If you’ve built or purchased a desktop PC in recent years, you’ve probably noticed a trend: desktop cases tend to fall into one of two categories. They’re either RGB-infused designs that look like something straight out of a sci-fi movie (or an Alienware, if you’re being specific), or they resemble sleek, minimalist mid-century refrigerators with wood accents. But SilverStone, a company known for its practical yet stylish cases, is bringing back some serious nostalgia with its upcoming retro case, the SilverStone FLP01.
Originally conceived as an April Fools’ joke last year, the FLP01 has received such a warm reception that it’s now becoming a real product. First showcased at a live expo in Japan, the case has quickly caught the attention of enthusiasts who appreciate vintage computing aesthetics. It’s designed with a horizontal layout that calls back to the boxy, utilitarian cases of the past.
Despite its throwback look, the SilverStone FLP01 is fully compatible with modern ATX standards, allowing you to install a regular motherboard, a full-sized power supply, and up to 310mm-long graphics cards without issue. The only potential challenge might be squeezing a large cooler under the retro disc drive.
Speaking of which, the FLP01 features a built-in disc drive—something that’s nearly extinct in modern PC cases. This isn’t just any old disc drive though; it’s hidden behind two dummy floppy disk drives on the front. The top one flips down to reveal a 5.25-inch media drive, perfect for a DVD burner, while the bottom one houses a set of modern ports, including USB-C, two USB-A, and a headphone jack.
Inside, the case features a pair of 80mm fans to help with airflow, and the sturdy horizontal design can even support a monitor on top—although whether you’ll be mounting a sleek LCD display or a hefty CRT monitor remains unclear. The case draws inspiration from the NEC PC-9800 series, which holds a special place in the hearts of Japanese retro computing enthusiasts.
SilverStone plans to release the FLP01 in Japan in early 2025 for 19,800 yen (roughly $130 USD), though there’s no confirmation yet on an international release. If you’re set on owning this nostalgic piece of hardware, you might want to start planning a trip to Akihabara next year.
