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Report Microsoft to bring Xbox 360 games to "Xbox PCs", handhelds and Project Helix
Digital Foundry • • technology
Key Points:
- Microsoft is planning to expand its Xbox backward compatibility program to include Xbox 360 titles, which will be playable on Project Helix, Xbox PCs, and handheld devices, according to a leaked document reported by The Verge.
- Developers and rights holders of Xbox 360 games can opt into the program, set prices, and decide if their titles will be part of Xbox Game Pass, with the rollout expected between 2027 and 2028.
- The full launch of original Xbox titles on PC is scheduled for October 2026, significantly expanding beyond the current four-game lineup.
- Microsoft’s disc-to-digital program, which grants digital licenses for Xbox One and Series game discs tied to user accounts, allowing used game sales and disc sharing, has been delayed from its planned beta and full launch dates but is expected soon.
- This disc-to-digital feature leverages technology introduced during the Xbox One era, enabling licenses to transfer between accounts when discs are used by different players.
