Xbox Is Reportedly Banning User Accounts Using Emulators in Retail Mode

With Xbox’s deal with Activision-Blizzard finally going through, it seems like Xbox users had a relatively blissful period going on. Moreover, Microsoft dropped a new home screen UI for Xbox consoles. With all seemingly going well, it seems a new issue is coming up among Xbox users. Xbox began a massive crackdown on a certain group of Xbox users, getting temporary bans on the platform.

In a new update, Xbox brought out a massive crackdown on Xbox users using emulators in retail mode. While the bans were not permanent, these 15-day bans worked to serve as warnings for users.

Xbox brings the ban hammer on emulator users

It all started a few weeks ago when the rumor mill began swirling. According to this rumor, Xbox users found a way to get the emulator on retail mode. To understand the difference between retail and developer mode, it is important to understand its usage. The retail mode is specifically made for players to use in the way gamers usually use Xbox consoles, to play retail games. The developer mode is used to test software and games.

The emulator is a tool used to play classic titles. However, it is only available in the developer mode. The developer mode is a paid service, meaning users need to sign up and then pay a hefty fee for access. Once news of the emulator appeared in retail mode, Xbox quickly took notice. Microsoft began handing out 15-day bans on people using the service. These bans are meant to serve as warning signs to anyone who uses the emulator in retail mode.

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The Discord community first began helping people get the emulator on retail mode. Once the bans came out, the Discord group quickly let out a warning sign for their users, recommending users stay away from using the emulator in retail mode.

This is not the first time Microsoft has taken a stance on using the emulator mode in the retail mode. Microsoft has always been clear about how it expects users to go along with the emulator. As long as users utilize the correct means to do so, Microsoft supports its users.

Previously, Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, went on to show his support for the emulator. He believes in the importance of emulators, specifically in their potential to allow gamers to access classics. At the moment though, Xbox continues its warning against retail mode emulator users.

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