The original Xbox left its mark on video game history with some truly amazing games. Looking back at the family tree of the original Xbox games can bring nostalgic joy to many players. Many of these games have stood the test of time and are still fun to play.
From a wide variety of genres, the original Xbox has so many classic, must-play games for players to sink their teeth into. From a long list of developers, this list will compile the best games on the console. You should give all of these games a try if you haven’t tried them yet.
10/10 Project Gotham Racing
Project Gotham Racing was a groundbreaking racing game on video game consoles. While players may prefer Project Gotham Racing 2, the impact and legacy PGR1 has 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 contemporary Gran Turismo games.
9/10 Jet Set Radio Future
The death of the Dreamcast was not a disaster for the Jet Set Radio franchise. Jet Set Radio Future continued the series on Microsoft’s console and brought along many Sega fans.
A game with roller skates as the main traverse mechanic may not seem like much, but Jet Set Radio Future was an impressive sequel to 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 managed to capture the feel of the Jet Set Radio games.
8/10 Ninja Gaiden
The Ninja Gaiden franchise isn’t getting enough love these days. Many battle-heavy games today owe a lot to the early Ninja Gaiden games. Ninja Gaiden, a game known for its difficulty and precision, was not for the faint of heart.
Ninja Gaiden had the full package, with visuals, combat and gameplay, all of the highest level. Ninja Gaiden is a great game to dive into today for players interested in playing some older known titles.
7/10 Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City would have ranked much higher if it had been an Xbox exclusive. GTA: VC deserves a spot nonetheless, due to its strong ties to Microsoft’s first console and its impact on the video game industry.
Every GTA game seems better than the last, but Vice City really left its mark on the series. Its colorful neon aesthetic and unparalleled gameplay make it one of the most replayable games for today’s gamers of all on the list.
6/10 Psychonauts
Psychonauts was Tim Schafer, and Double Fine’s, first real test as developers. The unique aesthetic and theme that Psychonauts showcases throughout the game makes it stand out as one of the most memorable games of the era. Although it was intended to be an Xbox console exclusive, the game eventually came to PlayStations.
Microsoft and Double Fine have a long history that makes them fall under the Microsoft developer flag today. Psychonauts left a lasting impression on the Xbox console and to this day, apart 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 comprehensive RPGs on the original Xbox, and the series was an obvious success on consoles, with The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim going to become one of the best-selling games of all time.
When you think of Morrowind, you think of Xbox. Bethesda and Microsoft have always had a great working relationship, especially today, but Morrowind is where it all started. Microsoft might not be known as a console for RPG players at all if Morrowind wasn’t exclusive to their original console.
4/10 Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic
BioWare has really outdone itself with Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic. This game does not take place during the events of the movies, but is actually in its own time period. This gave the developers the opportunity to create interesting knowledge 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 full of memorable characters and a long and winding story. It’s a must-play for Star Wars fans!
3/10 Halo: Combat Evolved
If this list consisted of the most iconic original Xbox games ever made, Halo: Combat Evolved would definitely be number one. Since these games are ranked by how good they are, Halo: CE isn’t quite at the top of the list. While it’s a phenomenal experience, especially when age is taken into account, future entries in the Halo series brought a new level of brilliance to the games.
For many gamers, Halo: Combat Evolved was the starting point for video games. The title revolutionized the FPS genre on consoles and brought new life to multiplayer games. Halo still stands as one of the most beloved franchises in gaming.
2/10 Myth
Fable is a great game all around. It brought uniquely British humor to Microsoft’s console and left a lasting impression on the players. While the franchise has gone through the wringer, with multiple less-than-adequate sequels, spin-offs, and even one game canceled, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many fans.
Fable not only brought remarkable features to the Xbox, but also to gaming in general. It was one of the first games to have a truly complete and thoughtful morality system that was reflected in the visual appearance of the game’s main character. The game’s combat mechanics were nothing to scoff at either, with players being able to choose their preferred combat method from melee, ranged, or magic attacks.
1/10 Halo 2
Halo 2, like Halo: Combat Evolved, cemented the Xbox’s place in the video game world. Halo 2 achieved the impossible, taking what its predecessor brought to the table and making it even better. Where Halo refined the FPS genre, Halo 2 improved it. Where Halo introduced the console multiplayer craze, Halo 2 perfected it.
Dual wielding alone could have put Halo 2 on the list of best original Xbox games, but the title has so much more to offer. A great story, tough combat and gameplay, and a streamlined multiplayer experience. Not much more fans could ask for at the time.
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