Amiga 1200 remake is delayed until December, and chip shortages are partly to blame

• Copy link
• Facebook
• X
• Pinterest
• Flipboard
• Email

Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter

Sorry, Amiga fans, but the upcoming THEA1200 remake by Retro Games Ltd has been delayed. The full-sized, emulation-based microcomputer was set to enter the best retro console arena next month, but its creators are pushing it back until December 4 as its "operating system isn't where it needs to be."

In a lengthy THEA1200 update, Retro Games Ltd attributes the six-month delay to the knock-on effects of "global chip shortages and rising plastic production costs." Those factors have seemingly eaten into the retro console maker's schedule, and the emulation system's shiny new OS needs more development time as a result.

"We could ship with a more basic OS, but that wouldn't do justice to THEA1200," explains RGL's chief technical officer Chris Smith. "This machine is about delivering the best possible Amiga experience, and that means taking the time to get it right."

Latest Videos From

#THEA1200 pic.twitter.com/MjvbptmypBMay 6, 2026

The company acknowledges that "delays are frustrating" while paying tribute to the feedback of Amiga fans. Of course, this isn't the first time THEA1200 has been pushed back: the microcomputer was originally planned for the end of 2024 but was shelved due to legal disputes over the Amiga branding held by IP holders.

Pre-order the new Amiga remake

THEA1200 | $189.99 at Amazon
Release date | December 4, 2026

Those issues have since been ironed out, so the latest setback is tied directly to development. Unlike arguably simpler releases like the Atari 400 Mini or the older C64 Mini, this Amiga remake will come armed with a full Workbench environment that mimics the functionality of the 32-bit home computer. The '90s machine used a mouse-driven GUI, and the operating system's legacy of software and games means RGL has a bigger compatibility challenge on its hands beyond the 25 classics included in its console-like carousel.

In a world where FPGA tech is powering ultra-accurate retro remakes like the Commodore 64 Ultimate and Analogue 3D, there's little room for error with emulation-based systems like THEA1200. I do firmly think Retro Games Ltd's take on revamping old machines has its place in 2026, and I'm pretty excited to try a new Amiga with an actual keyboard.

THEA1200 - Announcement (EN) - YouTube Watch On

That said, delaying THEA1200 until December feels slightly risky, especially its resurrected Commodore brand rival is putting out a C64C Ultimate less than a year after the breadbin version. At that rate, we might end up with a FPGA Amiga that boasts original floppy disc support and cycle accurate hardware, and if the prices are close, enthusiasts will be lured away from what Retro Games Ltd is working hard on.

Sign up to the GamesRadar+ Newsletter

Weekly digests, tales from the communities you love, and more

• Retro consoles at Amazon
• Retro handhelds at Amazon

Looking for ways to play on the go? Swing by the best retro handhelds for emulation devices and more.

Phil HaytonHardware Editor

Phil is the Hardware Editor at GamesRadar+ who specializes in retro console setups, choosing the latest gaming handhelds, and navigating the choppy seas of using modern-day PC hardware. In the past, they have covered everything from retro gaming history to the latest gaming news, in-depth features, and tech advice for publications like TechRadar, The Daily Star, the BBC, PCGamesN, and Den of Geek. In their spare time, they pour hours into fixing old consoles, modding Game Boys, exploring ways to get the most out of the Steam Deck, and blasting old CRT TV visuals into their eye sockets.

View More

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.

Logout LATEST ARTICLES

1. 1Elden Ring modder bringing Morrowind to FromSoftware's RPG dubs it "most complex mod ever created"
2. 2One of the most commonly out-of-stock Legend of Zelda amiibo is down to a record low price at Woot
3. 3Mixtape review: "A nostalgic, vibes-based experience set to a shockingly solid soundtrack"
4. 4You don't need more RAM; a YouTube bug is just making it seem like you do
5. 5An RTX 5090 gaming laptop under $3,000? This might be a first