THEC64 team today have just released a rather big announcement over on their indiegogo page, relating to the timeline and the release of their upcoming machines, in particular the handheld device. Within this update it’s also revealed that the David Rowe, the artist behind such gaming covers as 3D Ant Attack, Soft Aid and Way of the Exploding Fist, has been commissioned to deliver a special edition, slipcase boxart for the upcoming machines.
The latest update today reveals that the original timeline and business plan has been altered due to conversations with retailers, who indicated that there was a demand for THEC64 MINI more so than the full-size design, as well as the handheld device. By placing the MINI first in the production timeline, THEC64 team highlight that this will benefit both backers and pre-order customers that have supported them, by being able to give far more of the product they originally paid for.
With the aim to deliver THEC64 MINI console to the Indiegogo backers and pre-order supporters now set for Christmas 2017. Though the team can’t guarantee a date, as at this stage they are still completing and testing the firmware, saying:–
“…if we do miss it, we will deliver as early in the New Year as we can; we feel as a team that honesty is better than broken promises. Regardless, we assure you that you will be given this bonus gift before commencement of retail sales.”
After the global launch of THEC64 MINI has been completed, all attention will then be turned upon the full-size keyboard model of THEC64. The goal for delivery on this will be early 2018. Here THEC64 Team apologise for the delay, but hope at this time you’ll all be enjoying THEC64 MINI.
It’s here this all becomes very exciting, as everyone who backed the campaign – or placed a pre-order – for a physical item, will instantly benefit from supporting this product from the inception as THEC64 team have said:-
Everyone who backed the original Indiegogo campaign by backing a console, or pre-ordered a console from our website prior to today will not only get their full size THEC64 but ALSO a special limited edition THEC64 MINI games console set.
This bonus gift consists of:
- THEC64 MINI console
- a classic-styled USB joystick
- Special limited edition packaging featuring artwork by David Rowe
However, if you backed/pre-ordered the Handheld device and now are wondering where you stand, this is what is being given to you as an replacement :-
Anyone who backed the handheld version or pre-ordered it prior to today will instead be given both THEC64 MINI and a full-size THEC64 plus bonus goodies.
This means that you’ll be getting:
- A special limited edition THEC64 MINI package, as described above
- PLUS a full sized THEC64
- PLUS a signed and numbered, limited edition print of the commissioned artwork by David Rowe
- PLUS the promise that when we are able to focus on the handheld, you’ll get a significant discount if you decide to purchase one on release.
So as you can see that this alteration within the business plan and timeline isn’t all bad, as it will be delivering some rather nice things into your lap come Christmas 2017 and beyond.
As ever to keep up-to-date with THEC64 follow them on their website, Like them on Facebook, Follow them on Twitter and watch their campaign on Indiegogo.
Originally published September 28, 2017. Updated November 14, 2019.
