Yes, Xbox Series X can play selected original Xbox games through Microsoft's backward-compatibility program, but it does not support the entire original Xbox library.
Can I use an original Xbox disc on Series X?
For a supported title, insert the original Xbox disc into an Xbox Series X with a disc drive. The console uses the disc as proof of ownership and downloads the backward-compatible version needed to run the game.
Does the all-digital Xbox Series X accept discs?
No. Xbox Series X includes both disc-drive and all-digital models. A physical original Xbox game needs a disc-drive model; the all-digital Series X and Series S cannot read it. Check the model on Xbox’s Series X comparison page before choosing a console for a disc collection.
Does every original Xbox game work?
No. Compatibility is title-specific. Licensing, technical requirements, accessories, and publisher decisions mean many original Xbox games were never added to the backward-compatible catalog.
Do I still need the disc after installation?
Yes. For a physical copy, the disc remains the ownership key and needs to be in the drive when you play.
Can Xbox Series S use original Xbox discs?
No. Series S has no optical disc drive. It can only use supported backward-compatible games that are available digitally and associated with your account.
What about Xbox 360 games?
Xbox Series X also supports many Xbox 360 titles, but that is a separate and much larger compatibility catalog. See our Xbox Series X backward-compatibility guide for the broader picture.
Check the game before buying a physical copy
Find the title in Microsoft’s backward-compatible game catalog. A listing in our original Xbox collection identifies the game’s original platform; it is not a promise of Series X compatibility. Check the exact title, your console’s disc drive and the listing condition.
Shop original Xbox games
Browse original Xbox games at Zypher Trading, and verify compatibility before ordering a title specifically for Series X.
Explore Xbox games by generation
Browse original Xbox games, Xbox 360 games and Xbox Series X games. If you are comparing several systems, use our video game compatibility guide.
