Forza Horizon 5 has officially launched on PlayStation 5, marking a historic first: the beloved open-world racing franchise is now available on a non-Xbox console. This move is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to expand its gaming footprint beyond the Xbox ecosystem, and it’s paying off—Forza Horizon 5 quickly became one of the top three most-downloaded games on PS5 in April 2025, alongside Minecraft and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.
PS5 Enhancements: A True Next-Gen Racing Experience
The PlayStation 5 version isn’t just a straight port. It comes with meaningful improvements that take advantage of the PS5’s hardware capabilities. Players can choose between Performance Mode (targeting 60fps gameplay) and Quality Mode (prioritizing higher resolution and graphical detail). Ray-traced reflections, enhanced texture detail, and buttery smooth loading times are now part of the experience.
Even more notable is the DualSense controller integration. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers bring a new dimension to the driving experience, letting players feel gear shifts, road texture, and braking resistance in ways not possible on previous platforms.
Horizon Realms: A Bold New Mode
Coinciding with the PS5 release is Horizon Realms, a new gameplay mode that introduces narrative-driven events and evolving challenges. Set apart from the traditional Festival Playlist, Horizon Realms mixes curated races, environmental storytelling, and community-driven competitions. It’s an ambitious attempt to blend Forza’s sandbox freedom with more structure and ongoing content—akin to a seasonal campaign system.
Early reactions from the community highlight how Realms breathe new life into the series, with Reddit threads buzzing about the potential for user-created content and themed Realms rotating throughout the year.
May 27, 2025 Update: Bug Fixes & Quality-of-Life Improvements
The most recent patch rolled out on May 27 introduced a range of fixes and enhancements:
- Performance & Stability: General optimization across all platforms for smoother gameplay and fewer crashes.
- Festival Playlist: Weekly Challenge progression bugs have been resolved.
- Accolades: Previously bugged accolades like “Night Time Funk” and “Eterna-lly Yours” now unlock correctly.
- Wheel Support on PS5: Logitech wheel mapping issues fixed, improving the sim-racing experience.
- Friends List Improvements: Sorting and UI improvements make it easier to join friends’ sessions.
These updates reflect Playground Games’ ongoing commitment to keeping Forza Horizon 5 polished and responsive to community feedback.
New Car Drops & Special Editions
The game’s car list continues to grow, with recent additions like:
- 2018 Lotus Exige Cup 430
- 2022 Hennessey Mammoth 6×6
- 2023 Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato
- 2024 Lamborghini Revuelto
- A unique dual-branded Xbox x PlayStation livery Revuelto, unlockable through in-game challenges
This cross-platform livery celebrates the game’s arrival on PS5 and symbolizes the new era of platform inclusivity in gaming.
Forza Horizon 5’s debut on PlayStation 5 isn’t just a technical milestone—it’s a cultural one. With rich cross-platform support, evolving game modes, and continued developer attention, it stands as one of the best open-world racing games you can play in 2025, no matter which console you’re on.
Best New Xbox Games to Play in Spring 2025
Looking for the next great gaming experience for your Xbox Series X? The gaming world is constantly evolving with exciting new titles being released throughout 2025. Xbox gamers can enjoy a diverse selection of games spanning various genres from immersive RPGs to heart-pounding action adventures.
Whether you’re a longtime Xbox enthusiast or just recently purchased your Series X console, staying informed about the best new releases helps you make smart choices with your gaming budget. The current lineup features both highly anticipated sequels from beloved franchises and innovative new IPs that push the boundaries of what’s possible on Microsoft’s powerful console.
1: Starfield
Starfield is one of the most exciting Xbox games you can play right now. It’s the first new universe in over 25 years from Bethesda Game Studios, the team behind Skyrim and Fallout 4.
In this space-themed role-playing game, you can create any character you want. The game offers unparalleled freedom as you explore the stars and embark on an epic journey to answer humanity’s greatest mystery.
Starfield performs exceptionally well on Xbox. It’s currently among the 25 most played games on the console, making it the best-performing Bethesda Game Studios title on Xbox.
