The original Xbox made its mark on video game history with some truly fantastic games. Looking back at the original Xbox gaming pedigree can bring nostalgic joy to many gamers. Many of these games stand the test of time and are still fun to play today.
From a wide range of genres, the original Xbox has so many classic games that gamers have to play to sink their teeth into it. From a long list of developers, this list will collect the best games on the console. You should try any of these games if you haven’t tried them yet.
10/10 Gotham Racing Project
Project Gotham Racing was a landmark racing game on video game consoles. While gamers may prefer Project Gotham Racing 2, the impact and legacy that PGR1 left on the racing franchise cannot be overlooked.
The game had stunning visuals, gameplay, and functionality. While the series may not be what it once was, PGR was a monumental step in the racing franchise that paved the way for games like Forza Horizon and today’s Gran Turismo games.
9/10 Jet Set Radio Future
The Dreamcast’s death did not spell disaster for the Jet Set Radio franchise. Jet Set Radio Future continued the series on the Microsoft console and attracted many Sega fans.
A game with roller skating as its main traversal mechanic might not sound like much, but Jet Set Radio Future was an impressive follow-up to the Dreamcast’s Jet Set Radio. One of the reasons Jet Set Radio Future should be recognized as a standout Xbox game is its uniqueness. To this day, no game has captured the feel of the Jet Set Radio games.
8/10 Gaiden Ninja
The Ninja Gaiden franchise doesn’t get enough love these days. Many fighting games today owe a lot to the early Ninja Gaiden games. A game known for its difficulty and precision, Ninja Gaiden was not for the faint of heart.
Ninja Gaiden had the complete package, with top notch visuals, combat, and gameplay. Ninja Gaiden is a great game for gamers interested in playing some older and more well-known titles.
7/10 Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City would have ranked much higher if it was an Xbox exclusive. Nonetheless, GTA: VC deserves a place, due to its strong ties to Microsoft’s first console and its impact on the video game industry.
Every GTA game seems to be better than the last, but Vice City really made its mark on the series. Its colorful neon aesthetic and unmatched gameplay make it one of the most playable games for current gamers out of everyone on the list.
6/10 psychonauts
Psychonauts was Tim Schafer and Double Fine’s first real test as developers. The unique aesthetics and theme that Psychonauts displays throughout the game make it stand out as one of the most memorable games of the era. While it was meant to be an Xbox console exclusive, the game eventually made its way to PlayStations.
Microsoft and Double Fine have a long history that led them to fall under the Microsoft developer banner today. Psychonauts left a lasting impact on the Xbox console and to this day, aside from the game’s sequel, there has never been a game quite like Psychonauts.
5/10 The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind was one of the first expansive RPGs on the original Xbox and the series has been an obvious success on consoles, with The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim becoming one of the best-selling games of all time. .
When you think of Morrowind, you have to think of Xbox. Bethesda and Microsoft have always had a good working relationship, especially today, but Morrowind is what started it all. Microsoft might not be known as a console for RPG gamers if it weren’t for Morrowind’s exclusivity on its original console.
4/10 Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
BioWare really outdid itself with Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic. This game is not set during the events of the movies, but is actually in its own time period. This gave developers the ability to create interesting lore and areas to explore.
A great example of early morality systems in video games, where the player’s choices and actions had a real impact on the game. The title is packed with memorable characters and a long, winding narrative. It’s a must-play for Star Wars fans!
3/10 Halo: Combat Evolved
If this list was made up of the most iconic Xbox original games ever made, Halo: Combat Evolved would definitely be number one. Since these games are ranked by how good they are, Halo: CE doesn’t top the list. While it’s a phenomenal experience, especially when you consider its age, future entries in the Halo series brought a new level of polish to gaming.
For many gamers today, Halo: Combat Evolved was the entry point into video games. The title revolutionized the FPS genre on consoles and breathed new life into multiplayer games. Halo remains one of the most beloved franchises in gaming today.
2/10 fable
Fable is a great game overall. He brought a uniquely British humor to Microsoft’s console and left a lasting impression on its players. While the franchise has gone through the wringer, with multiple less-than-adequate sequels, spin-offs, and even a canceled game, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many fans.
Fable not only brought remarkable features to Xbox, but also to gaming in general. It was one of the first games to have a really comprehensive and thoughtful morality system that could be seen in the visual appearance of the game’s main character. The game’s combat mechanics were also nothing to scoff at, as players could choose their preferred combat method between melee, ranged, or magical attacks.
1/10 Halo 2
Halo 2, like Halo: Combat Evolved, cemented Xbox’s place in the world of video games. Halo 2 achieved the impossible, taking what its predecessor brought to the table and making it even better. Where Halo perfected the FPS genre, Halo 2 improved on it. Where Halo introduced the console multiplayer craze, Halo 2 perfected it.
Dual wielding alone might have landed Halo 2 on the list of best original Xbox games, but the title has so much more to offer. Fantastic storytelling, great combat and gameplay, and an optimized multiplayer experience. There’s not much more that fans at the time could ask for.
