Cyberpunk 2077 meets C64: retro computer Commodore 77 presented
The hardware manufacturer Commodore and the studio CD Projekt Red are bringing a special C64 onto the market with the Commodore 77. The computer with the look of Cyberpunk 2077 combines classic home computer technology with a fast AMD chip.
New retro PC in dystopia design
The revived hardware manufacturer Commodore and the Polish development studio CD Projekt Red have announced the Commodore 77. The device is a special variant of the Commodore 64 Ultimate and is visually based closely on the PC and video game Cyberpunk 2077. The computer combines classic home computer technology with modern components and is scheduled to come onto the market in early 2027. The Pre-order phase for the computer has already begun. An FPGA chip from AMD works inside the newly and stylishly designed housing.
A Field Programmable Gate Array is a programmable logic circuit that exactly replicates the hardware of the original C64. Instead of the previous chip, the more powerful AMD Artix XC7A100T is now used. This allows the processor clock frequency to be increased to up to 77 megahertz. This is more than a dimensional leap, as the original only ran at one megahertz. Commodore 77 in the video: The C64 presented for Cyberpunk 2077 fans
Like from one Press release As can be seen, the system’s RAM increases to 77 megabytes. For purists, however, the increased performance has the disadvantage that some older programs may run too quickly. To fix the problem, users can manually throttle the speed in the system settings. According to the manufacturer, the computer should be compatible with almost all classic C64 programs
Visual and acoustic extras
The computer’s exterior features faux scuffs, printed graffiti, and a brushed metal panel. A semi-transparent base reveals integrated LED lights. The lights respond to the audio output and flash to match the music. For the sound, the system uses a special sound chip that reproduces the classic SID sound on 24 channels in stereo. Buyers also receive a memory cartridge in the design of the fictional company Arasaka. It contains a two megabyte demo by the Polish programming group Arise, accompanied by music by the artist LukHash. Such demos illustrate the technical capabilities of the hardware.
A customized Cyberpunk 2077-style home screen blends into the overall look and adjusts the menu colors accordingly. The package also includes stickers, pins and a special manual with background information on the game. In the booklet, users will also find BASIC programs that can be typed. The price for the Commodore 77 is 377 dollars (around 323 euros). That’s not a small amount for a more than just niche computer, but the device is also primarily aimed at collectors and enthusiasts.
