The Xbox Game Pass has just received a major boost, especially for fans of old-school gaming. Microsoft has introduced a new feature called Retro Classics that adds more than 50 vintage Activision titles to the subscription service – and it’s completely free.

Microsoft keeps expanding its gaming subscription. Alongside the list of titles arriving in the second half of May, the company has announced something even bigger: the launch of the Retro Classics program, bringing dozens of classic games into the Game Pass catalog. And yes, this addition is entirely free for all subscribers.

A trip back to gaming’s golden age

Retro Classics is the result of a partnership between Xbox and Anstream Arcade, a UK-based platform known for streaming classic games. Starting today, Game Pass users can enjoy over 50 Activision titles from the 1980s and 1990s, including Commando, Grand Prix, and Pitfall!. As Microsoft explains on Xbox Wire, “this initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to preserve gaming history and ensure backward compatibility, allowing players to experience timeless classics on modern platforms.”

But it’s not just about bringing old games back – Microsoft calls them “refurbished, ready-to-play” and has added new features like community challenges, global leaderboards, challenge modes, and high-score rankings. “Compete with friends, rivals, or the whole world in unique challenges, or play solo to earn achievements. For the first time in many of these games, you can save your progress and resume later.”

This is just the beginning. Microsoft plans to expand the collection further with additional Activision and Blizzard titles, aiming to exceed 100 retro games in total – a dream come true for nostalgic gamers.

PC features get an upgrade too

Microsoft didn’t stop at retro titles. For PC players, there’s also a new tool: Microsoft Edge Game Assist, a browser enhancement that offers tips, guides, playlists and integrates Discord, Spotify, and Twitch. It works directly within the regular Edge browser, streamlining the gaming experience.

The Game Bar has also been updated. Its settings menu now allows easier control over volume, brightness, and connected devices with fewer interruptions during gameplay.

More support for existing services

Microsoft hasn’t forgotten about Stream Your Own Game and Xbox Play Anywhere. The former now supports games like Arma Reforger, Deliver At All Cost, and Roadcraft, with Anno 1800, Life is Strange: True Colors, and Watch Dogs Legion on the way.

Xbox Play Anywhere has already added over 70 new titles in 2025, including Blue Prince, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion – Remastered. It’s clear that Xbox is investing heavily in enhancing its ecosystem – especially for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Source: 3djuegos