The Commodore 64 is making a comeback—with modern upgrades
It’s been more than four decades since the original Commodore 64 hit store shelves in January 1982, but its legacy remains as strong as ever. With over 17 million units sold worldwide and a software library that helped define the home computing revolution, the C64 became a household name and a cornerstone of retro computing culture. Now, in a revival that’s sure to please longtime fans and curious newcomers alike, the Commodore 64 is being reborn with modern technology under the hood.
According to Techspot, the new model will ship later this year and features a complete overhaul while staying true to the original’s charm. Powered by an AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA processor, this revamped C64 boasts a remarkable 99 percent compatibility rate with the original software catalog. That means you’ll be able to run more than 10,000 vintage games and programs—everything from The Last Ninja to Summer Games—as if it were still 1984.
But unlike the original machine, the new Commodore 64 doesn’t ask you to sacrifice modern conveniences. It comes with HDMI output for crisp video on modern displays, USB ports for modern peripherals, and Wi-Fi support for seamless connectivity. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast, a collector, or someone who missed out on the C64 the first time around, this reimagined model makes it easy to experience the golden era of computing without vintage hardware headaches.
Pre-orders are now open directly via Commodore’s website. The regular retail price is $349, but early adopters can get a special launch discount: $299 for a limited time. And if you’re buying in pairs—perhaps one to keep boxed and one to use—you can also get an extra 10 percent off your total. The company is even offering a “no quibble money-back guarantee,” giving you peace of mind in case you change your mind down the road.
