While all latest Xbox-related buzz seems to revolve around the upcomingSeries Xthese days, theXbox Oneis still going fairly strong, particularly in the US and UK markets. It’s certainly true that itshardwaresales have stagnated somewhat this past year - which is to be expected given its age of several years.
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Yet, Microsoft and its various 2nd and 3rd parties have continued to crank out great software, much of which has managed to find its way atop theNPDcharts. The lineup has proven particularly memorable and diverse in 2019, ranging from arcade-style fighters toopen-world epicsand thrilling shooters. This list will cover the top 10 sellers for the Xbox One in the North American market, according to NPD figures.
10Grand Theft Auto V
One of the most iconic franchises which helped popularize the sandbox style,GTAVmakes for the most ambitious and expansive game in the series yet.
It draws from key elements fans love about past entries, including its dark, twisted subject matter, dynamic gameplay, and cinematic flair. It also takes the already robustGTA IVformula and further fleshes it out - once again shifting between 3 troubled and morally-questionable leads. This raunchy action-adventure certainly lives up to its appraisal, record-breaking sales, and various accolades.
If the previous entry isn’t enough to demonstrate Rockstar’s mastery of cinematic epics - then this Western-inspired odyssey certainly should. This anticipated sequel draws upon the traits that made the firstRed Dead Redemptionso renowned while adding more refinements and features.
The depth and versatility of the gameplay is truly impressive here, with heart-pounding missions that range from train heists to Old West shootouts and hunting. Along with impressive visuals and a gripping story starring outlaw Arthur Morgan, the game offers a flashy “Cinematic Mode,” allowing players to kick back and soak in the atmosphere and narrative.
8Anthem
BioWare is certainly no stranger to awesomeRPGshooters that blend depth with arcade-style action. And while the massively-hypedAnthemdidn’t quite live up to expectations for many, you wouldn’t really know it given its relative success.
Despite its flaws, it’s hard not to at least credit this MMO for its ambition, scope, and unique mech-laden elements. The game melds imaginative fantasy and slick sci-fi; with some colorful environments and fun mechanics involving exosuits. Though it’s something of a slow burn,Anthemdoes eventually take off in terms of its exciting gameplay.
7Mortal Kombat 11
Let’s be honest - this classic fighting franchise is likely to move several units on the strength of its namealone. But does the 11th entry in this edgy series live up to the hype and expectations that come withMortal Kombat? For many at least, the answer isyes- certainly when it comes to critical reception.
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Some fans have voiced displeasure in the excessive grinding, microtransactions, and somewhat spotty mechanics. Still,Mortal Kombat 11also been praised for its depth and robust content - along with its cinematic flair, fluid animation, and generally sleek visuals.
6Tom Clancy’s The Division 2
Xbox and shooters seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly, and this epic sequel reinforces this notion.
In a plot somewhat fitting for 2020, the game involves a widespread virus that provokes a mission to rebuild a city in its destructive wake.The Division2takes the established formula from the original and polishes up various aspects, while throwing in new enemy types and gameplay features.
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Moreso than its predecessor,The Division 2takes theDeus Exapproach of fusing role-playing progression and exploration with thrilling shooter mechanics. The game’s visuals and general presentation are quite impressive, especially when it comes to the dusty particle effects permeating the scorched Washington D.C.
5Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Like the films themselves,Star Warsvideo games have proven to be something of a mixed bag of late. But much to the delight of diehard fans, this memorable romp from Respawn manages to live up to the iconic space odyssey.
Fallen Orderhas fast become one of the most successfulStar Wars-branded titles of all time, and for good reason. The game is about as close to a “Jedi simulator” as the franchise has ever seen, with some lavish settings, satisfying lightsaber and Force combat, and open-ended gameplay.
This sprawling adventure is both accessible and rich, drawing from Metroidvanias in addition to classics likeDark SoulsandThe Legend of Zelda.
4Borderlands 3
After a lengthy hiatus, this zany RPG shooter is finally back and better than ever. Gearbox goes full-throttle when it comes toBorderlands' more memorable features - which includetonsof oddweapons, exhilarating vehicles, and endless bounties of loot.
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With the refined mechanics and 4-player co-op, running and gunning with friends is more enjoyable than ever. Still, the game doesn’t sacrifice on the solo-front either, featuring a plethora of distinct, lush environments beyond Pandora. The added depth with weapon augmentations, skill trees, and a multi-tiered Mayhem Mode ensures longevity with this enjoyable romp.
3NBA 2k20
Visual Concepts' popular basketball sim has seen its ups and downs - andNBA 2K20encapsulates both the highsandlows of the series. Despite some mixed reviews with this latest entry, it’s hard not to appreciate it when it comes to its sleek presentation, robust content, and overall depth.
Described as being loaded with microtransactions and fairly buggy, this is a classic case of what one may call a “divisive” title. It’s received much appraisal from critics while largely being scorned by fans. It certainly doesn’t bode well that the game’s seen significant slashes in price.
Still,NBA 2K20certainly soars at times, thanks to its dedication to realism, impressive graphics, and amusing story mode.
2Madden NFL 20
Like the previous entry, fans largely know what to expect with this popular annual franchise - occasional bugs and online issues notwithstanding. And for the most part,Madden NFL20manages to be a case of “more of the same” with a few incremental improvements. But for many, this is enough - given the solid formula it draws from, and the particularly sleek aesthetics.
Critiques ofMadden NFL 20include a lack of changes, a few technical issues, and excessive microtransactions. Still, this makes for a dynamic football sim experience for those willing to deal with the learning curve.
1Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2019
Speaking of yearly installments - the famedCall of Dutyseries has also seen many entries, yieldingmostlypositive results. To its credit, Infinity Ward and Treyarch have made an effort to keep thisFPSinteresting by experimenting with different gameplay modes, features, and locales.
With this sixteenth installment, the series draws from the older fan-favoriteModern Warfarewhile lacing it with more modern sensibilities. The multiplayer proves just as addictive as ever with its increased scope and depth - including the new “Ground War” which can host up to100players.
Additionally, the robust - and rather dark -campaign modemakes for an interesting diversion from the competitive arena.
