Action-adventure games on Xbox X|S in 2023 are epic. Yeah, the first-party exclusives might be some time off on Microsoft’s premier console. But hey, as long as there are games now and more coming along nicely down the pipeline, we’re not complaining.
Action-adventure games have this interactive cinematic quality that we, as players, engage in and play out. It’s a surreal feeling that is both immersive and highly enjoyable, and that’s what gaming is really about. To live out the fantasy that’s impossible in reality. So, today’s list is all about 2023 titles that have come out so far and have provided us with loads of enjoyment.
Which Xbox X|S Action-Adventure Games Are the Best Of 2023?
Since everybody’s doing it, we’ll also throw in our two cents and list our 10 absolute favorite action-adventure Xbox X|S games. And boy, does 2023 have quite a few big releases; some are yet to come out at the tail end. Don’t worry; we’ll get to them as well when the time comes. For now, let’s focus on the ones that are out.
For today’s list, there are no rules other than the games must be out, and they should be available on Xbox X|S. We can’t wait to talk about some of these brilliant action-adventure games, it’s been a long time coming, but we’re finally doing it! So, without further ado, here are our top 10 picks. Here we go!
10. Wanted Dead – A Brilliant Blend of Hack-And-Slash With Third-Person Shooting
We’re kicking off the party of excellent action-adventure games of 2023 on Xbox X|S with Wanted: Dead. This game is a throwback to the late 2000s when AA titles would surprise players with potential but also flaws. That’s an apt way to describe Wanted: Dead, a flawed gem. You’ll be switching between attacking with swords and shooting enemies with firearms in a gorefest.
What you’re getting gameplay-wise is rapid action in the same vein as hack-and-slash games. Players will not only need to time their attacks but also be mindful of intense waves of enemy assaults. The star of the show is action-heroine Lt. Hannah Stone, a cop who’s part of a hardcore task force. Wanted: Dead puts Hannah always front and center, right in the thick of things.
The game’s combat is its hook. The core gameplay involves keeping a steady pace and finding enemies. You need to rush hostiles and hack away at them when the opportunity presents itself. However, the combo chains aren’t as easy to master and will require a lot of practice. When you do pull them off, it’s beyond exciting. Wanted: Dead is easily one of the best 2023 action-adventure games on Xbox X |S.
9. Scars Above – One of the Prized Indie Action-Adventure Xbox X|S Games
If you’re into sci-fi and love games with fish-out-of-water scenarios for protagonists, then you’ll enjoy Scars Above. This beautifully mystifying space game combines the souls-like genre’s challenging combat with a more accessible approach. Scars Above doesn’t take long to kick the action-adventure side into high gear and delivers big time as one of the most satisfying Xbox X|S games of 2023.
The plot revolves around a scientist named Kate, who’s part of a research team of scientists who experiences a blackout. When she comes to, she’s alone and on a foreign planet full of hostile aliens gunning for her. Survival instincts push Kate on, and she takes on the task of uncovering the mystery of the events. This leads us to the gameplay of Scars Above. It’s a sci-fi third-person shooter action-adventure mystery game.
Scars Above masterfully pulls off this mish-mash of genres masterfully. Players must explore every level in Scars Above and search for any powerful weapons and ammunition. The action is intense; players will need to aim and create breathing room to fire enemies. Stamina management is crucial to ensure survival and dodge attacks. Scars Above is one of the most tremendously satisfying Xbox X|S action-adventure games of 2023.
8. Bramble: The Mountain King – The Spooky Action Adventure Title is Full of Intrigue
Bramble: The Mountain King is one of the most adorable action-adventure games of 2023 on Xbox X|S. The presentation and visuals are phenomenal. The story of Bramble: The Mountain King present a brilliant story of a young boy out to search for his sister. The game’s depiction of Nordic folklore is a breath of fresh air and creates a haunting feeling that brings unique fable monstrosities.
Bramble: The Mountain King has the brilliance of our favorite story-driven games within its pulse-pounding moments. The gameplay revolves around navigating a mystical forest and encountering hostile creatures. Enemies cannot be defeated directly. They must either be avoided or lured toward a particular trap, rendering them vulnerable to a critical strike. This is where the game’s spark of courage comes into play.
The light source serves both as a weapon and a means to solve puzzles. Players will also do a lot of platforming to reach from point to point, which immerses players in the captivating forest environment. Bramble: The Mountain King has the charm of an indie gem, with the inspiration of the Shadow Of Colossus. It’s also got the ambiance of horror games and some of the best action-adventure gameplay of 2023 on Xbox X|S.
