Xbox works to bring back retrocompatibility

Xbox could open its classic backwards compatibility to ROG Ally and PC, according to new hints.

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The possibility of enjoying Xbox classics on portable Windows devices is back in the spotlight thanks to a new report that has sparked the interest of many gamers. The idea is not new, but it’s gaining momentum: enabling retrocompatible libraries to work on PC, including machines like the ROG Ally.

The topic has emerged from new comments shared on specialized forums, where it’s mentioned that Microsoft’s team is studying ways to bring these games to more devices. Retrocompatibility remains one of the pillars of the ecosystem, and transferring it to other formats would be a logical step in the company’s multi-platform strategy, which has been reinforced over the years.

Xbox is working on bringing classic retrocompatibility to ROG Ally and Windows PC, according to a new rumor

According to well-known leaker NateTheHate, Xbox is exploring methods to publish titles from the original Xbox and Xbox 360 directly on PC and devices like the ROG Ally, thus expanding the reach of the retrocompatible catalog that currently remains limited to consoles. The information is not yet definitive, but it indicates that there is “hope” and intention within the team for this to materialize.

The main question is the approach: it’s unclear whether it would be a program similar to the current Xbox Series or something more comprehensive, with new additions. It’s also unclear if the technical aspect is advanced enough. In June, a supposed program called “Xbox Classics” was mentioned, based on an advanced emulation platform, although that report was later denied by the Xenia team itself.

What does seem to align with the company’s direction is the intention to bring more games to more places, something Microsoft repeats in its product strategy. The ROG Ally already has a significant presence in the Xbox community, and the idea of enabling its retrocompatible libraries on these devices sounds like a natural step. For now, the project is up in the air, and it will likely take time to know if it’s viable, but the interest exists and the door is not closed for those who dream of playing their classics on PC in an official way.