The original Xbox left its mark on video game history with some really fantastic games. Looking back at the original Xbox's pedigree of games can bring many players nostalgic joy. Many of these games stand the test of time and are still fun to play today.
From a wide array of genres, the original Xbox has so many classic, must-play games for players to sink their teeth into. From a long list of developers, this list will compile the best games on the console. You should give any and all of these games a go if you haven't tried them yet.
10 Project Gotham Racing
Project Gotham Racing was a landmark racing game on video game consoles. While players may prefer Project Gotham Racing 2, the impact and legacy that PGR1 left on the racing franchise cannot be overlooked.
The game had stunning visuals, gameplay, and functionality. While the series may not be what it once was, PGR was a monumental step in the racing franchise that paved the way for games like Forza Horizon and modern-day Gran Turismo games today.
9 Jet Set Radio Future
The death of the Dreamcast didn't spell disaster for the Jet Set Radio franchise. Jet Set Radio Future continued the series on Microsoft's console and brought many Sega fans along with it.
A game with roller skating as its main traversal mechanic may not seem like much, but Jet Set Radio Future was an impressive follow-up to the Dreamcast's Jet Set Radio. One of the reasons Jet Set Radio Future should be acknowledged as a standout Xbox game is its uniqueness. To this day, no game has captured the feeling of the Jet Set Radio games.
8 Ninja Gaiden
The Ninja Gaiden franchise doesn't get enough love these days. Many combat-heavy games today owe a lot to the early Ninja Gaiden games. A game known for difficulty and precision, Ninja Gaiden was not for the faint of heart.
Ninja Gaiden had the full package, with visuals, combat, and gameplay, all top-tier. Ninja Gaiden is a great game to jump into today for players interested in playing some older well-known titles.
7 Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City would have ranked much higher if it were exclusive to the Xbox. GTA: VC deserves a spot nonetheless, due to its strong ties to Microsoft's first console and its impact on the video game industry.
Every GTA game seems to be better than the last, but Vice City really left its mark on the series. Its colorful neon aesthetic and unmatched gameplay makes it one of the most replayable games for current-day gamers of any on the list.
6 Psychonauts
Psychonauts was Tim Schafer, and Double Fine's, first real test as developers. The unique aesthetic and theme that Psychonauts shows throughout the game makes it stand out as one of the most memorable games of the era. While it was meant to be exclusive to the Xbox console, the game did eventually come to PlayStations.
Microsoft and Double Fine have a long history that resulted in them falling under the Microsoft banner of developers today. Psychonauts left a lasting impact on the Xbox console and to this day, aside from the game's sequel, there has never been a game quite like Psychonauts.
5 The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind was one of the first expansive RPGs on the original Xbox and the series has been an obvious success on consoles, with The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim going on to become one of the highest-selling games of all time.
When you think Morrowind, you should think Xbox. Bethesda and Microsoft have always had a good working relationship, especially today, but Morrowind is what started it all. Microsoft may not be known as a console for RPG players at all if it weren't for Morrowind's exclusivity to their original console.
4 Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic
BioWare really outdid itself with Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic. This game isn't set during the events of the films but is actually in its own time period. This gave the developers the ability to create interesting lore and areas to explore.
A great example of early morality systems in video games, where the player's choices and actions had a real impact on the game. The title is full of memorable characters and a long and winding narrative. It's a must-play for Star Wars fans!
3 Halo: Combat Evolved
If this list were comprised of the most iconic original Xbox games ever made, Halo: Combat Evolved would definitely be number one. Since these games are being ranked by how good they are, Halo: CE doesn't quite top the list. While it is a phenomenal experience, especially when its age is taken into account, future entries in the Halo series brought a new level of polish to the games.
For many gamers today, Halo: Combat Evolved was the entry point into video games. The title revolutionized the FPS genre on consoles and brought new life to multiplayer games. Halo still stands today as one of the most beloved franchises in gaming.
2 Fable
Fable is a great game all around. It brought unique British humor to Microsoft's console and left a lasting impression on its players. While the franchise has been through the wringer, with multiple less-than-adequate sequels, spinoffs, and even one canceled game, it still holds a special place in the heart of many fans.
Fable not only brought notable features to the Xbox, but to gaming overall. It was one of the first games to have a truly complete and thought-out morality system that could be seen in the visual appearance of the game's main character. The game's combat mechanics were also nothing to scoff at, with players able to choose their preferred combat method from melee, ranged, or magic attacks.
1 Halo 2
Halo 2, like Halo: Combat Evolved, solidified the Xbox's place in the world of video games. Halo 2 achieved the impossible, taking what its predecessor brought to the table and making it even better. Where Halo fine-tuned the FPS genre, Halo 2 enhanced it. Where Halo introduced the console-multiplayer craze, Halo 2 perfected it.
Dual-wielding alone could have shot Halo 2 into the list of best original Xbox games, but the title has so much more to offer. A fantastic narrative, badass combat and gameplay, and a streamlined multiplayer experience. There isn't much more fans at the time could ask for.