7. Star Wars: Jedi Survivor – Sci-Fi Setting and High Stakes Combat Deliver A Thrilling Experience
We’re soaring across the galaxy to the adventures of young Jedi Knight, Cal Kestis, in Star Wars: Jedi Survivor. It doesn’t usually get more action-adventure in games than a Star Wars title on Xbox X|S in 2023. Star Wars: Jedi Survivor improves upon its predecessor’s gameplay in every way. From the inclusion of a fast-travel feature to the dual-wielding lightsaber stance, it’s got it all and more.
Players can expect a brilliantly adventurous journey in Star Wars: Jedi Survivor. The game’s semi-open world structure makes for great exploration and traversal, which can tango with the best platforming games. Star Wars: Jedi Survivor also has combat depth that gives rise to some tense encounters. The players have several attack options to choose between force powers and lightsaber stances.
Deciding which ones to use quickly is key to surviving, or the enemies will overwhelm Cal, and it’s game over. Oh, and you can also customize the appearance of Cal with much greater detail than in the previous game. Overall, if you’re in the mood for upbeat action-adventure games in 2023 that are not too casual nor too challenging, you’ll love Star War: Jedi Survivor on Xbox X|S.
6. Remnant II – A Fantastic Action-Adventure Shooter With Endless Replay Value
Remnant II is the spectacular sequel by Gunfire Games that blew our minds with its fantastic game and level design. The game hits all the right notes to become one of the greatest action-adventure games of 2023. The game does a magnificent job of bringing satisfying combat involving awesome weaponry, both melee and firearms. Each weapon packs a hefty punch, and it’s an epic feeling when the blow lands.
Remnant II combines a highly exceptional progression system, where you can switch up and combine effects. You’ll need to mix and match on the fly because the horrific abominations you’re facing are diverse and quite formidable. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also procedural level generation that will randomize enemies, bosses, and environments, to keep the players guessing.
Remnant II is one of those incredible third-person shooters, that have deeply rooted roleplaying mechanics. The otherworldly horrific monsters are grotesque and create genuine tension for players. If you’re planning on playing 2023 action-adventure games like Remnant II on your Xbox X|S, it’s best to do so with a friend or two. Kind of like our favorite party games like Overcooked!
5. Resident Evil 4 Remake – Peak Action-Horror With Chilling Ambiance and Engaging Gameplay
We’re ushering into the final half of our list of excellent 2023 action-adventure games on Xbox X|S with Resident Evil 4 Remake. The fan demand for this game was through the roof, and Capcom more than delivered. Players step into the shoes of one of the fan-favorite series’ protagonists Leon Kennedy in his veteran days. No longer a rookie cop, the change in attitude gives Leon his signature charming edge-lord persona.
The plot is more or less the same, aside from a few differences. Now Leon is in for a ride as Ashley, the President’s daughter, has been kidnapped and taken to a village of zealots. The inhabitants are mind-controlled and hostile toward Leon. That’s when our hero must carve out a path to find Ashley and escort her out. However, in typical Resident Evil fashion, things go haywire as other factors are in play.
The puzzles and environments are much more intricate, and the combat in Resident Evil 4 Remake is much faster. Leon can move and attack with his knife and improve its traits through crafting, and can also make other items. The enemies are also visceral, while the bosses are more horrific than ever. If you’re a fan of the action-adventure genre and want titles to play on your Xbox |S in 2023, then go for games like Resident Evil 4 Remake.
4. Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty – The Most Innovative Combat-Heavy Game of 2023
This next action-adventure title borrows elements of fun roleplaying games, bringing one of the best offerings of 2023 on Xbox X|S. The game in question is Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. It’s an over-the-top, high-octane combat feast that players will have a blast with from start to finish. The game let players decide on a skill and transformation of their choosing. The rest unlock through progression.
The crux of the gameplay of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty revolves around parrying. You must counter enemy blows at the precise time. Timing is critical, and the window is brief, but if you pay attention and promptly master the controls, the game will bring a rewarding feeling like no other. Wo Long Fallen Dynasty has five different phases that add layers to combat and provide different passive benefits.
Another way Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty differs from other 2023 action-adventure games on Xbox X|S is its story. The Eastern themes are apparent and are a nice break from the Western Medievil-themed games. Also, the game has an enemy morale detector, which basically shows how strong a foe is. It’s things like the spirit mechanic, which make Wo Long Fallen: Dynasty such a delight to play.
