The Xbox Series X has faced a rocky start in this console generation, marked by challenges like supply chain issues, delays, and regulatory hurdles. Despite these setbacks, Team Xbox has seen some notable successes. The pandemic impacted availability, and the highly anticipated Halo Infinite suffered a yearlong delay, but there were also wins, such as Forza Horizon 5 being recognized as a Game of the Year contender. Microsoft even made headlines by acquiring Activision Blizzard for $69 billion. Adding to the excitement, Xbox boss Phil Spencer confirmed a handheld Xbox is in the works, though it may not arrive during this console cycle.
The 2024 lineup had some ups and downs for Xbox players, especially with Avowed delayed to 2025 and the pixel-art indie Replaced slipping out of 2024. However, Microsoft saved the best for last, with the releases of STALKER 2, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, all earning high praise. Let’s dive into the honorable mentions, runners-up, and the top pick for the best Xbox Series X game of 2024.
Honorable mentions include Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, which boasts the best visuals on the Xbox Series X, showcasing its Unreal Engine 5-powered design. While the game leans more towards a walking simulator than an action-adventure, its technical prowess and compelling narrative make it a standout. Dungeons of Hinterberg also makes the cut, blending action-RPG elements with a fun social sim, providing a refreshing summer experience.
Runners-up include Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which delivers the best single-player campaign in years and STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, which overcame real-world hardships to deliver an impressive survival shooter. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is another notable mention, further refining the world of aviation and pushing the limits of realism on the Xbox Series X.
But the top honor goes to Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. Developed by MachineGames, it combines adventure, puzzles, and action in a first-person perspective, creating an immersive and exciting experience that has earned its place as the best Xbox Series X game of 2024.
