Xbox Game Pass subscribers are in for a retro surprise. As of May 21, more than 50 classic Activision titles have been added to the service through a newly launched app named Retro Classics. Available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and cloud streaming, this app is accessible to all tiers of Game Pass members — except those based in Japan.
Antstream Technology Powers the Experience
This expansion is made possible through collaboration with Antstream Arcade, whose cloud streaming technology runs the Retro Classics platform. This setup allows players to jump into a wide range of vintage games instantly. The app also includes features that modern gamers expect, such as multiplayer support, challenge modes, profile customization, cloud saves, and even leaderboards. Notably, achievements have been integrated, meaning players can now earn Xbox rewards for games like River Raid.
Highlights From the Retro Lineup
Some standout titles now available include:
- Kaboom!
- Pitfall and Pitfall 2
- River Raid
- MechWarrior 2
- Commando
- Fishing Derby
- Grand Prix
- Barnstorming
- Freddy Pharkas: Frontier Pharmacist
These games span a wide range of genres and eras, offering a nostalgic experience for long-time gamers and a historical perspective for newer players.
Commitment to Game Preservation
Microsoft framed this rollout as a part of its broader mission to support game preservation and backward compatibility. The company emphasized that making these timeless games accessible on modern devices ensures their legacy continues.
According to Xbox’s statement on its official site, this is just the beginning. The company intends to expand the app’s offerings, including additional Activision and Blizzard classics in the near future.
A New Era of Accessible Retro Gaming
While not everyone may be a fan of streaming-based gameplay, especially for retro titles, the introduction of Retro Classics represents a significant step forward. It demonstrates a willingness to breathe new life into gaming history, following Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision in 2023. For many players, this initiative provides a legal and convenient way to revisit — or discover — games that shaped the industry.
As the Retro Classics library grows, it offers a compelling glimpse into what preserving digital entertainment can look like in the cloud gaming era.