The world’s best-selling home computer is reborn as the C64 Mini

A timeless classic is being given a new lease of life with the launch of THEC64 Mini. Yes, it’s one word which makes me feel slightly uncomfortable.

Developed by Retro Games Ltd. – and distributed by Koch Media – THEC64 Mini  is a fully licensed reimagining of the 80’s bestselling home computer. Half the size of the original, THEC64 Mini connects directly to your television and comes with a classic joystick, that plugs into one of the two USB ports available, allowing you to play the built-in games.

Launched in 1982, the C64 home computer went on to dominate the home computer scene throughout the 1980s. Millions of units were sold across the world and have a special place in the hearts of its former owners.

35 years later and it’s back. THEC64 Mini plugs into any modern TV via its HDMI port and gamers can play any one of the 64 licensed classic pre-installed games. This includes games from original legendary developers such as Epyx, Gremlin Graphics, Hewson and The Bitmap Brothers; and boasting titles such as California Games, Speedball 2: Brutal Deluxe, Paradroid and Impossible Mission. Most of these were rated over 90% by leading publications of the day, with many winning coveted awards. From sports to shooters, platformers to puzzlers, there’s a plethora of titles to keep the most discerning retro enthusiast happy.

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The THEC64 Mini has comes with a joystick and 64 fully licensed classic games right in the box. The device connects directly to any modern TV via the included HDMI cable. We haven’t seen any footage yet, but we can safely assume that the console upscales that ’80s 4:3 goodness. There is also two included USB ports on the machine, so it’s highly likely that you’ll be able to plug in another joystick, or compatible controller, into it for 2-player action. And as befits a home computer you can also plug in a standard USB PC keyboard to use as a classic C64 to type in those old BASIC computer listings or program new games.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzgFal1k_oE&t=240s

THEC64 Mini will hit the shops in early 2018 with a suggested retail price of £69.99/$69.99/€79.99. Visit www.thec64.com for more updates as the months go by.

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J. Luis

J. Luis is the current Editor-In-Chief here at GAMbIT. With a background in investigative journalism his work encompasses the pop-culture spectrum here, but he also works in the political spectrum for other organizations.

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