Blaze Entertainment Unveils Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum-Style Handhelds
The new Spectrum and C64 Handhelds from Blaze Entertainment feature 800x480 displays and bundled libraries, positioning themselves as premium retro experiences rather than budget emulation tools.
Blaze Entertainment has announced the release of two new portable gaming devices designed to reimagine the Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum as modern handheld consoles. Known for its cartridge-based Evercade platform, the company has introduced The Spectrum Handheld and The C64 Handheld, which eschew the productivity capabilities of the original 1980s computers to focus exclusively on gaming.
Each unit is equipped with a 4.3-inch screen boasting an 800x480 resolution, stereo speakers, and a design aesthetic inspired by the colour schemes and cases of their vintage counterparts. While the devices support USB connections for external keyboards and joysticks to facilitate a desktop-like experience, the primary function remains portable entertainment rather than general computing.
Preorders for the consoles are currently available through Funstock at a starting price of $129.99 each. This pricing strategy positions the hardware as a premium option compared to cheaper emulation alternatives, such as Anbernic's $48 RG28XX, justifying the cost through design fidelity and specific hardware specifications rather than emulation capability alone.
The devices come bundled with 25 unique retro titles for each system, including classics like Boulder Dash and Aztec Challenge for the C64, and Manic Miner and Switchblade for the Spectrum. The game library is expandable via microSD card, allowing users to add further content beyond the initial collection.
Technical specifications include a three-hour battery life and USB-C charging support. Remappable D-pads, action buttons, and additional function keys are integrated into the clamshell design to enhance the user interface.
Shipping for the new handhelds is not expected to commence until October 2026 at the earliest. Potential buyers should note that this date represents the earliest possible timeline, with the final retail price subject to change from the current preorder figure.
