Microsoft's approach to Xbox 360 backwards compatibility has been phenomenal. For the most part, fans with an Xbox Series X or S have been able to access the past-gen console's library through emulation. As part of Xbox's digital discounts for this week, the team has included a selection of backwards compatible (Xbox 360) titles across the Xbox Store which means another round of discounts from the original Xbox and Xbox 360 eras to get stuck into!
The key part of the process Microsoft gave to make backwards compatibility work was to use emulation similar to how the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One is able to play Xbox 360 games. Generally, the load times are quicker on the Xbox Series X|S, and the visuals and performance can be improved by enabling HDR and 4K resolution.
Microsoft ended backwards compatibility updates in 2021, but fans are bringing Xbox 360 emulation back to modern consoles. For instance, the Xbox 360 emulator, Xenia, is available for Windows PCs, allowing players to play games from the past-gen console on their computers. This is ideal for anyone who wants to add an old Xbox 360 favourite to their library via backwards compatibility, or who wants to throttle the most power out of their Windows PC, the Xbox 360 emulator is a great way to do it.
In order to make the most out of the Xbox 360 backwards compatibility, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to check the resolution when playing Xbox 360 games on the Xbox One. Also, it's important to remember that some titles might not run as well due to hardware limitations. Additionally, it's important to check the game's compatibility before downloading it. Finally, be sure to check out the sale discounts available on the Xbox Store before buying a game.
As part of the Xbox digital discounts for this week, the team has included a selection of backwards compatible (Xbox 360) titles across the Xbox Store. Below, you'll find a complete list of every single OG Xbox and Xbox 360 game in the Countdown sale. Note: Some of the deals below might only be available in certain regions.
• Grand Theft Auto IV
• Red Dead Redemption
• Fable 3
• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
• Halo: Reach
• Gears of War 2
• L.A. Noire
• Fallout 3
• Alan Wake
• Mass Effect 2
• Bayonetta
• The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings
• Just Cause 2
• The Orange Box
• Crackdown
• Far Cry 2
• BioShock
These titles are all available for purchase at discounted prices, offering fans the chance to experience some classic Xbox 360 games (and one original Xbox title). Below, you'll find a list of every single backwards compatible game available on the Xbox Store, in addition to discounts on each of them:
• Grand Theft Auto IV
• Red Dead Redemption
• Fable 3
• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
• Halo: Reach
• Gears of War 2
• L.A. Noire
• Fallout 3
• Alan Wake
• Mass Effect 2
• Bayonetta
• The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings
• Just Cause 2
• The Orange Box
• Crackdown
• Far Cry 2
• BioShock
Overall, Microsoft's approach to backwards compatibility has been great for Xbox fans. With discount sales and a wide selection of titles to choose from, there's something for everyone. Players can experience classic titles from the original Xbox and Xbox 360 eras and relive the past-gen days on their modern consoles.
