The year 2019 was indeed a significant period for the Xbox One, characterized by both strategic platform advancements and a robust catalog of game releases, as highlighted in the accompanying video. While the narrative often focused on the burgeoning Xbox Game Pass service and the foundational work being laid for the next console generation, it is imperative to acknowledge the exceptional individual titles that graced Microsoft’s platform. An in-depth examination of these games reveals a year of remarkable achievement across diverse genres, solidifying 2019 as a memorable chapter in the Xbox One’s lifecycle. The following analysis delves into the ten critically acclaimed nominees for the Best 2019 Xbox One Game Award, culminating in a discussion of the esteemed winner, providing a comprehensive written complement to the video’s insights.
Top Xbox One Gaming Experiences from 2019: A Retrospective
The Xbox One’s 2019 game roster was a testament to varied development prowess, showcasing a breadth of innovation and refined mechanics. From the terrifying depths of survival horror to the exhilarating rush of street racing, these games collectively presented a compelling argument for the console’s vitality. It was through an internal voting process among GamingBolt staff that these select titles were recognized, each representing a pinnacle in its respective category. A deeper dive into these ten exceptional games reveals why they captivated players and critics alike, shaping the gaming landscape of that year.
1. Resident Evil 2: A Masterclass in Modern Horror Remakes
Capcom’s impressive resurgence continued unabated in 2019, reaching a zenith with the release of Resident Evil 2. This title was not merely a remake; it was a complete reimagining that meticulously preserved the essence of the 1998 original while elevating every facet to contemporary standards. Imagine if a classic horror film were meticulously reconstructed with today’s cinematic technology, retaining its chilling narrative but enhancing the visual and auditory terror; that is the achievement represented by this game.
The experience is characterized by palpable atmosphere, which pervades every dimly lit corridor of the Raccoon City Police Department, maintaining a constant state of dread. Tense, methodical combat requires precise resource management, ensuring that every bullet fired feels consequential. Furthermore, the tight, interconnected level design brilliantly encourages exploration while consistently reinforcing the feeling of being trapped and hunted, a hallmark of survival horror. Resident Evil 2 not only set a new standard for remakes but also redefined what was achievable within the survival horror genre, demonstrating Capcom’s mastery when operating at full capacity.
2. Need for Speed Heat: Reclaiming the Thrill of the Chase
Following a period of inconsistent entries, Need for Speed Heat emerged as a surprising and welcome return to form for the venerable racing franchise. Ghost Games adeptly pivoted, understanding that the core appeal of Need for Speed lies in high-octane driving and extensive vehicle customization, rather than convoluted narratives or intrusive monetization schemes. Imagine if a racing series, having strayed into unnecessary complexities, suddenly stripped away all the noise to focus solely on the visceral joy of speed; this was Heat’s accomplishment.
The game masterfully dichotomized its experience, offering legitimate sanctioned races by day and illicit street battles by night, each with its own progression and rewards. This dual structure allowed for diverse gameplay without sacrificing the fundamental pleasures of upgrading and personalizing a dream garage. While it might not have introduced groundbreaking mechanics, Need for Speed Heat successfully recalibrated the series’ trajectory, establishing a solid foundation for future iterations. It was a crucial step towards re-establishing the franchise’s identity among arcade racing enthusiasts.
3. Kingdom Hearts 3: An Emotional and Visual Spectacle
Kingdom Hearts 3, the long-awaited conclusion to the Dark Seeker Saga, proved that the series’ enduring popularity is deeply rooted in its unparalleled heart and unique narrative tapestry. Despite its often intricate and at times bewildering storyline, the game resonated profoundly with its dedicated fanbase, becoming the most commercially successful title in the franchise. Imagine experiencing a beloved animated universe, crafted with such fidelity and emotional depth that it feels indistinguishable from its source material; that immersive quality defines this JRPG.
The meticulous recreation of iconic Disney and Pixar worlds, rendered with stunning, film-quality graphics, was a significant highlight. Furthermore, the game was lauded for refining its combat mechanics, delivering some of the most satisfying encounters in the series, alongside thoughtfully designed levels that encouraged both exploration and strategic engagement. Kingdom Hearts 3 provided a cathartic and ultimately satisfying resolution to a narrative arc spanning nearly two decades, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers drawn to its vibrant worlds and heartfelt story.
