Microsoft released an announcement that first made Pixar fans tense up, then relax. The digital version of Toy Story 3 will disappear from the Xbox Store on September 29, 2026. But this isn’t the end, it’s a reboot: on October 15, Toy Story 3: Complete Edition will be released, featuring 4K graphics, 60 FPS, and content that was previously exclusive to the PS3. Following it will be Toy Story: Retro Roundup, a collection of eleven classic games from the franchise, complete with interviews and archival footage. Owners of the original won’t lose access to the remaster, but upgrading to the remaster isn’t free, and that’s perhaps the biggest bummer.
It’s strange: the game is being removed, but it’s actually for the better. Because instead of the old $9.99 version, we’ll be getting remastered editions that will finally make it to all modern platforms—from PS5 to Switch 2. Coincidence? Rather, it’s the systematic work of Digital Eclipse, a studio that specializes in resurrecting classics. They’ve already pulled this off with the Atari 50 and The Making of Karateka, so this is clearly more than just a repackaging.
The original Toy Story 3 will be removed from stores on September 29th. Microsoft’s decision has been confirmed: starting September 29th, the digital version of Toy Story 3 for Xbox 360 (which is also playable on new Xboxes via backward compatibility) will no longer be available. The price is currently $9.99, and this is your last chance to get it at that price. Those who have already purchased it can safely reinstall and play—access will remain forever. However, if you were expecting a free upgrade to the Complete Edition for owners of the original, you’ll be disappointed. Official sources are silent about any upgrade program. So, the Complete Edition is a separate product, and you’ll have to shell out $24.99 for it. Incidentally, this is precisely why fans are now panic-buying the original, but as we’ll discuss later, this isn’t always wise.
Table of Contents
Toy Story 3: Complete Edition – What We Know About the Remaster
Now that’s interesting. The Complete Edition is coming out on October 15, 2026, on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and PC (Steam). It’s being developed by Digital Eclipse, the same studio that recently released Tetris Forever and Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story. They’re not simply repackaging the game – they’re adding content that was previously only available to PlayStation 3 owners. This includes several additional levels and possibly exclusive items in Toy Box mode.
Technical improvements: 4K resolution on next-gen consoles, a stable 60 FPS, and reworked textures are promised. Essentially, this isn’t just a port, but a full-fledged remaster with a wide range of visual and gameplay improvements. The price is $24.99, which seems reasonable for such a volume, especially considering that physical copies of the original on eBay have already exceeded $200.
Toy Story: Retro Roundup – A Collection of Classics

But the surprises don’t end there. On the same day, October 15th, Toy Story: Retro Roundup will be released – a collection that includes 11 versions of games based on Pixar films. The list includes:
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Toy Story (1995, Sega Genesis/SNES)
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Toy Story 2: Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue (1999, PS1/N64/PC)
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Toy Story 2 (1999, Game Boy Color) – yes, a standalone version!
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Buzz Lightyear of Star Command (2000, PS1/PC)
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Toy Story Racer (2001, PS1)
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A Bug’s Life (1998, PS1/PC) – a bonus, and it’s a real treat.
Digital Eclipse has added behind-the-scenes footage, developer interviews, and even music tracks from the Pixar archives. This is the studio’s fourth such project, and it feels like a homage to the 90s era. The collection is priced at the same $24.99, and if you buy both editions in a physical bundle (for PS4/PS5 or Switch 2), you’ll pay between $39.99 and $49.99 depending on the platform.
Should you buy the original now or wait for the remaster?
That’s the main question on everyone’s mind who’s heard the news. Let’s compare.
| Version | Price | Platforms | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original (Xbox 360) | $9.99 | Xbox One / Series (backward compatibility) | Base game, no PS3 content |
| Complete Edition | $24.99 | PS4/PS5, Xbox One/Series, Switch, Switch 2, PC | 4K/60 FPS, added exclusive content, enhanced graphics |
| Retro Roundup | $24.99 | PS4/PS5, Xbox One/Series, Switch, Switch 2, PC | 11 classic games + bonuses |
| Physical Bundle (both) | $39.99–$49.99 | PS4/PS5, Switch 2 | Two discs/cartridges, Collector’s Edition |
If you just want to play the game and don’t mind spending $10, buy the original before September 29th. But if you want the best version with the best graphics and all the content, definitely wait until October 15th and get the Complete Edition. The price difference is only $15, but you get so much more.
By the way, physical copies of the original are now a collector’s item, and their price is only rising. So if you have a 360 disc lying around, don’t sell it for next to nothing.
Physical Double Pack – for Collectors
For the most dedicated fans, there’s a physical bundle that includes both games—Complete Edition and Retro Roundup. It costs $39.99 on PS4/PS5 and $49.99 on Switch 2 (apparently due to the larger cartridges). Pre-orders are now open on retailer websites, but be careful: the price may vary by region.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the original be retired?
September 29, 2026.
Will I be able to play if I already bought it?
Yes, I’ll still have access.
Will there be a free upgrade?
Officially, no. The Complete Edition is a separate purchase.
What platforms is the remaster available for?
PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Switch, Switch 2, PC.
Is it worth buying the original now?
If you’re looking to save money, yes. If you want the best version, wait until October 15th.
Bottom line: Microsoft and Digital Eclipse are doing what they do best – turning the removal of an old game into an event. While competitors are simply removing titles from stores without explanation, we’re getting two new products that surpass the original in every way. Yes, you’ll have to shell out some cash, but Toy Story fans will definitely get what they deserve. And if you haven’t played Toy Box yet, now’s the perfect time to catch up. Just don’t delay buying the original if you’re looking to save money: September 29th is closer than you think.
