Microsoft revealed today that the Xbox 360 will be discontinued in 2024, a very sad move that will harm game preservation.
The Xbox 360 Store, commonly known as the Xbox Live Marketplace, has existed in some form on Microsoft's second game platform since its release in 2005. Storefront shutdowns for aging systems have become more regular in recent years. Despite player outrage, the 3DS and Wii U eShops were shut down in March, while Sony planned to close the PS3, PSP, and PS Vita shops in 2021 before backing down due to the response. Regardless, the loss of any shop is a depressing move for the video game business, as some games are only available through them and will be lost forever if the store closes.
According to an Xbox Wire post, the Xbox 360 store will close on July 29, 2024. Players will no longer be able to purchase games, DLC, movies, or TV shows through the Xbox 360 Store or use the Microsoft Movies & TV app after that date. After July 29, 2024, you will be unable to purchase new items or watch movies or TV shows on your system.
According to the post, previously purchased Xbox 360 titles and DLC will remain available and accessible after the store closes, and many of the games are backward compatible with Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S. Other online services for the Xbox 360 will continue to function after this date. Still, this is a very disappointing move by Microsoft, so why are they doing it? "A lot has changed since the Xbox 360 launched in 2005," Xbox Player Services Vice President Dave McCarthy explained in the Xbox Wire piece. "Technology has advanced, player expectations have shifted, and we are committed to making Xbox Series X|S the best place to play now and in the future."
The premise that "technology has evolved" and that what the Xbox 360 Store is now using harms user experience and safety is understandable, but the "player expectations have shifted" argument is far less convincing. I'm sure most players, including myself, would like to preserve the opportunity to purchase games on Xbox 360.
You have until July 29, 2024, to purchase anything from the Xbox 360 Store.