26 Best Xbox Live Arcade Games

Since the vast spread of the internet during the early 2000s, video game companies began to consider the possibility of digital gaming. Over the years Microsoft took the same approach after releasing the Xbox 360, bringing to the surface the Xbox Live Arcade service often abbreviated as XBLA. This amazing service offered exclusive digital-only games that took the gaming world by storm offering a small price for games that competed with big AAA titles.

From amazing racing games to exciting survival games to simple yet fun puzzlers, the XBLA has provided an incredible service over the past 18 years with a vast library to explore. Unfortunately, the Xbox 360 digital store will close at the end of July 2024. Following this news, we took the time to compile a comprehensive list of the best XBLA games to download before the store permanently closes, so stay with us as we introduce the best Xbox Live Arcade Games on the mighty Xbox 360.

Double Dragon Neon 2012

About
	Release Date September 11, 2012
	Developer WayForward
	Publisher Majesco Entertainment
	Genre Beat 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2012-12-09

Double Dragon Neon pays homage to classic NES games by retaining the same feel and music while modernizing the graphics and art. The game is set in a futuristic world and follows the story of the iconic brothers Billy and Jimmy as they embark on a new adventure while attempting to save Billy’s girlfriend. The core mechanics of the previous games are retained in Double Dragon Neon, with the player traversing a series of linear levels with the goal of brawling your way through hordes of different enemies.

A co-op mode is also available where one more player can join in on the fun on the couch co-op mod. A new powerup system was implemented where the player can collect power-ups to gain new abilities and strengthen his attacks. On the whole, Double Dragon Neon holds up to its root offering an amazing reboot that can be enjoyed by both old and new players, solo or with a friend.

Hard Corps: Uprising 2011

About
	Release Date February 16, 2011
	Developer Arc System Works
	Publisher Konami
	Franchise Contra
	Genre Run & Gun
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Xbox 360 Releases
2011-02-16

Hard Corps: Uprising is a love letter to Contar fans, This amazing run-and-gun game is set in the same universe as Contra offering the same premise with updated graphics and controls. In a dystopian future, “Hard Corps: Uprising” follows the tales of two protagonists, Bahamut and Krystal, as they join a rebel force to oppose the Commonwealth’s oppressive government. True to the Contra legacy, the gameplay offers a challenging ride where every step counts, and each boss offers a huge challenge that takes a long time to master. 

The player must run and shoot his way through a series of side-scrolling levels, defeating enemies and collecting power-ups. The game has a beautiful 2D art style that combines outstanding backgrounds with modernized pixel sprites to create a visually striking experience. For those looking for a good multiplayer experience, the game includes an amazing co-op mode in which two players can play through the entire game campaign. The game is still exclusive to both the XBLA and PSN stores making it a must-have before any of the two stores closes down.

Dungeons & Dragons®: Chronicles of Mystara™ 2013

About
	Release Date June 18, 2013
	Developer Iron Galaxy Studios
	Publisher Capcom
	Genre Arcade Racing
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2013-06-18

With two incredible titles “Dungeons & Dragons: Tower of Doom” and “Dungeons & Dragons: Shadow over Mystara”, Dungeons & Dragons: Chronicles of Mystara resurrects the glory days of arcade gaming. The player takes control of one of four characters: a mage, a warrior, a cleric, and a thief, each with their own playstyle and abilities. The goal of each stage, as seen from a side-scrolling perspective, is to clear the level of enemies using different attacks and magic spells.

The RPG elements distinguish this game from other old-school brawlers; the player can customize his character, use items, and choose his own path, which changes the storyline, adding replayability and depth to the experience. Visually, the game’s graphics are outstanding, with hand-drawn backgrounds, beautiful pixel art, and an old-school artistic look. While the game has been released on other platforms, I highly recommend purchasing the XBLA version, especially if you only collect for the Xbox 360.

Hydro Thunder™ Hurricane 2010

About
	Release Date July 28, 2010
	Developer Vector Unit
	Publisher Microsoft
	Franchise Thunder™
	Genre Arcade Racing
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2010-07-28

Hydro Thunder Hurricane is a fast-paced boat racing game, the player competes in a series of racing events across several water tracks where the goal is to reach the finish line first while competing against AI racers. There are numerous boats to choose from in the game, each with its own set of stats and appearance. Given that each track provides a unique experience for each boat, choosing the right boat is always critical in winning. Aside from the typical racing elements, the game adds more by allowing you to collect power-ups.

