
ZUIKI launched the X68000 Z a short time ago, a micro-console tribute to the Japanese home computer of the same name, originally made by Sharp.
The firm recently announced that two new (and larger) X68000 Z models are on the way this year—the X68000 Z Super and X68000 Z XVI—but, unlike the original, these might actually get a Western release.
ZUIKI has launched a web form which allows "outside of the Japan" to register their interest in the system.
"We are currently exploring the possibility of selling the X68000 Z outside Japan," says ZUIKI. "If you live outside Japan and are interested in the X68000 Z, please let us know by filling out [this form]. Additionally, if you know of any communities with a strong interest in the X68000 Z, we would greatly appreciate your help in spreading the word."
The X68000 Z Super features the same SoC and memory as its predecessor (the X68000 Z), but is slightly larger (227mm x width 96mm x depth 169mm) and introduces Wi-Fi communication, as well as additional SCSI, MIDI, and D-Sub ports. A ‘Nano-ITX’ motherboard can also be built in, making it possible to double-boot with Windows. Meanwhile, the X68000 Z XVI features a new SOC chip as well as an increased memory capacity and all of the improvements included with the X68000 Z Super.
Both machines were made available for pre-order on the Japanese crowdfunding website Kibidango during February, with the X68000 Z Super costing 59,800 yen while the X68000 Z XVI is offered in multiple SKUs, starting at 74,800 yen and going all the way up to 680,000 yen.
Would you be interested in buying one of these models? Let us know by voting and posting in the comments below.
International players, would you buy a X68000 Z system? (443 votes)
- Yes
- No
- Yes, but I live in Japan0.9%
- Yes, but I'll just import one
- I don't know either way at this stage
[source kibidango.com]
Comments 17
It depends on the quality of the games included. I think it would help if it’s easy to use, with the plug and play nature of other mini consoles.
Done and done! I've been following these from Canada and would LOVE an ability to buy one without importing, which costs a fortune for us.
I would be interested, but not at that price
I sent them my note of interest. I love older computers and the X68000 has always been interesting to me. Here's hoping that a worldwide release happens!
No, but only because I’m lucky enough to have a real one
Yes always wanted a Sharp x68000 but the price is way to much. Unfortunately these new ones aren't much better, very pricey especially with the only option to import. If they can release in the UK at a reasonable price I'm in.
No thanks.
Back in the day the X68000 had fantasic arcade conversions and some brilliant Japanese text heavy games.
But now, the conversions are pointless because of MAME and unless they are going to provide translation patched games then the whole thing is pointless.
It's probably good to remind people that this isn't your normal plug and play retro system. This is a heavy duty recreation of the original X68000 system. You can plug in a SCSI CD-ROM drive and a Roland SoundCanvas and have largely the same experience as the early 90s. You also need to have some familiarity with the OS used on these. It's a serious bit of kit.
Do I want one? Yes. Can I afford one? Unsure. Can I get my money's worth? I doubt that. I think a lot of international customers will fit in that box with me.
If it's over $1000 again. You can go F yourself. If it's reasonably priced, say sub $150. Came with a usb controller that worked in normal linux pc's. Then also had a set of games I cared about playing. Then I would be all in. Games - AKUMAJOU DRACULA - Balloon Fight - Buster - Marble Madness - Pac land - Pac mania
This will be approx. $500-700 at least. Be careful though non Japanese users have not been treated well at all on the Zuiki site.
@SteveFox the last one was $450-750 depending on model
The option to buy Nano-ITX boards is very interesting and potentially expands the use-case for this hardware significantly.
My only concern would be it's very difficult to find Nano-ITX boards, so longer term support would rely on the company staying in business to support the specific boards for this unit.
Yes please! This would be a crazy and fun gaming and computer adventure to go on.
Would I love to own one, especially with English menus? Yes, absolutely.
Would I pay roughly the same price as a PlayStation 5 Pro for one? Not in a million years
It would need an english os and english translations for the games.
@avcrypt Same here. It's a very VERY niche product outside Japan. It'd ruin my finances and be little more than a toy/curio for me too.
I'd still buy it though. in a heartbeat.
@avcrypt these are all valid points that everyone considering this system needs to be fully aware of. Thank you for pointing this out! Video Game Esoterica had a recent video covering this system and discussed this as well
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