In 1998, Microsoft conceived the idea of creating its own video game console. A group of employees presented the "DirectX Box" project to Bill Gates, with the ambition of developing a console based on Windows 2000, easy to program, and twice as powerful as the PlayStation 2.

Impressed by the proposal, Bill Gates gave the green light to the project, establishing the Xbox division. The name was shortened to "Xbox." In collaboration with Intel and Nvidia, work began on the hardware. The first Xbox was unveiled in 2000, leading the market with its ability to render 3D graphics with great detail and fluidity.

A crucial partnership was formed with Bungie Studios, creators of Halo: Combat Evolved, which became an iconic success for Xbox. The Xbox was launched in November 2001, at a higher price than its competitors, but it attracted gamers with its marketing strategy and an appealing selection of exclusive games.