C64 Joins Wii Virtual Console Family News

In a surprising twist, Nintendo today confirmed that the popular and all-time joint favourite 8-bit home computer the Commodore64 will be joining the list of Virtual Console formats offered on Wii exclusively across Europe.

According to the Guinness Book of Records, the Commodore64 remains the best selling single computer model of all time, with an estimated 22 million units sold. Alongside the quintessentially British ZX Spectrum 48k, many of today's developers cut their teeth on the Commodore64 and helped to establish a thriving UK computer games scene during the 80's and 90's.

Bala Keilman, CEO of Commodore Gaming, commented, "The massive impact the Commodore 64 had on video-gaming is still evident today with many gamers remembering the computer and its games with great fondness. By working with Nintendo of Europe, we are ensuring that future generations of gamers can play some of the best and most popular titles that kick-started the computer games revolution and so keep the C64 legacy in gamers hearts."

Laurent Fischer, Managing Director of European Marketing & PR of Nintendo Europe adds, "We are extremely pleased to be working with Commodore Gaming to provide even more retro hits for Wii owners to choose from on Virtual Console. With over 184 classic titles now available to enjoy, Virtual Console on Wii is a great way for users to access a breadth of classic retro games. We hope that this great choice of games will bring nostalgia to our gaming fans, while an entirely new generation of video game players can experience a host of classic games for the very first time."

Amongst the first C64 titles to be released under the Virtual console banner are the widely acclaimed International Karate and Uridium, both of which will cost 500 Wii Points.