(Reuters) – Microsoft announced on Thursday that it will be shutting down the Xbox 360’s online store and marketplace next year. The decision comes as Microsoft shifts its focus towards its latest consoles and subscription service, Game Pass.
The Xbox 360 Store and Xbox 360 Marketplace are slated to shut down on July 29, 2024. After this date, gamers on the old console will no longer be able to purchase and download new games, according to a post on Xbox’s website.
However, Microsoft has assured users that they will still be able to play their previously purchased Xbox 360 games and older titles that are compatible with the console.
“A lot has changed since the Xbox 360 launched in 2005. Technology has evolved, expectations from players have shifted, and we are focused on making Xbox Series X|S the best place to play now and in the future,” stated Xbox.
In 2016, Microsoft discontinued the production of Xbox 360 and, a year later, introduced Xbox Game Pass. This subscription gaming service is available on both consoles and Windows platforms.
As part of this recent announcement, the Movies & TV app on the older console will also be removed.
The Xbox 360 holds a place as one of the best-selling gaming consoles of all time, rivaling Sony’s PlayStation 3. Until 2014, Microsoft had sold approximately 84 million units of the Xbox 360. However, the company stopped reporting its sales numbers once it launched its successor, the Xbox One.
Reporting by Yuvraj Malik in Bengaluru
Credit: The Star : Tech Feed
![[Ready Stock] 13×/Set Xbox 360 Gaming Accessories 3D Analog Thumb Joystick+Handle Conductive Adhesive+Screwdriver Repair Parts Replace Tools Kit](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==)
