Helix Console to Play Every Xbox Game Ever Made
Microsoft's upcoming console, Project Helix, could potentially have the largest library of any home console. The next Xbox will reportedly play games from every generation of Xbox, including the original 2001 model, the 2005 Xbox 360, the 2013 Xbox One, and the 2020 Xbox Series.
This is in addition to PC games, which were already confirmed by Microsoft. The company plans to digitize existing game discs, allowing players to access their library on any Xbox device.
The leaked memo obtained by The Verge highlights that publishers will need to give permission for each title to be included in the backwards compatibility program. This means they'll have control over pricing and whether games are available through Xbox Game Pass or as standalone purchases.
Microsoft is also trying to convince publishers to participate, dangling the carrot of additional sales from existing customers who might upgrade to digital versions.