Collecting power-ups can increase boat speed, allowing you to take the lead at critical times. Visually, The game’s graphics are spectacular, taking full advantage of the Xbox 360’s capabilities and giving one of the greatest water graphics on the entire system. Overall, Hydro Thunder Hurricane is a wonderful gem that has been sadly ignored for a long time; if you enjoy racing games, I highly recommend buying this game before the Xbox 360 shop closes.

Pac-Man Championship Edition 2007

About
	Release Date June 06, 2007
	Developer Bandai Namco
	Publisher Bandai Namco
	Genre Puzzle
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Top-Down
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Xbox 360 Releases
2007-06-06

Pac-Man Championship Edition attempts to reboot the classic Pac-Man game that took over the gaming world in the early 1980s. The game retains the same core mechanics as its predecessor, providing the same formula with minor tweaks and a significant visual upgrade. The player controls the iconic Pac-Man as he navigates a maze-like level in which the goal is to eat pellets scattered throughout the maze, however, ghosts are constantly attempting to stop you by chasing you down the maze.

The rapid shifts in the game keep participants on their toes offering an intense and fast-paced experience, forcing players to come up with clever strategies for maximum scores. All in all, Pac-Man Championship Edition is a great example of a classic game reboot done right; while it stays true to its roots, it doesn’t shy away from introducing new visuals and minor tweaks to keep up with the modern gaming era.

N+ 2008

About
	Release Date February 20, 2008
	Developer SilverBirch Studios
	Publisher Atari
	Genre 2D Platformer
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Canada

Xbox 360 Releases
2008-02-20

N+ is a straightforward 2D platformer that tests the player with tight controls and precise physics. Players take control of a Ninja who moves through the levels by jumping from one platform to the next, avoiding deadly traps and performing precise jumps. The levels are carefully designed to challenge the player while also providing a gradual learning curve. The goal of each stage is to complete the level as quickly as possible while collecting gold coins; these two factors heavily influence the score that can be uploaded to high-score leaderboards.

Visually, the game has a minimalistic art design where everything is drawn in a simple 2D design, making for a simple yet enjoyable game to look at. To summarize, “N+” is a masterpiece in simplicity and accuracy, providing a platforming experience that is simple to learn yet difficult to master. Its simple aesthetics and addicting gameplay have made it a favorite among platforming fans.

Ikaruga 2001

About
	Release Date December 20, 2001
	Developer Treasure
	Publisher Treasure
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Xbox 360 Releases
2008-09-04

Ikaruga first appeared on arcade machines before making its way to consoles in recent years, with the Xbox 360 receiving an upscaled resolution and enhanced visuals port of the same game. Ikaruga may appear to be a typical vertical shooter, but it has more to offer in terms of gameplay and creative ideas. What distinguishes this game is the ability to switch between black and white polarity; changing colors may protect you from incoming bullets, which also come in two colors.

When the polarity of the ship is set to black, it absorbs black bullets while dealing more damage to white opponents, and vice versa. This gameplay mechanic transforms the game into a difficult shooter that cleverly blends shooting and puzzle elements, challenging even hardcore players. The level design is also a work of art in and of itself, with everything being well put together including some amazing background design and offering a unique blend of enemy patterns and obstacles that necessitate both a quick lightning reflex and a deep understanding of the game mechanics. On the whole, Ikaruga is a cult classic that offers one of the most challenging yet fun gameplay mechanics, if you’re willing to give it time you’re going to love it!

Dust: An Elysian Tail 2012

About
	Release Date August 15, 2012
	Developer Humble Hearts
	Publisher Microsoft
	Genre Action Adventure
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2012-08-15

Dust: An Elysian Tail is a fast-paced action 2D side scroller game,  the game was first released exclusively on the XBLA and later ported to PC and the Nintendo Switch devices. Following the tale of Dust, you embark on a journey to regain your memory with the help of a talking sword and flying companion named Fidget. The game features hack-and-slash elements combined with magic attacks, you can use your sword to slash your enemies while following the combo with a variation of magical attacks.

