This beloved retro gaming computer is making a comeback—and it'll cost you $299

Fast Company

16-07-2025

Tech nostalgia runs strong among Gen Z. The retro movement has made long-outdated devices desirable once more. When it comes to personal computer nostalgia, you'd be hard-pressed to find a PC more fondly remembered than the Commodore 64.
Now, the machine that served as the starter computer for many old-school gamers is making a comeback of sorts. Commodore Corp., which is no longer run by the team behind the original device, has begun taking preorders for the Commodore 64 Ultimate, a $299 device that its makers claim is compatible with over 10,000 retro games, cartridges, and peripherals.
The new C64s are expected to begin shipping as early as October, though that date could slip. Also, the listed price doesn't account for tariffs. A 'tariff tax' ($15 to $25 in the U.S.) is added at checkout—and the builders warn that amount could change if tariffs do.
While there have been Commodore 64 emulators in the past, this marks the first official product from the company in more than 30 years. There are three models to choose from, all with the same internal components. If you were expecting a vastly outdated machine, however, you're in for a surprise.
The Commodore 64 Ultimate will include 128 megabytes of RAM and 16 megabytes of flash memory. It connects to modern monitors via HDMI in high-definition 1080p resolution and features three USB-A ports and one USB-C port. Beyond the computer itself, the power source, and HDMI cable, your $299 also gets you a spiral-bound user guide, a 64-gigabyte USB drive featuring over 50 licensed games, a quick-start guide, and stickers.
Aesthetically, the Commodore 64 Ultimate is available in the original beige or in premium variants: the Starlight Edition, with a clear case and LED lights ($249), or the Founder's Edition, which includes 24-karat gold-plated badges, satin gold keys, and a translucent amber case ($499). Just 6,400 units of the Founder's Edition will be produced, according to the company.
The preorder setup resembles a Kickstarter campaign, though it doesn't use that platform. Commodore says all preorders come with a money-back guarantee, but it chose to skip the service's fees. Buyers should be aware that accounts are charged at the time of preorder.
Who owns Commodore?
Ownership of the Commodore brand adds some complexity. Earlier this year, Christian 'Peri Fractic' Simpson—a YouTuber focused on retro tech—announced he was in the process of acquiring the company and claimed to be the 'acting CEO of Commodore.' In a YouTube video posted at the end of June, he said he purchased the company for 'a low seven-figure sum' and has recruited several former Commodore employees to help relaunch the brand.
In the video, Simpson states he signed 'a share purchase agreement' with the previous owners of Commodore Corp., but is still seeking angel investors to help close the total sales amount.
That uncertainty may give some potential buyers pause, and understandably so. The official site addresses the concern, noting: 'We have a contract with the previous IP owner that ensures that regardless of the final acquisition outcome, these machines can be manufactured as promised.'
The product will come with a one-year limited warranty, and Commodore says most parts are already in production, including the updated motherboard, the case, and the keycaps that recreate the blocky keys that early users remember.
The original Commodore 64 debuted in 1982. It was one of the world's best-selling computers at the time, with graphics and sound that pushed the limits of 8-bit technology. With games like M.U.L.E., Wizard, and The Last Ninja, it quickly became a gamer favorite. In addition to the games on the USB drive, backers will also receive a 'new sequel' to the C64 original, called Jupiter Lander: Ascension.
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