You might wonder if it’s worth playing on Xbox. According to players, the answer is a resounding yes – it’s a lot of fun and definitely worth experiencing.
The game features stunning visuals, deep character customization, and hundreds of planets to explore. You’ll encounter various factions, engage in space combat, and make choices that impact the story.
Your spacecraft serves as both transportation and a customizable home base. You can upgrade it, add modules, and even build your own outposts on distant worlds.
Whether you enjoy combat, exploration, or story-driven gameplay, Starfield offers something for every type of player. The vast universe is yours to discover at your own pace.
2: Alan Wake 2
Alan Wake 2 stands out as one of the best horror games on Xbox Series X. This sequel builds upon the legacy of its predecessor while creating something fresh and terrifying.
You’ll dive into two distinct worlds in this game. Each has its own cast of characters and unique threats to overcome. The beautiful yet eerie landscapes of Cauldron Lake and the towns of Bright Falls and Watery create an immersive atmosphere that will keep you on edge.
The game has earned its place among the must-play titles on Xbox Series X. Its compelling storytelling and atmospheric gameplay set a new standard for horror games on the platform.
When you play Alan Wake 2, you’ll notice the impressive visuals that showcase what the Xbox Series X can do. The game received a resolution update for the Series S version, improving the overall experience on Microsoft’s more affordable console.
Some fans consider it not just a great Xbox game, but one of the best games of this generation. The rich narrative and immersive gameplay create an experience that’s hard to put down.
You can find Alan Wake 2 on the Xbox Store, where you can purchase it digitally and start your journey into this acclaimed horror adventure.
3: Madden NFL 25
Madden NFL 25 brings exciting new features to Xbox gamers looking for the ultimate football experience. The game offers a recharged Franchise mode with a rebuilt NFL Draft experience featuring Roger Goodell and personalized storylines.
You’ll notice the improved gameplay right away with the new physics-informed dynamic tackling system that creates realistic collisions and fresh animations on both sides of the ball. This makes every play feel more authentic than in previous versions.
The game is available on both Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. If you have the newer Series S console, you can enjoy all the gameplay updates and new features that make this version stand out.
Madden NFL 25 Season 5 called “Path to Victory” takes you on a journey to Super Bowl LIX with all-new Field Pass rewards and Ultimate Team events like Playoffs. This gives you plenty of content to explore beyond the base game.
For Game Pass subscribers, there’s good news. Madden NFL 25 is coming to Game Pass soon, allowing you to experience the game without an additional purchase if you’re already subscribed to the service.
The Franchise Central feature gives you simplified league creation tools and more information at your fingertips, making team management more intuitive than ever before.
4: Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite offers you an expansive chapter in the legendary franchise that has defined Xbox gaming for generations. The game shows tremendous respect for Master Chief while providing a fresh experience that both veterans and newcomers can enjoy.
You’ll be impressed by the stunning 4K graphics and seamless gameplay that truly showcases what the newer Xbox consoles can deliver. The game runs beautifully across Xbox One and the Series X|S family, with the Series X version supporting up to 120 FPS.
The campaign sends you on an emotional journey with Master Chief as he explores a mysterious Halo ring. Combat feels responsive and satisfying, with new additions like the grappling hook adding exciting dimensions to both movement and fighting.
Multiplayer in Halo Infinite is equally impressive, offering you classic arena combat with modern refinements. Many players consider it among the best in the series, capturing the essence of what made earlier Halo multiplayer so compelling.
Load times are greatly reduced on the Series X|S, allowing you to jump into the action faster than ever before. This technical improvement makes a noticeable difference in both campaign and multiplayer sessions.
The game continues to evolve with regular updates, ensuring you’ll have new content to explore. Recent improvements have addressed early feedback, making this an excellent time to experience what many consider one of the best games in the Xbox library.
5: Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 stands as one of the most impressive games available on Xbox Series X|S. This open-world, action-adventure RPG takes you to the dark future of Night City, a sprawling metropolis filled with danger and opportunity.
