Xbox: Retro Classics and New Cloud Gaming Options

Xbox gamers are in for a treat this month as Microsoft rolls out a wave of new updates across its gaming platforms — headlined by the launch of Retro Classics, expanded cloud gaming options, and fresh tools for PC streamers and players.

Retro Classics Debuts for Game Pass Members

The biggest news is the arrival of Retro Classics, a nostalgic collection of over 50 classic Activision titles from the ’80s and ’90s, now available for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. Through a collaboration with Antstream Arcade, beloved hits like Commando, Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat, Pitfall!, and Grand Prix are making their return — fully optimized for modern devices and cloud gaming.

Players can now dive into these retro favorites across Xbox consoles, PC, LG and Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, and Meta Quest headsets. Retro Classics also introduces cloud save and reload features, as well as brand-new achievements for the classic titles — a first for many of these vintage games.

And this is just the start. Microsoft confirmed that the Retro Classics collection will expand to include over 100 titles in the near future, including additional games from Activision and Blizzard.

Game Bar Upgrades & Game Assist Arrives

PC gamers aren’t left out either. The Game Bar on Windows is getting a visual refresh and functional improvements, including quick settings for audio, screen brightness, device management, and more. These updates are available in both Compact and Desktop modes, providing a smoother in-game management experience.

On the horizon is Microsoft Edge Game Assist, the first in-game browser tailored for players. Accessible via Windows + G, this feature offers built-in access to walkthroughs, playlists, Discord, Spotify, Twitch, and other tools without leaving the game. All bookmarks, passwords, and browsing history sync with Edge, ensuring a seamless user experience between sessions.

GeForce Now Cloud Gaming Comes to the Xbox App on PC

In a notable move for cloud gaming flexibility, Xbox players on PC now have GeForce Now integrated into the Xbox app as a streaming option for select titles. When launching a compatible game, players can choose whether to stream via Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce Now — opening up new ways to play without downloading large game files.

New Customizable Xbox Gift Cards and Rewards Options

Another welcome update: Xbox gift cards can now be redeemed in any custom amount between $5 and $100 via the Rewards hub. Players simply select “Custom” when redeeming points, enter their desired value, and the balance is instantly added to their account for games, add-ons, movies, and more.

More Games Join Xbox Cloud Gaming and Play Anywhere

The Stream Your Own Game cloud library continues to expand, with titles like Arma Reforger, Project Wingman, Monster Energy Supercross 6, and RIDE 5 recently added. New titles like Anno 1800 Console Edition, Skull and Bones, and Watch Dogs Legion are also on the way.

Additionally, over 70 new games have been added to Xbox Play Anywhere in 2025 alone, enabling players to buy once and play on console, PC, and handheld devices — with progress, achievements, and add-ons syncing across platforms.

Bonus: DOOM: The Dark Ages Accessory Drop

In case you missed it, Microsoft recently launched a limited-edition DOOM: The Dark Ages accessory collection, including a custom Xbox Wireless Controller, an Xbox Elite Series 2, and a Series X console wrap — a must-have for fans of the legendary FPS franchise.

Did You Know?

This latest move to bring GeForce Now streaming into the Xbox ecosystem signals a significant shift toward platform-agnostic cloud gaming. Microsoft has been steadily building a cloud-first strategy, and this integration suggests a future where players could move seamlessly between cloud services, choosing the one that best fits their library or performance needs — a bold and consumer-friendly step in the cloud gaming race.