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Can you play Xbox One games on the Xbox Series X?

Is the Xbox Series X backwards compatible?
Last Updated on November 22, 2023
Xbox One games on Xbox Series X: A comprehensive PC guide for Xbox enthusiasts. Image shows the Xbox One and Xbox Series X underneath the PC Guide logo, on a purple pink gradient background.
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The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s latest console, but long-term fans of the device often end up pondering this question – can you play Xbox One Games on the Xbox Series X? Although the Xbox One has just passed its 10th birthday, many gamers are still playing some of its timeless titles such as GTA V, Red Dead Redemption, and The Witcher 3. However, technology moves on quickly, so it’s only natural to wonder if you can play these older games on a newer console, especially if you’re in the market for an upgrade. In this article, we’ll answer all your burning questions about playing Xbox One games on the Xbox Series X. Let’s get started!

Can I play Xbox One games on Xbox Series X?

To cut to the chase, yes, absolutely! The Xbox Series X is fully backward compatible with Xbox One game titles. Microsoft has confirmed that you can play any Xbox One game on the Xbox Series X, keeping fans loyal to the console series. Additionally, as well as the physical discs, digital copies of Xbox One games can also be installed and played directly from the console’s hard drive.

Playing physical Xbox One games on the Xbox Series X

If you’ve kept your Xbox One physical discs, the process of playing them on the Xbox Series X is straightforward. Simply take the disc from the box and insert it into the disc tray of the Xbox Series X. The console will then copy the game to your hard drive, downloading any available updates to get the software running at its best. Once the installation is complete, you’re ready to dive back into your favorite gaming adventures.

Playing digital Xbox One games on the Xbox Series X

If you find that you’d prefer to play digital copies of your Xbox One titles, you’ll be pleased to know that the process remains unchanged on the Xbox Series X. With an identical interface, you’ll have no problem accessing your games library. From here, you can find all the games that you’ve previously downloaded through your Xbox account, including ones from your previous console. Of course, before you download you might want to free up some space on your Xbox so you have enough room for any in-game updates.

Here’s how you can play your digital Xbox One games on the Xbox Series X:

  • Press the Xbox button on your controller to bring up the guide
  • Select ‘My games and apps
  • Choose ‘Show all’
  • Select ‘Complete library
  • Go to ‘All owned games
  • From this overview, choose the game you want to download and install

The game will then be ready to play on your Xbox Series X, ensuring a seamless transition from your previous console.

Will Xbox One games look better on the Xbox Series X?

Yes, Xbox One gaming graphics will look better when played on the Xbox Series X. The improved hardware of the Xbox Series X allows for more efficient gameplay and higher resolutions, given that it has been designed to support 4K. Additionally, the console supports a feature called “Auto HDR,” which enhances the graphics of certain Xbox One games. Of course, investing in one of the best TVs for Xbox Series X can go ahead and take your experience to the next level.

✓ Marla’s thoughts

Most powerful Xbox?

It’s worth noting that as Microsoft’s flagship console, the Xbox Series X is currently the most powerful Xbox, so you’ll have a huge advantage when playing Xbox One games on it as opposed to playing them on an Xbox One itself. It uses a combination of 4K upscaling and Auto HDR to improve graphics and color contrast.

Wrapping up

In conclusion, the Xbox Series X offers an unbeatable gaming experience for long-term Xbox gamers by allowing you to play your favorite Xbox One gaming titles on this newer console. With backward compatibility, enhanced graphics, faster load times, and features like Smart Delivery, the Series X console ensures that you can continue enjoying your entire gaming library without any hassle.

Marla writes across a wide range of topics across PC Guide, including AI, PC hardware, and news on the latest tech releases. She's a passionate writer that's interested in the future of technology.