Xbox has introduced a new initiative called Retro Classics, which will bring a collection of over 60 classic Activision games from the ’80s and ’90s to Xbox Game Pass subscribers. This collection, developed in partnership with Antstream Arcade, features beloved titles such as Pitfall, Commando, and Grand Prix, and includes games that span various platforms, from the Atari 2600 to the PlayStation.
As part of its ongoing commitment to game preservation and backwards compatibility, Xbox plans to expand the Retro Classics collection to over 100 titles over time, incorporating additional games from Activision and Blizzard. Notably, while the PlayStation lineup currently only includes Mechwarrior 2, which is also accessible on Sega Saturn and PC, it’s significant that a PlayStation game is part of the offering on Xbox platforms, particularly for owners of Xbox Series X|S consoles.
Retro Classics will be playable on console, PC, and cloud-compatible devices, and gamers will have opportunities to earn Xbox Achievements through these titles. Player engagement features will also be included, such as community challenges, competitive leaderboards, and high-score rankings.
The current lineup of games in the Retro Classics collection highlights a diverse selection that appeals to both nostalgic gamers and new audiences. As part of a broader trend in video game preservation, companies like GOG and Lost in Cult are also actively working on initiatives to safeguard classic games and provide offline access.
Overall, Xbox’s Retro Classics not only pays homage to gaming history but also enhances the Game Pass experience, allowing players to discover or rediscover classic titles in an accessible format. This initiative illustrates the industry’s commitment to maintaining the legacy of video games while adapting them for modern platforms.