Best Third-Party Games You Can Play on Xbox Series X

28 April 2025

The Xbox Series X is a beast, isn’t it? With its lightning-fast load times, stunning visuals, and absurdly powerful hardware, it feels like stepping into the next dimension of gaming. Whether you’re chasing treasure in exotic lands, battling hordes of enemies, or racing through twisted tracks, the Series X makes every moment pulse with energy. But let’s talk about something special today—third-party games.

We all know Xbox has its exclusives: Halo, Forza Horizon, and Gears of War. They’re fantastic, no doubt. However, the real spice of gaming often comes from third-party developers—those creative geniuses who aren’t tied down by console exclusivity. Ready to dive into a treasure trove of titles that’ll make your Xbox Series X shine brighter than a supernova? Let’s jam.

Why Third-Party Games Deserve the Spotlight

Picture this: you’ve got a five-star chef (Xbox exclusives) whipping up your favorite meal, but then comes this rogue street vendor (third-party devs) who serves up a dish so unique, it makes you rethink flavor itself. That’s what third-party games are: daring, diverse, and full of surprises.

Third-party developers, unshackled by platform ties, often take bold risks. They experiment. They innovate. And sometimes, they bring you experiences that stick to your soul like that song you can’t stop humming. Plus, because they’re available across platforms, these games create a community that transcends hardware. You’re not just an Xbox player—you’re a gamer vibing with the world.

So, without further ado, here’s a list of the best third-party games you can play on your Xbox Series X right now. Roll up your sleeves and prepare for greatness.

1. Elden Ring – The Fantasy Epic That Redefines Adventure

Think of a world so vast and hauntingly beautiful, you’ll feel both wonder and dread every time you step foot into it. That’s Elden Ring in a nutshell. From the genius minds at FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin (yes, the guy who roots for everyone’s favorite character to die), this action RPG is a masterpiece.

The open-world design is like a quilt stitched together with secrets. One moment, you’re scaling a wind-swept cliff. The next, you stumble into a cavern where a towering dragon wants to turn you into BBQ. Fun, huh?

The Series X brings this world to life with stunning graphics, razor-sharp details, and a buttery-smooth performance. It’s punishing, sure, but every victory feels like you just climbed Mount Everest with nothing but flip-flops.

2. Cyberpunk 2077 – Neon Nights and Chaotic Delights

Now, hear me out... Cyberpunk 2077 had a rough launch—it stumbled out of the gate, tripping over its own hype. But fast forward to now, and it’s like watching that awkward kid from high school turn into a rockstar. CD Projekt Red didn’t give up; they polished and patched until Night City shone like neon under a midnight rain.

On the Xbox Series X, this game is an absolute visual feast. From the dense city streets to the vibrant nightlife, every pixel screams personality. The Cyberpunk world is gritty, chaotic, and brimming with stories. Want to hack into someone’s brain? Done. Feel like wreaking havoc with futuristic gadgets? Go wild.

And Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand? That’s the cherry on top of this electric sundae.

3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – A Tale as Old as Time

Speaking of CD Projekt Red, there’s no way we can skip The Witcher 3. This game isn’t a classic; it’s the classic. Playing as Geralt of Rivia, a grizzled monster hunter with unparalleled charm, you’ll uncover one of the greatest stories gaming has ever told.

The Series X gives this already stunning game a fresh coat of paint. Think upgraded visuals, smoother frame rates, and quicker load times. Those sunsets over Skellige Isles? Pure magic.

And the best part? The Witcher 3 isn’t just about slicing monsters; it’s about the relationships, decisions, and consequences. Every choice you make feels like a ripple in a pond—shaping the world around you.

4. Red Dead Redemption 2 – Cowboy Dreams in 4K

If there’s one game that feels like a slow sip of whiskey by a crackling fire, it’s Red Dead Redemption 2. Rockstar Games has a way of crafting worlds so real, you can almost smell the gunpowder. And on the Xbox Series X, this wild west wonder feels like the real deal.

