💿 Microsoft is globally rolling out a disc-to-digital program for Xbox One and Xbox Series X games
👏 The feature lets players convert physical discs into digital copies, allowing seamless transition to future digital-only consoles
👍 Supported titles gain extra perks like Xbox Play Anywhere PC access and Xbox Cloud Gaming support
😤 The move contrasts with Sony’s plan to end disc production by 2028 without a clear path for physical PS4/PS5 game libraries
Microsoft’s fortuitously timed disc-to-digital program is now available to all users, and it’s rolling out globally today.
The incredibly consumer-friendly feature lets you insert an Xbox One or Xbox Series X disc into a disc-based Xbox – be it an Xbox One S or an Xbox Series X – and magically convert a physical copy into a digital one.
Thousands of titles are supported, and it means those who have amassed an extensive library of physical games can confidently move on to the next-generation (which will probably be digital-only) without leaving their existing collection behind. It’s worth noting that original Xbox and Xbox 360 games are not supported.
It’s worth unlocking digital licenses for your physical games, as many Xbox One and Series X games support Xbox Play Anywhere, which gives you access to a digital PC copy of the game at no additional cost. You can also access some games via Xbox Cloud Gaming, giving you far more added value overall.
The feature comes shortly after Sony announced it was ending disc production after January 2028, resulting in a monumental backlash from fans. Even though the logic is sound from a business perspective – more players are purchasing their games digitally than ever before – Sony hasn’t offered a solution to those who have physical PS4 and PS5 games.
It remains to be seen whether Sony will, or even can, offer a similar disc-to-digital program, or if it will release a disc drive add-on, as it has with the PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro, for the PS6. Right now, though, it’s Microsoft which is doing the most to cater to gamers who prefer to buy their games physically.
Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.