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The Best Xbox Series X & S Games

We compared eight games for Xbox Series X and S, based on expert reviews, owner ratings, and discussion threads. Our top pick delivers the best value and gaming experience.

Updated

The bottom line

The MVP 27 Kickoff Bundle (asin B0H96QB5ND) is our top pick for Xbox Series X & S games. It includes two games for $69.99, offering a complete football journey from high school to NFL. The closest alternative is the Madden NFL 27 Deluxe Edition (asin B0H8FQXVX5), which offers early access and exclusive content but at a higher price of $99.99. For those on a budget, the standard Madden NFL 27 (asin B0H2JY6WBC) at $63.14 provides a solid football experience without the extras.

Top pick
MVP 27 KICKOFF BUNDLE XBOX Series X|S Digital CodeMVP 27 KICKOFF BUNDLE XBOX Series X|S Digital Code $69.99

Best value for football fans

The MVP 27 Kickoff Bundle includes two games for $69.99, offering a complete football journey from high school to NFL. It features the Persona Engine for franchise management and new modes like Dynasty Blueprint and Road to Glory. The tradeoff is that it may not offer the same level of exclusive content as the Deluxe Edition.

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Runner-up
Madden NFL 27 Deluxe Edition XBOX Series X|S Digital CodeMadden NFL 27 Deluxe Edition XBOX Series X|S Digital Code $99.99

Best for early access and extras

The Madden NFL 27 Deluxe Edition offers early access and exclusive content for $99.99. It includes 4600 Madden Points and gameplay features. The tradeoff is the higher price, which may not be justified for all players.

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Budget pick
EA Sports Madden NFL 27EA Sports Madden NFL 27 $63.14

Best budget option

The standard Madden NFL 27 offers a solid football experience for $63.14. It includes the full game with franchise mode and Ultimate Team. The tradeoff is the lack of early access and exclusive content.

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The field, ranked

  1. MVP 27 KICKOFF BUNDLE XBOX Series X|S Digital Code Best value for football fans 9.0/10 $69.99 Amazon
  2. Madden NFL 27 Deluxe Edition XBOX Series X|S Digital Code Best for early access and extras 8.0/10 $99.99 Amazon
  3. EA Sports Madden NFL 27 Best budget option 7.0/10 $63.14 Amazon
  4. Gears of War E-Day Premium Edition Best for Gears of War fans 7.0/10 $99.99 Amazon
  5. Gears of War E-Day Standard Edition Good for multiplayer enthusiasts 6.0/10 $69.99 Amazon
  6. Gears of War: E-Day Mixed reception, nostalgic elements 5.0/10 $69.00 Amazon
  7. Madden NFL 27 Standard Edition XBOX Series X|S Digital Code Lacks positive reception 4.0/10 $69.99 Amazon
  8. Grand Theft Auto VI Highly anticipated, but no reviews yet 3.0/10 $79.99 Amazon

Also-rans

The Madden NFL 27 Standard Edition (asin B0H8FS7DJ3) received mixed reviews with an average rating of 3.3 out of 5. The Gears of War: E-Day (asin B0H27DR9SY) has a mixed reception, with some appreciating the nostalgic elements and others finding it lacking in innovation. Grand Theft Auto VI (asin B0H6K49W6Y) is highly anticipated but has no reviews yet.

Timing

Grand Theft Auto VI (asin B0H6K49W6Y) is expected to deliver on November 12, 2026, with pre-ordering granting access to the Vintage Vice City Pack. Gears of War E-Day (asin B0H27DR9SY) and Gears of War E-Day Premium Edition (asin B0H4MZPQ93) are set for release on October 6, 2026, and October 1, 2026, respectively.

How this was put together

This guide is based on expert reviews, owner ratings, and discussion threads for eight Xbox Series X & S games. We did not test any games hands-on. The evidence is thinnest for Grand Theft Auto VI (asin B0H6K49W6Y), which has no reviews yet.