The game has undergone significant improvements since its launch. A massive gameplay update optimized for Xbox Series X|S has transformed the experience, making it run smoother and look more impressive than ever.
You’ll find yourself immersed in a richly detailed world with excellent writing and stunning graphics. The streets of Night City feel alive with activity, giving you countless ways to interact with its complex systems.
Combat offers plenty of options through deadly weapons and cybernetic enhancements. When you need a break from the action, you can explore the city in various vehicles, each with unique handling characteristics.
Cyberpunk 2077’s narrative strength lies in its character development and branching storylines. Your choices genuinely matter, affecting how events unfold throughout your journey.
The game has earned its place among the best Xbox Series X titles, particularly with the addition of its Phantom Liberty expansion. This DLC adds even more content to an already massive game.
If you enjoy dystopian settings with deep role-playing elements, Cyberpunk 2077 delivers an unforgettable gaming experience that will keep you engaged for dozens of hours.
6: Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 delivers a visually stunning experience that pushes the Xbox Series X|S hardware to its limits. You’ll be immediately struck by the incredible presentation that makes this one of the most graphically impressive titles available on the platform.
The game continues Senua’s story, taking you through the harsh landscapes of Viking Iceland. The narrative remains gripping and immersive, pulling you into Senua’s troubled mind as you experience her ongoing struggle with psychosis.
While the visuals are breathtaking, some critics note that the gameplay takes a back seat to the presentation. You might find the combat and puzzle elements more restrictive than expected, with the game emphasizing narrative and visual fidelity over gameplay depth.
The audio design deserves special mention, as you’ll want to play with headphones to fully experience the binaural audio that represents Senua’s auditory hallucinations. This creates an incredibly immersive atmosphere that few games can match.
You can access Hellblade 2 through Xbox Game Pass, making it an easy addition to your library if you’re a subscriber. The game received a free update that enhances visuals on both Xbox Series X|S and PC platforms.
If you’re looking for a technically impressive, narrative-driven experience, Hellblade 2 delivers on its promises with top-notch visuals and an unforgettable journey through myth and torment.
7: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is one of the most exciting additions to Xbox Game Pass in 2024. If you’ve been waiting for a return to form for the franchise, this might be the game that wins you back.
The campaign offers a fun and engaging experience with impressive setpieces that showcase what a AAA title should deliver. You’ll find yourself immersed in the story as you progress through various missions.
Multiplayer in Black Ops 6 shines particularly bright, reminding players what made the series special in the first place. The fast-paced action and responsive controls create an addictive gameplay loop that keeps you coming back for more matches.
Zombie fans will be thrilled with the return of round-based Zombies mode. This classic approach to the beloved mode has been refined and improved, offering hours of undead-slaying entertainment with friends.
The game is available now on Xbox Series X|S through Game Pass, making it incredibly accessible if you’re a subscriber. You don’t need to spend extra to experience what many are calling the best Call of Duty game in years.
Visually, the game impresses with detailed environments and smooth performance on Xbox Series X|S. You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in both single-player and multiplayer maps.
Some critics are even calling Black Ops 6 an instant classic that may go down as one of the best releases in franchise history.
8: Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 remains one of the most impressive games available on Xbox. The open-world western adventure offers you a chance to survive in any way you can across the rugged heartland of America.
When playing on Xbox Series X, you’ll experience native 4K resolution that showcases the game’s stunning landscapes and incredible attention to detail. However, it’s worth noting that the game doesn’t hit a locked 60fps on the newer console hardware.
The game has received over 175 Game of the Year Awards and more than 250 perfect scores from critics. You get both the story mode and Red Dead Online when you purchase the game, giving you tremendous value.
You can often find the game at a reasonable price, with some Xbox Game Pass subscribers reporting deals as low as $29.99. This makes it an excellent addition to your library if you haven’t experienced it yet.
The physics and environmental details are particularly impressive, setting new standards for video game immersion. You’ll lose yourself in the meticulously crafted world where your choices genuinely impact your experience.
