If you have a stack of old, original Xbox games, you might still be able to play them. Many games released for the original Xbox can be run on the Xbox 360. You may need to download updates for the games to run, and not all games are compatible on the Xbox 360, but you can take advantage of the Xbox 360 to take older games even further.
Step
Step 1. Install the original Xbox 360 hard drive if you don't already have one
Most Xbox 360 consoles come directly with a hard drive, which is 4GB in size, but the Xbox 360 Type S, Arcade, and Core don't have one. Xbox 360 original hard disk is required to store the emulation program and Xbox game saver data.
- Hard disks that are not made by Microsoft do not have an emulation program. If you want to buy a disc for Xbox 360, make sure that the hard drive is genuine.
- Use the cable and CD to transfer data from the Xbox 360 to the new hard drive before you plug it in. You can attach the hard drive by opening the side panel of the Xbox 360 and then plugging in the hard drive.
Step 2. Connect the Xbox 360 to the internet
In order to download updates to play original Xbox games, you'll need to connect your Xbox 360 to the internet when the game is running for the first time.
You can connect the console to Xbox Live via the System Settings menu. You'll need a free Xbox Live account if you don't already have one, then you'll be guided through the first-time connection process. Click here for a guide on connecting the Xbox 360 to the internet
Step 3. Install the latest system updates available on Xbox Live
By updating your system, you can install emulator programs to play Xbox games.
- The console will prompt you to download updates automatically when you're connected to Xbox Live and there's an update available.
- If you don't have an internet connection, system updates are usually included in the game disc. By getting a newer version of the game for Xbox 360, you can ensure that the update is included in the game.
- Click here for a guide on updating your Xbox 360.
Step 4. Insert the original Xbox game into the Xbox 360
The game will start automatically, and the Xbox logo will appear. Not all original Xbox games can be played using the Xbox 360. For a list of games that can and cannot be played on the Xbox 360, see the list in this link. Compatible games are highlighted in green.
Step 5. Install game updates when prompted
When entering the game, you will be prompted to download the update. Some games don't require you to download updates, but there are others that do.
You will need to connect your console to the internet in order to download the update files, which are needed to run the game. If you get a message stating that the game is not compatible, but should be able to run according to the link above, make sure that the console is connected to the internet
Step 6. Start playing the game
After installing the update, the game will start. You don't need to download anything else later to play the game.
Troubleshooting
Step 1. Make sure that your game is compatible
Not all Xbox games can be run with the Xbox 360. Check the list above to see if the game will work or not.
Step 2. Check if the disc is scratched
If the game disc is badly scratched, it's possible that the game won't start. If you can, try playing discs on a different system, so you can see if it's your console or disc that's the problem.
If the disc is scratched, you can repair it by applying toothpaste. Use a small amount of toothpaste, then rub it on the scratch. Swipe the toothpaste from the center of the disc outwards in a straight line. Rinse the discs, then let them dry
Step 3. Check your network connection
You may need to download an update when starting the game. To do this, the console must be connected to Xbox Live using a Silver (free) or Gold account.
Step 4. Make sure that your hard drive is genuine
Only genuine Microsoft hard drives come with an emulation program, which is required to run Xbox games. If you buy a used hard drive or buy a disc from an unauthorized seller, the hard drive is probably a fake.
