How to Play XBox 360 Games From the Computer

Download the Games for Windows software and open the downloaded file. Follow the on-screen instructions and allow the software to install. Open the program.

Click "Sign into Xbox" and enter your Xbox log-in information, if any. Otherwise, type your email into the "Sign Up" box. Click to sign up.

Provide your date of birth and country of residence. Think of a good password and type it in twice to verify. Select a secret question and answer it. Make sure it is memorable but not something anybody can guess.

Type in the verification code toward the bottom of the screen. This is called a CAPTCHA code, and it is used to ensure you're not a spam robot trying to create a fake account.

Pick a gamertag. This is going to be used on both the Games for Windows service and your Xbox 360. It must be a unique combination of alphanumeric characters and spaces. Click "Check Availability" to make sure nobody else is using that gamertag already. This can be changed later for 800 Microsoft points or $10.

Choose a picture to represent your account. This can be changed later for free.

Choose your Zone. Pro means you're the best at your games, Recreation means you're a casual gamer, Family means you enjoy family-based games, and Underground means you aren't afraid of trash talk. This can be changed at any time for free.

Pick a contact email, where you will receive your emails from Microsoft. This can be the same as the one you used to sign up for your account.

Install your game by putting the DVD into the disc tray and following the instructions. All games in the catalog can be purchased via retail boxes at a local game store, just like their Xbox 360 equivalents. Otherwise, visit the marketplace in your program and purchase it directly. This will require buying "points," which is done at the checkout page.

Play your game. Watch your achievements rack up as you play.