Two familiar home computer names are getting a fresh pocket-sized shape. After a tease the day before, Evercade maker Blaze has confirmed a partnership with Retro Games Ltd to create two new clamshell handhelds: THEC64 Handheld and The Spectrum Handheld.
The idea is simple, and very Z-retro in spirit. These machines look back to the Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum, but they are being presented in a fold-open form that calls to mind some of the most successful handheld gaming systems of the past.
Blaze says the case design also nods to portable computers, palmtops, and organisers from the 1980s. That gives the devices a small-computer feel, rather than making them look only like modern game consoles wearing old colors.
Each unit also includes four function buttons. According to the announcement, these are meant to echo the keys found on the original computer-style designs, helping the handhelds keep a little of that classic keyboard character.
Games And Storage
Both handhelds will come with 25 games already loaded. That gives buyers a ready-to-play library out of the box, without needing to set up extra software before trying the machine.
There is room to add more, too. Each device includes a MicroSD card slot, so owners can load additional games beyond the built-in selection. The announcement does not list the full game line-up in the supplied details.
Price And Release
THEC64 Handheld and The Spectrum Handheld are priced at £109.99, $129.99, or €129.99 each. Both are currently planned for an October 2026 launch, with pre-orders opening today.
Collector's Edition versions of each handheld are also being offered. The supplied details say these editions ship with a hard shell case, though the full contents are not included here.
As always with new retro hardware, the small print matters. Check retailer pages, final game lists, regional availability, and any affiliate or disclosure notes before placing an order.
