New Xbox Helix May Support Games From Every Generation
Microsoft is actively working on the next-generation Xbox game console, Project Helix. According to IXBT.com, the new device is expected not only to retain full compatibility with next-generation games but also to run games released for every previous Xbox console in history. This is evidenced by a leaked internal memo. Ixbt.com reports it.
Microsoft reportedly plans to take on all the major engineering tasks for this ambitious project. The company will develop a dedicated emulator, test and certify each game, and handle the store infrastructure and player support itself. Creators will only need to grant permission to list their old projects in the store.
As part of the new initiative, developers and publishers will retain all revenue from their products. Microsoft will also guarantee that they maintain full control over their rights, pricing policies, and brands. This should make it legally much easier to bring older projects back to modern platforms.
Technical Challenges and Solutions
However, several serious technical obstacles remain. The main issue concerns games created for the original Xbox and Xbox 360. Because these older devices relied on completely different architectures, running their games on modern consoles or personal computers is a complex task. Helix is technically closer to a personal computer.Adapting such games to the new system would require either creating a highly capable emulator or remastering each project from scratch, which would in turn demand considerable time and money. Nevertheless, Microsoft has already taken its first steps and released several older projects for personal computers.
First Steps
The company’s initial tests and releases included the following popular retro games:- BLiNX: The Time Sweeper
- Conker: Live and Reloaded
- Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge
- Fuzion Frenzy
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