The VIC-20 “returned” in 2020 as THEVIC20, a licensed, full-size retro reimagining—not as a newly manufactured original 1980s computer. Developed by Retro Games Ltd. and distributed by Koch Media, it paired a VIC-20-style working keyboard with HDMI output, BASIC modes and a carousel of built-in games. Its launch-era UK availability was reported for 23 October 2020.
What is THEVIC20?
THEVIC20 is a modern retro computer designed to evoke the original Commodore VIC-20 while adding features for use with contemporary displays. IT Pro’s June 2020 report described a full-size case with a full working keyboard, HDMI output and a wired USB joystick. The machine offered three modes: VIC-20 BASIC, C64 BASIC and a Games Carousel.
It was developed by Retro Games Ltd. and distributed by Koch Media. The launch announcement described it as a fully licensed product. That makes “return” a reference to a new product inspired by the original, rather than a claim that Commodore resumed production of the original machine.
What did the 2020 reimagining include?
IT Pro reported 64 built-in games, save support, and USB loading for user files, games and firmware revisions. Users could select 50 Hz or 60 Hz refresh and choose pixel-perfect, CRT or scanline display options. The included 1.5-metre wired microswitch joystick connected to one of the machine’s four USB ports.
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The working keyboard and VIC-20 BASIC mode gave it a computer-like mode of use in addition to its games interface. The C64 BASIC mode was also included; the report does not establish that the machine was equivalent to original VIC-20 or C64 hardware in every respect.
When did the VIC-20 come back?
IT Pro reported a UK store date of 23 October 2020 and a launch price of £109.99 in its 30 June 2020 coverage. Those are historical UK launch details, not a current price or confirmation that the product is still in stock. Current availability and pricing are not established here.
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How is THEVIC20 different from the original VIC-20?
| Aspect | Original VIC-20 | THEVIC20 |
|---|---|---|
| Identity and era | Commodore home computer previewed in 1980 and launched first in Japan as the VIC-1001 later that year, according to York University Computer Museum Canada. | Licensed full-size reimagining announced in 2020; developed by Retro Games Ltd. and distributed by Koch Media, according to IT Pro. |
| Display | Designed to use an ordinary color television, according to York University Computer Museum Canada. | HDMI output, as reported by IT Pro. |
| Interaction and software | 6502A-based computer with BASIC in ROM and a QWERTY-style keyboard, according to York University Computer Museum Canada. | Full working keyboard with VIC-20 BASIC, C64 BASIC and Games Carousel modes, according to IT Pro. |
| Price context | York University Computer Museum Canada lists a North American selling price of $299.95; this is historical, not current pricing. | IT Pro reported a UK launch price of £109.99 in 2020; this is historical, not current pricing. |
Why was the original VIC-20 notable?
The original VIC-20’s introduction straddles two dates because sources describe different milestones. York University Computer Museum Canada says it was previewed at the National Computer Convention in Chicago in June 1980 and launched first in Japan as the VIC-1001 three months later. The 2020 launch announcement refers to the original as a 1981 launch. The museum’s chronology makes clear that “1980” describes the preview and Japanese launch, while “1981” is the date used in the later announcement for the broader product launch.
The museum records a significant sales milestone: the VIC-20 reached one million units early in 1983, when it was shipping 100,000 units per month. This is a documented milestone; it is more precise than using an unqualified “best-selling computer ever” label.
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Sources and historical context
- IT Pro’s 30 June 2020 report covers THEVIC20’s reported specifications, UK launch date and launch price.
- VIC-20.it’s repost of the launch announcement reproduces the announcement’s description of the product and statement from Retro Games managing director Paul Andrews.
- York University Computer Museum Canada’s VIC-20 entry provides the original machine’s chronology, specifications and sales milestone.
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