While all latest Xbox-related buzz seems to revolve around the upcoming Series X these days, the Xbox One is still going fairly strong, particularly in the US and UK markets. It's certainly true that its hardware sales have stagnated somewhat this past year - which is to be expected given its age of several years.
Yet, Microsoft and its various 2nd and 3rd parties have continued to crank out great software, much of which has managed to find its way atop the NPD charts. The lineup has proven particularly memorable and diverse in 2019, ranging from arcade-style fighters to open-world epics and thrilling shooters. This list will cover the top 10 sellers for the Xbox One in the North American market, according to NPD figures.
10 Grand Theft Auto V
One of the most iconic franchises which helped popularize the sandbox style, GTAV makes for the most ambitious and expansive game in the series yet.
It draws from key elements fans love about past entries, including its dark, twisted subject matter, dynamic gameplay, and cinematic flair. It also takes the already robust GTA IV formula and further fleshes it out - once again shifting between 3 troubled and morally-questionable leads. This raunchy action-adventure certainly lives up to its appraisal, record-breaking sales, and various accolades.
9 Red Dead Redemption II
If the previous entry isn't enough to demonstrate Rockstar's mastery of cinematic epics - then this Western-inspired odyssey certainly should. This anticipated sequel draws upon the traits that made the first Red Dead Redemption so renowned while adding more refinements and features.
The depth and versatility of the gameplay is truly impressive here, with heart-pounding missions that range from train heists to Old West shootouts and hunting. Along with impressive visuals and a gripping story starring outlaw Arthur Morgan, the game offers a flashy "Cinematic Mode," allowing players to kick back and soak in the atmosphere and narrative.
8 Anthem
BioWare is certainly no stranger to awesome RPG shooters that blend depth with arcade-style action. And while the massively-hyped Anthem didn't quite live up to expectations for many, you wouldn't really know it given its relative success.
Despite its flaws, it's hard not to at least credit this MMO for its ambition, scope, and unique mech-laden elements. The game melds imaginative fantasy and slick sci-fi; with some colorful environments and fun mechanics involving exosuits. Though it's something of a slow burn, Anthem does eventually take off in terms of its exciting gameplay.
7 Mortal Kombat 11
Let's be honest - this classic fighting franchise is likely to move several units on the strength of its name alone. But does the 11th entry in this edgy series live up to the hype and expectations that come with Mortal Kombat? For many at least, the answer is yes - certainly when it comes to critical reception.
Some fans have voiced displeasure in the excessive grinding, microtransactions, and somewhat spotty mechanics. Still, Mortal Kombat 11 also been praised for its depth and robust content - along with its cinematic flair, fluid animation, and generally sleek visuals.
6 Tom Clancy's The Division 2
Xbox and shooters seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly, and this epic sequel reinforces this notion.
In a plot somewhat fitting for 2020, the game involves a widespread virus that provokes a mission to rebuild a city in its destructive wake. The Division 2 takes the established formula from the original and polishes up various aspects, while throwing in new enemy types and gameplay features.
Moreso than its predecessor, The Division 2 takes the Deus Ex approach of fusing role-playing progression and exploration with thrilling shooter mechanics. The game's visuals and general presentation are quite impressive, especially when it comes to the dusty particle effects permeating the scorched Washington D.C.
5 Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Like the films themselves, Star Wars video games have proven to be something of a mixed bag of late. But much to the delight of diehard fans, this memorable romp from Respawn manages to live up to the iconic space odyssey.
Fallen Order has fast become one of the most successful Star Wars-branded titles of all time, and for good reason. The game is about as close to a "Jedi simulator" as the franchise has ever seen, with some lavish settings, satisfying lightsaber and Force combat, and open-ended gameplay.
This sprawling adventure is both accessible and rich, drawing from Metroidvanias in addition to classics like Dark Souls and The Legend of Zelda.
4 Borderlands 3
After a lengthy hiatus, this zany RPG shooter is finally back and better than ever. Gearbox goes full-throttle when it comes to Borderlands' more memorable features - which include tons of odd weapons, exhilarating vehicles, and endless bounties of loot.
With the refined mechanics and 4-player co-op, running and gunning with friends is more enjoyable than ever. Still, the game doesn't sacrifice on the solo-front either, featuring a plethora of distinct, lush environments beyond Pandora. The added depth with weapon augmentations, skill trees, and a multi-tiered Mayhem Mode ensures longevity with this enjoyable romp.
3 NBA 2k20
Visual Concepts' popular basketball sim has seen its ups and downs - and NBA 2K20 encapsulates both the highs and lows of the series. Despite some mixed reviews with this latest entry, it's hard not to appreciate it when it comes to its sleek presentation, robust content, and overall depth.
Described as being loaded with microtransactions and fairly buggy, this is a classic case of what one may call a "divisive" title. It's received much appraisal from critics while largely being scorned by fans. It certainly doesn't bode well that the game's seen significant slashes in price.
Still, NBA 2K20 certainly soars at times, thanks to its dedication to realism, impressive graphics, and amusing story mode.
2 Madden NFL 20
Like the previous entry, fans largely know what to expect with this popular annual franchise - occasional bugs and online issues notwithstanding. And for the most part, Madden NFL 20 manages to be a case of "more of the same" with a few incremental improvements. But for many, this is enough - given the solid formula it draws from, and the particularly sleek aesthetics.
Critiques of Madden NFL 20 include a lack of changes, a few technical issues, and excessive microtransactions. Still, this makes for a dynamic football sim experience for those willing to deal with the learning curve.
1 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2019
Speaking of yearly installments - the famed Call of Duty series has also seen many entries, yielding mostly positive results. To its credit, Infinity Ward and Treyarch have made an effort to keep this FPS interesting by experimenting with different gameplay modes, features, and locales.
With this sixteenth installment, the series draws from the older fan-favorite Modern Warfare while lacing it with more modern sensibilities. The multiplayer proves just as addictive as ever with its increased scope and depth - including the new "Ground War" which can host up to 100 players.
Additionally, the robust - and rather dark - campaign mode makes for an interesting diversion from the competitive arena.