Microsoft Launches Retro Gaming on Game Pass with 50+ Activision Titles from the 80s and 90s

Author: Finn May 28,2025

Microsoft has announced an exciting addition to its Game Pass service with the launch of Retro Classics, in collaboration with Antstream Arcade. This initiative brings over 50 classic Activision games from the 80s and 90s directly to Game Pass members, allowing them to relive the golden era of gaming. Titles such as Commando, Grand Prix, Kaboom!, Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat, and Pitfall! are part of the initial lineup, some of which date back as far as 45 years. A notable feature of this service is the ability to save and resume gameplay, a modern convenience added to these vintage games.

Microsoft emphasizes that Retro Classics with Game Pass is a testament to their commitment to game preservation and backward compatibility. This service will be available to all Game Pass members in regions where Game Pass is offered.

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View 70 ImagesMicrosoft plans to expand the Retro Classics collection over time, aiming to include over 100 games from Activision and Blizzard’s extensive back catalog. New games will be added monthly, ensuring a continuous stream of nostalgic gaming experiences.

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 exciting news that Hellblade 2 will be available on PS5 this summer.