Xbox Game Studios has consistently delivered some of the most iconic and successful games in the gaming industry. From immersive single-player adventures to groundbreaking multiplayer experiences, the studio’s titles have captivated millions of players worldwide.
Name | Genre | Developer | Publisher | Platfroms | Release Date | Revenue | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Forza Horizon 4 | Open-World Racing | Playground Games | Microsoft Studios | Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows | October 2, 2018 | $366 million | |
Sea of Thieves | Action-Adventure, Open-World | Rare | Xbox Game Studios | Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5 | March 20, 2018 | $322 million | |
Forza Horizon 5 | Open-World Racing | Playground Games | Xbox Game Studios | Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows | November 9, 2021 | $300 million | |
Halo: The Master Chief Collection | First-Person Shooter, Compilation | 343 Industries, Certain Affinity, Saber Interactive | Xbox Game Studios | Xbox One, Microsoft Windows | November 11, 2014 (Xbox One), December 3, 2019 (Microsoft Windows) | $234 million | |
Ori and the Will of the Wisps | Metroidvania, Action-Adventure | Moon Studios | Xbox Game Studios, Iam8bit (Switch) | Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch | March 11, 2020 | $94 million | |
Age of Empires IV | Real-Time Strategy (RTS) | Relic Entertainment, World's Edge | Xbox Game Studios | Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One | October 28, 2021 | $85 million | |
Grounded | Survival, Action-Adventure | Obsidian Entertainment | Xbox Game Studios | Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 | September 27, 2022 | $80 million | |
State of Decay 2 | Survival, Open-World, Action-Adventure | Undead Labs | Xbox Game Studios | Xbox One, Microsoft Windows | May 22, 2018 | $40 million | |
Halo Infinite | First-Person Shooter | 343 Industries | Xbox Game Studios | Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows | December 8, 2021 | $30.6 million | |
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice | Action-Adventure, Psychological Horror | Ninja Theory | Ninja Theory | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch | August 8, 2017 | $30.3 million |
In this article, we explore the Best Selling Games by Xbox Game Studios in 2024, highlighting the standout titles that have achieved massive commercial success. Whether you’re a devoted Xbox fan or just curious about the industry’s top performers, this list showcases the games that have defined Xbox’s success this year. Let’s dive into the hits that made waves in 2024!
Best Sellers
1. Forza Horizon 4
- Developers: Playground Games
- Publishers: Microsoft Studios
- Genre: Open-World Racing
- Release Date: October 2, 2018
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows
- Revenue: $366 million
Forza Horizon 4 is an open-world racing game set in a dynamic representation of Great Britain, featuring changing seasons that affect gameplay and terrain. Players can explore a vast map filled with picturesque landscapes, race in a variety of events, and customize their vehicles from a selection of over 450 licensed cars. The game emphasizes both solo and multiplayer experiences, offering a shared online world where players can compete or collaborate in real-time. Forza Horizon 4 introduces seasonal changes every week, ensuring a constantly evolving experience.
Notability:
- Stunning Visuals and Realism:
The game’s breathtaking graphics and dynamic weather systems showcase the capabilities of Xbox and PC hardware, making it a marketing showcase for high-quality visuals. - Global Appeal:
With its international car selection and the universal appeal of racing, the game targets a diverse audience of car enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. - Regular Updates:
The introduction of new cars, events, and challenges through updates and DLCs ensures consistent player engagement and promotional opportunities. - Community Engagement:
Forza Horizon 4 encourages social play, with features like convoy races, seasonal events, and in-game customization, fostering a vibrant player community. - Brand Collaborations:
Partnerships with real-world car manufacturers allow for co-branded promotions, enhancing visibility for both the game and automotive brands.
2. Sea of Thieves
- Developers: Rare
- Publishers: Xbox Game Studios
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Open-World
- Release Date: March 20, 2018
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5
- Revenue: $322 million
Sea of Thieves is an open-world multiplayer pirate adventure game that immerses players in a shared world of exploration, combat, and treasure hunting. Players take on the role of pirates, forming crews to sail customizable ships, complete quests, and battle other players or AI enemies on the high seas. The game emphasizes emergent gameplay, offering freedom to explore vast oceans, discover islands, and engage in epic naval battles. Seasonal updates, live events, and collaborations (e.g., Pirates of the Caribbean crossover) keep the game dynamic and engaging for players.
