Original Xbox

Microsoft’s first home console introduced a built-in hard drive, four controller ports and broadband networking to the Xbox story.

Type: Home console
Launch date: Nov 15, 2001
Official website: www.xbox.com

Collected games: 425

news.microsoft.com

Overview

What this platform is

The original Xbox was Microsoft’s first home video game console. It launched in North America on November 15, 2001, before reaching other regions. Here, Xbox means that first machine rather than the entire brand or the later Xbox One. Games such as Halo became closely associated with it.

Main features

Games were distributed on discs, while an internal hard drive stored game information. Four controller ports made local multiplayer possible around one television. Twin analogue sticks supported movement and camera control, and an Ethernet port reflected the emphasis on broadband networking. The large original controller and the later Controller S differ in size and layout.

What to know when using it

Check the exact platform edition when choosing games, cables or controllers. Xbox branding alone does not establish compatibility. Regional discs, power specifications and television connections also deserve attention. Playing original Xbox games on newer hardware depends on the individual backward-compatibility listing; support is selective.