Fans of the original Commodore 64 will be pleased to know that the C64 Mini is coming to the US on the 9th of October 2018.
The C64 Mini will come pre-loaded with a range of Commodore 64 games, these will include Boulder Dash, Pitstop II, Winter Games, and many more. It will also come with C64 BASIC and a retro-styled C64 joystick.
The device also comes with two USB ports and it has a plug-in USB keyboard that lets you use the device as a fully functional computer with C64 BASIC.
“We are delighted to be able to bring back some of the most loved retro games ever, on one of the most successful formats of all time”, said Paul Andrews, Retro Games’ Managing Director. “The North American release of THEC64® mini is a reimagining of the classic C64 computer and one of a series of products we have on the way.”
Features and Specifications
The C64 Mini is designed to be a compact and convenient version of the original Commodore 64, which was one of the best-selling home computers of the 1980s. The mini version retains the charm and nostalgia of the original while incorporating modern technology to enhance the user experience.
The device features HDMI output, allowing it to connect easily to modern televisions and monitors. This ensures that the classic games can be enjoyed in high definition, bringing a new level of clarity to the retro graphics. Additionally, the C64 Mini supports save states, which means players can save their progress at any point in the game and resume later. This is a significant improvement over the original, where players had to start over if they lost all their lives.
The inclusion of two USB ports is another thoughtful addition. One port can be used for the included joystick, while the other can be used for a USB keyboard or a second joystick for multiplayer games. The USB keyboard also allows users to access C64 BASIC, turning the device into a functional computer for programming and other tasks.
Game Library and Expansion
The C64 Mini comes pre-loaded with 64 classic games, offering a wide variety of genres to cater to different tastes. Some of the notable titles include:
– Boulder Dash: A puzzle game where players navigate through caves, collecting diamonds while avoiding obstacles.
– Pitstop II: A racing game that allows players to compete in Formula 1 races.
– Winter Games: A sports game featuring various winter sports events like skiing and bobsledding.
In addition to the pre-loaded games, the C64 Mini supports game file loading via USB. This means that users can download additional C64 game files from the internet and load them onto the device using a USB flash drive. This feature significantly expands the gaming possibilities, allowing users to explore a vast library of C64 games beyond the pre-installed ones.
“We are delighted to be able to bring back some of the most loved retro games ever, on one of the most successful formats of all time”, said Paul Andrews, Retro Games’ Managing Director. “The North American release of THEC64® mini is a reimagining of the classic C64 computer and one of a series of products we have on the way.”
As yet there are no details on how much the new C64 Mini will cost when it launches, we will have more information closer to launch in October.
The C64 Mini is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it is also an educational tool. The inclusion of C64 BASIC allows users to learn and practice programming, just like in the 1980s. This can be particularly appealing to parents who want to introduce their children to the basics of coding in a fun and engaging way.
Overall, the C64 Mini promises to be a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern convenience, making it a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts and new players alike. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches.
Source
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
