RenaissanceJoe

FPGA Based Commodore 64 Ultimate

Posted on by RenaissanceJoe

FPGA Based Commodore 64 Ultimate

Commodore International is preparing to release a modern reinterpretation of the original Commodore 64. Called the Commodore 64 Ultimate, this new version is designed to replicate the original system’s hardware behavior using an FPGA rather than software emulation. Preorders are currently open, with shipping expected to begin in October 2025.

Overview of the Commodore 64 Ultimate

The Commodore 64 Ultimate is built around an AMD Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA with 128 MB of DDR2 RAM and 16 MB of onboard flash memory. According to the official site https://www.commodore.net this architecture is intended to support over 10,000 legacy titles and accessories, including cartridges, disk drives, and joysticks originally made for the C64.

In addition to compatibility with legacy hardware, the system also includes modern I/O features including:

  • HDMI output or analog video via DIN-8 – CVBS, S-Video, RGB

  • USB-A and USB-C ports

  • Ethernet and Wi-Fi support

  • Dual SID chip sockets

  • MicroSD storage

  • Standard C64 joystick ports

Each system comes with a USB thumb drive preloaded with licensed games (including a new title, Jupiter Lander: Ascension), printed manuals, HDMI cable, power adapter, and a few collectible extras like stickers.

Preorder Details

Preorders for Batch 1 began in July 2025, and are available in three editions:

  • Basic Beige

  • Starlight Edition

  • Founders Edition

All three editions share the same internal hardware, software capabilities, and accessory pack. The main differences are cosmetic and collectible in nature.

Editions Breakdown

1. Basic Beige

  • Price: $299.99 (preorder) / $349.99 (MSRP)

  • Case: Classic beige, styled after the original C64

  • Other Notes: Closest in appearance to the original Commodore 64. No special collector’s items included.

  • Direct Link: Link

2. Starlight Edition

  • Price: $349.99 (preorder) / $399.99 (MSRP)

  • Case: Translucent plastic with integrated LED lighting

  • Lighting: Keyboard and internal LEDs react to sound or system activity

  • Other Notes: Otherwise functionally identical to the Basic Beige model

  • Direct Link: Link

3. Founders Edition

  • Price: $499.99 (preorder) / $549.99 (MSRP)

  • Case: Translucent amber plastic

  • Lighting: Same as the Starlight Edition

  • Collector Extras:

    • Gold-colored keycaps and Commodore badge

    • T-shirt and metal dog tag

    • Numbered gold-foil certificate

    • Limited to 6,400 units

  • Direct Link: Link

Shipping and Refund Policy

All versions are expected to begin shipping in October 2025, though delivery may extend into November depending on manufacturing timelines. Preorders are refundable at any time prior to shipment. The systems come with a one-year limited warranty.

Summary

The Commodore 64 Ultimate appears aimed at retro computing and Commodore 64 enthusiasts, particularly those who want modern connectivity while keeping the classic hardware form factor, ports, and leveraging FPGA technology. The ability to seat your own SID chip is another nice touch and a nod to its attempt at accuracy. The source of the FPGA source is undisclosed, but they call the machine “…a fully authentic new build from Commodore…”

While all three editions are functionally identical, the differences lie in their physical design and included collectibles. The Basic Beige will appeal to those looking for a close visual match to the original. The Starlight and Founders Editions offer more visual flair with transparent cases, lots of LEDs, and the latter including limited-run memorabilia.

For those considering a preorder, the promotional pricing currently available may change once Batch 1 sells out.