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OG Xbox classics are coming to PC via backwards compatibility, with 4 games starting today
Microsoft has launched a new Xbox Backward Compatibility programme that, for the first time, brings original Xbox console games to PC and handheld devices. The initiative kicks off today with four titles, and Microsoft has signalled it plans to expand the programme further, including adding achievements to these older games in the coming months.
The launch line-up comprises BLiNX: The Time Sweeper, Conker: Live and Reloaded, Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge and Fuzion Frenzy, each priced at $9.99 and playable via the Xbox on PC app, with support for Xbox Play Anywhere, Xbox Cloud Gaming and Game Pass. Anyone who already owns the games digitally can access them at no extra cost, and all four include new customisable graphics settings. Xbox VP Jason Ronald confirmed that achievements, a heavily requested feature, will be added to these titles on both console and PC later this year, with minimum system requirements including 8GB RAM, Windows 11 and a GPU such as an Nvidia GTX 950 or equivalent.
In short
- Original Xbox games are now playable on PC for the first time.
- Four launch titles cost $9.99 each, or free if already owned.
- Achievements coming to these games later this year.
Explained simply
The original Xbox was Microsoftâs first games console, released in 2001. Its games were made for that hardware, so playing them on a modern PC or handheld has generally required a separate version or a way to emulate the console.
Microsoftâs Xbox Backward Compatibility programme is designed to make selected older Xbox games playable on newer devices. The games are sold through Microsoftâs Xbox app, and Xbox Play Anywhere can let a digital purchase work across supported Xbox and PC devices; Cloud Gaming and Game Pass provide other ways to access some titles.
The programme connects Microsoftâs current gaming services with games from its earlier consoles. It also gives players who already own supported digital games a way to access them on newer devices, while new graphics settings can help them adjust how the games look.
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