Unveiling the Hottest Xbox Series X & Xbox One Games of 2022
As the preceding video highlights, 2022 has delivered an absolutely massive lineup of gaming experiences for both Xbox One and Xbox Series X consoles. With so many compelling new Xbox games arriving, deciding which titles to prioritize can feel like a formidable challenge for even the most dedicated players. Fortunately, this extensive guide dives deeper into the year’s top releases, offering expanded insights and context for these essential gaming adventures. From highly anticipated sequels to innovative new IPs, the landscape of Xbox gaming in 2022 has been rich and incredibly varied, ensuring there’s something for every type of player.
Let’s explore some of the most prominent Xbox Series X games and Xbox One releases that have captured our attention, building upon the exciting previews shared in the video.
Deep Dives into Narrative and Atmospheric Journeys
Lord of the Rings: Gollum – A Stealthy Perspective
Kicking off the impressive list of new Xbox games for 2022 is Lord of the Rings: Gollum, a narrative-driven action-adventure game. This title promises a unique perspective on Tolkien’s epic world, focusing on stealth and puzzle-solving rather than brute combat, which authentically reflects Gollum’s character. Players will navigate a world fraught with danger, where wits and agility are paramount for survival. The developers are clearly leveraging Gollum’s inherent weaknesses to craft a fresh gameplay experience, moving beyond conventional action heroes to create a more psychologically engaging adventure. The intrigue surrounding this title stems from its bold narrative choice, inviting players to truly inhabit one of fantasy’s most complex anti-heroes. Although a precise release date remained elusive for much of the year, the anticipation for this distinctive take on Middle-earth has been consistently high.
Martha Is Dead – A Macabre Italian Thriller
February brought us Martha Is Dead, a first-person psychological thriller that masterfully utilizes its 1944 Italian setting amidst the German-Allied conflict. This game truly excels at building an unsettling atmosphere, amplified by the choice to have the dialogue fully in Italian, immersing players deep within its historical and psychological narrative. The story unravels as you, the twin sister of a deceased woman, attempt to uncover the truth behind her death in a period defined by war and suspicion. Despite its stark thematic contrast to other 2022 Xbox games, its compelling storytelling and intense atmosphere made it a standout release. Priced at just $30, it provided a gripping, albeit disturbing, experience that proved well worth the investment for fans of mature psychological horror.
Scorn – Giger-esque Horror Unleashed
Speaking of unsettling atmospheres, Scorn, with its H.R. Giger-inspired biomechanical art style, finally arrived in October 2022 after years of anticipation. This first-person horror game plunges players into a disturbing, non-linear world comprised of living, techno-organic structures. The aesthetic, as described in the video, often evokes the artwork of a 1990s Tool album cover, a descriptor that perfectly captures its unique, visceral appeal. Exploration in Scorn involves interacting with this grotesque environment to unravel its mysteries, often through gruesome and inventive puzzles. Its development journey, spanning since 2013, created immense pressure for the final product to live up to its extraordinary visual promise. The game successfully delivered a truly alien and atmospheric horror experience, challenging players with its bizarre world and enigmatic narrative.
Expansive Worlds and Epic Quests
Dying Light 2 Stay Human – Parkour Perfected
Another strong contender among the early 2022 Xbox Series X games was Dying Light 2 Stay Human, a sequel that significantly enhances the original’s acclaimed formula. The game’s parkour system stands out as truly exceptional, arguably unmatched by any other title in the genre. It successfully builds upon the foundational agility seen in games like Mirror’s Edge, adding layers of complexity with tools like the paraglider and integrating fluid combat against mutated zombies. While some players found the zombies slightly easier to manage, this design choice skillfully incentivizes the use of environmental traversal and dynamic movement, making every encounter an exhilarating challenge. Released in February, it quickly became a fan favorite, encouraging repeated playthroughs due to its engaging gameplay loop and sprawling open world.
Avowed – Obsidian’s New Frontier
Obsidian Entertainment, a developer renowned for titles like Fallout: New Vegas and The Outer Worlds, is preparing to launch Avowed in 2022. This first-person fantasy RPG is set in the richly detailed universe of Pillars of Eternity, promising a deep narrative and expansive worldbuilding. Obsidian’s track record for crafting compelling RPG experiences, often outshining even Bethesda’s own work in certain franchises, sets incredibly high expectations for Avowed. Described as a blend of The Outer Worlds and Skyrim, this combination suggests a game rich in player choice, intricate lore, and engaging exploration. With Microsoft now owning both Obsidian and Bethesda, the concept of Obsidian “out-Bethesda-ing Bethesda” becomes an intriguing internal competition benefiting Xbox players. The promise of new propulsion methods and robust colony-building options further distinguishes this upcoming fantasy epic.