Notability:
- Unique Multiplayer Focus:
The shared-world environment fosters social interaction and collaborative gameplay, appealing to both casual and competitive gamers. - Vibrant Art Style:
The game’s colorful, stylized visuals stand out in marketing campaigns and appeal to a broad audience, including younger players. - Seasonal Content:
Regular updates with new quests, cosmetics, and storylines provide opportunities for recurring promotional efforts. - Cultural Relevance:
Pirate-themed adventures and collaborations, like the Pirates of the Caribbean crossover, resonate with fans of maritime lore and pop culture. - Community Engagement:
Sea of Thieves fosters a strong player community through interactive live events and content sharing, encouraging viral marketing opportunities.
3. Forza Horizon 5
- Developers: Playground Games
- Publishers: Xbox Game Studios
- Genre: Open-World Racing
- Release Date: November 9, 2021
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows
- Revenue: $300 million
Forza Horizon 5 takes players to the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Mexico, delivering the largest and most detailed open world in the franchise’s history. With over 500 cars to choose from, players can explore dynamic environments featuring deserts, jungles, volcanoes, and ancient ruins. The game introduces new features like the Horizon Adventure campaign, customizable events through EventLab, and dynamic weather systems, including sandstorms and tropical storms. Its focus on accessibility and inclusivity ensures a seamless and engaging experience for players of all skill levels.
Notability:
- Stunning Visuals:
With photorealistic graphics and HDR support, the game serves as a showcase for the power of Xbox Series X|S and high-end PCs, appealing to tech enthusiasts. - Global Appeal:
Set in Mexico, the game celebrates cultural diversity, featuring local landmarks and music, which resonates with a wide audience. - Community-Driven Features:
The EventLab tool allows players to create and share custom races and game modes, fostering community engagement and viral marketing potential. - Live Service Model:
Seasonal updates, weekly challenges, and new cars ensure consistent player engagement and opportunities for recurring promotions. - Collaborative Brand Opportunities:
Real-world partnerships with automotive brands enhance the game’s realism and provide opportunities for co-branded marketing efforts.
4. Halo: The Master Chief Collection
- Developers: 343 Industries, Certain Affinity, Saber Interactive
- Publishers: Xbox Game Studios
- Genre: First-Person Shooter, Compilation
- Release Date: November 11, 2014 (Xbox One), December 3, 2019 (Microsoft Windows)
- Platforms: Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
- Revenue: $234 million
Halo: The Master Chief Collection is a compilation of six iconic Halo games: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Halo 2: Anniversary, Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, Halo: Reach, and Halo 4. The collection offers enhanced visuals, 4K resolution support, and 60 FPS gameplay, delivering a definitive Halo experience. It features both single-player campaigns and extensive multiplayer modes with over 120 maps from the series. Regular updates introduce new content, including seasonal cosmetics and challenges, ensuring ongoing engagement for both longtime fans and newcomers.
Notability:
- Franchise Legacy:
As a cornerstone of the Xbox brand, the Halo franchise appeals to a dedicated global fanbase and draws in nostalgic gamers. - Comprehensive Package:
Combining six titles into one collection, the game provides immense value and attracts both casual players and collectors. - Enhanced Features:
With updated visuals and cross-platform multiplayer support, the collection appeals to modern gaming audiences. - Seasonal Content:
Regular updates with new cosmetics, challenges, and events keep the game relevant and provide recurring promotional opportunities. - Cross-Platform Expansion:
The availability on PC has broadened the audience, enabling marketing to both console and PC gaming communities.
5. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
- Developers: Moon Studios
- Publishers: Xbox Game Studios, Iam8bit (Switch)
- Genre: Metroidvania, Action-Adventure
- Release Date: March 11, 2020
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch
- Revenue: $94 million
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a visually stunning action-adventure game that follows Ori, a guardian spirit, on a journey to uncover their true destiny in a vast, interconnected world. Building on the success of Ori and the Blind Forest, the game introduces enhanced combat mechanics, new abilities, and a deeper, emotionally driven story. The lush, hand-painted environments and evocative soundtrack create an immersive experience, while challenging puzzles and platforming sequences ensure engaging gameplay. With seamless transitions between areas and a focus on exploration, the game is a masterpiece of design and storytelling.
