The Xbox 360 is among the best consoles in history, and that has a lot to do with its exclusive games. While a few were later ported to other systems or got remakes/remasters, many never did. Of course, some titles are playable on Xbox One and Xbox Series S/X, but we'll still consider them exclusive. If you can, we recommend enjoying them on Xbox Series X, as you'll experience various enhancements, especially if you own a suitable gaming TV. But now, here are our top ten of the best Xbox 360 exclusives.

10. Lost Odyssey

Microsoft tried its hardest to make Xbox 360 successful in Japan, so they've published a few exclusive JRPGs for the system. After a decent but unsuccessful Blue Dragon, the company released Lost Odyssey, which was way more fun. This title impressed with its high production values but also offered immersive gameplay.

This traditional JRPG relies on turn-based combat and random encounters with enemies. However, innovative elements modify the gameplay, encouraging players to run every battle strategically. While it's mostly forgotten now, Lost Odyssey is a must for every JRPG lover.

9. Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation

Ace Combat 6 was a massive blow for Sony, as this was the first game in the series not released on PlayStation systems. Comparing it with Ace Combat 5 for the PS2, this was a huge step forward, showing the console's power. However, the gameplay has mostly stayed the same. You still have a vast selection of licensed airplanes, and the story is set in a fictional world.

Furthermore, Ace Combat 6 added multiplayer, the first for the series. Up to 16 players could enjoy four modes, from basic deathmatches to team battles. Still, our favorite is Co-Op Battle, where you can team up with three other players to tackle two missions from the single-player campaign. While the multiplayer is long gone, Ace Combat 6 is still an excellent solo experience.

8. Dead or Alive 4

Dead or Alive 3 is among the first games released for the original Xbox, and Dead or Alive 4 carried that tradition to Xbox 360. Even though it appeared so early in the console's life, DOA 4 still looked stunning. Even today, the stage design and the smooth animation feel impressive, but the game has so much more to offer.

A roster of 22 playable characters includes all the favorites, as you can use them in various modes. What we loved the most about gameplay changes was the rebalancing of the counter system. This means it's much harder to execute them, so you can't abuse the move and hope for the best. The only thing missing is more costumes, but this was still impressive for a launch window title!

7. Crackdown

Sometimes all you need is mindless fun, and Crackdown delivers! While open-world games were nothing new in 2007, this one wasn't limiting players. The fictional Pacific City was fully open from the first moment, and you could take missions in any order. Moreover, you can already fight three main bosses once you start the game! This approach is very challenging as you'll face all of their troops, so it's better to eliminate recruitment officers, weapons dealers, or sub-bosses.

As one of the best Xbox 360 games, this title also employed RPG elements, as your character is a superhero that can be further enhanced by collecting various orbs. While achievements are only for bragging rights in most other games, here, you'll be awarded orbs! Even though Crackdown got better-looking sequels, the first game is the best and the only one you should play.

6. Forza Motorsport 4

The Xbox 360 has three exclusive Forza Motorsport games, but Forza Motorsport 4 is the one you want. This game looks gorgeous and has a massive 500 cars from tons of manufacturers. Microsoft went so far that it did the impossible and licensed Porsche models, then exclusive to Electronic Arts! Combine that with 26 tracks, and you'll have a massive racing game we still haven't finished after so many years!

So, why would anyone play Forza Motorsport 4 despite its numerous sequels? It's because of a unique career structure or some gorgeous tracks that haven't appeared since. Plus, even the AI is terrific, as the opponents are trying to race you and not kill you like in later games.

5. Ninja Gaiden II

Yes, we count Ninja Gaiden II as Xbox 360 exclusive since Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 for the PlayStation 3 is a much different game. The first thing to notice is that this one is incredibly violent, as you can dismember your enemies' arms, legs, or even heads. The wounded opponents will become aggressive, so you'll need to use your defensive skills to survive.

Like its predecessor, this is an incredibly challenging game, where even the common enemies can kill you with a few hits. You'll need a lot of practice to finish it, but it helps you have many new weapons. Ninja Gaiden II is superior to Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, which removes some of the content, has fewer enemies, and is censored.

4. Project Gotham Racing 4

Project Gotham Racing (PGR) was an excellent series, but since the developer, Bizarre Creations, is long gone, there's little hope of it coming back. Thankfully, PGR 4 remains one of the best Xbox 360 games, with its unique gameplay focusing on stylish driving. This way, you're rewarded for clean and attractive performance instead of winning races at any cost.

Even though released in the early years of Xbox 360, the game still looks attractive and features dynamic weather. Therefore, you'll face fog, storms, snow, or even ice if you're unlucky! This sequel also adds bikes, but you can focus on more than 130 cars, ranging from hatchbacks to Ferraris. If you love arcade racers, this is an all-time classic.

3. Fable II

We're surprised that the Fable II is still an Xbox 360 exclusive (although backward compatible), as it's such a gem. This is still an unconventional RPG where actions and choices define your character. That means that you'll look more menacing if you're evil, including a dog that follows you in your adventure. Depending on what food you eat, you can also be thin or fat, although this doesn't impact the gameplay.

As the game simulates life, you can get married, have children, or even divorce. You'll also need a job, as doing quests doesn't bring money. The worst thing we can say about the game is that the story mode is linear, although there are optional side missions.

2. Forza Horizon

While we loved Test Drive Unlimited, Forza Horizon redefined open-world racing games! As a spinoff to the Forza Motorsport series, this title kept the precise handling but offered options to reduce realism. Set in the fictional part of Colorado, you play as a rookie who needs to outrun other established racers before becoming the champion. This means you'll experience road and rally races to prove your worth.

Apart from primary races, you can take on other challenges like beating the speed traps, testing your photography skills, or enjoying entertaining Showcase events. Here you'll be racing against unconventional opponents such as planes on helicopters! While it can't match its sequels for content and graphics, Forza Horizon is worth playing and is among the best Xbox 360 games ever.

1. Gears of War 2

Gears of War is a revolutionary third-person shooter, but this sequel redefined it. Everything is better here, including the graphics, story, and gameplay. You have more weapons now, but there's also vehicular combat. The normal difficulty makes the game more playable, as the first game was either too easy or too hard. Once again, the campaign can be played in a split-screen mode, but players can choose a different difficulty.

Probably the most significant legacy of Gears of War 2 is the introduction of the still-popular Horde mode. This is a cooperative regime where you take on waves of enemies, each getting more challenging. While Gears of War 3 and Gears of War Judgment are also worthy of your time, this sequel remains the best on the Xbox 360.

Xbox 360 is already a classic console, and these titles are the reason why. If you've never played some of these, now it's time to do it! All these games on our top ten list push the limits of what's possible on the system. While they may not look spectacular today, their gameplay will not become obsolete!

Have you ever owned an Xbox 360? What are some of your best-loved games? We'd enjoy hearing your stories in the comments section!

Cover photo: rschaller98/Pixabay