Backward compatibility is back in the news, with hardware manufacturers under scrutiny once more. It's an issue that divides the industry, and enrages consumers. But does it actually matter?
Backward compatibility, say its detractors, is a colossal waste of time. But those who favor BC contend it is an expected feature of modern consoles, rewarding consumers loyal to a hardware brand, offering some comfort at point of purchase and extending the life of old-gen games.
Detractors argue that the cost of engineering hardware in boxes that will enable BC is wasteful, as is the time spent by 'emulation ninjas' bringing old games into a new hardware fold.
They say that the number of people actually playing old games on new systems is tiny. When pushed, they may concede that if BC is to be implemented it should be done as cheaply as possible, and it should focus on only the very biggest games, possibly offering some form of enhancement, either paid-for or free.
Intel's gaming strategic planner Tasos Kaiafas says, "I think backward compatibility is nothing more than something else for the fan boys to pick on and complain about. Unless console hardware manufacturers can do something to the old games to enhance them in some meaningful way on the next-gen consoles, it's not worth doing." He argues that the PC, the ultimate backwardly compatible machine, has always been about evolution rather than stark generational cycles.
Apart from the tiny numbers of consumers who make use of BC - they are vocal way beyond their actual mass - even industry fans of BC say it's a cosmetic fix rather than a practical benefit.
Salman from Tech4Gamers writes "Mortal Kombat 9 revived the series from a low point after bringing it back to 2D combat. It marked a new high-point for the franchise due to its incredible roster, exciting cinematic story mode, and high-octane combat."
Shaolin Monks is a forgotten gem. I would love to see a new one, or a remake of the old.
That game was actually goated. It was the first time ever that I actually tried to get good at a fighting game. Unfortunately the online connection was so dogshit it made it hard to enjoy and eventually I gave up. Haven't really played much fighting games since.
Microsoft has slashed the prices of games across the Xbox 360 store in preparation for its July 29th closure.
The Dishwasher
Vigilante 8
Two non-BC and no-PC-version Arcade titles I downloaded recently. Dishwasher's sequel is on Steam at least.
I've also downloaded Ninety-Nine Nights II (shame the first wasn't available). I still want to download Burnout 3: Takedown before the weekend's up, though that is still the full $9.99 non-discounted price
Burnout 3 not available in modern times is a crime to humanity.
I know it’s probably due to the music licensing-though they can simply add other music as Burnout 3’s biggest flaw to me personally-is the music!!!
The Xbox 360 Marketplace is officially shutting down in three days, which means dozens of exclusive, digital-only 360 games will no longer be available to purchase anywhere else once it does.
The Xbox 360 will be almost 20 years old next year, and to celebrate this milestone Microsoft have decided to obliterate all of its online functionality.
Replies(7)
Technically, the games ARE preserved... they are just removing the ability to purchase new games through the 360. They have to keep a full backup of every title (even delisted ones) because they will have to offer the ability to redownload purchased content to users.
I had deleted some games a few years back that had become delisted. I was able to get them back by going through my download history. The games in question were TMNT (classic and re-shelled), afterburner climax and outrun online. Im glad I was able to get those back as they are some of the best on the service.
Well The Ultimate Alliance games have been delisted. I dunno how many old Activision games have been Delisted but MS needs to remake or remaster old Activision games and release them on Xbox and PS. I. Hope that's what they're doing right now.
They can't reserve everything but they 100% can reserve what they got or own.
Fortunately, the X360 was jailbroken a long time ago, so a good part of its library is available for download from 'alternative' sources. Still, it's a bummer to see the store going away.
Dawn of The First Day
-72 Hours Remain-
Also they can keep the store up for life if they wanted.
Series X for the back compat titles, and OG Xbox and X360 for those not on BC. I pretty much bought all of the digital games I want for the 360 so I am good.
No, not telling you would be sleazy. I have a few more games to buy then I'm good. 360 was and still is a great console. Xbox is the best place to play!
I could care less about BC for the XBOX360,but....BC for the Wii, now that will be Great. All the games I played as a kid available and then some! Can't wait.
there are lot's of games on the xbox that look great scaled and with AA
also it extents the life of the console sony proved that with the ps2 more sale's for dev of the last gen, certain styles of game like RPG's don't tend to appear early on in the consoles lifespan.
M$ are daft to try and do all the BC stuff on their own all new games released could be BC if they let devs do it im sure they would be willing to help if it ment selling more software
The great thing is were getting still more titles but all my favs are already b/c. Hey did anyone play "theif" III for the XBOX, awesome game and it;s now on the B/C list. If ya like stealth and midevil type game rolled into one then go for it. One of my top 5 games for the XBOX.
I have still yet to play a game from the original xbox, I agree with number 1, I am more interested in playing mario and stuff like that
On the other side about the 360 BC, when a new games has been anounce for BC all of you fool get all excited and some are dissapointed that your favorate games is not on the LIST. haha all of you moron are sadd just sadd... get a life already and step out of Fairy World alredy and face Reality for once. ahhaha