Classic Computer Veteran Commodore Re-emerges with New C64 Models; Pondering Whether to Invest in the Retro Tech?
The much-anticipated Commodore 64 Ultimate Edition is set to hit the market in October/November 2025, promising a highly faithful hardware replication of the original system. This revamped C64 system, under the stewardship of Retro Recipes (a company under Perifractic), boasts an AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA, ensuring over 99% compatibility with classic games, cartridges, and peripherals without the need for software emulation.
The Ultimate Edition offers a variety of advantages over emulators, DIY builds, and pre-assembled systems. For starters, its authenticity shines through, as it replicates original chips at the hardware level with very low latency, supporting original peripherals such as floppy drives and joysticks directly. It also comes pre-assembled and ready to use, with modern video/audio outputs, making it accessible without the need for DIY skills or configuration hassle.
The Ultimate Edition also expands on the original specifications, with 128MB RAM and 16MB flash memory, far surpassing the original specs and many classic builds while maintaining compatibility. It also introduces modern connectivity features such as HDMI (1080p), USB (A and C), Wi-Fi, and Ethernet, allowing for new workflows, accessories, and networked functionality. The system also comes bundled with 50 retro games and new titles, easing initial setup for users.
However, the Ultimate Edition does have its drawbacks. As a licensed, newly manufactured system, it may be more expensive than DIY boards or free emulator solutions, and buyers face preorder waits. It may also lack some customization options or experimental features that DIY FPGA or emulator builds provide. Emulators also offer broader platform access, with superior save states, debugging, and performance tweaks unavailable on hardware clones.
For those who prefer a more purist approach, original machines or full hardware rebuilds may still be the preferred choice for archival authenticity. Nevertheless, the Ultimate Edition offers a genuine, convenient, and modernized C64 experience, making it ideal for enthusiasts wanting the authentic feel minus emulator compromises or DIY complexity.
In addition to the Ultimate Edition, other C64 systems such as full-sized TheC64 and Ultimate 64 Elite II systems are available for purchase as ready-to-go C64 systems. For those who prefer a DIY approach, options to build or buy a classical Commodore 64 using reverse-engineered mainboards are available. Replica cases and keyboards are also available for C64 builds.
Recently, The Retro Shack released a video discussing the new offerings of the revived Commodore, providing insights into the exciting developments in the world of retro gaming. Whether you're a seasoned C64 enthusiast or a newcomer to the scene, the Commodore 64 Ultimate Edition promises to deliver an unforgettable retro gaming experience.
- For DIY enthusiasts who prefer to work with gadgets and electronics, options to build or buy a classical Commodore 64 using reverse-engineered mainboards are available.
- Replica cases and keyboards are also available for C64 builds, offering a DIY approach to customizing one's own retro technology setup.
- The raspberry pi, a popular and versatile gadget in the world of technology, could potentially be used as an alternative for building DIY Commodore 64 systems, permitting a more affordable and customizable option compared to the Commodore 64 Ultimate Edition.
