Microsoft's next Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, could theoretically feature the largest game library of any home console. The hardware is expected to run titles from five different generations: the original 2001 Xbox, the 2005 Xbox 360, the 2013 Xbox One, the 2020 Xbox Series, and new Project Helix titles.
A leaked memo obtained by Tom Warren at The Verge indicates that Project Helix will play PC games. Additionally, Microsoft is bringing Xbox 360 games to PC and states they will run on Helix in addition to 'Xbox PCs.'
As part of the ecosystem, Microsoft aims to allow users to digitize their Xbox One and Xbox Series discs so that digital libraries can follow a user to 'any Xbox device.'
Turn physical disc owners into digital customers
The company stated that for the disc-to-digital process, 'Publisher action: none required.' However, it remains uncertain whether Project Helix will include a physical disc drive.
Publisher requirements and licensing challenges
Backwards compatibility features for Project Helix are subject to permission from game publishers. A leaked Microsoft memo addressed to publishers is described as a sales pitch to convince them to participate in game preservation programs.
For original Xbox and Xbox 360 titles, publishers must provide permission for each specific game, set the pricing, and decide if the titles will be available on Xbox Game Pass or as standalone purchases.
Percentage of the original Xbox library made playable on Xbox One and Series consoles between 2015 and 2021.
Between 2015 and 2021, Microsoft made approximately one-quarter of the Xbox 360 library and around 6 percent of the original Xbox library playable on Xbox One and Xbox Series consoles.
Licensing has previously impacted availability, as seen with multiple Forza Horizon games that were delisted—including backwards compatibility versions—because developers secured only temporary licenses for content such as music and cars.
Looking forward, Xbox 360 games featuring cloud saves are planned for integration into the Helix and 'Xbox PC' ecosystem as early as 2027.
