8BitDo Launches European Retro Mechanical Keyboards: New C64 and NES-Styled Layouts Now Available Across UK, Spain, France, Germany, and Nordics
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Published on: February 04, 2025
Description
8BitDo, a leading brand in gaming accessories renowned for its retro-inspired hardware, has officially expanded its popular Retro Mechanical Keyboard lineup across Europe.
The announcement confirms that customized regional layouts, modeled after both the classic Commodore 64 (C64) and the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), are now available for gamers and enthusiasts in the UK, Spain, France, Germany, and the Nordics.
8BitDo’s Retro Mechanical Keyboards debuted in 2023 with the NES/Famicom edition, quickly attracting attention for their nostalgia-driven aesthetics and versatile connectivity.
Not only do these keyboards support Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, and USB wired connections, but they also stand out for offering hot-swappable PCBs, reprogrammable keys, and abundant customization options—features that appeal to both retro collectors and dedicated gamers utilizing platforms like Nintendo Switch and PC.
Prior to this latest launch, the keyboards featured a US-style layout, which limited accessibility for international users who rely on localized key configurations for both typing efficiency and language-specific input.
Responding to demand from the European gaming community, 8BitDo has now introduced five new models with region-specific layouts.
The flagship C64 Edition keyboard is newly available in a dedicated "British UK Layout." Meanwhile, NES-inspired versions—designated as the 8BitDo N Edition—are being released with QWERTZ, AZERTY, ES, and NORD layouts to accommodate Germany, France, Spain, and the Nordics, respectively.
Distribution of these new keyboards is being handled by Game Outlet Europe, a prominent supplier of video game products and accessories, embedded within the Embracer Freemode initiative.
The program supports independent gaming businesses, strengthening 8BitDo’s position in the thriving European hardware market.
David Karlsson, CEO of Game Outlet Europe, emphasized the company's strategic response to localized demand while announcing the multi-national rollout.
“After successfully introducing the Retro Mechanical Keyboard across Europe in 2023, we observed high demand for regional layouts.
We are delighted to now offer a mechanical keyboard tailored specifically to the needs and preferences of our European customers, combining superior function with 8BitDo’s iconic retro styling,” he stated in an official press release.
The new 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboards are priced at €99.99 or £85.99 and are currently available through authorized retailers in their respective regions.
Fans interested in learning more or purchasing the country-specific models can find additional details on 8BitDo’s official website and partner storefronts.
This milestone underscores 8BitDo’s commitment to delivering flexible, high-quality hardware that celebrates classic gaming heritage while meeting the evolving needs of the global gaming community, including Nintendo Switch users and retro enthusiasts across Europe.
