Microsoft Unveils Retro Gaming Surge: Game Pass Adds 50+ Activision Classics from 80s, 90s

Microsoft has unveiled Retro Classics with Game Pass, an exciting collaboration with Antstream Arcade that brings over 50 classic Activision games from the 80s and 90s to Game Pass members. This collection includes iconic titles like Commando, Grand Prix, Kaboom!, MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat, and Pitfall!, with some games dating back 45 years. A significant feature of Retro Classics is the ability for players to save their progress and continue later, which is a first for many of these nostalgic games.

Microsoft emphasizes that Retro Classics with Game Pass represents "a step in our commitment to game preservation and backwards compatibility." This initiative will be available to all Game Pass members in regions where the service is currently offered.

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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 over time, with new games being added 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 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.

The announcement of Retro Classics comes shortly after the reveal of Wave 2 of Xbox Game Pass’ May 2025 lineup and the confirmation that Hellblade 2 will be available on PS5 this summer.