Xbox is introducing backwards compatibility for PC and handheld devices, starting with four original titles: BLiNX: The Time Sweeper, Conker: Live and Reloaded, Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge, and Fuzion Frenzy.
These games will be available for purchase on PC and through Game Pass. Existing digital licenses on console will transfer to PC and handheld devices.
“This marks the beginning of a broader effort to preserve Xbox games from the past and bring them to PC over time,” said VP of next generation Jason Ronald.
Xbox has added features for PC players to enhance graphics while maintaining original gameplay.
Enhancements include 4x resolution, VSync support, fullscreen and windowed modes, anisotropic filtering, and improved anti-aliasing.
Xbox will introduce Achievements for these games in the coming months.
The backwards compatibility initiative is part of a broader strategic shift at Xbox, following its commitment to platform exclusivity.
Earlier this week, chief strategy officer Matthew Ball expanded upon the decision, clarifying that “to return [Xbox] to consistent growth, we need a reliable pipeline of exclusive games.”
“We should narrow in on the literal role of these titles,” said Ball. “We are asking players to make an investment in our consoles.”
“These investments are real; they involve trade-offs in life. Given this, we need to give players a clear reason to pick us. And even after they chose us, we still have an obligation to earn that purchase.”