Microsoft Announces Retro Classics With Game Pass, Kicks Things Off With Over 50 Activision Games From the 80s and 90s

Microsoft has exciting news for retro gaming enthusiasts with the introduction of Retro Classics through Game Pass, a result of a partnership with Antstream Arcade. This initiative brings over 50 classic Activision games from the 80s and 90s directly to Game Pass members. Titles such as Commando, Grand Prix, Kaboom!, Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat, and Pitfall! are part of the nostalgic lineup, with some games dating back as far as 45 years. A significant feature is the ability to save progress and resume play later, a first for many of these iconic games.

Microsoft emphasizes that Retro Classics with Game Pass underscores their commitment to game preservation and backwards compatibility. This feature is accessible to all Game Pass members across regions where the service is available.

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View 70 ImagesMicrosoft plans to expand the Retro Classics collection to over 100 games by adding more classic titles from Activision and Blizzard’s archives to Game Pass, with new games expected to be introduced monthly.

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 enjoy a seamless gaming experience across console, PC, and on supported devices with cloud gaming. Whether you're playing on an Xbox console, using the Xbox app on PC, or streaming on compatible LG and Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, and Meta Quest headsets, Retro Classics provides a versatile and accessible way to relive these nostalgic titles.

Game Pass members can access Retro Classics by searching and installing the feature on their console or through the Xbox app on PC. Players can challenge friends, rivals, or compete globally with unique challenges. For achievement hunters, there are new accolades to collect, and for newcomers, the ability to save and reload your progress offers a modern touch to these classic games.

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 will be available on PS5 this summer.