Official Xbox console emulation for Windows may be in the works, according to a new rumor from a longtime Microsoft insider. Though such a solution could bring a variety of classic Xbox games to PC, it may not arrive in the form of a typical emulator—assuming it arrives at all.
The claim originates from Windows Central's Jez Corden, who has a solid track record with Microsoft-related scoops. In recent times, he was the first to report on the existence of a first-party Xbox handheld months before Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer confirmed it in late 2024. The device is said to have eventually been scrapped in favor of a partnership with ASUS, which led to the recent release of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handhelds.
As part of a recent discussion on The Xbox Two Podcast Discord server, Corden said that the ROG Xbox Ally line may soon be expanded with the ability to play classic Xbox console games. According to his sources, "there's work being done" on a Windows emulator capable of running "some" Xbox titles. The technology could be commercialized as early as 2026, Corden suggested.
The insider specifically mentioned backward compatibility...
