Commodore Acquired by Retro Recipes’ Christian Simpson: New Leadership, Retro Revival Plans Announced

In a significant development for retro computing and gaming enthusiasts, Christian Simpson—best known for his Retro Recipes YouTube channel—has confirmed the acquisition of Commodore Corporation.

He revealed in a recent video update that a "low seven-figure sum" has been raised, marking the completion of a deal that includes a comprehensive portfolio of trademarks dating back to 1982.

While the final financial transaction is still pending, Simpson has stepped into the role of acting CEO and has expressed confidence in securing further investment. The Commodore brand, synonymous with classic home computers like the C64 and Amiga, is set for a revival under Simpson’s leadership.

To ensure authenticity and technical depth, Simpson has assembled an impressive team of former Commodore veterans, including Bil Herd (lead engineer, 1982-1986), Albert Charpentier (Vice President of Technology, 1979-1984), Michael Tomczyh (Assistant to President Jack Tramiel, 1980-1984), James Harrison (Tech Support hotline agent, 1990-1994), and David Plesance (UK Vice President & Joint Managing Director, 1983-1994). Further broadening the project’s appeal, Simpson has enlisted Canadian actor Thomas Middleditch of Silicon Valley fame.

Simpson indicated that early concepts for new “retro-futuristic” hardware could materialize as soon as next year, echoing the brand’s legacy while looking forward to new product launches. Community Reactions and the Role of AI While Simpson’s vision for Commodore has drawn widespread enthusiasm, it has also ignited debate over the use of generative AI in content production, particularly on the Retro Recipes channel.

Some members of the retro community voiced their apprehension about AI-generated imagery appearing in Simpson’s announcement videos.

In response to this, Simpson distinguished between his YouTube content and the standards set for official Commodore products, assuring fans that the company’s output would remain true to its values and avoid using synthetic visuals in its marketing. Addressing broader concerns, Simpson commented that technology’s evolution, especially AI, has changed the creative landscape.

Reminiscing about the optimism surrounding late '90s technology, he lamented the contemporary trajectory toward artificiality, stating that what once symbolized clarity and hope has now become a source of distraction and concern. On his personal website, Simpson has been transparent about his experimental use of AI for tasks like video thumbnails and occasional AI-generated presenter segments, explaining that it aids in balancing content creation with personal demands.

As the debate around generative AI intensifies—with legal action underway from Disney and Universal against services like Midjourney—the Commodore relaunch finds itself at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. A Legendary Brand’s New Chapter For gaming industry professionals and retro fans alike, the Commodore name carries enormous weight.

Once a dominant force in computing and interactive entertainment, the company’s C64 and Amiga platforms sold millions and inspired an enduring wave of classic games.

Following a series of business setbacks, Commodore dissolved in 1994, with its assets migrating through various owners over subsequent decades.

While Commodore’s Amiga brand was spun off and is not part of Simpson’s acquisition, efforts to license it for future projects remain possible. Simpson’s broader plans include launching charitable initiatives like Commodore Care, bringing the spirit of the brand to underprivileged communities, and even building a Commodore Arcade within the UK’s Caudwell Children’s HQ.

As the retro hardware reboot takes shape, gaming industry observers will be watching closely to see how Simpson’s leadership honors the past while navigating contemporary industry controversies. For now, the Commodore community can look forward to a new era: one led by seasoned enthusiasts committed to reviving a legendary brand for the modern age.

AI Commodore Retro Recipes Christian Simpson Bil Herd Albert Charpentier Michael Tomczyh David Plesance James Harrison Thomas Middleditch Midjourney Disney Universal MrBeast