3. Psychonauts 2 – Amazing Mix of Platforming, Humor, Heartful Storytelling and Super Powers
One of the OG Xbox classics games was the original Psychonauts, and after almost two decades, we got a sequel. Psychonauts 2 more than lived up to the expectations and hype of the fanbase. It’s one of the most colorful, charming, spectacularly dope action-adventure games of 2023 on the Xbox X|S. Psychonauts 2, while continuing the story of the previous game, is a stand-alone experience, so you won’t feel lost.
The game’s protagonist is Razputin, shortly referred to as Raz, and he’s the action hero with a heart of gold. Raz has psychic powers, and he can tap into them through plot progression. The gameplay involves platforming sections and combat, which require a bit of thought but nothing too straining. You can combine an assortment of psychic powers like levitation, telekinesis, and elemental manipulation to solve puzzles.
Psychonauts 2 is also an inclusive gaming experience, with an incredible accessibility mode. The devs and Microsoft spared no expense to accommodate all types of gamers. The level designs are wonky and bizarre, and give Psychonauts 2 its beautiful aesthetic. These are the kind of action-adventure games that make us proud to own an Xbox X|S in 2023. The future’s looking bright.
2. Atlas Fallen – Our Runner-Up Pick For 2023 Action-Adventure Xbox X|S Games
One of the most ambitious and compelling action-adventure games of 2023 is Atlas Fallen. This game is dynamite, and full of surprisingly addictive traversal and combat mechanics. The feeling of the sand-based movement as players sand-surf and glide over the spacious landscapes feels majestic. The enemies are mammoth and mid-sized behemoths that can’t be taken on in a head-on collision.
Players must quickly learn to maneuver through openings between enemy’s movements and then strike at the opportune time. Atlas Fallen has tons of things for players to discover, so exploration is highly encouraged. Successful dodging will increase the momentum level. At a certain point, if the chain of dodging is continuous, players can utilize the weapon’s true form to unleash a barrage of powerful attacks on enemies.
Atlas Fallen is among the upper echelons of absolutely fun 2023 action-adventure Xbox X|S games. We can’t get enough of it, and we’re playing the game like there’s no tomorrow. The whole presentation feels highly original and has us marveling at it non-stop. The best comparison to Atlas Fallen, at least for us anyway, is that it’s similar in nature to our top single-player games.
1. Hi-Fi RUSH – The Top Choice for Our List of Best Xbox X|S 2023 Games is Pure Joy
We’re capping off our list with one of the most cheerful, wholesome, and absolutely joyous action-adventure games of 2023 that’s also an Xbox X|S exclusive. Go figure. Anyway, the game we’re talking about is Hi-Fi RUSH. Microsoft released a banger of a game without much advertising. Yet, Hi-Fi RUSH still got glowing reviews from critics and fans alike.
If you’re unsure about trying this game or not, how about we put it this way? If you like music, over-the-top wacky traversal, and platforming, and you enjoy combat that Devil May Cry inspires, then Hi-Fi RUSH is for you. It’s got a vibe that we haven’t seen since Sunset Overdrive. Players are in for a rollicking good time with a protagonist who dreams of being a rockstar.
The combat of Hi-Fi RUSH is where this action-adventure game truly shines. You need to match the timing of the attack to the tune to unlock the truly wild animation sequences. Don’t worry about failing, as the game automatically will land the hits even if you miss out. Hi-Fi RUSH is a game about enjoying your time. Hi-Fi RUSH is a much-lighthearted take but kind of similar to the challenging levels of Metal Hellsinger.
Final Thoughts On The Best Xbox X|S Action-Adventure Games in 2023
Wow, that took a while to finish up, but we’re glad it’s in the dunzo pile and out of our backlog. So, what’s the verdict? Think our list of action-adventure games of 2023 on Xbox X|S holds up well? Or it’s not what you were expecting, and you’ve got other titles that deserve a spot? Fire away in the comments below, don’t worry; we can take it.
If you’re still waiting on Starfield and other 2023 hits that are yet to come, why not check out our list of amazing side-scrolling Xbox games? It’s got some of the finest gaming suggestions from the more current line-up of Xbox X|S titles. Alright, that’s all we got for you today, so this is where we sign off. Take care, everyone, and until next time, happy gaming!
