5 Best Xbox Exclusives in 2023 (So Far)

So far, the first half of 2023 has been somewhat disappointing for Xbox exclusives. Very few titles have been released, with Redfall being the most notable. However, we'd do a lot more before calling that game one of the best Xbox exclusives of 2023. In fact, we'd rank it among the worst. Nonetheless, our point is that we need to broaden our parameters for this list because Xbox's catalog of exclusives is currently lacking. As a result, this list of the best Xbox exclusives includes titles that were released this year and are only available on Xbox and/or PC. None of them, however, are available on PlayStation.

The real highlight for Xbox exclusives falls on the games released in the second half of the year, with Starfield at the helm. However, until it and other titles are released, these are the games making up the best Xbox exclusives in 2023, so far.

5. Shoulders of Giants

Shoulders of Giants, a true Xbox exclusive in 2023, was released on January 26 of this year after nearly three years of development. Essentially, this action roguelike game sees you simultaneously controlling a gunslinging space frog who rides on the shoulders of a giant sword-wielding robot. You can do this solo, or with a friend with each player taking control of either the frog or the robot. Furthermore, you can play the game in four-player online co-op mode for an even more team-oriented experience.

Your goal, whether alone or with friends, is to prevent the forces of Entropy from corrupting planets and spreading chaos throughout the universe. You don't, however, rely solely on a gun and a sword. To open up and diversify your playstyle, the game is full of different pick-ups such as grappling hooks and grenades. Overall, Shoulders of Giants is a unique concept that was executed admirably. As a result, it easily earns the distinction of being one of the best Xbox exclusives of 2023 thus far.

4. Forza Horizon 5: Rally Adventure DLC

The Forza Horizon series has long been Xbox's best exclusive, and Forza Horizon 5 cemented its spot on the throne even further. That's why we can't help but include the Forza Horizon 5: Rally Adventure DLC in this list of the best Xbox exclusives. Released on March 29 of this year, the Rally Adventure DLC allows players to conquer the rugged and sandy terrain of Sierra Nueva using 10 new rally cars.

This DLC is nothing when compared to the Hot Wheels expansion that was released for Forza Horizon 5 last year. That being said, it's still giving us new rally cars and races where we can use them to their full potential. So, if you're in the mood for kicking up some dirt and asphalt, the Rally Adventure DLC is worth trying out.

3. King of the Arcade

King of the Arcade is “an arcade experience that will transport you back to the 80s.” Playing as Mac McCormick, a former arcade champion who has fallen out of his prime, you must take down Jimmy Joysticks and his seven-member arcade gang to retain your title as “King of the Arcade”. With over 40 games spanning multiple genres, you must achieve high scores and knock out each one of Jimmy Joysticks' goons in epic arcade-based boss battles.

Including classic-inspired arcade-themed games like Retro Invaders, Space Ravager, High-Speed Racing, and more, King of the Arcade is jam-packed with nostalgic fun. Overall, King of the Arcade has a great story, tons of variety in gameplay, and is a great all-around game. As a result, it's easily one of the best Xbox exclusives of the year so far. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to prove you the best arcade player of the 1980s.

2. Ravenlok

With a distinctive art style, Ravenlock takes you on an action-packed enchanting fairytale adventure. After encountering a mystical mirror, our protagonist Ravenlock is transported to a “whimsical world plagued by the sinister darkness of a tyrannical queen.” Playing as the young heroine destined to fulfill a perilous prophecy, you must plunge headfirst into this mystical realm and engage in real-time combat with monsters and bosses.

Ravenlock's 3D pixel and cinematic art style alone has captured our hearts. It just makes us want to go explore its marvelous world. But the fact that it comes with an emotionally charged narrative has us completely sold. So, if you're looking for a new experience, Ravenlock is one of the best Xbox exclusives of 2023 that offers up something you've never quite experienced before.

1. Hi-Fi Rush

We see no other choice but to nominate Hi-Fi Rush as the best Xbox exclusive of 2023 thus far. Developed by Tango Gameworks, Hi-Fi Rush was one of the first games to release this year. Fortunately, the action rhythm game outperformed expectations. Almost everyone who has played has left raving reviews. So, what's all the hype about?

In Hi-Fi Rush you play as wannabe rockstar Chai. Alongside his motley crew, you must fight against an evil megacorp that has “raucous rhythm combat!”. Evidently, that's because Hi-Fi Rush is a rhythm-based game where the world syncs to the music. It's a novel idea that has rarely been realized to the level of detail found in Hi-Fi Rush. So, don't miss out on not only one of the best Xbox exclusives of the year but also one of the year's most unique gaming experiences.

So, what's your take? Do you agree with our top five? Are there other Xbox Exclusives you think are best? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!