The Best Xbox Series X Games for 2026

PCMag UK has published a curated list of the top Xbox Series X games for 2026, highlighting the console's growing library and its continued relevance in the gaming landscape. The guide, released on June 17, 2026, aims to help players navigate the best titles available on Microsoft's flagship platform.

The article was written by a senior PCMag writer with extensive experience in gaming journalism, having previously worked at Geek.com, The A.V. Club, Kotaku, and Paste Magazine. The author also penned "Video Game of the Year: A Year-by-Year Guide to the Best, Boldest, and Most Bizarre Games from Every Year Since 1977" and maintains a strong personal connection to Nintendo.

The list reflects the evolving tastes of the gaming community, with an emphasis on high-quality exclusive and third-party titles. While the author expresses admiration for the Nintendo Switch's innovative hybrid design and its library, the focus remains on Xbox Series X games that demonstrate the console's power and versatility. The guide also acknowledges the influence of handheld gaming, noting the success of devices like the Nintendo Switch 2 and Valve's Steam Deck.

In addition to gaming recommendations, the article offers a glimpse into the author's tech preferences, including a preference for gaming laptops over desktops and a reliance on cloud-synced Google Drive files. The author uses an iPhone 14 as a personal device and subscribes to multiple streaming services, with a particular fondness for HBO Max and Peacock.

This guide serves as a resource for Xbox Series X owners seeking to discover the best games of the year, combining professional analysis with personal insight.