Retro Games Ltd

Overview

Retro Games Ltd is a UK-based company specializing in retro gaming hardware, producing modern reproductions of classic computers and peripherals such as THEC64, THEA500, and THEVIC20. It operates in the retro-hardware sector, leveraging team expertise from prior projects like C64DTV and Wii Virtual Console C64 games. The company is notable for its focus on consumer electronics manufacturing under SIC code 26400, with global operations from a UK base.¹²⁴⁸

History

Retro Games Ltd was incorporated on 24 August 2015 as a private limited company.¹² Key figures include Darren Melbourne, co-creator of C64DTV with experience at Square Enix, and Paul Andrews, developer of Wii C64 games and other consoles.²⁴ The team has over 100 years of combined games industry experience across formats like C64, Spectrum, GBA, and Wii.⁴ It remains active with directors including Paul Andrews and Paul Kenneth Gouge.³⁵

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Retro Games Ltd is classified under SIC 26400 for manufacture of consumer electronics, indicating in-house production capabilities.¹ Products are developed and manufactured in the UK from their Luton headquarters.¹²⁸

Notable Products

• THEC64 - Miniaturized Commodore 64 console with built-in games and USB ports.
• THEA500 - Amiga 500 mini reproduction supporting original software via USB.
• THEVIC20 - Full-size VIC-20 replica with modern HDMI output.
• THE400 - Atari 400 Mini with pre-loaded classic games.
• THESPECTRUM - ZX Spectrum mini console emulating original hardware.

Reputation

Retro Games Ltd is recognized by retro enthusiasts for authentic reproductions of 1980s computers with modern features like HDMI.²⁸ Professionals note the team's pedigree from C64DTV and licensing expertise.⁴ Some criticism exists regarding build quality and software limitations in mini consoles, though it maintains a solid presence in the niche retro market.²