" Recent years have witnessed the creation of exceptional C64 Mini models, and it's astounding that I should feel compelled to purchase another one, with the primary motivation being its "black edition" design. "
The C64 Mini Black Edition, a special edition console, has hit the market, offering a unique gaming experience for fans of the classic Commodore 64 (C64). This new version comes with a price tag that is significantly higher than the original beige model, primarily due to the inclusion of 25 new games developed by modern creators.
The Black Edition, priced at $119.99, is more expensive than most retro consoles with plug-and-play abilities, including the Atari 400 Mini system. However, this premium price reflects the enhanced software offering and the console's premium positioning, rather than just hardware features, which remain largely the same (720p HDMI output, USB capability for personal ROMs, and joystick control).
Comparatively, the original C64 Mini, released in 2017, retails at approximately $54.99. The Black Edition offers a new colorway and an impressive collection of 25 new games, making it a showcase of contemporary C64 creativity.
Here's a quick comparison of the three devices:
| Device | Price (Approx.) | Key Differentiators | |---------------------------|-----------------|-------------------------------------| | C64 Mini Original (2017) | $54.99 | Classic C64 games, basic pack | | C64 Mini Black Edition | $119.99 | 25 new developer games, new color | | Atari 400 Mini | Generally less than Black Edition | Retro Atari games, plug-and-play |
The Black Edition's price premium is driven by software content and a limited edition style, not significant hardware upgrades. The new games are homebrew adventures that have earned the highest ratings from the Commodore 64 community.
It's essential to note that the C64 Mini Black Edition is a different product from the upcoming Commodore 64 Ultimate, which is a like-for-like replica of the original machine using FPGA tech. The Commodore 64 Ultimate starts at $299.99.
The Black Edition of the C64 Mini is compatible with USB drives for playing personal backups and comes with a joystick that uses microswitches. It's available for pre-order at Amazon for $119.99. The black version of the C64 Mini serves as a way to play Commodore 64 games at 720p via HDMI.
The Black Edition includes 25 new homebrews, such as A Pig Quest, Caren and the Tangled Tentacles, Galencia, Good Kniight, Grid Pix, Guns 'N' Ghosts, Hessian, Hunter's Moon Remastered, It's Magic 2, Joe Gunn: Gold Edition, Knight 'N' Grail, Metal Warrior Ultra, Millie & Molly, Nixy and the Seeds of Doom, Ooze: The Escape, p0 Snake, Pains 'N' Aches, Planet Golf, Rocky Memphis: The Legend of Atlantis, Runn 'N' Gunn, Sam's Journey, Shadow Switcher, Spinning Image, Steel Ranger, and Yeti Mountain.
The Black Edition also features CRT filters to enhance the gaming experience. The release date for the C64 Mini Black Edition is October 24, 2025. Funds from the sale of these games should be going into the pockets of small indie devs instead of publishers, as these games are not original '80s releases.
In conclusion, the C64 Mini Black Edition offers a unique blend of classic and modern gaming, making it an attractive option for fans of the Commodore 64. Its higher price tag is justified by the inclusion of 25 new games and its premium positioning.
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- The C64 Mini Black Edition, a special edition console, offers a unique gaming experience for fans of the classic Commodore 64, priced at $119.99.
- This new version comes with a price tag that is significantly higher than the original beige model, primarily due to the inclusion of 25 new games developed by modern creators.
- The Black Edition's price premium is driven by software content and a limited edition style, not significant hardware upgrades.
- The new games are homebrew adventures that have earned the highest ratings from the Commodore 64 community.
- The Black Edition of the C64 Mini is compatible with USB drives for playing personal backups and comes with a joystick that uses microswitches.
- The Black Edition includes 25 new homebrews such as A Pig Quest, Caren and the Tangled Tentacles, Galencia, and Yeti Mountain, to name a few.
- The Black Edition also features CRT filters to enhance the gaming experience.
- Funds from the sale of these games should be going into the pockets of small indie devs instead of publishers, as these games are not original '80s releases.
