Xbox has launched Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC, a new emulation programme bringing classic Xbox titles to PC and handheld devices such as the ROG Xbox Ally for the first time. The announcement comes as Microsoft works to downplay the fallout from recent layoffs affecting 3,200 jobs and the closure of four studios, with the company's broader Xbox strategy still appearing unsettled. Reviving backward compatibility, once seen as one of Xbox's strongest features, marks a notable move at a time when many publishers favour costly remakes and remasters over preserving access to older games.

The first four titles are Blinx: The Time Sweeper, Conker: Live and Reloaded, Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge and Fuzion Frenzy, none of which are considered major system-sellers. Each game costs $9.99 individually, is included with all Xbox Game Pass tiers, supports cloud play, and carries over existing console licences to PC or handheld. Enhanced graphics options include up to 4x resolution upscaling, VSync, windowed and fullscreen modes, anisotropic filtering and improved anti-aliasing, with achievements for these games and further feature updates promised in the coming months.