Best Original Xbox Games That Still Hold Up Today

If we talk about representing the golden era of console gaming, we must give credit to the best original Xbox Games. The titles are designed to provide a genre-defining and unforgettable experience. The console launched in 2001, providing gamers with powerful hardware at that time alongside a chunk of innovative games.

In the current market, every publication targets PS5 and Xbox consoles to increase its profit margins. However, earlier, some games were exclusive to the Xbox console, while some were available on the OG Xbox. And that's what made them special. Whether you're revisiting the originals or want to experience the beauty for the first time, this game will surely take you on a nostalgic journey.

That said, this article will explore the top 10 best Original Xbox Games that you should revisit or try for the sake of an all-new gaming experience.

Ranking Factors

Before getting into the top 10 Best Original Xbox Games list, we must consider some factors to rank them perfectly. Here's a detailed piece:

Reviews/Ratings

Reviews/Ratings are a great indicator of the title's true nature. Based on the high or low ratings, you can get a specific idea about how people are liking the game. The more engaging the content and other factors are, the better its ratings will be.

Graphics

When the Xbox launched in early 2001, the games weren't very graphics-heavy, per se. However, a few publishers really pushed the limits to deliver vibrant visuals and art styles, compared to the generic titles of that generation.

Gameplay

Gameplay is a very pivotal factor, whether you're an Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch user. Based on mechanics, difficulty, narrative, and other factors, one can say if the gameplay is outstanding. And it is surely one of the ranking factors in our list.

Top 10 Best Original Xbox Games

Below, we have provided a detailed look at the best original Xbox games that will take you on a trip down memory lane. It includes several popular titles, including classics such as Doom 3, Halo 2, Fable and more.

Here's a detailed look at the best games for the original Xbox. We will dive into each game's story and gameplay, explaining why they are ranked among all-time greats.

10) Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge

Long before Rockstar made open-world games, FASA Studio created an iconic piece to introduce the concept to OG gamers. Xbox's most beloved action-adventure genre game, Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge, has surely engaged its fanbase with an amazing storyline.

The title featured high-quality graphics compared to those in other publications offered at that time. Moreover, it also delivered the thrill of experiencing aerial combat in a vibrant world. Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge remains one of the best games for original Xbox.

9) Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30

In a world where everyone's busy debating over Battlefield or Call of Duty, there was a time when the Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30 dominated the tactical FPS market. The game offers a grounded, more realistic approach rather than a direct, aim-based gun fight. It also promotes the suppression and flanking tactics from World War 2. And that's what sets it apart from the modern-day tactical shooters. Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30 remains a top choice among best games on original Xbox.

8) Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell

If you're an avid enjoyer of the tactical stealth-action genre, you must thank Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell. The way it revolutionised the genre with its emphasis on precision, shadow, and tactical approach is definitely something one can praise every day.

Apart from the stealth, it's quite exciting how Ubisoft has narrated the story and implemented cutting-edge technology even in 2002. Moreover, the lighting and game design have really outmanoeuvred other titles of that era. This Ubisoft title remains one of the best games for original Xbox.

7) Fable

Xbox Game Studios made a fresh tweak to the action RPG genre in 2004 by introducing Fable. Despite being a diverse genre, Big Blue Box and Lionhead Studios have made a heck of a game, full of British humour and charm. The title features a whimsical world where good & bad deeds can shape the characters' appearances and reputations, enabling players to experience a unique storyline for each one.

While the good deeds eventually create a halo over your character's head, the bad ones surely create horns to grow out of the skull, portraying your character as evil. PlayGround Games is currently working on a reboot, expected to be released on Steam in 2026. Fable is one of the Best games on original Xbox.

6) The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay

Playing as the character named Richard B. Riddick, players must escape a high-security prison, showcasing their stealth skills in The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay.

This stealth-action video game features a plethora of exciting elements, including atmospheric storytelling, strong voice narration from our very own Fast & Furious series actor, Vin Diesel, and some bloodthirsty action. The title provides a cinematic experience where you must encounter bioraptors, light-sensitive creatures, and many more.

5) Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

If you're an OG Star Wars franchise fan, you must've already got your hands on Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic in early 2003. As in movies, moral decision-making has surely impacted their gameplay. You can choose between the Dark and Light sides of the force. Each has its own set of unique powers, and the most thrilling part is customising your lightsaber based on the chosen side. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is easily one of the best Xbox original games.

4) The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind

The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind was the introductory title for several Elder Scrolls series connoisseurs. Even if you want to go on an RPG journey in 2025, we recommend that you start with this title.

The open-world game features immersive elements, customisable character progression, and much more. The story is also quite engaging, and the atmosphere truly represents the OG Xbox graphics of the 2000s.

3) Ninja Gaiden Black

If you're a fan of the fast-paced action-adventure genre, Ninja Gaiden Black is your way to go. Team Ninja and Tomonobu Itagaki have done a phenomenal job by creating a nearly perfect action-packed game on Xbox.

You will play as a character named Ryu Hayabusa, and must face challenging combats, ride walls, and perform other skills that make him a true ninja. The boss fights surely provide you with a feel of a current-gen Souls-like game.

2) Doom 3

id Software's Doom 3 overhauled a horror-survival element in an action-packed game. It also took a slow approach, offering players a darker and spookier experience as they navigated the hostile atmosphere. Starting from a scary sound effect to fighting with the outer world demons, Doom 3 delivers a nail-biting experience, even now. This id Software game is a popular choice and is also regarded as one of the best original Xbox games.

1) Halo 2

Bungie Inc.'s Halo 2 has surely completely changed the roadmap of multiplayer gaming on consoles. Xbox Live (currently known as Xbox Network) had been initiated for this title. Starting from cinematic storytelling to dual-wielding combat, the revolutionary title lets you play as both Master Chief and Arbiter, allowing you to experience both sides of the conflict.

If you're done reading this piece, we have another exciting coverage for you. Check out the best Wii games on our official website today to learn more about the greatest classics you can play today.