Combos can be chained together, enemies can be launched into the air, and devastating special moves can be unleashed. Aside from combat, the game includes platforming elements as well as various puzzles that require logical thinking and exploration in order to solve them. Graphic-wise, the game is visually appealing, with hand-drawn sprites and backgrounds and a vibrant color palette. To summarize, Dust: An Elysian Tail is an incredible indie experience with a stunning 2D hand-drawn design and simple control.

Sonic the Hedgehog 4™ Episode I / Sonic the Hedgehog 4™ Episode II 2010 / 2012

About
	Full Name Sonic the Hedgehog 4™ Episode I
	Release Date October 07, 2010
	Developer Dimps
	Publisher SEGA
	Franchise Sonic™
	Genre 2D Platformer
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Xbox 360 Releases
2010-10-13

About
	Full Name Sonic the Hedgehog 4™ Episode II
	Release Date May 15, 2012
	Developer Dimps
	Publisher SEGA
	Franchise Sonic™
	Genre 2D Platformer
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Xbox 360 Releases
2012-05-15

Sonic the Hedgehog 4 Episodes I and II tried to revive the classic games with a direct sequel following the same formula while updating the graphics to beautiful 2.5D HD graphics. Developers made sure to bring back the feel of the classic games with an authentic look and feel retaining the same core mechanics of the the original trilogy. The player controls our iconic blue hedgehog Sonic as he dashes through several zones collecting golden rings and destroying ennemies across his way.

Both games introduced some minor tweaks like the homing attack, the ability to hold a torch to light dark areas, and many more. The sequel offers more elements where you can team up with Tails, Sonic’s best friend as they embark on a new journey to defeat the evil Dr.Eggman. Episode II also added additional zones, enemies, and boss battles, adding to the original episode’s content. As a whole, both games are fantastic reboots of the originals that can serve as both an amazing introduction to new players and a love letter to veterans.

State of Decay 2013

About
	Release Date June 05, 2013
	Developer Undead Labs
	Publisher Xbox Game Studios
	Genre Survival Horror
	Concept Zombie
	Players Single Player
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2013-06-05

The goal of State of Decay is to survive in an open world filled with zombies and harsh environments. Unlike many combat-focused games, State of Decay focuses on resource management, requiring you to keep an eye out for both zombies and your resources in order to survive each night. Scavenging for supplies is critical to your survival since you need to replenish your inventory with a variety of items in order to drink, eat, and create a shelter to defend yourself from zombie attacks.

The combat is also visceral and strategic, with you navigating hordes of raging undead using a combination of melee and firearms. The game also stands apart due to its base building mechanics, which allow you to use items you’ve collected to construct your own shelter. Other survivors can come to your shelter and help you build your own community of survivors who can work together to overcome any obstacles and strengthen their bonds as a group.

RPG elements are also present, allowing you to level up each of your community members in order to learn new skills and improve their stats. Characters can advance in levels and specialize in areas such as gardening, medicine, and combat. Overall, this is an incredible survival game that combines several elements into a nicely wrapped package that will keep you entertained for hours and hours.

Shadow Complex 2009

About
	Release Date August 19, 2009
	Developer Chair Entertainment
	Publisher Microsoft
	Genre Metroidvania
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2009-08-19

Shadow Complex is one of the gaming world’s most underappreciated Metroidvanias. This incredible game was released exclusively for the XBLA service until late 2015 when developers decided to take the risk and remaster it for the PC and several other consoles. The game tells the story of Jason Fleming, a young man who becomes lost in a secret facility run by the Restoration, an underground paramilitary organization. Jason must infiltrate the secret area in search of his missing girlfriend and put an end to the evil organization’s plan before it’s too late.

As previously stated, this game is fundamentally a Metroidvania. From the perspective of a side-scroller, your goal is to explore various areas while looking for new clues and collecting power-ups that will assist you in unlocking new areas to progress in the game. As Jason advances, you may gain access to new weapons, items, and abilities to aid you in your mission. These abilities include a jumping boot that can provide a super jump to reach higher areas, a Foam Gun that can break through walls to reach secret areas and discover new passages, Speed Boots that allow you to dash through gaps and run at full speed, and a lot more.

