Remember when your Xbox controller was tethered to the console with a cable and when standing in line at GameStop was the only way to pick up new releases? How about carefully selecting downloads with only 8 GB of storage and sitting down with a friend for some quality 640×480 resolution gaming? Xbox has changed a lot since it launched in 2001, huh?
Two decades of gaming has seen Xbox grow into the comprehensive playing experience it is today. Fans can game on the newest Xbox console or PC, play against a network of more than 100 million Xbox gamers, and enjoy more than 7,000 video games that have been released for the platform (including the iconic Halo franchise, which is also commemorating 20 years of gaming goodness).
To celebrate its milestone anniversary and legacy, Xbox is releasing anniversary merch for fans and hosting livestream events. These activities will continue through November 15.
Fans can register for Xbox FanFest to participate in 20th Anniversary activities, including exclusive sweepstakes, FanFest gear, promotions, and curated online experiences. Xbox is also offering a new 20-year gamerpic and “The Original” profile theme in players’ customize profile menu. For Xbox Series X|S owners, “The Original” dynamic background is available in the personalization menu.
Fans can also check out the Xbox Gear Shop for the first wave of 20th-anniversary merch, which includes T-shirts, hats, mugs, totes, pillows, and tumblers. Some designs feature the Xbox celebration logo, while others commemorate the Halo franchise anniversary with gold, Halo Chief-inspired insignia.
For fans who want to explore some of the greatest games that made their mark on Xbox history — and relive that sweet, sweet gaming nostalgia — Xbox is offering a curated collection of these titles in the Microsoft Store. Some of the featured games include Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Fable II, Cuphead, Grand Theft Auto V, Red Dead Redemption 2, Watch Dogs: Legion, and more.
Rounding out the celebration collection is a variety of free, anniversary-themed wallpapers for fans to show off their Xbox and Halo love. One design features the 20th-anniversary logo surrounded by characters such as Vault Boy from the Fallout franchise, Steve from the Minecraft universe, and, of course, Halo characters.
To keep up with new announcements, activities, and rolling merch releases, visit xbox.com/20years. Happy gaming!
