awaited return to the whimsical and satirical world of Albion has finally arrived, and Fable has proven to be worth the wait. Developed by Playground Games, known for the stunning Forza Horizon series, this action-RPG reboot is a visual masterpiece. It perfectly captures the charming, slightly dark British humor that made the original series a classic, while introducing modern gameplay mechanics and a breathtakingly beautiful worldto explore. Fable is a must-play for anyone seeking a character-driven adventure filled with magic, humor, and meaningful choices.

For the Racing Purist: Forza Motorsport

The latest entry in the Forza Motorsport franchise remains the undisputed king of track-based racing simulators on any console. It’s a graphical showcase for the Xbox Series X, with stunningly realistic car models, dynamic weather, and true-to-life physics that make every lap a challenge. With a deep career mode that has you building and tuning cars, and intensely competitive online multiplayer, Forza Motorsport offers endless content for automotive enthusiasts. It's a technical marvel and a foundational title for any Xbox owner with a need for speed.

For the Competitive Gamer: Halo Infinite

Years after its launch, the multiplayer suite of Halo Infinite continues to be one of the best and most polished first-person shooter experiences available. With a steady stream of new seasons, maps, and game modes, developer 343 Industries has kept the game feeling fresh and engaging. The core gameplay is a masterclass in arena shooting, perfectly balancing classic Halo mechanics with modern sensibilities. Best of all, the multiplayer is free-to-play for everyone, making it the most accessible and essential competitive game on the Xbox platform.

From the boundless galaxies of Starfield to the magical landscapes of Fable, the Xbox Series X|S in 2025 offers a diverse and compelling library of games. With many of these premier titles available on day one with Xbox Game Pass, there has never been a better time to be an Xbox gamer in the US.