Whether you’re robbing, stealing, or fighting your way across the frontier, Red Dead Redemption 2 delivers an unforgettable gaming experience that still stands among the best titles available on Xbox.
9: Sea of Thieves
Sea of Thieves offers you the quintessential pirate experience on Xbox. In this shared-world adventure, you can sail the seas, hunt for treasure, and battle other crews of real players.
The game has evolved significantly since its launch, with regular updates adding new content and features. You can explore a vast open world, take on challenging quests, and face fearsome sea monsters with your friends.
The 2024 Edition brings even more adventures to your Xbox console. You’ll find improved graphics and performance, especially if you’re playing on the Xbox Series X, where the game shines with faster loading times and enhanced visuals.
Playing with friends makes the experience better. You can form crews of up to four players, each taking different roles on your ship as you navigate the treacherous waters together.
Combat in Sea of Thieves is thrilling, whether you’re fighting skeleton crews, megalodons, or other player ships. Your skill with cannons, swords, and pistols will determine your success in these encounters.
The game recently expanded to PlayStation 5, but the Xbox version remains a excellent way to experience this pirate adventure. You’ll notice significant performance improvements if you upgrade from an Xbox One to a Series X/S console.
With its unique art style, engaging gameplay, and constant updates, Sea of Thieves remains one of the best multiplayer experiences available on your Xbox.
10: Control Ultimate Edition
Control Ultimate Edition is a standout title that brings supernatural action-adventure to your Xbox. This package includes the base game and all expansions – “The Foundation” and “AWE” – in one great value bundle.
You play as Jesse Faden, the new director of a secret government agency battling paranormal forces. The game combines thrilling combat with an intriguing story set in a shape-shifting building called the Oldest House.
What makes Control special is your character’s supernatural abilities. You can levitate, throw objects with telekinesis, and transform your weapon instantly. These powers create combat that feels fresh and exciting with each encounter.
The Ultimate Edition for Xbox Series X|S takes advantage of next-gen hardware with improved graphics and performance. You’ll experience ray tracing for realistic lighting and reflections, plus faster loading times.
If you enjoy games like Quantum Break, you’ll find familiar elements here. Control creates a perfect blend of supernatural storytelling with action gameplay.
Note that the Ultimate Edition is designed specifically for Series X|S and cannot be installed on Xbox One, though Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can access it through cloud gaming.
With its unique setting, supernatural powers, and mysterious plot, Control Ultimate Edition delivers an unforgettable gaming experience that will keep you engaged for hours.
Understanding Game Ratings
Game ratings help you choose appropriate games for yourself or your family members. These systems provide valuable information about content and age suitability before you make a purchase.
ESRB Rating System
The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is the primary rating system used in the United States and Canada. Xbox uses the ESRB rating system as a standardized way to help you determine if a game is appropriate for children.
The ESRB uses age-based categories:
- E (Everyone): Suitable for all ages, with minimal cartoon violence
- E10+ (Everyone 10+): Appropriate for ages 10 and up
- T (Teen): Intended for players 13 and older
- M (Mature): For players 17 and older
- AO (Adults Only): Only for adults 18+
Each game also includes content descriptors like “Fantasy Violence,” “Strong Language,” or “Sexual Content.” These provide specific details about why a game received its rating.
PEGI Rating Scale
The Pan European Game Information (PEGI) system is used throughout most of Europe. When browsing European Xbox games, you’ll see PEGI ratings instead of ESRB.
PEGI ratings are age-based:
- PEGI 3: Suitable for all age groups
- PEGI 7: May contain mild violence
- PEGI 12: Shows violence in a fantasy setting
- PEGI 16: Realistic violence and mature themes
- PEGI 18: Extreme violence and adult content
PEGI also uses content icons that represent specific elements like violence, bad language, fear, gambling, and drugs. These icons appear on game packaging and digital storefronts.
You can use these rating systems to make informed decisions when purchasing new Xbox games for yourself or your family members.
Innovative Game Features
Xbox Series X games are pushing boundaries with cutting-edge features that transform how you experience gameplay. These innovations create more immersive worlds and responsive gameplay systems that weren’t possible on previous console generations.
