Microsoft expands PC backward compatibility to 25 original Xbox titles for 25th anniversary

Key points

• Microsoft added 21 original Xbox games to PC backward compatibility on November 12, 2026, bringing the total to 25 titles.
• The new batch includes 11 Star Wars titles, such as Knights of the Old Republic and Battlefront II, alongside classics like The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind and TimeSplitters 2.
• Four games—Knights of the Old Republic, its sequel, Blinx: The Time Sweeper, and Conker: Live and Reloaded—now support achievements for the first time on both PC and console.
• All 25 titles now support mouse and keyboard input, and several are available via Xbox Game Pass.
• Microsoft states that more titles will receive achievement support in the future, and the expansion coincides with the Xbox 25th anniversary celebrations.

Background

In July 2026, Microsoft launched the initial PC backward compatibility program with four original Xbox games. In October 2026, users reported that original Xbox games were appearing in their Xbox profile achievement histories, hinting at an imminent achievement rollout. This November expansion builds on those earlier steps, adding 21 more titles and introducing achievement support for the first time.

How outlets are covering it

Pure Xbox and Windows Central emphasize the significance of the 25th anniversary and the addition of achievements for classic titles like Knights of the Old Republic. The Verge notes that many of the new titles already have PC versions, questioning the value for existing PC owners, but highlights the progress from four to 25 games. TechPowerUp focuses on the technical aspects, such as mouse and keyboard support and the expansion of the backward compatibility program. All sources agree on the core facts but differ in emphasis, with some highlighting the nostalgia factor and others questioning the practical benefits for PC users who already own these games.

Why it matters

This expansion strengthens Microsoft's position in the game preservation market and enhances the value of Xbox Game Pass for PC users. The addition of achievements for classic titles like Knights of the Old Republic, which laid the foundation for Mass Effect, is particularly significant given the recent closure of BioWare by EA. It also demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to maintaining backward compatibility across platforms, potentially influencing competitors to adopt similar strategies.

What to watch

Microsoft has indicated that more original Xbox games will receive achievement support in the future. The company may also expand the backward compatibility program to include Xbox 360 titles, as suggested by some industry observers. Additionally, the Xbox 25th anniversary celebrations will continue through the week, with potential announcements for new hardware or features.