Xbox has confirmed a new disc-to-digital feature that will let players claim a digital entitlement for game discs they already own physically. The feature will begin testing with Xbox Insiders on August 31 and will work with most Xbox One and Series X disc-based games.
Players will be able to claim the digital entitlement simply by inserting a supported disc into an Xbox One or Series X console and launching the game. Once claimed, players can use Xbox Play Anywhere and Cloud Gaming on supported titles. Xbox says "thousands" of games will be supported at first, with more to come over time.
Commitment to game preservation
In a statement, a spokesperson said: "While not every title will be available at launch, this is an important step toward a future where players can have greater confidence that the games they buy remain with them for years to come."
"This is part of our broader commitment to game preservation. As technology, devices, and distribution continue to evolve, preserving access to the games people own matters more than ever."
Fan reaction and industry context
The move has been praised by fans who have been disillusioned by the shift away from physical media. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma said gamers' physical libraries "hold years of memories and stories worth preserving".
Many fans have hailed the plans as an antidote to the controversial announcement by Sony that PlayStation disc manufacturing will end in 2028. Sony's plans have proven wildly unpopular, with fans choosing to boycott PS5 games and cancelling pre-orders in response. It is part of a wider industry shift away from physical media, typified by Rockstar Games' decision to sell flagship title GTA 6 as a digital-only game when it arrives on November 19.
X25 anniversary console revealed
The announcement comes as Xbox also used the Gamescom event in Cologne, Germany to officially reveal the new limited edition Xbox Series X console. Released to celebrate 25 years of Xbox, the X25 Anniversary edition sold out in minutes.
Pre-orders opened on Wednesday, August 26 for the system, which includes a full digital download of Halo: Campaign Evolved and a Limited Edition X25 controller. Announced for launch on November 13, the console costs £759.99.
An Xbox spokesperson said: "From the translucent OG Green design to the details and tributes hidden throughout the hardware, every detail was created to celebrate the players, games, and moments that have shaped XBOX over the past 25 years."
"Every XBOX Series X25 Limited Edition console is individually numbered with a unique engraving, making each one a lasting piece of XBOX history."
The special edition controller is also available separately and will release on October 20.
