This isn't the first time we've heard about a project focused on bringing back an old computer or console, and it surely won't be the last. Some reached safe harbor, while others fell directly into scam territory, but now it's the turn (again) of the historic Commodore 64. The project called The 64 plans to offer two versions of the system: one as a home computer, and another as a handheld console.
The Commodore 64 made its debut in 1982. The video game market was on fire, personal computers cost a fortune, and the interested user tried everything to find an acceptable middle ground. Officially it remained on the market for eleven years, a true testament to its flexibility, resistance, software quality, and of course, user loyalty. Of course, we can't ignore its audio either. The difference between the "plip-plop" of the Atari 2600 and the music available on the Commodore 64 was abysmal, and even today the soundtracks of its games deserve to be listened to from start to finish. Anyone who wants to relive those experiences has an easy path thanks to the current state of emulators, but those who want something a bit more "physical" and find it hard to get an original C64 can bet their money on something like this:
The 64 is a project that seeks (in a way) to restore the essence of the Commodore 64 through two different formats. The first is the computer as we remember it, keeping the same keys and its general aesthetic, although with a smaller size due to the replacement of components. The second format is known as "handheld", and has all the details of a traditional portable console, to such an extent that it reminds me of the Game Boy Advance. The computer will be accompanied by a joystick, a selection of games (the exact titles are still unknown), and exclusive content. Users will have the possibility to add their own games to the system, whether via cartridge, SD card, or USB stick. The video output is HDMI, I imagine for compatibility reasons, but deep down I feel it's a mistake, and I think there should be an RCA output (after all, it's a retro machine) or a VGA port.
The campaign for The 64 project started recently, and with a month ahead they received more than $17,000 out of the $150,000 they need. The cost of the computer is €133, while the portable version rises to €151, both without shipping. Now... I'd like to mention a few details. First, the project doesn't say anything about the hardware, and second, the Indiegogo goal is flexible, so they'll try to continue with whatever money they get even if they don't reach their goal. The choice of Indiegogo also lights a light on the board, as it's a good indication that they don't have a prototype (in the announcement they say they do). If everything goes well, deliveries will take place between December 2016 and April 2017, but personally, I'd like to see more information. We don't want another Coleco Chameleon in the neighborhood...