4. Borderlands 3: The Evolution of Mayhem
Borderlands 3 arrived with a clear promise, boldly advertised as delivering “mayhem” and an abundance of “guns.” True to its word, the game provided a meticulously enhanced version of the beloved looter-shooter formula, opting for intelligent evolution rather than unnecessary reinvention. Imagine if a highly successful culinary recipe were perfected, with every ingredient subtly improved and every step of the process streamlined; this incremental refinement was key to Borderlands 3’s success.
The core Borderlands experience, characterized by its irreverent humor, distinctive art style, and billions of procedurally generated weapons, was preserved and elevated. Improvements were evident in weapon handling, character abilities, and overall fluidity, making the combat more visceral and engaging. Its capacity for endless replayability through diverse character builds and a vast array of challenges ensured that players could immerse themselves for hundreds of hours. This sequel successfully delivered on fan expectations, providing a bigger, slicker, and smoother rendition of the chaotic fun for which the series is renowned.
5. Devil May Cry 5: A Glorious Return to Form
After navigating a challenging period in the preceding decade, the Devil May Cry series achieved a triumphant comeback with Devil May Cry 5, a title that unequivocally met and exceeded fan expectations. This entry was considered a perfect sequel, directly building upon the narrative and stylistic foundations established by Devil May Cry 4. Imagine a renowned rock band, after a brief hiatus, returning with an album that not only captures their classic sound but also introduces sophisticated new elements; such was the impact of DMC5.
The game excelled in its intense, stylish combat system, offering a staggering amount of mechanical depth across its three distinct playable characters. Each character—Nero, Dante, and the mysterious V—provided unique playstyles, encouraging mastery and strategic switching during combat. Beyond its polished gameplay, DMC5 delivered a surprisingly engaging story, particularly for long-time series enthusiasts, complemented by best-in-class visuals that pushed graphical boundaries. It stood as another shining example of Capcom’s formidable development capabilities when operating with clear vision and precision.
6. Control: Remedy’s Narrative and Gameplay Zenith
Control represented a significant milestone for Remedy Entertainment, showcasing the studio’s peak in both storytelling and gameplay innovation. The game’s narrative prowess, a hallmark of Remedy’s work, was immediately apparent through its typically excellent world-building and enigmatic characters. Imagine stepping into a brutalist architectural marvel, only to discover it’s a constantly shifting, psychically charged labyrinth housing secrets and supernatural entities; this immersive quality is intrinsic to Control.
The experience was further elevated by a narrative that consistently kept players engrossed, unraveling its mysteries with a captivating sense of intrigue. Beyond its compelling story, Control demonstrated Remedy’s growth as developers by delivering a truly unique gameplay experience, characterized by chaotic, adrenaline-fueled combat. Jesse Faden’s telekinetic abilities and the destructible environments allowed for unprecedented tactical freedom, while the excellent, non-linear level design encouraged boundless exploration. It was widely lauded as potentially Remedy’s finest game to date, setting a high bar for environmental storytelling and unique mechanics.
7. Gears 5: Reinvigorating an Iconic Franchise
In the lead-up to 2019, the Gears of War series was perceived by some as having lost a degree of its prior luster, particularly when compared to its Xbox 360 era dominance. Gears 5, however, dramatically reversed this perception, injecting a much-needed dose of freshness and ambition into the franchise. Imagine an established military epic, suddenly broadening its scope with deeper character development and more expansive battlefield possibilities; this strategic pivot defined Gears 5’s revitalization.
The game introduced deeper progression mechanics and a greater emphasis on exploration, moving beyond the linear corridors traditionally associated with the series. This was achieved while successfully retaining the intense, visceral firefights for which Gears of War is celebrated. Its multiplayer component, as expected, provided dozens upon dozens of hours of addictive combat, further cementing its value proposition. Gears 5 was not merely an excellent new installment; it also laid crucial groundwork for the series’ future, signaling a very bright trajectory for The Coalition and the franchise under their stewardship.
