Xbox Game Pass has been updated to include some classic noughties titles, while other retro games are now available on PC and handheld.
Earlier this year, Microsoft confirmed it would be bringing back its Backwards Compatibility Program. The initiative was first launched in 2015 and let gamers play “thousands” of Xbox, 360 and Xbox One titles on modern consoles. The company explained that the Backwards Compatibility Program aimed to “not only preserve the games you know and love, but also to enhance them using the latest technology so they look and play better than ever before while still staying true to the original creator’s vision.”
The program was paused in 2021 (“We have reached the limit of our ability to bring new games to the catalog from the past due to licensing, legal and technical constraints”) but was revived earlier this year, following the announcement of Project Helix.
New tech shouldn't mean leaving behind old games. Today XBOX is launching new tech so you can play the OG XBOX games you own, but now on PC and handhelds https://t.co/0XwdEiQ6Ot
— ASHA (@asha_shar) July 22, 2026
“We’re committed to keeping games from four generations of Xbox playable for years to come,” said Xbox’sJason Ronald. “As part of our 25th anniversary later this year, we’ll be rolling out new ways to play some of the most iconic games from our past.”
Now, the first wave of new additions to Microsoft’s Backwards Compatibility Program have been confirmed. Noughties classic Conker: Live And Reloaded has been added to Xbox Game Pass’ Essential, Premium and PC tiers.
