Microsoft Rolls Out 50 “Retro Classics” on Game Pass

If you’re a fan of old-school video games, Microsoft has just given you a reason to revisit your childhood. They've quietly dropped a new feature for Xbox Game Pass subscribers called Retro Classics, and it’s packed with over 50 throwback titles from the 80s and 90s. Think of it like Nintendo Switch Online’s library of classic games, but now it’s available to Xbox and PC players, with no extra charge.

The collection is a mix of vintage Activision games, including Pitfall, Grand Prix, River Raid, and even MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat. These aren’t just sprinkled in randomly, Microsoft is framing this as part of its larger commitment to preserving the history of gaming. With this move, they’re not only giving players a chance to revisit old favorites but also making sure these iconic games remain accessible to new generations.

You can access the Retro Classics collection through Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, or via Xbox Cloud Gaming on supported devices. That includes certain Samsung and LG smart TVs and even the Meta Quest headset.

One cool bonus? These classics come with modern perks. Players can earn achievements and join community activities like tournaments and special challenges. It’s a fun way to relive the past but with today’s social and competitive twist.

The current launch list is already pretty impressive, but Microsoft isn’t stopping there. They plan to expand the Retro Classics collection to include more than 100 titles from Activision and Blizzard. That means even more legendary games will eventually make their way to your Game Pass library. But just like Nintendo’s retro library, you can’t buy these titles separately, they’re exclusive to Game Pass.

Meanwhile, Microsoft’s partner in this project, Antstream Arcade, is running a limited-time deal for subscribers. Until June 4, you can score a full year of Antstream’s massive library of over 1,300 retro games for just $9.99 through the Microsoft Store.

Whether you're in it for the nostalgia or curious to explore the early days of gaming, Retro Classics is shaping up to be a solid addition to Game Pass.