8. The Division 2: The Quintessential Looter Shooter Sequel
The Division 2 was widely regarded as the blueprint for an ideal sequel, meticulously identifying and improving upon the areas that required refinement while retaining all the successful elements of its predecessor. The game’s design philosophy exemplified careful iteration, demonstrating a deep understanding of what made the original appealing while addressing its shortcomings. Imagine a successful foundation being meticulously expanded upon, with every structural flaw corrected and every amenity enhanced; this was the development ethos behind The Division 2.
From an extensive and engaging campaign that thrust players into a meticulously recreated Washington D.C., to an addictive loot game loop, the title offered a vast ocean of content. The cover-shooting mechanics were refined to near perfection, providing a highly tactical and satisfying combat experience. Despite some acknowledged post-launch support issues, the base game itself stood as one of Ubisoft’s finest releases of that generation, showcasing a robust and richly detailed world begging to be explored by agents seeking to restore order.
9. Metro Exodus: A Tense Journey into the Open Wilds
The Metro series, while not always at the forefront of the gaming zeitgeist, has consistently delivered experiences of exceptional quality, a tradition continued with Metro Exodus. This installment courageously expanded the series’ scope, embracing a more open-ended design while rigorously preserving the taught tension and narrative focus that fans cherish. Imagine a deeply atmospheric, linear narrative suddenly unfurling into expansive, semi-open worlds, yet retaining its claustrophobic dread; this careful balance defined Exodus.
The shift to larger, more open environments organically encouraged exploration, rewarding players with hidden stories and valuable resources without sacrificing the core survival horror elements. While some minor polish issues and somewhat flimsy shooting mechanics were noted, these were largely overshadowed by the game’s immersive world and gripping storytelling. Metro Exodus proved to be an unmissable experience for those seeking an excellent single-player shooter characterized by a unique blend of narrative depth, atmospheric immersion, and the thrill of discovery in a post-apocalyptic landscape.
10. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order: A Return to Single-Player Greatness
After a period marked by iterative releases and tantalizing teasers, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order emerged as the single-player Star Wars game fans had been yearning for, delivered by the esteemed Respawn Entertainment. This title masterfully combined a compelling, character-driven story with exhilarating gameplay, fulfilling a long-standing desire within the Star Wars gaming community. Imagine if the epic scope and personal drama of the original Star Wars trilogy were meticulously translated into an interactive adventure, offering both challenge and emotional resonance; this aspiration was realized in Fallen Order.
The game was particularly lauded for its excellent combat system, which skillfully blended Lightsaber duels with Force powers, reminiscent of classic action-adventure titles. Furthermore, it seamlessly integrated platforming, intricate puzzle-solving, and rewarding exploration into its core design, creating a multi-faceted and engaging experience. Fallen Order was widely celebrated as the best Star Wars game in years, not only for its quality but also for demonstrating the immense potential of character-focused, single-player narratives within the beloved galaxy far, far away. It set a precedent for future Star Wars gaming endeavors, hopefully paving the way for more equally captivating adventures from EA.
Gears 5: The Unanimous Choice for Xbox One Game of 2019
Ultimately, after careful consideration and robust internal deliberation, Gears 5 was crowned the Best Xbox One Game of 2019. This decision underscored the significant strides made by The Coalition in revitalizing a storied franchise, delivering an experience that was simultaneously fresh and deeply rooted in its established identity. The game’s ability to inject new life through deeper progression and exploration, while retaining the series’ hallmark intense firefights and addictive multiplayer, was particularly impressive. It was evident that the developers had not only listened to feedback but had also boldly charted a new course for the future of Gears. This title stood out as an exemplary exclusive, showcasing the console’s capabilities and the creative prowess of its developers, truly meriting its recognition as the top Xbox One game of the year.
Press Start for Answers: Xbox One Gaming Q&A
What is this article about?
This article discusses the top 10 best Xbox One games that were released in 2019, highlighting significant titles across various genres.
Who selected these top Xbox One games?
These top games were chosen through an internal voting process by the staff at GamingBolt.
Which game was named the best Xbox One game of 2019?
Gears 5 was ultimately awarded the title of Best Xbox One Game of 2019.
Can you name a few examples of popular Xbox One games from 2019?
Some popular Xbox One games from 2019 include Resident Evil 2, Need for Speed Heat, Kingdom Hearts 3, and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.
