Following its plans to bring brand-new Xbox games to the PC platform, Microsoft is now aiming to offer the Xbox 360 library to PC users. A leaked document shared with developers reveals that these classic games could run on the next-generation Project Helix console, Xbox PCs, and portable devices.

This move is seen as part of a vision to create a large, portable Xbox library across devices, similar to Steam. Microsoft’s digital licensing strategy is seen as a step supporting the transition to consoles without disc drives.

Backward Compatibility and Next-Generation Devices

The process of porting Xbox 360 games to PC is based on a structure left to the developers’ initiative. Developers will be able to decide whether their games are backward compatible and will have control over pricing and Game Pass integration.

This feature is planned to be gradually rolled out on next-generation devices between 2027 and 2028. The full launch of original Xbox games on PC is expected to take place in October 2026.

Transition from physical discs to digital licenses

The documents also detail a system that will allow players to convert games they own on physical discs to digital versions. A disc inserted into an Xbox One or Series X console creates a digital license linked to both the disc and the player’s account.

This system allows the license to be transferred to the new user if the disc changes hands. Thus, players can continue to trade their physical games, but the person selling the disc will no longer have access to the digital version of the game.

While the planned public beta process for the disc-to-digital transition program was supposed to start in July, the general release schedule remains uncertain due to delays.

Microsoft’s strategic changes follow the major Xbox restructuring announced in July, which resulted in the layoff of thousands of employees. What are your thoughts on this new digital gaming strategy?