Remember the Commodore 64? The Retro Gaming Legend Returns With a Sleek New Look
Four decades after the slimline Commodore 64C first appeared in 1986, a new version is landing on doorsteps with HDMI and USB support. The Commodore 64C Ultimate has begun arriving for pre-order customers ahead of Christmas.
The new machine is the second act in Commodore’s 64 Ultimate line and reproduces the much-requested “Slimline” edition. It ditches the original “breadbin” design for a sleeker, more contemporary look.
Inside the Commodore 64C Ultimate
Commodore re-acquired the tooling used for the original 64C to create the cases for the Ultimate version. It also ships with a User Guide designed to match the original 64C, along with Quick Start instructions.
Like the 2025 Commodore 64 Ultimate, it forgoes software emulation for a cycle-accurate recreation of the original hardware using FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) technology. Commodore says the line is up to 99% compatible with original software and peripherals.
New to the 64C Ultimate is compatibility with a regular USB mouse. It ships with a full GEOS Suite covering word processing, spreadsheets, file managers, paint programs and more.
Every Ultimate also includes a newly updated USB Cassette with quick access to more than 100 games, demos and more. Commodore pitches the machine as a perfect introduction to BASIC coding.
Commodore 64C Ultimate Price, Editions
Commodore International President and CEO Peri Fractic said the community is driving the platform. “New software is in development from our incredible community every day, creating a thriving ecosystem for gamers, musicians, programmers and more.”
The Commodore 64C Ultimate comes in three editions. BASIC Beige ($299.99) is a replica of the original, while Starlight Edition ($349.99) adds a translucent case with game-reactive LED case and keyboard lighting.
Founder’s Edition ($499.99) features PVD gold keycaps, real 24k gold-plated Commodore and Power badges and a gently translucent white case. Buyers also receive extras that are sent separately and not included in the box.
Those extras are a Gold Seal commemorative Commodore “Share” Certificate, a Commodore flag and a 24k gold “Dog Tags” Commodore 64 and Power Badge necklace. Fans who did not pre-order can still buy the computer, and details are at commodore.net.