Notability:
- Critical Acclaim:
Widely praised for its breathtaking visuals, emotional depth, and fluid gameplay, the game has won numerous awards, making it a key title for showcasing artistry in gaming. - Cross-Platform Appeal:
Originally released for Xbox and Windows, its later port to Nintendo Switch broadened its audience and appeal. - Community Engagement:
The game’s art style, music, and narrative have fostered a passionate fanbase, ideal for community-driven promotions and social media engagement. - Perfect for Visual Marketing:
The hand-drawn visuals and dynamic environments make for striking marketing materials and trailers, easily capturing attention. - Award-Winning Soundtrack:
The game’s music, composed by Gareth Coker, has been a major selling point and allows for unique promotional opportunities like concerts and collaborations.
6. Age of Empires IV
- Developers: Relic Entertainment, World’s Edge
- Publishers: Xbox Game Studios
- Genre: Real-Time Strategy (RTS)
- Release Date: October 28, 2021
- Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
- Revenue: $85 million
Age of Empires IV is the latest installment in the iconic real-time strategy series, bringing historical warfare to life with modernized gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals. Players choose from a variety of civilizations, such as the English, Mongols, and Delhi Sultanate, each with unique strengths and playstyles. The game features detailed campaigns, including the Norman Conquest and Rise of Moscow, offering rich storytelling alongside strategic gameplay. Enhanced AI, innovative mechanics like stealth and dynamic unit formations, and a focus on historical authenticity make it a standout RTS experience for both new and veteran players.
Notability:
- Franchise Legacy:
As part of the Age of Empires franchise, which boasts over 25 years of history, the game appeals to a dedicated and nostalgic fanbase. - Modernized Gameplay:
Updates to mechanics and visuals make it accessible to new players while retaining the depth that appeals to RTS veterans. - Cross-Generational Appeal:
The blend of classic RTS elements with modern design ensures a wide demographic reach, from longtime fans to younger audiences. - Educational Value:
The focus on historical events and civilizations adds an educational aspect, which can be leveraged for unique marketing opportunities. - Esports Potential:
Competitive multiplayer modes and support for custom games position the title as a contender in the esports landscape.
7. Grounded
- Developers: Obsidian Entertainment
- Publishers: Xbox Game Studios
- Genre: Survival, Action-Adventure
- Release Date: September 27, 2022
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
- Revenue: $80 million
Grounded is a survival action-adventure game that shrinks players down to the size of ants, immersing them in a vast backyard environment where they must work together to survive. Players explore a richly detailed world filled with towering blades of grass, menacing insects, and mysterious secrets. Crafting, base-building, and resource management are key to enduring the dangers of the yard, while uncovering the narrative that explains their predicament. The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes, with robust cooperative mechanics enhancing the experience.
Notability:
- Unique Concept:
The “shrunk-down” perspective and backyard setting provide a fresh twist on the survival genre, making the game stand out in a crowded market. - Co-Op Focus:
The emphasis on multiplayer cooperation appeals to groups of friends and fosters community engagement, ideal for viral promotions and streaming content. - Visual Appeal:
The detailed backyard environment, coupled with stylized visuals, makes the game highly marketable through screenshots, trailers, and gameplay videos. - Expanding Genre Appeal:
Combines survival mechanics with a narrative-driven adventure, broadening its appeal to both casual and hardcore gamers. - Community Engagement:
Regular updates and support for modding encourage a strong player community and provide consistent marketing opportunities.
8. State of Decay 2
- Developers: Undead Labs
- Publishers: Xbox Game Studios
- Genre: Survival, Open-World, Action-Adventure
- Release Date: May 22, 2018
- Platforms: Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
- Revenue: $40 million
State of Decay 2 is a multiplayer survival game set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. Players manage a community of survivors, focusing on resource gathering, base building, and surviving against the undead and hostile human factions. The game emphasizes player choice, where decisions about whom to trust, how to expand, and what to prioritize directly impact the survival of the group. With procedurally generated elements and multiple maps, no two playthroughs are the same. Cooperative multiplayer allows up to four players to team up and face the challenges of the apocalypse together.
Notability:
- Survival Appeal:
The game combines survival mechanics with community management, appealing to fans of strategy and action genres alike. - Replayability:
Procedurally generated maps and character dynamics provide endless replay value, keeping players engaged and fostering long-term marketing opportunities. - Cooperative Multiplayer:
The four-player co-op mode encourages social gaming and community-driven promotion, ideal for livestreams and co-op-focused marketing campaigns. - DLC Support:
Expansions like Heartland and Juggernaut Edition enhance the game with new stories and gameplay mechanics, providing fresh promotional opportunities. - Authentic Post-Apocalyptic Setting:
The grounded, immersive depiction of a zombie apocalypse resonates with fans of the genre, creating strong emotional engagement.
