It's time to say goodbye to the Xbox 360 Marketplace, as Microsoft's digital storefront for the console is officially closing its doors tomorrow, 29 July.
While this move isn't unexpected â with similar closures affecting the Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, and PlayStation 3 storefronts in recent years â it still marks a sad day for fans of the original Xbox 360. This console helped launch the modern indie game movement, offering a platform for innovative and exciting titles.
The closure means that over 220 digital Xbox 360 games will become unavailable for purchase through official channels. This includes not only the games themselves, but also DLC that was not released on disc.
While Microsoft has made commendable efforts to ensure backwards compatibility for many Xbox games on newer consoles, not all titles have been included in the programme. This means that some games will be lost to history, even if they weren't critically acclaimed masterpieces.
To soften the blow, Microsoft did offer some final price reductions on Xbox 360 games in May. You can still find some titles for up to 90% off, offering a last chance to pick up those classics you've been meaning to play.
However, the closure of the Xbox 360 Marketplace highlights a growing concern for digital game preservation. As digital storefronts close, it becomes increasingly difficult to access and play older games, even if they were once readily available. This raises questions about the long-term future of digital games and how to ensure they can be enjoyed by future generations.
While the Xbox 360 era is coming to an end in this digital space, its legacy will live on. The console served as a springboard for countless developers and gamers, and its impact on the gaming industry is undeniable. Now, as we bid farewell to the Xbox 360 Marketplace, itâs time to cherish the memories and the games we've enjoyed over the years.