The game also pays special attention to the level details provided, as well as an amazing design that can encourage the player to explore further in search of more upgrades and secret items. The game provides a satisfying mix of action, puzzle-solving, and platforming challenges that will keep players interested throughout their journey. Overall, Shadow Complex is a fantastic example of a Metroidvania done right; the game is perfectly balanced and has an appropriate degree of difficulty. The massive map provides an excellent reason to return to the game later for more secrets. If you’re an Xbox 360 collector, I highly recommend picking up this XBLA game before the time runs out.

Virtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown 2010 Content Update バーチャファイター 5 ファイナルショーダウン (Bacha Faita 5 Fainaru Shodaun)

About
	Release Date July 29, 2010 Initial Release: February 08, 2007
	Developer SEGA
	Publisher SEGA
	Franchise Virtua Fighter
	Genre 3D Fighting
	Graphics 3D
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players 1v1, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Xbox 360 Releases
2012-06-06

Virtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown is the ultimate version of the original game, featuring improved graphics, new content, and exclusive access via XBLA and PSN. With a roster of 19 fighters, veteran fans will feel right at home. Many old fighters make a comeback, including Akira, Kage-Maru, Pai, and others. A slew of new characters make their debut, providing both old and new fans with a fresh perspective on the series. Taking inspiration from the old-school arcade game Final Showdown offers a hardcore fighting game where strategy, timing, and precision are crucial.

To become a master fighter, players must master all of the character’s moves, combos, and throws. Customization is also available for players who want to make their character stand out; you can change each character’s appearance, accessories, and other attributes to your liking. Visually, the game has aged beautifully, with an amazing illustration of the Xbox 360’s capabilities. Developers made sure to pay special attention to details on both characters and the setting, delivering a phenomenal visual experience for players. In its entirety Final Showdown perfected the original title with enhanced visuals, a rebalanced combat system, and a huge content that can keep you busy for hours; if you’re a fighting games fan, I highly recommend picking this title up for either the Xbox 360 or the PS3.

Scott Pilgrim™ vs. the World: The Game 2010

About
	Release Date August 10, 2010
	Developer Ubisoft Montreal
	Publisher Ubisoft
	Genre Beat 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Concept Cartoon
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Canada

Xbox 360 Releases
2010-08-25

With a nostalgic look and gameplay, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Game transports players back to the glory days of 2D beat ’em ups. Up to four players can participate in the co-op fun, with the goal of brawling your way through hordes of enemies. Characters can also level up by defeating enemies, allowing players to improve their stats and unlock new moves and abilities. Furthermore, the game features amazing detailed levels inspired by the film and books, including Toronto streets, shopping districts, and even battle arenas. While the mechanics of the game are fairly simple, the gameplay is a lot of fun, especially in co-op mode; if you still using your Xbox 360, I highly recommend checking out this game.

Hydrophobia 2010

About
	Release Date September 29, 2010
	Developer Dark Energy Digital
	Publisher Dark Energy Digital
	Genre Action Adventure
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United Kingdom

Xbox 360 Releases
2010-09-29

As its name indicates Hydrophobia is all about water horror. The game puts a huge emphasis on water physics tackling a survival horror journey inside a submerged ship. As water is the center of attention in both gameplay and the story, developers made sure to include realistic water physics, unlike any game during the initial release of the game. The player takes control of Kate, a young woman. A terrorist attack on the ship, where Kate was working as a system engineer, forces her to make a difficult decision in which she must use her skills to survive the incident and bring the bad guys to justice.

The player explores the submerged ship, solving puzzles, shooting down enemies, and overcoming massive waves of water that could crush Kate to death. The combat system provides a balanced system of both straight action and stealth, allowing you to switch between the two play styles to strategically defeat enemies and progress to the next area. While the game was intended to be episodic, unfortunately, developers abandoned the project after the game received mixed reviews upon its initial release. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience that’s only available on Xbox Live Arcade service, I positively recommend this game if you’re willing to overlook the short gameplay time and the potential cliffhanger at the end.

