The video game industry has largely evolved to become one based on multiplatform titles, rather than the widespread exclusivity of years past. However, that doesn’t mean that exclusives aren’t still important.
When it comes to choosing which platform to invest in, consumers consider the entirety of its line-up. That means having a good look at what it has that nothing else does.
Also See: With Uncharted 4 Delayed, Here’s What’s Left of the PS4’s 2015 Exclusive Line-Up
Quantum Break was just delayed, reducing the strength of the Xbox One line-up for 2015. So, in this feature we’re going to look at what’s left of the Xbox One’s exclusive line-up.
Please note that this does include games that also will release on Xbox 360, but not those that release on any other hardware including PC.
IDARB – February 2015
IDARB fills an important role in the Xbox One line-up in that it’s a game focused on delivering entertainment for local multiplayer. It’s a soccer/football style game where you control a small avatar tasked with moving a single ball to the opponent’s net. Low gravity and interesting mechanics make it a unique experience that has some great entertainment value for local multiplayer.
It released to decent reception and was made available for free as part of the Xbox Games with Gold program.
Screamride – March 2015
Rollercoaster games are seldom seen in the video game industry. The makers of Rollercoaster Tycoon, Frontier Developments, attempted to change that last month with the release of Screamride. While it was lacking theme park management, it had crazy new ideas that involved launching riders off coasters, tossing carts into buildings, and building the most sickening rides imaginable.
Similar to IDARB it was moderately well received, adding a unique title to the Xbox One line-up.
Inside – Early 2015
Limbo developer, Playdead, has been working hard on its second indie video game. It’s called Inside, and it’s exclusive to the Xbox One.
Inside is an adventure game with an interesting visual style not too dissimilar from Limbo. Little is known about it, but there’s a good chance it could become the Xbox One’s most important indie title given Playdead’s talent.
Halo 5: Guardians – October 2015
Here’s the game that Microsoft is betting will have a huge impact on Xbox One sales. Halo has remained its highest-tier exclusive, and given that this will be the first new Halo game with a 60 FPS standard as well as some modern innovations, there’s a lot riding on it.
You can expect to see a huge marketing push with the release of Halo 5: Guardians. How well it performs has huge ramifications on the future of the Xbox One.
Forza Motorsport 6 – Q4 2015
Forza is a prized possession of Microsoft, and it’s been taking advantage of it to the best of its ability for several years. Forza Motorsport 5 operated as a stellar launch title, and Forza Horizon 2 is one of the best open-world racers ever. Now, Forza Motorsport 6 looks to take the giant to the next level.
Microsoft hasn’t yet shared details on what Forza Motorsport 6 entails, but we do know it will be the first game to host the new Ford GT. That’s exciting in and of itself.
Rise of the Tomb Raider – Holiday 2015
Microsoft has made a big bet on the next Tomb Raider game by investing in Xbox exclusivity. While it’ll also be available on Xbox 360, looking at its early assets shows a game that can only be experienced to its fullest on current-generation hardware.
Sony recently announced that Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End has been delayed to 2016, leaving Rise of the Tomb Raider as the lone AAA exclusive adventure game of 2015’s holiday season. It has the potential to really shake things up for the quarter.
Games Also Available on PC
The Escapists
Ori and the Blind Forest
Goat Simulator
Magic Duels: Origins
Below
Elite Dangerous
Fable Legends
Smite
World of Tanks