Crimson Desert – A Single-Player Evolution
From Pearl Abyss, the creators of the successful MMORPG Black Desert Online, comes Crimson Desert. This open-world action-adventure RPG initially began as a prequel to Black Desert Online but evolved into a distinct single-player experience. While still set within the same captivating universe, Crimson Desert features a specific protagonist with a unique backstory, allowing for a more focused and personal narrative. The transition to a dedicated single-player adventure is a welcome development, offering players an opportunity to delve deeply into its lore without the typical MMO commitments. This evolution promises a rich, character-driven experience, building upon the stunning visuals and combat mechanics that Pearl Abyss is known for.
Redfall – Arkane Takes on Vampires
Arkane Studios, celebrated for their immersive simulations like Dishonored and Prey, introduced Redfall, an action-adventure game where players combat a vampire invasion in an open world. This game represents an exciting departure for Arkane, as it blends both single-player and multiplayer co-op elements. While it shares some aesthetic and thematic similarities with games like Left 4 Dead, it unmistakably retains Arkane’s signature blend of intricate level design, unique abilities, and immersive gameplay. The developers have an unparalleled reputation for delivering innovative experiences that rarely disappoint. The anticipation for this title, which arrived in the summer of 2022, was palpable, given Arkane’s consistent track record of critical acclaim and player satisfaction.
Hogwarts Legacy – A Magical Open World
Set in the 1800s, Hogwarts Legacy is an open-world action RPG that invites players to experience the wizarding world long before Harry Potter’s era. Developed by Avalanche Software, known for their work on Disney Infinity, this title offers an expansive, original story within the beloved universe. Players can attend classes, learn spells, brew potions, and explore iconic locations like the Forbidden Forest and Hogsmeade. This approach allows for a fresh narrative, detached from the events of the books and films while retaining the magic and wonder that defines the franchise. The game promised to immerse players in a truly interactive wizarding education, providing a deep character customization system and meaningful choices that impact the narrative. Its release in late 2022 was one of the most eagerly awaited moments for fans of the franchise and RPG enthusiasts alike.
Atomic Heart – A Soviet Bioshock
Often dubbed a “Soviet Bioshock,” Atomic Heart captivated audiences with its stunning graphics and unique alternate 1955 setting. This action RPG plunges players into a world where neuro-technology and robotics have advanced beyond imagination, creating a dystopian Soviet utopia. The game showcases incredible visual fidelity and an unsettling atmosphere, combining elements of sci-fi horror with intense first-person combat. Despite facing some development challenges and a prolonged production cycle, the gameplay footage released in recent years solidified its status as a must-play title for many. The developers have successfully blended compelling world-building with innovative combat mechanics, delivering an experience that feels both familiar and entirely new. Expected in the second half of 2022, Atomic Heart stands out for its bold aesthetic and ambitious scope.
Starfield – Bethesda’s Grand New IP
One of the most monumental upcoming Xbox games of 2022 was undoubtedly Starfield, Bethesda’s first new intellectual property in 25 years. This ambitious space-faring RPG, often humorously referred to as “Skyrim in space,” promised an unprecedented scale of exploration and freedom. Bethesda had envisioned a game of this magnitude even before Skyrim‘s release, with ideas stemming from their ownership of the Star Trek rights in the mid-2000s. Although that particular project shifted directions, it paved the way for Starfield‘s grand vision. Set for a November 11th release—coincidentally the 11th anniversary of Skyrim‘s launch—this title aimed to redefine space exploration in gaming, offering vast procedural generation alongside handcrafted content. The anticipation for Bethesda’s newest universe was astronomical, promising countless hours of deep lore and open-ended gameplay.
Elden Ring – A Game of the Year Contender
Unquestionably one of the biggest gaming releases of the year, Elden Ring set new benchmarks for the Souls series and the open-world genre. Collaborating with George R.R. Martin for its lore, FromSoftware created a sprawling, interconnected world that encouraged exploration and player agency. Its open-world design was frequently compared to the groundbreaking advancements seen in Breath of the Wild, offering a sense of freedom and discovery rarely achieved in such challenging games. The game’s challenging combat, iconic boss designs, and profound lore contributed to its near-universal critical acclaim. Elden Ring immediately became a strong contender for Game of the Year, offering an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and a meticulously crafted fantasy realm. Its impact on the gaming landscape in 2022 was immense, solidifying its place as a modern classic and an essential play for any serious gamer.
