Commodore 64 Returns to Production After 30 Years, First 500 Units in Final Packaging

The iconic Commodore 64 computer has officially re-entered production, marking its first manufacturing run in three decades. This significant announcement comes from the newly re-established Commodore brand, under the leadership of CEO Christian Simpson, also known as YouTuber Perifractic. The initial 500 units of the "Commodore 64 Ultimate: BASIC Beige" are currently in final packaging, with shipments expected to commence in October and November 2025.

The revival follows months of work to acquire the original brand and assets, aiming to bridge the gap between nostalgic retro computing and modern technology. As tech journalist Lance Ulanoff stated in a recent post, "> The Commodore 64 is back on the production line for the first time in 30 years – and I want it, even if it makes zero sense." This sentiment captures the blend of excitement and practical consideration surrounding the launch.

The new Commodore 64 Ultimate is described not as an emulator or replica, but as a "faithful recreation of the original motherboard" utilizing FPGA technology. While maintaining the classic aesthetic, it incorporates modern features such as HDMI output, USB-3, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity. The system is designed to support over 10,000 original games and is compatible with vintage peripherals, including "dusty old cartridges, CRT TVs, datasettes, or disk drives."

Production is taking place in Shenzhen, a global electronics manufacturing hub, with the company emphasizing a commitment to authenticity by manufacturing in facilities that once produced classic Commodore computers. Pre-order pricing for the BASIC Beige model is set at approximately $299 USD, with other editions like the Starlight and Founders Edition also available at higher price points. The company has confirmed that the acquisition of the Commodore brand was completed in July 2025, securing the future of the project.