Interactive Storytelling
Today’s Xbox games feature branching narratives that adapt to your choices in real-time. Games like Indiana Jones offer multiple pathways through missions, creating unique storylines for each player.
Many titles now implement dynamic dialogue systems where NPCs remember your past interactions. This creates more meaningful relationships within games and increases replay value.
The emotional impact has deepened too. Alan Wake 2 uses psychological elements that respond to your play style, creating personalized horror experiences.
Games optimized for Series X use the console’s power to eliminate loading screens during critical story moments. This keeps you immersed in the narrative without technical interruptions.
Advanced AI Mechanics
Enemy behavior has evolved dramatically in new Xbox titles. Opponents now coordinate attacks, adapt to your strategies, and learn from your fighting patterns in real-time.
Monster Hunter Wilds showcases creatures with complex ecosystems and behaviors. These monsters interact with their environment and other species, creating dynamic hunting scenarios that never play out the same way twice.
Games like Starfield use procedural generation paired with sophisticated AI to create unique NPCs with personal routines, goals, and reactions to your presence.
The Xbox Series X’s processing power enables these systems to run simultaneously. You’ll experience up to 120FPS performance with these complex AI systems active, a feature highlighted in Xbox’s optimization program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Xbox gamers have many questions about the latest titles worth playing on different Xbox systems. The gaming landscape continues to evolve with impressive new releases across various genres.
What are the top-reviewed Xbox Series X games recently released?
Starfield has received exceptional reviews for its vast universe exploration and immersive storytelling. Critics praise its detailed space environments and freedom of choice.
Alan Wake 2 stands out as a highly-rated horror experience with its psychological elements and improved gameplay mechanics. The game’s atmospheric design and narrative depth have impressed reviewers.
Cyberpunk 2077 has transformed through updates into one of the most impressive open-world experiences on Xbox Series X. The game’s visual enhancements take full advantage of the console’s power.
Which Xbox One titles are considered must-plays in the current year?
Halo Infinite remains essential for Xbox One owners with its combination of nostalgic gameplay and modern features. The multiplayer component continues to receive updates that keep it relevant.
Madden NFL 25 delivers an enhanced football experience even on older Xbox hardware. The game scales well to Xbox One while maintaining core gameplay innovations.
Several backward compatible titles have received optimization patches making them better than ever on Xbox One.
What are the critically acclaimed games currently available on Xbox Series S?
Cyberpunk 2077 runs surprisingly well on Series S hardware with stable performance and impressive visuals. The smaller console handles Night City with fewer compromises than you might expect.
Starfield offers a comparable experience on Series S with slightly reduced visual fidelity but maintaining the core exploration gameplay. Loading times remain impressive on the digital-only console.
Forza Horizon 5 continues to showcase the Series S capabilities with beautiful environments and smooth gameplay.
How does the lineup of Xbox games this year compare to previous years?
This year’s Xbox lineup shows greater diversity across genres compared to previous years. You’ll find more RPGs, horror titles, and sports simulations than in recent memory.
The technical quality of releases has improved significantly with fewer troubled launches. Developers have better adapted to the hardware capabilities.
Game Pass additions have been stronger this year with more day-one releases appearing on the service.
What new gaming experiences are exclusive to the Xbox platform?
Starfield represents the biggest true Xbox exclusive in years with its Bethesda pedigree. The game cannot be played on PlayStation consoles.
Several smaller indie exclusives offer unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere. These titles often appear on Xbox Game Pass first.
Microsoft’s studio acquisitions are starting to bear fruit with more exclusive content in development for future release.
What are the latest award-winning console games for Xbox players?
Alan Wake 2 has collected numerous awards for its storytelling and atmospheric horror design. The game’s visual presentation sets new standards for the genre.
Cyberpunk 2077’s comeback story earned it recognition for most improved game experience. The dedication to fixing and enhancing the title has been widely acknowledged.
Several indie titles available through Game Pass have received critical acclaim for innovation and gameplay excellence.