Unique Multiplayer & Co-op Experiences
Dragon Ball The Breakers – Asymmetrical Anime Action
Dragon Ball The Breakers introduced a fresh take on the Dragon Ball universe with its 1-on-7 asymmetrical action gameplay. This game allows seven ordinary human survivors to evade or confront a single, immensely powerful Dragon Ball villain. Many players have aptly described it as “Dead by Daylight but anime,” and this comparison effectively captures its thrilling hide-and-seek dynamic. The concept felt perfectly suited for the Dragon Ball universe, where a lone powerful entity frequently battles against multiple weaker foes. Although a specific launch date was not initially provided, the premise alone suggested a truly unique and exciting multiplayer experience, capitalizing on the franchise’s iconic characters and abilities.
Evil Dead The Game – Gruesome Co-op Fun
Inspired by cult horror classics, Evil Dead The Game emerged as a compelling multiplayer horror title, drawing comparisons to Friday the 13th and Dead by Daylight. This game immersed players in the gory, humorous world of the Evil Dead franchise, offering both cooperative and player-versus-player modes. Unlike some genre counterparts, it also featured a single-player mode and character skill trees, adding depth and progression beyond typical asymmetrical multiplayer offerings. While initial announcements hinted at a Left 4 Dead-style co-op shooter, the final product evolved to embrace its unique blend of horror and action. Its release on May 13th provided fans with a chaotic and entertaining way to experience the beloved series, complete with iconic characters and a truly gruesome aesthetic.
Warhammer 40K Darktide – Ranged and Melee Warfare
Fans of cooperative horde shooters eagerly awaited Warhammer 40K Darktide, a game envisioned as the Warhammer 40,000 equivalent of the popular Vermintide series. Unlike its melee-focused predecessor, Darktide promises a more balanced 50-50 split between ranged and melee combat, aligning with the sci-fi setting of the 40K universe. This shift allows for diverse tactical approaches as a team of four players battles relentless waves of enemies within the grimdark future. The developers’ decision to emphasize firearms while retaining impactful close-quarters combat was seen as a brilliant evolution, enriching the gameplay experience significantly. This approach successfully broadened its appeal, attracting both long-time fans of the 40K lore and newcomers to the co-op shooter genre, securing its place as a highly anticipated release for 2022.
Exomecha – Free-to-Play Mech Action
Exomecha, a free-to-play competitive first-person shooter featuring mech combat, initially faced an indefinite delay from its planned 2021 release. However, the developers indicated that the extra time was being utilized effectively to refine the experience. This project promised visually striking mech-on-mech battles and objective-based multiplayer arenas. While previous mentions pointed to an early 2022 release, further delays pushed its potential launch towards the end of the year. The appeal of Exomecha lies in its combination of high-octane action, impressive visuals, and the accessibility of a free-to-play model, positioning it as a potentially impactful contender within the crowded FPS market for Xbox Series X games.
Kerbal Space Program 2 – Engineering Beyond Earth
Kerbal Space Program 2, a highly anticipated sequel, aimed to build upon the original’s beloved space-faring simulation with meaningful additions. Developed by a new team, the game promised to deliver a faithful yet innovative experience. Key new features included a multiplayer mode, which was a highly requested addition, along with advanced propulsion methods and expanded colony-building options for both orbital and planetary bases. These enhancements significantly broaden the scope of the original concept, allowing for grander, more collaborative space exploration and engineering endeavors. Although a specific release date for 2022 was not announced, the promise of these new features generated significant excitement within the dedicated fanbase, ensuring its continued relevance as one of the most intriguing upcoming Xbox games.
Revivals, Reinventions, and Speed Thrills
Little Devil Inside – Years in the Making
Little Devil Inside, a visually distinctive side-scrolling action-adventure game, has been in development for many years, building considerable anticipation. Its unique art style immediately grabs attention, while its blend of monster hunting in a 19th-century Steampunk-inspired world offers a fresh premise. The developers also confirmed that while survival elements are present, they primarily serve to enhance atmosphere rather than merely providing a challenge, a subtle but important distinction. The long development cycle has instilled both excitement and a touch of apprehension among fans, hoping the final product will live up to its promising visuals and unique gameplay concepts. This game aims to be a memorable addition to the lineup of new Xbox games with its quirky charm and engaging mechanics.
