Retro Games to Launch C64 and Spectrum Retro Clamshell Handhelds

Classic Revival: C64 and Spectrum Reborn as Handheld Consoles

On May 1, renowned retro hardware maker Retro Games officially unveiled two brand-new retro handhelds — "The C64 Handheld" and "The Spectrum Handheld." Based on the iconic 1980s home computers Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum respectively, the two devices are slated for an October launch this year at a retail price of $129.99 each.

Partnering with Blaze Entertainment for a First-Ever Handheld Form Factor

Retro Games has previously been known for producing mini and full-size replicas of classic home computers such as the C64, Spectrum, Amiga, and Atari 400. This time, the company has partnered with Blaze Entertainment, the developer behind the Evercade handheld, to bring these classic platforms into a portable gaming form factor for the first time.

Both handhelds feature a clamshell design and come preloaded with 25 curated classic games, allowing players to relive the golden era right out of the box. Continuing the open philosophy of Retro Games' previous replica devices, the new handhelds also include a MicroSD card slot, enabling users to load legally obtained game ROMs and further expand their game libraries.

Collector's Edition Extras for Maximum Nostalgia

In addition to the standard editions, retailer Funstock will offer a collector's edition bundle priced at $149.99. The collector's edition includes a hard-shell carrying case and a specially produced classic gaming magazine — the C64 version comes with a "Zzap" magazine, while the Spectrum version includes a "Crash" magazine. Both publications were iconic fixtures of their respective platform communities during the 1980s, and their return as special editions is sure to significantly boost the products' collectible appeal.

The Retro Gaming Market Continues to Heat Up

In recent years, the retro gaming hardware market has shown sustained growth. From Nintendo's NES/SNES Classic Mini to Sega's Mega Drive Mini and the success of the Evercade handheld series, there is clear and robust demand for classic gaming hardware in today's market. By bringing Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum — two of Europe's most iconic computing platforms — into the handheld space, Retro Games is making a significant expansion of its product lineup while tapping into the growing appetite for portable retro gaming experiences.

Notably, the collaboration between Retro Games and Blaze Entertainment also offers a fresh blueprint for the retro hardware industry — pairing an IP holder with an established handheld manufacturer ensures brand authenticity while leveraging the latter's expertise in portable device design and manufacturing to mitigate development risks.

Outlook

Both handhelds are expected to go on sale in October this year. For gamers who lived through the golden age of 8-bit computing, "The C64 Handheld" and "The Spectrum Handheld" are undoubtedly nostalgia-fueled products worth looking forward to. Whether these two devices can stand out in the increasingly competitive retro handheld market remains to be seen.