When it comes to Microsoft consoles, these days it’s all about the more technologically-potent Xbox Series X. But moreso than ever, hardware that can somewhat be considered “previous generation” is managing to hold its own as compared to modern game console juggernauts. This is especially true when it comes to upgraded machines such as the Xbox One X, which bridge the gap between two hardware generations and even enhance older software.

Not only this, but the Series X grants performance, graphical, and resolution enhancements for various older titles. This quickly spruces up some already gorgeous software seemingly bound by the Xbox One. With these factors in mind, this list will highlight some of the prettiest, most graphically potent games for Xbox One that provide a next-gen feel — or at least close to it.

10 Metro: Exodus

Thanks in part to the 4k optimization of the Xbox One X, 4A’s thrilling FPS shines with much next-gen flair despite releasing in early 2019. You’d swear you’re playing a Series X title despite residing only on “last-gen” hardware for now.

Post-apocalyptic wastelands have never looked so gorgeous, and these sprawling locales are further enhanced by dynamic weather conditions and impressive draw distances.

Of course, this cinematic romp doesn’t skimp out on the gameplay either — with exciting mutant-slaying, vast exploration, and ample depth.

9 Star Wars Battlefront 2

Star Wars shooters have come a long way since the crude, blocky days of Battlefront’s early 2000s origins. The game immerses players in the vast, colorful SW universe with fun battles both on land and in space. With its rich, recognizable locales, unique characters, and satisfying combat, Battlefront 2 takes flight as a top-tier SW game, especially in terms of its addictive multiplayer.

The Xbox One X makes the already lavish visuals pop even more with its HDR enhancement.

8 Red Dead Redemption 2

Drawing from the epic, open-world nature of its hit GTA series, Rockstar puts an atmospheric, Western twist on the formula with Red Dead Redemption and its even bigger sequel. The sandbox adventure hits its mark on many fronts, including its gripping story, great characters, and dynamic gameplay.

The Old West odyssey of Arthur Morgan also very much shines in terms of visuals. With loads of graphic detail, technical prowess, and fluid animation, Red Dead Redemption 2 truly feels like playing through a modern Western film.

7 Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

George Lucas’ space fantasy finds itself being the focus of another gorgeous title for Xbox One; this one in the form of a Soulslike action romp. The game blends depth and progression with arcade-style lightsaber and Force combat. The result is a memorable journey that feels like a true Jedi simulator.

The cinematic style and nuanced visuals add to this sense of immersion. Respawn Entertainment showcases stunning landscapes, dense lighting and particle effects, and authentically detailed models.

6 Shadow Of The Tomb Raider

Even in the humbler, more polygonal days of archeologist Lara Croft, the Tomb Raider series has always been known for its epic, cinematic feel. But this really comes to light in the Crystal Dynamics reboot, culminating with 2018’s Shadow of the Tomb Raider.

The sequel draws from the trademark Tomb Raider elements of yore, with ample exploration, plundering, and puzzle-solving. But the scale and immersion are especially dialed up here, with diverse, organic-feeling environments and sleek graphics.

5 Gears 5

Dating back to the Epic Games days on the 360, the Gears of War series has always been known for its bombast and a graphic style that’s both gritty and flashy. The explosive debut helped establish a new, darker visual style for more mature games. But while the visuals of the ‘06 classic may seem a bit dated now, The Coalition keeps the franchise on the chainsaw-cutting edge with its latest entry.

Not only does Gears 5 expand with imaginative new locales and semi-open-world elements, but it’s also the prettiest Gears has ever looked. The aesthetics bring the vibe of a blockbuster action flick with chiseled detail, smooth animation, and dazzling visual effects.

Gears 5 is optimized for both the Series X and the Xbox One X, bringing a next-gen feel to this ‘19 release.

4 Call Of Duty: Black Ops Cold War

Thanks to the collective efforts of Treyarch and Infinity Ward, the Call of Duty franchise has grown into an absolute juggernaut, establishing itself as the FPS of the last decade-plus. The series has seen a slew of changes and oscillating fan reception over the years, but what usually stays consistent is its cinematic bombast and solid visuals.

This has really reached a peak with one of the more cinematic efforts by Treyarch and Raven Software, Black Ops Cold War. While multiplayer has gotten mixed reviews, its robust campaign shines through with modern visual glitz and dynamic settings laced with 80’s flair. Not only this, but the visuals and performance are made even smoother with Series X optimization.

3 Watch Dogs: Legion

This tech-laden action romp is a technical marvel on many fronts, including its visuals. Ubisoft Toronto showcases a rich and vast dystopian London, laced with deep, flashy visual effects to boot. Despite the technical themes, the environments feel as organic as ever, featuring vast, bustling city areas with loads of visual detail.

Of course, the gameplay doesn’t disappoint either. Watch Dogs: Legion offers a diversity of fun hacking bouts, intense stealth, and thrilling action. Thanks to hardware enhancements, the game can be enjoyed at its full potential on both Xbox One X and Series X.

2 Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

It’s hard to overstate the beauty of the visuals in this Viking saga, even when seemingly confined to the Xbox One X. Rough load times aside, Ubisoft’s latest Assassin’s Creed plays like a gem on the hardware.

The environments of Medieval England and Norway figuratively and literally shine, with crisp, vibrant visuals that really pop. It’s quite a marvel seeing the soft sunset reflect on the river when sailing, admiring the colorful foliage, or gazing upon towering Saxon castles. The gameplay more than holds its own as well, ranging from chaotic raids to quiet stealth missions.

1 Fora Horizon 4

For a title that dates back to 2018, Playground Game’s open-world racer looks and feels very next-gen, thanks to the sprawling environments and silky-smooth gameplay.

Zipping through the charming English settings feels as exhilarating as ever. And this is the case whether grinding for Skill Points, seeking Barn Finds, or just enjoying the scene in your luxury car.

The game really kicks into another gear when playing on the Series X, thanks to Microsoft’s enhancing Smart Delivery system. But Xbox One X holdouts can still get a dazzling experience by way of the 4K, HDR tune-up.

NEXT: 10 Original Xbox Games That Were Held Back By The Hardware