5 Xbox hidden gems you should play

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Previously in our exploration of hidden treasures, we blundered by plunging straight into the PlayStation 4’s collection. This time, however, things were less daunting! Although the Xbox boasts iconic, groundbreaking titles such as Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 2, it wasn’t overflowing with many other notable games. Yet, there were some underappreciated, quirky, or intriguing games that weren’t merely average licensed productions or run-of-the-mill shooters. Here are a few Xbox games that might not be on every top list but are worth experiencing if they align with your preferences.

Breakdown

Namco’s Breakdown showcases an eccentric, unique atmosphere reminiscent of a classic Namco arcade game like Time Crisis, yet it also carries the surreal narrative style of a low-budget sci-fi action film largely produced in Romania for direct-to-DVD release. Initially, marketing focused on first-person melee combat, but what truly sets this apart is an offbeat setting and dark humor that you wouldn’t typically associate with a major studio like Namco.

Crimson Sea

This game is developed by Koei, known for delivering quality fast-paced action and button-mashing fun. However, Crimson Sea stands out as an unusual production from the creators of Dynasty Warriors and Nobunaga’s Ambition, as it presents an innovative, expansive original story. It might seem peculiar with its overly dramatic characters, exaggerated voice acting, and comical boss battles. Yet, it offers a unique science fiction universe in a fresh setting, boasting enough substance to warrant a sequel.

Metal Dungeon

This game, with numerous conditions attached, is likely going to discuss a challenging, labyrinthine role-playing game reminiscent of Wizardry, known as Metal Dungeon. A niche genre within the RPG world, Metal Dungeon may send fans of more mainstream games like Final Fantasy scampering away. It’s one of the rare old-school style RPGs available on Xbox, and it dares to be unattractive to the typical player.

You’ll form a team, navigate a randomly generated dungeon until you are forced to retreat, spend your accumulated points, then return for another attempt. Continue this cycle or face defeat and begin anew. The game offers a quirky sci-fi ambiance as flavor, but its emphasis lies on mechanics rather than narrative. In essence, Metal Dungeon is about strategy, not storytelling.

Gunvalkyrie

Reframing the statement: Looking back, Sega’s partnership with Microsoft seems less favorable, yet it brought about some incredible games. Gunvalkyrie may not hold the enduring fame of titles like Panzer Dragoon Orta or Jet Set Radio Future, but it carries a potent Dreamcast vibe due to its roots as a Dreamcast game. In essence, you can trace elements that later became staples in cult classics such as Vanquish, with its arcade-style structure and intricate mechanics. However, Gunvalkyrie’s success was hindered by these complexities. Now, with the advantage of backwards compatibility, it offers a fun experience that leaves one questioning why it wasn’t more popular initially.

Otogi: Myth of Demons

Hey fellow Elden Ring enthusiasts!

For those who remember, FromSoftware had dabbled in Xbox gaming with some mech titles not quite up to par with Armored Core. But let’s not forget Otogi – a game that served as a significant stepping stone towards the Soulslikes we know and love today.

While not directly linked, Otogi shares similarities with Soulslikes in its approach to gameplay mechanics such as limitations, risk management, combo systems, and even air-dashing. It’s not a carbon copy by any means, but it certainly paved the way for the unique rhythm we now associate with FromSoftware games.

In contrast to action games like Ninja Gaiden or Devil May Cry, Otogi had its own distinct pace due to RPG elements, a hidden ending, and an emphasis on exploration. These aspects made it stand out among other games of the time.

So here’s to Otogi – the underappreciated precursor to the Soulslikes we hold dear today!

This collection of unique, console-compatible games is truly impressive, especially for a system typically associated with blasting aliens. If, like me, you spent more hours on Guilty Gear XX #Reload in the early 2000s than playing Halo, this list is tailored just for you. If you’ve missed any of these games and still have access to Xbox gaming, I strongly recommend giving them a try.

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2025-02-02 22:28