Stranger of Paradise Final Fantasy Origin – A Gritty Retelling
Team Ninja’s Stranger of Paradise Final Fantasy Origin offered a bold, gritty retelling of the very first Final Fantasy game. While the gameplay featured some enjoyable combat systems, the overall reception was mixed, highlighting a disconnect between its core mechanics and narrative presentation. Despite its divisive qualities, the game possessed a unique appeal for dedicated Final Fantasy enthusiasts. The experience, whether enjoyed for its challenging gameplay or for its campy charm, provided an interesting detour for the franchise. It demonstrated an attempt to reinvent the series’ origins with a darker tone and more action-oriented combat, showcasing a willingness to experiment within the established universe. This title, already released, sparked lively debate among fans, proving to be a notable entry in the 2022 Xbox games roster.
WWE 2K22 – A Triumphant Return
After the widely criticized WWE 2K20 and the subsequent cancellation of 2K21, WWE 2K22 faced immense pressure to restore the series’ reputation. The developers wisely utilized the extended development time to address the myriad of bugs and technical issues that plagued its predecessor. The result was a significantly improved experience, boasting massively enhanced in-ring action and numerous quality-of-life improvements. While minor AI issues persisted, a long-standing characteristic of the series, the overall overhaul positioned 2K22 as a substantial step up from the last positively received entry, 2K19. This successful relaunch suggests that a longer development cycle, potentially an every-other-year release schedule, could significantly benefit the franchise by allowing for more polished and engaging gameplay. The game’s strong return was a relief and a highlight for wrestling game fans among the 2022 Xbox games.
Saints Row – A Reimagined Urban Playground
The Saints Row series received a full reboot in 2022, marking its return after a period of dormancy and a complex ownership journey. Following the dissolution of THQ and subsequent acquisition by Deep Silver, the franchise found its way back alongside Red Faction under the same corporate umbrella, re-establishing a shared universe. This new iteration promised the signature over-the-top, raunchy humor and open-world mayhem that fans adore, dialed up to “11” as the video aptly describes. Released on August 23rd, the reboot aimed to introduce a new cast of characters and a fresh setting while retaining the anarchic spirit that distinguishes Saints Row from other open-world crime games. This revival was eagerly anticipated by long-time fans eager for a new chapter in the chaotic saga of the Saints.
Sonic Frontiers – Open-World Speed
Sonic Team embarked on an ambitious new direction with Sonic Frontiers, the franchise’s first foray into an open-world design. Many observers quickly drew parallels to Breath of the Wild due to its expansive, exploration-focused environment. However, Sonic’s unique traversal mechanics, emphasizing unparalleled speed and agility, promised a significantly different gameplay experience within this open-world structure. This title aimed to establish a new template for future Sonic games, demonstrating a clear commitment from Sonic Team to innovate and prove its capabilities. The prospect of zipping through vast landscapes at breakneck speeds, solving environmental puzzles, and battling colossal enemies created substantial excitement. Its release in 2022 was a pivotal moment for the series, showcasing Sonic in a grander, more experimental setting.
Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown – Hong Kong Reimagined
Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown marked the third entry in the open-world racing series, with the previous installment, Test Drive Unlimited 2, having been released way back in 2011. This long hiatus built considerable anticipation, especially given the original series’ pioneering role in open-world racing. A standout feature of Solar Crown was its promise of a full one-to-one recreation of Hong Kong Island, an unprecedented level of detail for a real-world location in a racing game. This ambitious choice set exceptionally high expectations for environmental fidelity and immersive gameplay. Landing on September 22nd, this title aimed to re-establish the franchise as a leader in realistic, expansive racing simulations, blending luxury lifestyle with high-octane automotive action. The meticulous recreation of Hong Kong offered a breathtaking backdrop for both competitive races and leisurely drives.
Precision, Combat, and Unconventional Action
Sniper Elite 5 – Stealth and Precision
Sniper Elite 5 continued the tradition of its excellent tactical shooter series, placing a strong emphasis on precision sniping and stealth. This game required players to master a different set of combat skills compared to typical shooters, rewarding patience, strategic positioning, and accurate marksmanship. The series has consistently improved with each iteration, integrating more sophisticated stealth elements and expanded tactical options. Its release on May 26th delivered a highly refined experience for fans of the genre, offering gruesome kill-cams and intricate level design that encourages multiple approaches to objectives. The blend of satisfying long-range kills and intense close-quarters stealth operations cemented its status as a top-tier tactical shooter among 2022 Xbox games.
The King of Fighters 15 – A Polished Fighter
Already available, The King of Fighters 15 proved to be an exceptionally solid fighting game that built upon decades of franchise evolution. It boasted impressive graphics, a diverse roster of characters, and finely tuned gameplay mechanics. This iteration represented a culmination of the series’ gradual refinement, delivering a tight and responsive combat system that appealed to both long-time fans and newcomers. The game’s balance and depth were immediately praised, showcasing a mature fighting game experience that truly understood its audience. For fans of the King of Fighters series, this entry was a must-play, offering countless hours of competitive and casual enjoyment. Its successful launch solidified its position as one of the best fighting games released in 2022 for Xbox platforms.
