Microsoft rolls out Xbox backward compatibility on PC

Microsoft has launched a new initiative to bring classic Xbox games to personal computers, marking a significant expansion of its backward compatibility efforts beyond consoles. The program, called Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC, began rolling out on July 22, 2026, with an initial selection of four original Xbox titles now available for Windows PCs and compatible handheld devices.

The first games included are "Blinx: The Time Sweeper," "Conker: Live and Reloaded," "Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge," and "Fuzion Frenzy." Each title is available for individual purchase on PC and is included in all subscription tiers of Xbox Game Pass. Furthermore, players who already own digital licenses for these games on Xbox consoles will find their licenses carry over to PC at no extra cost through the Xbox Play Anywhere program, making the titles playable across desktop, cloud streaming, and mobile.

Jason Ronald, Vice President of Next Generation at Xbox, stated the launch represents the beginning of a broader effort to preserve Xbox games and bring them to PC over time. He emphasized the company is not merely enabling playability but is enhancing the experience with new features...