The game lets you step into the boots of Arthur Morgan, a rough-and-tumble outlaw navigating the twilight of the wild west. The attention to detail is staggering: every horse gallop, every rustle of leaves feels vibrant and alive.

Be warned, though—this isn’t a game you rush through. It’s rich, immersive, and packed with moments that’ll make you laugh, cry, and occasionally pause to just… soak it all in.

5. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – Viking Glory Awaits

When Ubisoft decided to take the Assassin’s Creed franchise to the icy shores of Scandinavia, they didn’t just create a great game—they crafted an experience worthy of legend.

In Valhalla, you play as Eivor, a Viking warrior carving a legacy in England through exploration, conquest, and some good old-fashioned axe swinging. The Series X takes every snow-covered peak, every blood-soaked battlefield, and every quiet evening by the fire and cranks it up to 11.

With its massive open world, gripping storylines, and endless activities, this game will make you feel like a Norse god—or at least one who’s really good at parkour.

6. Control – A Paranormal Playground

Imagine a world where the laws of physics take a lunch break and leave you to figure out the mess. That’s Control. Remedy Entertainment’s brainchild is weird, wonderful, and totally worth your time.

You play as Jesse Faden, the new director of the Federal Bureau of Control, a secretive agency dealing with all things supernatural. Armed with a shape-shifting gun and bizarre powers, you unravel mysteries in a building that defies logic and geometry.

On the Series X, Control looks absolutely mesmerizing. With ray tracing and 4K visuals, it’s almost like stepping into an arthouse film. Plus, the combat? Oh, it’s smooth, stylish, and oh-so-satisfying.

7. Resident Evil Village – Horror Has Never Looked This Good

Feeling brave? Good, because Resident Evil Village is here to scare the living daylights out of you. Picking up where Resident Evil 7 left off, this game blends the franchise’s signature survival horror with a gothic, fairy-tale twist.

The Series X flexes its muscles here, delivering stunning lighting, terrifying sound design, and smooth gameplay. From the chilling halls of Lady Dimitrescu’s castle to the eerie shadows of the village, every inch oozes atmosphere.

Just make sure you play this one with the lights off… if you dare.

8. DOOM Eternal – Rip and Tear, Baby

Sometimes, you don’t want deep narratives or emotional storytelling. Sometimes, you just want to shred demons to a heavy metal soundtrack. DOOM Eternal is that game.

This adrenaline-fueled FPS throws you into the boots of the Doom Slayer, humanity’s last hope against an infernal invasion. The action is relentless, the weapons are brutal, and the Series X ensures every explosion feels glorious.

It’s fast, frantic, and unapologetically fun—a perfect game to blow off steam after a long day.

9. Final Fantasy XV – A Road Trip Like No Other

What do you get when you mix a fantasy world, royal politics, and a bromantic road trip? Final Fantasy XV, that’s what.

This installment of the beloved Final Fantasy series delivers an open-world adventure unlike any other. You play as Noctis, a prince on a journey to reclaim his throne, accompanied by his three best friends. The world is vast, the battles are flashy, and the camaraderie feels real.

On the Series X, the game shines brighter than ever, with faster load times and smoother gameplay. It’s a tale of friendship, loss, and finding your place in a chaotic world.

10. Yakuza: Like a Dragon – A Wild Ride Like No Other

If you’re looking for something offbeat and quirky, let me introduce you to Yakuza: Like a Dragon. This isn’t your typical action game—it’s a turn-based RPG with a cast of lovable oddballs.

You play as Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza with a heart of gold. From beating up enemies with traffic cones to karaoke showdowns, this game is as zany as it is heartfelt.

The Xbox Series X showcases this chaotic adventure in all its glory, with crisp visuals and excellent performance. It’s a game that’s equal parts ridiculous and endearing—a true gem.

Final Thoughts

The Xbox Series X is a powerhouse, and these third-party games will ensure you’re milking every bit of its potential. From sprawling RPGs to hair-raising horror, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your controller, fire up your Series X, and dive into these unforgettable adventures.