Disproving the notion that gaming makes you anti-social, online multiplayer games have become a great way for people to keep in touch and spend time together while in lockdown or socially distancing.

We’ve lined up a few of the best multiplayer games that you can try out on the Xbox One and other platforms. From first-person shooter (FPS) titles to fantasy-filled role-playing games, here are some online multiplayer games that new players should check out….

The Elder Scrolls Online

If you’ve played Skyrim, you’ll be familiar with the Elder Scrolls franchise. The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) is the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in the Elder Scrolls’ universe.

It is also one of the few MMORPGs that are also available on console. Furthermore, unlike World of Warcraft, ESO doesn’t require a monthly subscription to play. Rather, you buy the game and expansions as a once-off purchase.

If you want a game with a large world that you can spend hours upon hours in, this is a great choice.

Overwatch

If you’re looking for FPS action but with some magic, Overwatch is an online multiplayer game that pits teams together in competitive matches. Two teams of six players are pitted against each other in various game modes, from capture the flag to elimination games.

Rather than classes, you can choose from different characters that have different abilities.. You then use these abilities to help your team as a tank, damage or support character.

Rocket League

Want a simple game to kill time without needing to understand roles or engage in a complex story? Then Rocket League is a good choice. It’s quite a unique game where players compete in a soccer match, but instead of humans, you use tiny, rocket-powered cars to kick the ball and score goals.

It’s tons of fun and will definitely bring out your competitive streak. You can play either with or against friends online.

Fortnite Battle Royale

You’ve likely heard of Fortnite Battle Royale -- after all, it is one of the most popular games in the world. Battle Royale is Fortnite’s free mode that pits players against each other in a map. Your goal is to survive until the last person or team is left. The game now includes a variety of modes, rather than just classic battle royale modes. Some of these modes are great for new players who want to practice and get to know the gameplay a bit better.

Its cartoonish and colourful design also makes it stand out from more serious third-person shooter games. And, best of all, you can now buy Fortnite Vbucks (the in-game currency) with Vodacom airtime or your Vodacom bill.

Apex Legends

If you want a more serious battle royale game, Apex Legends is a free squad-based title. The game has different characters with different powers, and a futuristic map filled with supplies that help you in your fight.

Minecraft

Minecraft is a sandbox game that allows players to mine and build their world, creating interesting structures. Your goals are open-ended -- you can build whatever you want. However, with monsters coming out at night, there is also a survival element to the game.

You can play either alone or with friends on your own server (similar to Terraria). As you get to know the game better, you can add community mods to change up your game in near-limitless ways.

Vodacom Xbox Game Pass

Remember that you can now use your Vodacom account to pay for your purchases, as well as sign up for Xbox Game Pass. Xbox Game Pass gives you access to over 100 high-quality games for one monthly subscription. As an Xbox Game Pass member, you can save up to 20% on Xbox One game purchases from the existing Xbox Game Pass catalogue, plus save up to 10% off related game add-ons and consumables.