Evil West – Vampire-Slaying Cowboys
Evil West presented a distinctive blend of Western aesthetics with gory, supernatural action, casting players as a cowboy battling a vampiric threat. While its footage might suggest an action RPG or Souls-like difficulty, the game was geared more towards a straightforward, narrative-driven action experience. It included two-player co-op, allowing friends to team up and fight their way through hordes of monstrous creatures. This unique premise, combining classic Western motifs with visceral horror, promised a fresh and engaging adventure. With its release set for sometime in 2022, Evil West aimed to deliver a distinct and thrilling ride, providing a unique flavor among the many Xbox gaming titles available this year.
Spin-offs, Surprises, and Bonus Games
Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl – Enduring Adversity
Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl has been an incredibly long-awaited sequel, first announced in 2010 but facing numerous setbacks, including the cancellation of its original iteration. Developed by GSC Game World, based in Ukraine, the game’s production faced significant adversity in 2022 due to the ongoing conflict in the region. Despite these immense challenges, the developers maintained their commitment to a 2022 release, a testament to their dedication. This title promised a richly atmospheric, post-apocalyptic open world with a blend of survival horror, FPS mechanics, and RPG elements. The resilience shown by the studio only intensified the anticipation for this deep and immersive experience. Its potential release was a symbol of hope and determination within the gaming community, making it a truly poignant title among the 2022 Xbox games.
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands – A Fantasy Borderlands
Emerging as a vibrant fantasy spin-off of the popular Borderlands series, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands delighted fans with its familiar art style, irreverent humor, and signature looter-shooter gameplay. This adventure brought a new cast of celebrity voices and a fantastical arsenal of weapons, all wrapped in a satirical, bizarre narrative helmed by the unpredictable Tiny Tina. The game successfully infused the Borderlands formula with a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired setting, offering new enemy types, spell mechanics, and a charmingly chaotic story. It provided a perfect escape for existing Borderlands fans and newcomers alike, demonstrating how effectively the core gameplay could be reimagined in a fresh, magical context. Its release was a joyous occasion, cementing its place as a fun and engaging title among the Xbox One games.
Gotham Knights – Post-Batman Justice
Gotham Knights presented an action RPG set in the Batman universe, though it explicitly did not share continuity with the acclaimed Arkham games. The premise revolved around Batman’s closest allies—Nightwing, Batgirl, Robin, and Red Hood—investigating his apparent death. While the idea of Batman truly being gone might seem unlikely to many, the game offered a fresh narrative approach, exploring how his proteges would rise to protect Gotham in his absence. This title delivered a new style of gameplay, focusing on cooperative action and RPG progression within a familiar, crime-ridden city. With its October 25th release, Gotham Knights allowed players to step into the shoes of iconic DC heroes, embracing a new era for Gotham’s protectors and offering a different take on superhero gaming for 2022 Xbox games.
Lego Star Wars The Skywalker Saga – All Nine Films, Reimagined
For fans of both Lego games and Star Wars, Lego Star Wars The Skywalker Saga was an absolute treat, encompassing all nine mainline Star Wars films. This action-adventure game allowed players to experience the entire saga from various character perspectives, featuring improved combat mechanics, engaging lightsaber action, and the franchise’s signature humor. The humor, in particular, was keenly anticipated to playfully jab at the more divisive aspects of the newer films, providing lighthearted commentary while retelling the epic story. Released on April 5th, this title offered an immense amount of content, providing a charming and accessible way for players of all ages to relive the iconic Star Wars universe. It became a definitive collection for any Lego Star Wars enthusiast, making it one of the most comprehensive and enjoyable Xbox One games of the year.
Bonus Games: Diverse Delights
Beyond the main countdown, 2022 also saw the release of several other notable Xbox titles. Infernax, an old-school adventure platformer reminiscent of classic Nintendo games but with a modern, gorier twist, arrived in February, offering a challenging and rewarding retro experience. Destiny 2: The Witch Queen continued to expand the ever-evolving narrative of the popular online shooter, providing fresh content and lore for its dedicated player base. Finally, Dawn of the Monsters, a recent release, presented a charming couch co-op beat ’em up where players control various Kaiju. Despite some minor bugs at launch, its fun combat and distinctive art style made it a recommended choice for local multiplayer action, proving that even smaller titles could deliver significant enjoyment among the numerous Xbox Series X games.
