Xbox Game Pass Turns Back Time with Retro Classics: 50+ Activision Titles Now Available
Get ready for a blast from the past! Xbox Game Pass is diving deep into gaming history with the launch of Retro Classics, a new collection of over 50 classic Activision titles. This exciting addition brings back beloved games from the 80s and 90s, offering a nostalgic experience for veteran gamers and a chance for new players to discover retro gems.
Developed in collaboration with Antstream Arcade, Retro Classics is available across all Xbox Game Pass membership tiers and boasts a diverse library ranging from Atari 2600 hits to even a PlayStation title. Think Pitfall!, Grand Prix, Kaboom!, and more! This collection isn't just a static archive either; it's set to expand to over 100 titles from Activision and Blizzard in the future.
While the inclusion of MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat, originally available on PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and PC, might raise an eyebrow, it highlights the diverse range of platforms covered by this collection.
Microsoft characterizes Retro Classics as a significant step in their ongoing commitment to game preservation and backwards compatibility. The collection is accessible on Xbox consoles, PC, and cloud-compatible devices. But here's where it gets even more interesting: players can earn Xbox Achievements while playing these classic games! Community challenges, competitive leaderboards, and high-score rankings add another layer of engagement.
Here’s a sample of what you can jump into:
- Atlantis
- Barnstorming
- Baseball
- Beamrider
- Chopper Command
- Commando
- Crackpots
- Decathlon
- Dragster
- Enduro
- Frostbite
- Grand Prix
- Kaboom!
- MechWarrior 2
- Pitfall!
- River Raid
- Space Quest 2
- Zork Zero
This move by Microsoft echoes Nintendo's approach with Nintendo Switch Online, offering a curated selection of retro titles as part of their subscription service. While Xbox may not have a similarly vast library of first-party classics, leveraging the Activision catalog proves to be a smart strategy.
For gamers seeking even more retro immersion, Antstream Arcade is offering a temporary deal to Game Pass subscribers: a year of access to their extensive library of over 1,300 games for $9.99.
Xbox Game Pass is not just about modern blockbusters; it's now a portal to gaming's golden age. Will this initiative draw in new subscribers? What classic titles are you most excited to revisit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
