Xbox’s May update is shaping up to be a milestone for both casual gamers and seasoned pros, introducing a treasure trove of Retro Classics to the Game Pass lineup, revamping PC Game Bar functionalities, and bringing exciting new cloud gaming options. This update pays tribute to gaming’s rich history while pushing the boundaries of modern gaming experiences across console and PC platforms.
- Retro Classics added to Game Pass, featuring 50+ iconic Activision games from the 1980s and ’90s
- Enhanced quick settings and widgets in the Game Bar for PC gamers, with new Microsoft Edge Game Assist integration
- GeForce Now streaming support within the Xbox app on PC for select titles
- Xbox Rewards now offers customizable gift card amounts
- Expansion of Xbox Play Anywhere with over 1,000 cross-platform games and growing
Explore the Rich Gaming Heritage with Xbox Game Pass Retro Classics
Xbox’s collaboration with Antstream Arcade brings Retro Classics to Game Pass, delivering a curated collection of over 50 historic titles from the golden era of gaming, including favorites like Commando, Mech Warrior 2, and Pitfall!. This initiative is part of Microsoft’s steadfast effort to preserve gaming history while ensuring backwards compatibility. Game Pass members worldwide can now easily access these gems on consoles, PCs, or through cloud gaming on various devices like Samsung and LG Smart TVs and even Meta Quest headsets.
These classic games are more than just nostalgic throwbacks; the update incorporates modern gaming conveniences such as save/load features for the first time and fresh achievement challenges. Gamers can pit their skills against friends or climb competitive leaderboards, bringing new vitality to beloved titles from decades past.
- Available on Xbox consoles, PC, and cloud
- Supports a seamless experience across devices
- Introduces new challenge modes and high-score leaderboards
- Saves and reload feature for classic games
- Achievement additions breathe new life into vintage titles
| Game Title | Original Release Period | Platform Availability | Notable Features in Retro Classics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commando | 1980s | Console, PC, Cloud | Leaderboards, achievements, save/load |
| Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat | 1990s | Console, PC, Cloud | Modern controls, new challenges |
| Pitfall! | 1980s | Console, PC, Cloud | Save/load, enhanced visuals |
Game Bar Enhancements Transform PC Gaming Experience
On the PC front, Microsoft has made significant strides updating the Xbox Game Bar. The revamped Settings widget now allows quick access to vital controls such as audio levels, screen brightness, and device management, all designed to keep players immersed without interrupting gameplay. Both Compact Mode and Desktop Mode have been refined to offer smoother navigation and consistent visuals across widgets.
A standout addition to the Game Bar is Microsoft Edge Game Assist. This in-game browser comes packed with tailored tools — from walkthroughs and game tips to integration with Discord, Spotify, and Twitch. The seamless syncing with Edge ensures players never lose track of bookmarks or login info, truly merging web convenience with uninterrupted gaming.
- Quick settings for audio, brightness, and more
- Visual overhaul for widget consistency
- Edge-based in-game browser with game-specific content
- Instant access to favorites and user data syncing
- Compatible with all Windows devices in both Game Bar modes
| Feature | Description | Benefit for PC Gamers |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Settings Widget | Streamlined access to common settings | Reduces interruptions and enhances control |
| Edge Game Assist | In-game browser with game guides & media apps | Improves gameplay support without tabbing out |
New Cloud Gaming Options and Xbox Rewards Features
The Xbox app on PC now includes integration with GeForce Now, offering gamers more cloud streaming alternatives alongside Xbox Cloud Gaming. This means players get greater flexibility choosing their preferred platform for streaming select games, enhancing accessibility for PC Gaming enthusiasts.
On the Rewards side, Microsoft is upgrading the Xbox Rewards system to allow users to redeem points for Xbox gift cards in custom amounts ranging from $5 to $100. This tailored approach is a welcome improvement into how players can treat themselves or friends across Xbox’s ecosystem.
- GeForce Now support added to Xbox app on PC
- Custom-amount gift cards redeemable through Xbox Rewards
- Expanded streaming options increase player choice
- Flexible reward redemption enhances user experience
- Supports broad Xbox ecosystem usage including Games, Add-ons, and media
| Feature | Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| GeForce Now Integration | Cloud streaming option for Xbox app PC | More streaming flexibility for supported games |
| Custom Gift Cards | User-specified amounts from $5 to $100 | Personalized rewards redemption |
Expanding Xbox Play Anywhere and Cloud Game Library
Boosting the seamless transition across devices, Xbox Play Anywhere has now amassed over 1,000 titles where shared progress and digital ownership cross Xbox consoles, PC, and select handhelds. This growing collection ensures that whether you’re jumping into the latest Bethesda or Infinity Ward blockbuster or revisiting classics, your gameplay is uninterrupted.
Game Pass Ultimate members also benefit from an expanded cloud streaming library featuring over 100 games, from recent hits like Arma Reforger and Monster Energy Supercross 6 to upcoming releases such as Watch Dogs Legion and Life is Strange. This variety enhances the Xbox ecosystem’s appeal as a one-stop destination for both console gaming and PC cloud gaming enthusiasts.
- 1,000+ Xbox Play Anywhere compatible games
- Cross-save and shared achievements across devices
- 100+ cloud-playable games for Game Pass Ultimate members
- Diverse genres including action, RPG, and simulation
- Upcoming and release titles regularly added to the service
| Game Title | Supported Platforms | Genre | Cloud Play Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arma Reforger | Console, PC, Cloud | Military Shooter | Yes |
| Life is Strange: True Colors | Console, PC, Cloud | Adventure | Yes |
| Watch Dogs Legion | Console, PC, Cloud | Action-Adventure | Expected Soon |
Microsoft’s May update is a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. By honoring the legacy of legendary studios such as Infinity Ward and Bethesda while pushing forward with cloud and PC improvements, Xbox continues to strengthen the value proposition of Game Pass and the overall gaming ecosystem. For a deep dive into how gaming history influences modern titles, see this comprehensive guide on the history of video games and explore the impact of games on popular culture.