New QuickShot II Joystick 2026 Costs £29.99 for 80s Gaming Fans

The QuickShot II joystick, popular in the 1980s, is back for £29.99. It has a USB connection for modern computers.
By Newsroom | Gaming, Technology |

The return of the QuickShot II joystick marks a significant event for retro gaming enthusiasts. This device, once a staple for home computer users in the 1980s, has been re-released, promising to recapture the feel of past gaming eras while integrating with contemporary systems. The revival caters to a generation that experienced its formative years with classic consoles and home computers, offering a chance to reconnect with beloved games through familiar hardware.

The QuickShot II joystick review – 80s clicks and waggles lovingly recreated - 1

The QuickShot II's Resurgence: From Nostalgia to Modern Play

The QuickShot II joystick, a device deeply associated with the golden age of 1980s home computing, has been brought back into the market. This revival, led by brands like Retro Games Ltd. and facilitated by partnerships with distributors such as PLAION REPLAI, aims to blend the nostalgic charm of the original with the demands of modern gaming setups. The new TheQuickshot II is presented not merely as a replica, but as an accessible peripheral designed for today's PCs.

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  • The original QuickShot II was a prominent controller for systems like the Commodore 64, Amiga, ZX Spectrum, Atari ST, and Amstrad CPC.

  • Its return is timed for release in late 2025 and early 2026.

  • The re-release emphasizes an affordable price point, cited at £29.99 (approximately $40), positioning it as an impulse purchase or a thoughtful gift for retro gaming fans.

Design and Features: Bridging Eras

The re-engineered QuickShot II seeks to replicate the feel and functionality of its 1980s predecessor. Key design elements have been preserved, while crucial modern adaptations have been made to ensure compatibility and usability.

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  • The new model retains the iconic red buttons and the overall form factor that allows it to be gripped firmly.

  • A notable feature carried over is the use of suckers on the base, intended to affix the joystick to a flat surface, evoking the setup practices of the era.

  • Unlike its predecessor, the revived QuickShot II connects via a USB cable, a standard for modern computers. The cable length has also been extended to 1.8 meters for greater flexibility.

  • While the original was known for its basic function, the new version includes six additional function keys on its base, offering more input options for contemporary games or emulators.

  • Reports suggest the inclusion of micro-switches for enhanced precision and responsiveness, a potential upgrade from the original's components.

  • The original's auto-fire function appears to be maintained in the new iteration.

"The Quickshot II original is one of the most recognizable joysticks of the home computer era. It's a return to the roots, a sincere tribute to a time when every game was an adventure, and every controller a tool for performance." - Paul Andrews, General Manager of Retro Games Ltd.

Authenticity vs. Modern Demands: A Delicate Balance

The success of the QuickShot II revival hinges on its ability to satisfy both purists seeking an authentic 80s experience and gamers who require modern conveniences.

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  • While the QuickShot II aimed for a distinct gaming sensation, it is noted that more robust controllers like the Competition Pro were available for users prioritizing ruggedness and precision in the 1980s.

  • The new model's additional buttons and USB connectivity address modern requirements, but some may question whether these additions dilute the intended retro purity.

  • The Guardian's review suggests that this joystick is not intended for serious modern gaming, implying its appeal lies in its historical context and the unique experience it offers rather than high-performance capability.

Target Audience and Market Reception

The re-release appears strategically targeted at individuals with a direct connection to 80s gaming culture.

  • The joystick is seen as a companion piece for an 80s retro setup, suitable for emulating classic games on platforms like the Commodore 64.

  • Early reception indicates that the QuickShot II name still holds considerable recognition and resonance among consumers, leading to expectations of strong initial sales.

  • The affordability of the product further broadens its accessibility, making it an attractive option for both seasoned retro gamers and newcomers looking to explore the era's hardware.

Conclusion: A Nostalgic Companion for a New Age

The TheQuickshot II represents a deliberate effort to reintroduce an iconic piece of gaming history to a new generation of players, while still offering familiar touches to those who remember it fondly. Its blend of vintage design, updated connectivity, and accessible pricing positions it as a notable release within the growing retro gaming market. The inclusion of modern features like extra buttons and USB connectivity indicates an awareness of contemporary gaming needs, even as the core aesthetic and tactile experience remain rooted in the 1980s. Whether it fully captures the "magic" of its predecessor for every player remains a subjective point, but its return undeniably provides a tangible link to a formative period in video game history.

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Sources Used

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will the new QuickShot II joystick be available?
The new QuickShot II joystick is planned for release in late 2025 and early 2026. It will be available for about £29.99, making it an affordable option for retro gaming fans.
Q: What is the QuickShot II joystick and why is it coming back?
The QuickShot II was a popular joystick in the 1980s for home computers like the Commodore 64. It's being re-released to let people play old games with a classic feel on modern PCs.
Q: How does the new QuickShot II joystick connect to computers?
The new QuickShot II joystick uses a standard USB cable to connect to modern computers. This is different from the original, which used older connectors.
Q: What features does the new QuickShot II joystick have?
The new QuickShot II joystick keeps the old look and feel, including red buttons and suckers to stick it down. It also has a longer 1.8-meter USB cable, six extra function keys, and an auto-fire function.
Q: Who is the new QuickShot II joystick for?
This joystick is mainly for people who loved gaming in the 1980s and want to play those old games again. It's also for new gamers interested in experiencing retro gaming hardware.
Q: Is the new QuickShot II joystick good for modern games?
The new QuickShot II joystick is designed more for the feel of 80s gaming and playing classic games. While it has some modern features like extra buttons, it may not be the best choice for playing fast-paced, modern video games that need very precise controls.