As we approach the end of another year, it’s time to reflect on the highs and lows of the gaming industry, particularly when it comes to Microsoft’s Xbox platform. With a mix of hits, misses, and surprises, 2021 has been a rollercoaster ride for Xbox fans.

Let’s start with the hits. One of the biggest success stories for Xbox this year has been the release of the highly anticipated Halo Infinite. The latest installment in the iconic Halo franchise has been met with critical acclaim and has been praised for its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and nostalgic callbacks to the series’ roots. The game’s multiplayer mode, in particular, has been a hit with fans, with many praising its fast-paced action and competitive gameplay.

Another hit for Xbox this year has been the release of Forza Horizon 5. The latest entry in the popular racing series has been a commercial and critical success, with its stunning visuals, expansive open world, and thrilling gameplay earning it rave reviews from both fans and critics alike. The game’s innovative weather system and dynamic world events have also been praised for adding a new level of depth and immersion to the racing experience.

Now, let’s move on to the misses. One of the biggest disappointments for Xbox fans this year has been the delay of several highly anticipated games, including Fable, Perfect Dark, and Hellblade 2. While delays are not uncommon in the gaming industry, the postponement of these titles has left many fans feeling frustrated and anxious about the future of Xbox’s first-party lineup. Additionally, the lack of exclusive AAA titles for the Xbox Series X|S has been a sore point for many fans, with some feeling that the platform is lagging behind its competitors in terms of compelling content.

Finally, let’s talk about the surprises. One of the biggest surprises for Xbox fans this year has been the acquisition of Bethesda Softworks by Microsoft. The $7.5 billion deal has sent shockwaves through the gaming industry and has raised speculation about the future of Bethesda’s beloved franchises, such as The Elder Scrolls and Fallout. Many fans are excited about the potential for cross-platform integration and exclusive content that this partnership could bring, while others are concerned about the implications for the future of multiplatform gaming.

Overall, 2021 has been a mixed bag for Xbox, with its fair share of hits, misses, and surprises. While there have been some standout successes, such as Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5, there have also been disappointments, such as the delays of several highly anticipated games. However, with the recent acquisition of Bethesda and the promise of exciting new titles on the horizon, there is still plenty for Xbox fans to look forward to in the coming year.