Xbox One Gift Guide 2014

Forza Horizon 2 ($59.99)

Probably the most complete and best overall exclusive to be put out for Xbox One this year, Forza Horizon 2 gives the console the second quality Forza game in its first year of being available. While also available on Xbox 360, there is no reason not to get this version if you have or are getting a Xbox One. Going for a more open driving approach than the basic racing tracks of Forza Motorsport 5, Forza Horizon 2 is one of the best driving games of recent years. Unlike Driveclub, this game had a very solid launch and has continued to be a game that all Xbox One owners should have in their library. For those on the fence, the game is on sale for $34.99 through this Saturday, December 20, which is an utter steal for the content provided.

Sunset Overdrive ($59.99)

In an age where everything seem to have to be dark and gritty, Insomniac Games brought us the overly colorful Sunset Overdrive. Far from a kids game, this one will keep players busy with a charming single player campaign as well as multiplayer. If you got a chance to try out the weekend demo very recently and have just been waiting to buy this game, you are in luck as Best Buy also has it for only $34.99 through December 20.

Halo: The Master Chief Collection ($59.99)

Similar to how Driveclub was on the PS4 gift guide, Halo: The Master Chief Collection is probably the most questionable title on this list. This is not due to the quality of the game, which is superb, but rather the number of issues that have plagued the games, specifically with the online play and save states. 343 Industries has been providing us with updates that will hopefully have the game’s problems finally sorted out soon. For those that have played the Halo series, this will provide an excellent nostalgia trip, while newcomers can experience the journey of Master Chief for the first time. Those looking to get this one before Saturday can get it for only $44.99 at Best Buy through that day.

Killer Instinct ($19.99-$79.99)

From the second it was first announced, gamers were stoked about the prospects of the revival of the Killer Instinct franchise. Even offering a free-to-play option, the overall experience was not hindered once bit as it turned out to be one of the best fighting games of the last few years. More recently, the game has received a physical release of the first season as well as a second season that is ongoing right now, that is adding new characters. With a free option always there, this is at least worth a download at worst to try out. For the more bare bones experience you can buy the retail Killer Instinct Combo Breaker Edition for $19.99 and then the individual fighters in Season 2. However, you would be best served to get the Killer Instinct Complete Collection digitally if you want the full experience. This includes everything from both Season 1 and 2 Ultra Editions, including all fighters, costumes, and even Killer Instinct Classic 1 and 2. It is a little hefty at $79.99, but through next Monday, December 22, you can get the game for a discount at only $53.59.

Titanfall ($39.99)

Overshadowed by many of the shooters that have come since, including Destiny and the latest Call of Duty, Titanfall is one game that Xbox One owners must not forget about. Providing some of the most unique gameplay in the genre, Titanfall offered gamers some of the most fun multiplayer experiences of the year. However, the lack of a single player offline campaign did hold the game back a bit, but the fun nature of the game cannot be discounted. Retailing for $39.99, this game has been on sale a lot lately, including being less than $10 during the Xbox Live Black Friday sale. Due to it going on sale pretty regularly, this could be one to wait on, but paying $39.99 for it is still not a terrible decision.

Fantasia: Music Evolved ($49.99)

Just like with Forza Horizon 2 and Titanfall, we have another game that released across both Xbox One and Xbox 360. However, this is definitely one where the Xbox One version is the definitive one to pick up. Coming from Harmonix, who know the rhythm game genre well, Fantasia: Music Evolved utilizes the Kinect to near perfection, while letting gamers play a variety of pop hits as well as songs from Fantasia itself. A lack of other Disney songs is a little disappointing, but definitely not enough to take away from this really fun game. Just remember that you will need a Kinect to play this one at all, and if you are looking to get the game, Best Buy has it discounted to $39.99 through this Saturday, December 20.

The next page will cover a number of multi-platform games that are worth a look on Xbox One this holiday season.