Microsoft Unveils Retro Classics on Game Pass, Starting with 50+ Activision Titles from 80s and 90s

Microsoft has exciting news for retro gaming enthusiasts with the launch of Retro Classics on Game Pass, a collaboration with Antstream Arcade that brings over 50 classic Activision games from the 80s and 90s to Game Pass members. This collection includes beloved titles like Commando, Grand Prix, Kaboom!, Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat, and Pitfall!, some of which date back 45 years. A notable feature of Retro Classics is the ability to save progress and continue playing later, a first for many of these timeless games.

Microsoft emphasizes that Retro Classics with Game Pass represents a significant step in their commitment to game preservation and backwards compatibility. This feature will be accessible to all Game Pass membership tiers in regions where Game Pass is available.

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View 70 ImagesMicrosoft plans to expand the Retro Classics collection, aiming to include over 100 games from Activision and Blizzard’s extensive back catalog. New games will be added monthly, ensuring a growing library of nostalgic titles for players to enjoy.

Retro Classics with Game Pass launch lineup:

Activision prototype #1AtlantisAtlantis IIBarnstormingBaseballBeamriderBloody Human FreewayBoxingBridgeCaesar IICheckersChopper CommandCommandoConquests of the Longbow: The Legend of Robin HoodCosmic ArkCrackpotsDecathlonDemon AttackDolphinDragsterEnduroFathomFire FighterFishing DerbyFreddy Pharkas: Frontier PharmacistFreewayGrand PrixH.E.R.O.Kaboom!Laser BlastMechWarriorMechWarrior 2: 31st Century CombatMegamaniaPitfall II: Lost CavernsPitfall!Police Quest 1Pressure CookerRiddle of the SphinxRiver RaidRiver Raid IIRobot TankSky JinksSpace Quest 2Space Quest 6Space Treat DeluxeSpider FighterStar VoyagerTennisThe Adventures of Willy BeamishThe Adventures of Willy BeamishThe Dagger of Amon RaThwockerTitle Match Pro WrestlingTorin's PassageTrick ShotVault AssaultVenetian BlindsZork IZork ZeroFrostbiteQuest for Glory 1Here’s the official statement from Microsoft:

With Retro Classics, Game Pass members can expect a seamless gaming experience across console, PC, and on supported devices with cloud gaming. Whether playing on Xbox console, the Xbox app on PC, or streaming on supported LG and Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, and Meta Quest headsets, Retro Classics offers a versatile and accessible way to enjoy these nostalgic titles.

Game Pass members can access Retro Classics through their Game Pass membership by searching and installing the feature via their console or on the Xbox app on PC. Additionally, players can take on friends, rivals, or the entire world with unique challenges. For the achievement hunters, there are some great new ones to collect, and for newer players, the ability to save and reload your progress, a first for many classic titles.

This announcement follows closely on the heels of the confirmation of Wave 2 of Xbox Game Pass’ May 2025 lineup and the news that Hellblade 2 is coming to PS5 this summer.