Must-Have Console Exclusives Every Gamer Should Play

7 February 2025

Let’s be honest—gaming is in its prime. With consoles pushing the boundaries of storytelling, graphics, and gameplay mechanics, there’s never been a better time to be a gamer. But here’s the catch: not all games are made equal. Some truly legendary experiences are tied to specific consoles, forming the elusive category of console exclusives. They’re the golden apples of gaming, designed to lure players into their ecosystems like a moth to a flame.

Whether you’re a PlayStation die-hard, an Xbox loyalist, or a Nintendo aficionado, each platform has its fair share of bangers. In this post, I’ll walk you through the must-have console exclusives every gamer should play. Buckle up—this list might just convince you to go multi-platform.

What Makes Console Exclusives So Special?

First off, let’s clear the air: what’s the big deal about console exclusives? Why do publishers and hardware giants make titles you can’t get anywhere else? It’s simple—exclusives sell hardware.

Think of console exclusives as the “secret sauce.” They’re like that one thing your friend has, and no matter what, you just have to try it. Seriously, would anyone have bought a Nintendo Switch without games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Animal Crossing? Nope, didn’t think so.

Exclusives are also a playground for developers to let loose. Without worrying about cross-platform limitations, they can fine-tune every pixel and mechanic specifically for one system. The results? Games that look, play, and feel phenomenal.

Now that we’ve hyped them up, let’s dive into the heavy hitters of each console.

Must-Have PlayStation Exclusives

1. The Last of Us Part II

When it comes to storytelling, The Last of Us Part II is in a league of its own. This riveting sequel catapults you into a post-apocalyptic world filled with morally gray choices and gut-wrenching moments. Naughty Dog absolutely nailed it with lifelike graphics, emotionally charged performances, and gripping gameplay.

Playing The Last of Us Part II feels like watching an award-winning TV drama, but you’re the one pulling the strings. If you’ve ever wanted a game that makes you question humanity (and maybe cry into your controller), this is it.

2. God of War (2018)

Remember Kratos, the guy who screamed his way through ancient Greece? He’s back, but this time he’s traded rage for fatherhood. God of War reinvents the franchise with a stunning Norse mythology setting, tight combat, and a surprisingly heartfelt story about a father and son.

The Leviathan Axe (Kratos’ new weapon) is a game-changer—literally. Boomerang it at enemies and feel the bone-crunching impact. Plus, it’s impossible to go wrong with a game where you punt trolls off cliffs.

3. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

Swing through New York City as Miles Morales, the younger and way cooler Spider-Man. With its vibrant visuals, snappy dialogue, and badass venom powers, this game is pure joy.

Insomniac Games took everything that made 2018’s Marvel’s Spider-Man great and dialed it up. Plus, the winter-themed Manhattan is magical—like sipping hot cocoa while fighting crime.

Essential Xbox Exclusives

4. Halo Infinite

When you think Xbox, you think Halo. It’s practically the brand mascot at this point. Halo Infinite reboots the franchise with a semi-open world, satisfying gunplay, and Master Chief doing what he does best—saving the universe (again).

The multiplayer is free-to-play, which means you can hop online and start no-scoping your friends without spending a dime. If you’re a fan of epic sci-fi and ridiculous amounts of explosions, don’t sleep on this one.

5. Forza Horizon 5

Even if cars aren’t your thing, Forza Horizon 5 will convert you. This open-world racing masterpiece takes you to stunning landscapes across Mexico, and it’s jaw-droppingly gorgeous.

The gameplay strikes a perfect balance between arcade fun and simulation precision. If you’ve ever wanted to barrel-roll a Lamborghini through a rainforest, now’s your chance.

6. Gears 5

Chainsaw guns, giant monsters, and explosions. Need I say more? Gears 5 is an adrenaline-pumping shooter with some surprisingly emotional plot twists.

Whether you’re tackling the campaign solo or teaming up with friends in co-op, this game knows how to deliver big blockbuster moments. It’s unapologetically over-the-top, and that’s exactly why it rocks.

Nintendo’s Iconic Exclusives

7. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Imagine standing on the edge of a cliff, gliding into a lush forest, and stumbling upon a massive dragon just chilling. That’s Breath of the Wild in a nutshell.

This open-world epic redefined what it means to explore in a game. You can climb anything, cook questionable meals, and solve puzzles that’ll make you feel like a genius. Few games capture the magic of discovery like this one.

8. Super Mario Odyssey

Mario is gaming royalty, and Super Mario Odyssey is his crowning achievement. It’s a platforming adventure packed with creative levels, quirky mechanics (hello, hat possession), and infectious charm.

From bustling urban skylines to surreal candy worlds, every kingdom is a feast for the senses. Plus, collecting Power Moons is straight-up addictive—it’s gaming’s version of potato chips.

9. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

If life gets too chaotic, escape to your very own island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. This game is all about the simple joys: building your dream home, fishing by the beach, and befriending adorable animal villagers.

It’s not just a game—it’s therapy. And while the real world might be a raging dumpster fire, your island can be a serene paradise.

Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Overlook

10. Bloodborne (PlayStation)

Dark, gothic, and punishing as heck—that’s Bloodborne in a nutshell. FromSoftware’s masterpiece is a haunting journey through a nightmare-filled Victorian world.

If you’re into games that challenge your reflexes and reward persistence, this exclusive is a must-play. Just prepare to die. A lot.

11. Ori and the Will of the Wisps (Xbox)

This beautiful platformer is like playing a watercolor painting come to life. Ori and the Will of the Wisps combines tight platforming, emotional storytelling, and a stunning orchestral soundtrack.

It’s perfect for gamers who want something heartfelt and visually dazzling. It’s short but sweet—like a perfectly baked cupcake.

12. Splatoon 3 (Nintendo)

Tired of traditional shooters? Try Splatoon 3, where you blast ink instead of bullets. This vibrant, fast-paced multiplayer game is a splatter-fest of chaos and strategy.

The quirky squid-kid aesthetic and energetic soundtrack make every match feel like a neon-drenched party. It’s fresh, it’s funky, and it’s so very Nintendo.

Why You Might Need More Than One Console

Let’s face it, exclusives are designed with one goal: to make you buy a specific console. And honestly? Sometimes it works. From PlayStation’s emotional epics to Nintendo’s unpretentious fun, each platform offers something unique.

If you’ve got the budget, going multi-platform is the ultimate gamer flex. But if not, don’t worry—just pick the ecosystem that suits your vibe. Whether you’re team Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo, there are enough amazing exclusives to keep your game library stacked for years.

Final Thoughts

Console exclusives are like rare gems—they’re beautiful, unique, and totally worth the hype. Whether you’re slashing your way through Norse mythology, racing across Mexican deserts, or befriending animals on your private island, these games offer unforgettable experiences.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up your console of choice and start playing! Just remember to block out some serious free time—because once you dive into these masterpieces, you’re not coming up for air anytime soon.