The Commodore 64, an 8-bit personal computer that originally launched in 1982, has been resurrected in a new iteration called the Commodore 64 Ultimate, aiming to provide an authentic recreation of the original hardware for die-hard fans. Retro gaming YouTuber Christian Peri Fractic Simpson acquired the rights to the Commodore brand after Commodore International folded in 1994 and spearheaded the effort to recreate the iconic machine.
The Commodore 64 Ultimate seeks to replicate the experience of the original, maintaining compatibility with classic peripherals while incorporating a few modern concessions. According to early reviews, the system offers an extraordinarily authentic re-creation of the original hardware, but its authenticity also translates to the limitations of the original, including its slowness.
The original Commodore 64 had a seismic impact on the home computing market, becoming the best-selling personal computer of all time with its beige plastic shell and integrated keyboard. The new version aims to recapture that era, offering a "digital detox" experience for users seeking a break from modern technology.
While the Commodore 64 Ultimate is aimed at those with deep-seated nostalgia or curiosity, reviewers note that it may not be intuitive for newcomers. The machine's authenticity is both its strength and weakness, providing a genuine retro experience but also requiring patience and understanding of its limitations.
The Commodore 64 Ultimate is currently available for purchase at Commodore, with the beige model priced at $350 (originally $300) and the starlight model at $400 (originally $350). The company has not yet released sales figures or future development plans.
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