Microsoft releases a list of console exclusive games coming to Xbox in 2016, including Crackdown 3, Gears of War 4, Halo Wars 2, Quantum Break, and more.

Overall, it's safe to say that 2015 was a great year for Xbox owners, with the system seeing the release of a number of high profile exclusive games, including Halo 5: Guardians as well as the critically acclaimed timed-exclusive Rise of the Tomb Raider. But now it's time to look ahead to 2016, and Microsoft has released a list of titles that Xbox One, Xbox 360, and Windows 10 users can expect to see this year.

The list features a number of big name games, including the likes of Crackdown 3 and Gears of War 4, but also backs up Phil Spencer's previous statement about new IP coming to Xbox in 2016. The latter statement is represented by games like CobaltReCore, and Sea of Thieves, which are all poised for release later this year.

While new IP is certainly exciting, what the list offers in terms of insight into Xbox's big franchises is even more interesting. We now know that arguably Xbox One's biggest exclusive of 2016, Gears of War 4, will have a multiplayer beta this spring. This means that gamers can expect to get their hands on the game within the next few months, though details as to how to access the beta remain to be seen.

Without further ado, here's the list of console exclusive games Xbox owners can look forward to in 2016:

  • Cobalt (Xbox One, Xbox 360, & Steam) - Feb 2, 2016
  • Crackdown 3 - Multiplayer Beta in Summer 2016
  • Fable Legends (Xbox One & Windows 10) - Open Beta in Spring 2016
  • Gears of War 4 - Multiplayer Beta in Spring 2016/Launch in Fall 2016
  • Gigantic (Xbox One & Windows 10) - 2016
  • Halo Wars 2 (Xbox One & Windows 10) - Fall 2016
  • Killer Instinct: Season 3 (Xbox One & Windows 10) - March 2016
  • Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition (Xbox One & Windows 10) - Spring 2016
  • Quantum Break  - April 5, 2016
  • ReCore (Xbox One & Windows 10) - 2016
  • Sea of Thieves (Xbox One & Windows 10) - 2016

In addition to the aforementioned games, Windows 10 users can look forward to the release of Gears of War: Ultimate Edition this spring. On that note, the majority of Xbox One's big console exclusives this year will also be available on Windows 10, which supports Phil Spencer's promise that Microsoft is committed to PC gaming.

Beyond the above list of games, Microsoft has also promised that there are still new titles to be revealed in 2016. It's likely that these games will have a proper unveiling at this coming E3 event, and could be anything from new IP to a tease for the inevitable Halo 6.

Microsoft's other 2016 plans include releasing more updates to all versions of Minecraft. Considering Microsoft purchased Mojang for $2.5 billion, it's admirable that the company is still supporting the game on other platforms. In fact, a Wii U version of Minecraft released not too long ago, complete with Nintendo-themed skins.

What do you think of Xbox's 2016 lineup? Are you impressed with the games, or are you satisfied with the exclusives on your platform of choice? Which Xbox console exclusive game is the most exciting to you? Sound off in the comments below and leave your thoughts about what is sure to be an exciting year for Xbox owners.

Source: Xbox Wire