Iconic 80s Joystick Revived as an Affordable PC Peripheral
▼ Summary
– The iconic 1980s QuickShot II joystick has been re-released by Retro Games as ‘TheQuickshot II’.
– It retains the original’s iconic design and tactile feel but updates it with a modern USB interface.
– The joystick includes reengineered classic features like an auto-fire switch and adds new buttons for modern compatibility.
– Priced at £29.99 (around $40), it is fully compatible with modern PCs and designed for arcade-style games.
– It is marketed as an affordable impulse buy or gift for retro gaming enthusiasts, particularly fans of the Commodore 64.
A beloved piece of gaming history has returned, offering a direct line to the arcade era for modern PC gamers. The iconic QuickShot II joystick from the 1980s is now available as a faithful recreation called TheQuickshot II. Brought back by the retro hardware specialist Retro Games, this peripheral aims to deliver authentic nostalgia at a remarkably accessible price point of just £29.99, approximately $40.
The design meticulously mirrors the original, which was a staple for Commodore 64 systems. It retains the classic shape and feel, complete with the satisfyingly tactile, clicky microswitches that defined responsive arcade gameplay. Even the signature rapid auto-fire switch, which allows for repeated inputs with a single press, has been carefully updated to function seamlessly with contemporary computers. The most noticeable update is the connectivity; the vintage port has been replaced with a modern USB Type-A cable for plug-and-play compatibility.
To ensure it works with today’s vast library of games, the designers have thoughtfully added several new buttons to the base. These extra inputs map to the functions found on a standard modern gamepad, making TheQuickshot II a versatile controller that should work with practically any PC title. While it will naturally feel most at home with classic arcade-style games and emulators, this expanded functionality broadens its potential use.
For those who remember the original or for newcomers seeking a tactile, retro-inspired controller, this reissue represents a compelling option. Its relatively low price tag makes it an attractive impulse purchase for retro gaming enthusiasts or a thoughtful gift for anyone with fond memories of 80s and 90s computer gaming. It successfully bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern practicality, delivering a slice of gaming heritage ready for today’s desktop.
(Source: TechRadar)
