Biggest reveals from Xbox at E3: backward compatibility, new controller and HoloLens

THE game company was always going to make some massive announcements this year and it hasn’t disappointed.

Phil Spencer

THE Xbox 2015 E3 briefing was always going to make some massive announcements and it didn’t disappoint.

While the event had a strong focus on landmark and exclusive video games, Xbox also unveiled some news about its console, controllers and future technology.

Backwards compatible

Standing before a vocal audience, head of Xbox Phil Spencer built hype as he alluded to one of the most important changes to Xbox in recent history.

“Since the launch of Xbox One we have listened to you, the community of Xbox gamers and we are grateful for your continued feedback,” he said.

“Last year, the team decided to tackle a feature that is constantly at the top of your request list and while we weren’t sure it was possible, today I am pleased to announce Xbox One backward compatibility.”

Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft's Xbox division.

The change means people can play a growing number of Xbox 360 games on their Xbox One at no additional cost.

Included in the initial release is Banjo-Kazooie and Mass Effect, with hundreds of more releases available in September.

What makes this news even more exciting is the ability to use next-gen features like screenshot, broadcasting and Game DV on the older games.

Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller

Following the announcement of backwards compatibility, Mr Spencer wasted no time showcasing the console’s updated controller.

“Whether you’re a console gamer, a PC gamer or both, we know many of you want more,” he said.

“More customisation, more precision and more control on your gaming experience.”

The new product is essentially the Xbox One controller on steroids.

It contains features like trigger locks, paddles for precision driving and a number of interchangeable components.

The controller also gives gamers full customisation of thumb-stick sensitivity.

While there are no hints as to what the controller will cost, Mr Spencer said it would be commercially available in September.

Microsoft HoloLens

Saving the best til last, the company showcased a dedicated version of Minecraft to be played on Microsoft HoloLens — the first fully untethered, see-through holographic computer.

The HoloLens allows gamers to display Minecraft in 2D on any surface you imagine, however it also opens up the opportunity to display a fully intractable 3D version of the game that can be used on a surface such as a table.

This was demonstrated in real-time, as a member of the Mojang team was able use the technology to look inside buildings, zoom in and out and lift the entire world to see what lies beneath it.