Retrocompatibility in the next Xbox: certainties, doubts and what we can expect

The next Xbox promises retrocompatibility, but the abandonment of the physical format in games like Ninja Gaiden 4 and The Outer Worlds 2 raises doubts about its real scope.

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The next generation of Xbox consoles is already in development, and both Microsoft and AMD have begun to outline some key details of their joint vision, as we’ve explained in recent days. One of the confirmed elements is that retrocompatibility will be a central part of this new era, allowing players to access their favorite titles on console, PC, or portable devices.

This information has been reinforced during Sarah Bond’s presentation and AMD’s recent statements, where it’s mentioned that the chips designed for this new generation will maintain backward compatibility as part of an open and multi-platform strategy. However, although the general message is hopeful for veteran players, many uncertainties still need to be resolved.

What’s already confirmed about retrocompatibility

Xbox has built an ecosystem over the years that respects user purchases, and that won’t change with the next console. According to recent statements:

• The next Xbox will be retrocompatible with previous generations.

• Access to the already purchased digital library will be maintained, without the need to re-acquire the games.

• Titles will be accessible from multiple devices, thanks to cross-support with PC, cloud, and consoles.

• The joint work with AMD will allow maintaining this retrocompatibility even on more modern chips and architectures.

Uncertainties that still need to be resolved

Despite the positive focus, there are questions that still generate uncertainty among players:

• Will the disc reader be maintained in new models? Although nothing has been officially said, the push towards digital and AMD’s statements point to more portable and optimized devices, which could leave the physical format in the background.

• Will old games continue to work with improvements like FPS Boost or Auto HDR? These features have been very well received on Xbox Series, but it hasn’t been confirmed if they’ll be available on the next generation.

• What about games that are no longer available in the store? Although some old titles can still be downloaded if you already have them, others might be left out due to expired licenses or agreements.

• Will an internet connection or some additional process be required to recover old games? This point hasn’t been addressed yet.

A firm commitment to preserving the player’s legacy

Both Sarah Bond and AMD have made it clear that Xbox’s future will be increasingly open, connected, and respectful of the brand’s history. Retrocompatibility won’t just be maintained, but will be a fundamental part of the experience:

• The system will seek to allow you to play your favorite titles, wherever and however you want.

• ROG Ally Xbox reinforces this multi-platform and portable vision.

• The cooperation with AMD will enable the creation of optimized chips with support for old and new games.

Microsoft isn’t just building a new console, it’s designing an evolutionary platform that will encompass everything the player has accumulated over the last 20 years.

Moving forward, with nuances

Although retrocompatibility seems assured, its implementation will likely vary depending on the device and console model. Some might maintain a disc reader, others won’t. But in any case, Microsoft is betting on an experience that preserves your library, progress, and investment.

• Everything you need to know about the new Xbox generation

These uncertainties take on greater relevance if we consider recent cases of physical editions on Xbox that only include a digital code inside. Such was the case with Ninja Gaiden 4 and The Outer Worlds 2, as we published on Generación Xbox. Both editions for Series dispense with the disc, generating debate about the true future compatibility with physical games and what “retrocompatible” really means in an increasingly digital scenario.