After a stellar Xbox Developer Direct to kick off 2025, the future looks bright for Microsoft and its impressive array of first-party studios. With a rich history and exciting prospects on the horizon, which Xbox game series excites you the most? Which one brought you the most joy during the golden era of the Xbox 360? And for those who have never owned an Xbox console, which series are you eagerly anticipating on other platforms, given Microsoft's strategy to expand its library to PlayStation and beyond?
With Microsoft's acquisitions of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard, the list of legendary game series has grown even more extensive. For this tier list, we're focusing on series with multiple entries, encompassing those associated with Xbox, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard. While we can't cover every single Xbox game series, we aim to highlight those with significant current relevance and historical impact. Below is my personal tier list, shaped by my own gaming experiences over the years:
For me, Doom is an undeniable S-tier choice. The recent entries have been among my top first-person shooters, and I'm thrilled to see that Doom: The Dark Ages suggests id Software is staying on top of its game. Forza Horizon also earns a spot in the S tier; outside of Burnout 3 and Burnout Revenge, these are the best racing games I've ever played. While Halo in the A tier might surprise some, even though Halo 2 and Halo 3 are among the finest campaign shooters ever made, I can't overlook the more recent inconsistencies that prevent it from reaching the top bracket. I'm also more inclined towards Fallout than Elder Scrolls—I'd choose a set of power armor over a dragon any day.
Do you disagree with my rankings? Do you believe Gears of War is Xbox's finest series? Or are you a staunch defender of Fuzion Frenzy? Feel free to create your own tier list and compare your S, A, B, C, and D tiers with the broader IGN community.
Xbox Games Series Tier List
Is there an Xbox series we've overlooked that you'd like to highlight? Share your thoughts in the comments, along with the reasons behind your rankings.