9. Halo Infinite
- Developers: 343 Industries
- Publishers: Xbox Game Studios
- Genre: First-Person Shooter
- Release Date: December 8, 2021
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows
- Revenue: $30.6 million
Halo Infinite is the latest entry in the iconic Halo franchise, featuring the return of Master Chief in a story-driven campaign and a free-to-play multiplayer experience. Set on the Zeta Halo, the game introduces a semi-open-world design that allows players to explore, complete missions, and discover secrets at their own pace. The campaign focuses on rescuing humanity and battling the Banished, a new faction of enemies. The multiplayer mode includes classic modes like Slayer and Capture the Flag alongside new modes and seasonal updates, ensuring a dynamic and competitive experience.
Notability:
- Franchise Legacy:
As a cornerstone of the Xbox brand, Halo Infinite appeals to a loyal fanbase and attracts new players with its free-to-play multiplayer. - Cross-Platform Play:
With cross-play and cross-progression support between PC and Xbox, the game maximizes its audience reach and engagement. - Innovative Campaign Design:
The semi-open-world approach offers a fresh take on Halo’s classic gameplay, making it appealing for both long-time fans and newcomers. - Seasonal Content:
The multiplayer mode’s seasonal updates introduce new maps, modes, and cosmetics, fostering consistent engagement and marketing opportunities. - Esports Potential:
With a strong focus on competitive gameplay, Halo Infinite positions itself as a key player in the esports landscape, enabling sponsorships and tournament promotions.
10. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
- Developers: Ninja Theory
- Publishers: Ninja Theory
- Genre: Action-Adventure, Psychological Horror
- Release Date: August 8, 2017
- Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch
- Revenue: $30.3 million
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is an emotionally gripping action-adventure game that follows Senua, a Celtic warrior, on a harrowing journey into the Norse underworld to save the soul of her deceased lover. The game is acclaimed for its realistic portrayal of psychosis, as Senua hears voices, sees visions, and battles inner demons while fighting physical enemies. Combining intense combat, environmental puzzles, and a haunting narrative, the game uses binaural audio and stunning visuals to create an immersive, cinematic experience. Its focus on mental health and mythological themes makes it a standout title.
Notability:
- Innovative Narrative:
The game’s exploration of mental health issues is both unique and impactful, resonating with a wide audience and sparking discussions around representation in gaming. - Critical Acclaim:
Praised for its storytelling, visuals, and audio design, the game has received numerous awards, enhancing its market credibility. - Immersive Experience:
The use of binaural audio and lifelike motion capture elevates the gaming experience, making it a showcase for technological innovation in storytelling. - Indie-AAA Blend:
As a self-published game with AAA-quality production values, it appeals to both indie game fans and mainstream gamers. - Cultural Impact:
The game’s themes of Norse mythology and mental health have sparked interest in academic and media circles, broadening its appeal beyond traditional gamers.
Xbox’s Greatest Hits
Xbox Game Studios continues to cement its reputation as a powerhouse in the gaming industry, delivering blockbuster titles that resonate with players and drive impressive sales. The Best Selling Games by Xbox Game Studios in 2024 demonstrate the studio’s ability to craft experiences that combine innovation, storytelling, and gameplay excellence. As the gaming landscape evolves, these best-sellers showcase why Xbox remains a dominant force in shaping the industry’s future. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Xbox, these games are a testament to the studio’s lasting impact on gaming.
Xbox Game Studios owns a vast array of iconic video game franchises, including Call of Duty, Halo, Minecraft, Warcraft, Diablo, StarCraft, Overwatch, The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Crash Bandicoot, Spyro, Banjo-Kazooie, Battletoads, Killer Instinct, Perfect Dark, Doom, Wolfenstein, Quake, Dishonored, Pillars of Eternity, and Wasteland, among others. These franchises represent some of the most beloved titles in gaming history.
Xbox Game Studios, along with ZeniMax Media and Activision Blizzard, operates under the Microsoft Gaming division, which is led by Phil Spencer, the division’s Chief Executive Officer.
Yes, many Xbox games are available on Steam. If you own any supported Xbox games on Steam and have an account with cloud streaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW or Boosteroid, you can play your games in the cloud from anywhere. Simply link your Steam account to your preferred streaming service.