Super Meat Boy 2010

About
	Release Date November 30, 2010
	Developer Team Meat
	Publisher Team Meat
	Genre 2D Platformer
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2013-11-06

Super Meat Boy was known for its simple gameplay but punishing difficulty. Players take control of Meat Boy, a red cubic creature on a quest to save his girlfriend from Dr.Fetus’ clutches. The gameplay is heavily centered on platforming, with you performing precise jumps across the level to reach the other side. The gameplay begins with a simple introduction and gradually becomes more difficult until you are ready to throw your controller in a rage. While the controls are extremely responsive, each level necessitates a lightning reflex and perfect timing. If you like brutal games that push your patience to the limit, Super Meat Boy might be what you are looking for.

LIMBO 2010

About
	Release Date July 21, 2010
	Developer Playdead
	Publisher Xbox Game Studios
	Genre 2D Platformer
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2010-07-21

In comparison to other indie games, Limbo is a masterpiece. This incredible game employs a simple design to deliver a dark story with challenging gameplay. The game begins with a young boy who is lost in the woods. Players must control the boy through various locations in order to save his sister in this nightmarish world full of deadly traps and terrifying monsters.

As you progress through the game, the goal is to platform your way across each area. You can move back and forth while moving objects to solve various puzzles that will lead you to the next areas. Death occurs frequently since you need to experience death in order to observe your surroundings and retry until you solve the puzzle and move on. In general, LIMBO is an incredible game that combines an original art style with a terrifying atmosphere and one of the best puzzles in the 2D platforming genre.

Castle Crashers 2008

About
	Release Date August 27, 2008
	Developer The Behemoth
	Publisher The Behemoth
	Genre Beat 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Concept Cartoon
	Players Crossplay, Online Co-Op, Online PvP, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2008-08-27

Castle Crashers is inspired by classic beat-em-ups such as Street of Rage and Golden Axe. Players take on the roles of four different knights, each with their own set of skills. The knights set out on a journey to rescue four princesses kidnapped by an evil wizard. While the game can be played alone, it shines brightly when played in co-op. Up to four players can join in the fun, combining their forces to defeat hordes of enemies. Each knight has a different playstyle, and you can use a different magic attack by selecting one of them.

For example, Red Knight can use electric magic, whereas Blue Knight can use magic attacks based on ice, and so on. Visually, the game features a lovely hand-drawn art style with sharp sprites and an excellent environment and background. While the game has been ported to several new consoles, I hugely recommend checking this out on the Xbox 360, especially if you’re collecting for it.

Braid 2008

About
	Release Date August 06, 2008
	Developer Hothead Games
	Publisher Hothead Games
	Genre 2D Platformer
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Canada

Xbox 360 Releases
2008-08-06

While Braid begins as your typical Save the Princess game, it quickly evolves into a complex and dark story that explores concepts such as the passage of time, love, and regret. Braid is a 2D platformer at its core offering a challenging game that combines both platforming and puzzle-solving elements. The ability to rewind time, which serves as the game’s central mechanic, distinguishes this game from other typical 2D platformers. You can, for example, rewind time to receive an item, reverse enemy movement, or even rebuild an alternate path to advance to the next level.

The puzzles begin simple and easy to learn the rewinding mechanics and progress to become increasingly difficult, challenging the player’s intellect and critical thinking. With its watercolor style and beautiful animations, the game provides a unique dream-like experience. While Braid was one of the first successful indie games, this incredible gem paved the way for small developers to bring their creativity to the table and try their luck in the gaming world, challenging giant studios and offering amazing games at a reasonable price.

Bastion 2011

About
	Release Date July 20, 2011
	Developer Supergiant Games
	Publisher Warner Bros Games
	Genre Action RPG
	Concept Fantasy
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2011-07-20

Bastion demonstrates that if done correctly, indie games can deliver a triple-A experience. The game is set in a fragmented post-apocalyptic world and follows the story of a nameless child who wakes up in this shattered world. The nameless kid sets out on a journey to restore the world and save the lands from extinction with the help of a mysterious narrator known as Ruks. The narrator’s voice is unique to the game; the voice of the narrator keeps narrating each and every move you make on the screen, providing a unique feel that I have never experienced in any other game. In terms of gameplay, the game provides an in-depth action RPG in which the child can wield various weapons with varying stats and abilities. 

