Microsoft has announced that the Xbox 360 store will cease its operations on July 29, 2024. After this date, users won’t be able to purchase any games, expansions, or other content directly from the Xbox 360 console or its Marketplace. However, for those interested in backward compatibility, games and DLC from the original Xbox or Xbox 360 that are compatible with the Xbox One or Series X/S will remain available for purchase on these newer console platforms.
Additionally, the Microsoft Movies & TV app will no longer function on the Xbox 360 from the said date, preventing users from streaming shows and movies through the app. However, content purchased from the Xbox 360 store can still be accessed and viewed on Windows 10 and 11 devices, as well as Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S. Content compatible with the Movies Anywhere service can be viewed via its platform as well.
While the digital storefront of Xbox 360 will be closing, users can continue purchasing content until the given date. Moreover, existing library content will still be functional on the Xbox 360. Many of these titles will also be accessible on newer consoles through backwards compatibility. Microsoft has also enhanced several Xbox 360 titles for Series X/S, offering improved features such as FPS Boost, Auto HDR, and faster loading times.
For multiplayer enthusiasts, multiplayer features for Xbox 360 titles will remain intact as long as the game developers and publishers maintain the servers. Gamers can also save their progress to the cloud, allowing them to continue playing on Xbox One or Series X/S consoles.
Considering the Xbox 360 is turning 18 and it’s been quite a while since the last game release for the platform, it might not be commercially viable for Microsoft to maintain the store. Yet, the decision will inevitably impact the availability of several digital-only games, raising concerns regarding game preservation.
In comparison, Sony faced backlash from fans when it announced plans to shut down the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita stores in 2021. Sony eventually decided to keep these stores running but closed the PSP store. Nonetheless, Sony has implemented certain restrictions, making it a bit more challenging for users to purchase games for PS3 and Vita, given the unavailability of direct payment methods like credit/debit cards or PayPal on these platforms. Sony, recognizing the importance of preserving games, established a game preservation team in 2022.
