The Amiga Makes a Comeback with Stylized Desktop Retro Cases

Back in the mid-80s, Commodore released the Amiga 1000 as direct competition against Apple’s Mac and the Atari ST. It was far superior in almost every way and featured a 16/32-bit Motorola 68000 CPU, an OCS (Original Chip Set) capable of producing 4096 colors (@ 640 X 512i 6-bpp), and a Paula 4x 8-bit chip that could pump-out audio in stereo at 28 kHz.

Roughly 33 years have passed since the Amiga’s introduction, and the desktop PC is still going strong with a large fan base dedicated to rebuilding the popular platform and even expanding on its capabilities. Those looking to complete their Amiga builds and want a more authentic look should perhaps check out Amiga Systems’ Checkmate Amiga A1500 Plus modular computer case.

The case was re-imagined to take advantage of today’s Mini-ITX/MicroATX motherboards but retain a layout that can accommodate the A500, A600, and A1200 Amiga platforms, as well as providing options for the PPC Aeon Tabor A1222 and even Raspberry Pi SBCs.

The case comes in two versions with one tailored to Amiga hardware and the other for MicroATX/Mini-ITX motherboards with the only real difference between the two are the modular back panels and fixing packs. That said, the PC version offers horizontal hardware slots to accommodate video/sound cards and other add-ons. The Amiga version is also equipped with an SFX board with an ATX connector to supply power.

Both versions will come in black or oyster white and have optional add-ons such as different drive bay covers, back panels, and a keyboard riser. Amiga Systems is currently crowdfunding their Checkmate A1500 Plus cases on Kickstarter with pledge prices starting at $209. Those looking to get one will also be able to choose their configurations before it ships around May of 2019.