The Best Upcoming Games Exclusively for PS5 and Xbox Series X
The next generation of gaming consoles, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, bring incredible power that allows developers to create bigger, more immersive worlds. As someone passionate about gaming, I wanted to highlight some of the most exciting upcoming titles that take full advantage of these new systems. Here is my list of the best upcoming games you can only play on PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Horizon Forbidden West (PS5 Exclusive)
Horizon Zero Dawn was one of my favorite games on PlayStation 4, so I’m thrilled Guerrilla Games is working on a sequel exclusive for PS5. Horizon Forbidden West continues Aloy’s story in a vast open world inspired by the American West. The developers promise even more massive robotic creatures to take down using a variety of weapons and tactics. PS5’s super fast SSD will enable seamless fast travel across the expansive map. I can’t wait to explore lush new environments and unravel the mysteries left hanging after the first game. This is easily one of my most anticipated PS5 exclusives.
Starfield (Xbox Series X/S Exclusive)
As a huge fan of Bethesda’s previous open world RPGs like Skyrim and Fallout, Starfield is one of my most hyped Xbox exclusives. It marks Bethesda’s first new IP in 25 years. Set in space, Starfield promises next-generation visuals and unprecedented size and scope, with over 100 different star systems to explore. Given Bethesda’s track record, I expect an incredibly immersive sci-fi universe with dynamic NPCs and factions, meaningful choices, and endless quests to complete. The power of Xbox Series X will bring Bethesda’s ambitious vision to life. This could be a genre-defining RPG.
Final Fantasy XVI (PS5 Exclusive)
The reveal trailer for Final Fantasy XVI showcased jaw-dropping visuals only possible on PS5. This promises to be the most graphically impressive Final Fantasy game yet. It focuses on a dark fantasy world torn by war. Square Enix specifically designed FF16’s combat for PS5 utilizing the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback for weighty, visceral battles. As a longtime FF fan, I’m intrigued by the more action-oriented real-time combat. With the team behind FFXIV at the helm, I expect an emotionally resonant story on par with classics like FFVI and FFVII. FF16 could redefine the future of the iconic JRPG series.
Redfall (Xbox Series X/S Exclusive)
As someone who loves co-op shooters, Redfall from Dishonored developer Arkane Austin is high on my radar. This open world FPS pits you against vampires in the island town of Redfall, Massachusetts. You can team up with friends or play solo and leverage unique hero abilities and an arsenal of weapons to take down the bloodsuckers. Given Arkane’s strong track record with immersive worlds and inventive gameplay, Redfall should offer a fresh co-op experience. The shared open world and fast-paced action will truly shine on Xbox Series X/S hardware. Vampire hunting with friends on a next-gen console? Sign me up!
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (PS5 Exclusive)
Insomniac’s Marvel’s Spider-Man was a PlayStation 4 exclusive that showed the potential of a big-budget superhero game. The sequel, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, will swing exclusively onto PS5 in 2023. It brings back Peter Parker as the wall-crawler along with Miles Morales. The brief teaser trailer showcased insane graphical fidelity only possible on PS5. My expectations are high for new abilities, enemy types, and a compelling, blockbuster story worthy of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Web-swinging through a faithfully recreated Manhattan at 4K 60fps with near instant loading should make this the definitive Spider-Man video game experience. This is easily one of my most wanted PS5 exclusives.
Hellblade II: Senua’s Saga (Xbox Series X/S Exclusive)
As a huge fan of Ninja Theory’s Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, I was thrilled when Hellblade II: Senua’s Saga was announced as an Xbox exclusive at The Game Awards. This sequel promises a deeper dive into Celtic myth and the struggles of someone suffering from psychosis. The in-engine trailer looked so photorealistic I thought it was live action! Powered by Xbox Series X, Hellblade II should set new standards for graphics, audio design, and accurate mental health representations in games. Ninja Theory is one of the most talented developers out there, especially with storytelling and performance capture. Senua’s next chapter is in excellent hands harnessing the full power of next-gen.
With elevated immersion and near photorealistic graphics, the PS5 and Xbox Series X promise to take gamers on journeys only possible on cutting edge hardware. These upcoming exclusives represent just a sample of the innovative, genre-pushing experiences on the horizon. I can’t wait to dive into these expansive worlds and embark on unforgettable adventures when these exclusive heavy hitters launch over the next few years. The future of gaming has never looked brighter.
