A new report from The Verge suggests Microsoft is working to bring an unprecedented level of backwards compatibility to its upcoming PC-console hybrid, the Xbox Helix, according to a report published by Tom's Hardware. The outlet obtained leaked screenshots of an internal memo allegedly sent to publishers asking them to opt into a model that would bring legacy titles from old Xbox consoles to modern devices.
Microsoft is hoping to entice publishers to make their original Xbox titles available on Helix with a series of benefits, rather than requiring them to handle the technical work themselves. The leaked memo says Microsoft would manage all engineering, the bespoke emulator, title-by-title certification and testing, storefront merchandising, and player support, while developers would retain rights, pricing, and brand control.
The report also claims Microsoft is pushing a disc-to-license system that would tie the game on the disc to a license instead, letting players access it anywhere with their Xbox account. That approach would give players access to one of the largest game libraries ever available on a home gaming platform, though the effort depends on publishers signing on.
The memo reportedly confirms Xbox 360 backwards compatibility is in the works for 2027-28, around the same time the next-gen Xbox Helix console is expected to arrive.