Later in the game, the player can combine and mix weapons to create their preferred combat loadout, making each playthrough a unique experience for each individual. Another important gameplay feature is the ability to rebuild shattered lands. As you progress through the game, you will be able to collect various items that will assist you in restoring and rebuilding each Bastion to its previous state. Collecting items also serves as a progression mechanic, allowing you to gain access to new skills and abilities by rebuilding several facilities such as the forge, the Distillery, and the Arsenal. Just like many games on this list, Bastion can be played on numerous systems, but if you’re an Xbox 360 lover I hugely recommend picking this up for the XBLA store for cheap.

Alien Hominid™ 2004

About
	Release Date November 21, 2004
	Developer The Behemoth
	Publisher O3 Entertainment
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Concept Fantasy
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2007-02-28

As of the writing of this article, the XBLA version of Alien Hominid is the best way to experience the game. This version offers an HD upgrade over previous consoles as well as one of the best performances. The game, which is similar to run-and-gun games like Metal Slug, puts you in the shoes of a mysterious yellow alien who crushes on the planet Earth. Your goal now is to use the alien ability and laser gun to bring down the FBI and eventually escape the planet.

Another player can join in on the fun for co-op play, allowing you to complete the campaign with a friend. While the game’s premise appears simple, it places a strong emphasis on challenges, with an unforgiving damage system and a trial-and-error experience that will have you trying over and over until you succeed. The game’s unique art style is a standout feature, offering a full-blown hand-drawn animated style, similar to old-school animated movies. The sprites and enemy movement are skillfully crafted to match the fast-paced gameplay, providing one of the best 2D graphics on the whole console.

Geometry Wars Retro Evolved 2005

About
	Release Date November 22, 2005
	Developer Bizarre Creations
	Publisher Xbox Game Studios
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United Kingdom

Xbox 360 Releases
2005-11-22

Originally released as a mini-game alongside Project Gotham Racing 2, developers saw an opportunity to turn this game into a full-fledged standalone release after it received positive feedback from fans. To many people’s surprise, the game did so well that it broke the record for the most downloaded XBLA games, garnering positive reviews and establishing itself as one of the best twin-stick shooters on the system. The idea behind Geometry Wars Evolved is simple: You control a small ship across a rectangular level, avoiding enemy fire while shooting back with the right analog stick.

Furthermore, the player can drop bombs across the level to destroy all ships on the screen if necessary. As the player progresses, he will be able to acquire more bombs, stronger weapons, and extra lives. On top of that, the more you survive, the greater the challenge, with hordes and hordes of enemy ships coming your way. Visually, the graphics are very simple, with a minimalistic art style inspired by old arcade games like Asteroids and Invaders. Overall, this is a must-have Xbox 360 title. I’m not sure if you’ve been living under a rock or what, but if this is your first time hearing about Geometry Wars Evolved, I urge you to check it out before the Xbox 360 store closes.

After Burner™: Climax 2006

About
	Release Date June 12, 2006
	Developer Sega AM2
	Publisher SEGA
	Franchise After Burner™
	Genre Flight Simulation
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Xbox 360 Releases
2010-04-21

With its fun and engaging gameplay After Burner: Climax is an arcade game to the core. The player controls one of several jet fighters in a dogfight in which the goal is to eliminate anything that moves on the screen. The controls are simple and easy to remember, making this entry a good choice for newcomers to the series. Players can select from a large number of jetfighters, each with their own set of stats. You can, for example, fly the F-14 Tomcat or the cutting-edge F/A-18E Super Hornet, among other aircraft.

New to the series is the Climax Mode, this mode allows you to enter a power-up state where your speed and firepower are boosted, allowing you to take down several enemies in a short time period. Visually, the game offers a faithful port of the arcade version with beautiful jet models and equally impressive landscapes such as oceans, cityscapes, and mountains. Whether you’re an old fan of the series, or you are a newcomer, I hugely recommend checking out this beautiful entry.

