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ZX Spectrum Vega+ will ship on time, developer claims amid doubts

Oi, where's my retro games console?

Retro Computers, the biz behind the Sinclair-compatible ZX Spectrum Vega+ handheld console, is rebutting claims by critics that the gizmo will not be ready in time for its target launch date.

Earlier this week, Retro Computers announced to the world that the ZX Spectrum Vega+ is to get an official launch on October, as reported by El Reg, and will be available to purchase in the run-up to Christmas.

This sparked claims from some sources alleging that Retro Computers and its manufacturing partner SMS Electronics had not actually got as far as building any hardware, and that the October date was effectively going to be nothing more than a paper launch.

We took these concerns to Retro Computers, which denied that there would be any delay in bringing the ZX Spectrum Vega+ to market.

A spokesperson told The Register the device was already being manufactured in small quantities, with volume production due to come on-stream in time for Christmas. We asked for more info on the status of the project, and are still waiting for them to get back to us.

This wrangling over the ZX Spectrum Vega+ launch appears to be the fallout from a spat between Retro Computers and two former senior staffers. Essentially, two directors left the company earlier this year citing concerns over the state of the Spectrum Vega+ project and the financial resources of the company.

For its part, Retro Computers said at the time their claims were inaccurate.

All of this casts a dark shadow over what should be the fun launch of a retro gaming system for those of us with fond memories of the original 1980s ZX Spectrum.

The ZX Spectrum Vega+ itself is claimed to be compatible with all your old favourite Spectrum games and will ship with 1,000 licensed games installed. Pricing for the device has yet to be confirmed.

However, the Indiegogo crowdfunding page that raised the funds for the Spectrum Vega+ still states that the first production run of “classic black” devices will be available in September. Perhaps anyone who stumped up the £100 to receive one of these can let us know if it has arrived yet? ®

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