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Xbox Games Series: A Tier List

Author:Kristen Update:May 13,2025

After a strong Xbox Developer Direct to kick off 2025, the future looks bright for Microsoft and its impressive lineup of first-party studios. With the acquisitions of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard, the Xbox ecosystem has expanded significantly, offering a diverse range of gaming experiences. Whether you're reminiscing about the glory days of the Xbox 360 or eagerly anticipating the arrival of Xbox exclusives on other platforms, there's something for everyone to be excited about.

Let's dive into a tier list of Xbox game series that have left a lasting impact, based on personal enjoyment and anticipation for future releases. This list includes series from Xbox, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard, focusing on those with multiple entries.

Simon Cardy's Xbox Games Series Tier List

S-Tier:

  • Doom: The recent entries have solidified Doom's place as one of the best first-person shooters out there. The upcoming Doom: The Dark Ages looks promising, continuing id Software's legacy of excellence.
  • Forza Horizon: Perhaps the best racing games I've ever played, aside from Burnout 3 and Burnout Revenge. The open-world exploration and stunning visuals make Forza Horizon a standout series.

A-Tier:

  • Halo: While Halo 2 and Halo 3 are among the finest campaign shooters ever made, more recent inconsistencies prevent it from reaching the S-tier. Still, Halo remains a cornerstone of Xbox's identity.
  • Fallout: I prefer the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout over the fantasy realm of Elder Scrolls. The immersive storytelling and choice-driven gameplay make it a top pick for me.

B-Tier:

  • Gears of War: Known for its intense cover-based shooting and compelling story, Gears of War is a solid series that has evolved over time.
  • Elder Scrolls: While I lean more towards Fallout, the Elder Scrolls series offers rich worlds and deep lore that keep players engaged.

C-Tier:

  • Fable: A charming series with a unique blend of humor and fantasy, though it hasn't reached the heights of its early entries in recent years.
  • Ori: Beautifully crafted platformers with emotional narratives, but they haven't captured my heart as much as some other series.

D-Tier:

  • Fuzion Frenzy: A fun party game that brings back memories of multiplayer chaos, but it doesn't hold up as well against more modern titles.

Do you agree with this ranking? Perhaps you think Gears of War deserves a higher spot, or you're a staunch defender of Fuzion Frenzy. Feel free to create your own tier list and compare it with the IGN community. Is there an Xbox series we've missed that you'd like to highlight? Share your thoughts and rankings in the comments below, and let's celebrate the rich history and exciting future of Xbox gaming.