Bomberman Live 2007

About
	Release Date July 18, 2007
	Developer Backbone Entertainment
	Publisher Hudson Soft
	Genre Puzzle
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Top-Down
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2007-07-18

Bomberman Live follows the same core mechanics as the classic games, providing an incredible experience for veteran players while offering an outstanding visual upgrade. If you’re unfamiliar with the Bomberman series, you play as the Bomberman, who must navigate a maze-like level while dropping bombs to defeat other enemies. While this may appear simple, the game adds to the difficulty by allowing you to succumb if you get caught in your own explosive traps.

Furthermore, the game adds to the package with multiple powerups that can be collected throughout the game. You can, for example, gain the ability to kick a bomb before it explodes, extend your explosion range, detonate a bomb from a distance, and many other abilities. While the game can be played alone, multiplayer mode is where the real fun begins. The game supports both local and online multiplayer sessions, providing a chaotic experience in which you’ll have a blast attempting to be the last man standing. Keep in mind that this version is exclusive to the XBLA service making it the only way to experience the game legally.

Lumines Live! 2006

About
	Release Date October 18, 2006
	Developer Q Entertainment
	Publisher Microsoft
	Genre Puzzle
	Graphics 2D
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Xbox 360 Releases
2006-10-18

Lumines Live: is an exclusive XBLA game that expands on the concept of its predecessor by combining a fun puzzle game with one of the best soundtracks in the puzzle universe. Lumines’ premise is simple: your goal is to stack blocks similar to classic games like Tetris, with the exception that you must stack the blocks to match their colors and form a 2×2 square or larger of the same color. When you’re finished, the square will vanish, earning you points and freeing up space on the screen for more blocks to be stacked.

The incredible synchronization between the gameplay, visuals, and music is what distinguishes this game. The level color and visuals will constantly shift throughout the game, following the music beat and providing a fun challenge for puzzle fans. As previously stated, this game remains exclusive to the XBLA service, making the Xbox 360 the only way to obtain it until further notice.

Marble Blast Ultra 2006

About
	Release Date January 25, 2006
	Developer GarageGames
	Publisher GarageGames
	Genre 3D Platformer
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Xbox 360 Releases
2006-01-25

Marble Blast Ultra demonstrates that a simple idea can be a lot of fun if executed correctly. Players will control a marble across multiple levels, with the goal of using the environment to platform their way from A to B. The player can collect various power-ups that will assist him in reaching his goal, such as a speed-up boost, a double jump, and many others. Aside from the stunning single-player mode, the game also includes a split-screen multiplayer mode in which players can race against one another. Graphically, the game has a simple look with decent 3D models that do the job; it’s not like the game is going to win any visual awards, but it still provides a decent experience after all these years.  As a whole, this is a very simple game that is easy to learn but difficult to master; if you’re looking for a casual puzzle/platforming game, I highly recommend this little gem.

I Am Alive 2012

About
	Release Date March 07, 2012
	Developer Ubisoft Shanghai
	Publisher Ubisoft
	Genre Survival
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin China

Xbox 360 Releases
2012-03-07

I Am Alive was one of the first games to implement a post-apocalyptic setting, long before the post-apocalyptic setting exploded in the gaming world. Most of humanity has been wiped out by a cataclysmic disaster, leaving only a small population of survivors. The player takes control of an unnamed protagonist as he returns to Haventon, a dangerous city. In search of his missing wife and daughter, the hero must use his intellect to gather resources while avoiding murderous gangs roaming the streets.

From a third-person perspective, the game presents a slew of gameplay mechanics in a neatly organized package. The game frequently employs a climbing mechanic in which you must manage your stamina in order to progress; this mechanic adds an extra challenge to the game by requiring you to think about every move you make before executing it. Another major game mechanic is hostile encounters, in which you can approach enemy gangs in a variety of ways.

For example, you can trick gangs into surrendering by raising your hand and executing them once they approach, or you can draw a gun to intimidate the gang group into submitting, or even shoot one of the gang members to scare the others into surrendering. Additionally, the game offers a survival factor where you must manage your resources carefully. In this harsh environment, scavenging for water, food, gas, and medicine is critical to your survival. Overall, this is an amazing gem that has been buried beneath the massive pile of survival games that have been released in the subsequent years; if you’re looking for the best XBLA games, this is a must-play by all means.