The best Xbox One exclusives of 2014

[CosaNostra]

 The Xbox One got off to a rocky start. I’m sure Microsoft still isn’t satisfied with where the Xbox One is, but things are getting better. The combination of some really great exclusives and timely price cuts and bundles have improved the landscape dramatically. And so as 2014 winds down to a close, here are the best Xbox One console exclusives of 2014.

And yea, we know some are on PC too. But the only console they are on is Xbox One… so… yea.

 

Sunset Overdrive

Sunset Overdrive is over-the-top, humorous, vibrant, self-aware, full of action -- and it all totally works. It has all of the elements of a blockbuster title. It’s a kickass time, even when you play it alone, and it’s a great reminder that we don’t always have to take video games so seriously. A great Xbox One exclusive, we scored Sunset Overdrive a 9.

 

 

Halo: The Master Chief Collection

With more than 10 years worth of Halo content offered on one disc, The Master Chief Collection is one of the most robust curations we’ve ever seen. It offers you everything you could possibly want from Halo, and it does it on your terms. The visuals are a huge improvement, and the control and freedom you have to experience Master Chief’s adventures is one of the most appealing things about it.

 

Volgarr the Viking

Volgarr the Viking is a return to retro. Not just in visuals, but in its extremely difficult side-scrolling action platformer gameplay. It’s really, really hard. But it gives you a sense of purpose that helps you realize how good the game really is. Combat is simple but tough, so Volgarr the Viking is great if you’re looking for a challenge you used to get back in the day.

 

Project Spark

Project Spark is more of a video game editor than a game. There’s a robust set of creation tools that the game shows you how to use to bring your creations to life. Project Spark is great if you’re willing to put in time and patience and have a creative mind. It’s also going to be as good as its community.

 

Forza Horizon 2

Earning a 9 in our review, Forza Horizon 2 stood out this holiday season among the slew of racing games that released. It’s gorgeous, huge, exciting, and most of all, it’s just downright fun. Rain and weather effects put an exclamation point on the already breathtaking visuals.

 

Titanfall

Titanfall received an 8 in our review. What it lacks in depth and variety, it makes up for in map design, maneuverability, action and balance. The overwhelming amount of hype probably hurt the game in the long run, but there’s no denying that it’s a great first entry into a franchise with a bright future, and it remains one of the premier multiplayer shooters you can buy.