My Retro Consoles

My Retro Computer and Console Collection

Over the years, I have gradually built up a collection of retro computers and games consoles.

Some were bought purely for nostalgia, while others have become repair projects, upgrade experiments, or subjects for videos and blog posts. I enjoy using the machines, but I am just as interested in understanding how they work, restoring them, and finding modern ways to make them easier to use.

This page is a record of the systems currently in my collection. I will update it as machines are repaired, upgraded, added, or featured in future projects.

Acorn BBC Model B

Model B with Sideways Rom

Quantity: Two

The BBC Model B is one of the main focuses of my retro-computing collection.

These machines are particularly interesting because of their expandability, excellent documentation, and close connection with electronics and computer education in the United Kingdom. This was one of the first computers I used when I was young.

Neither of these machines worked when I first purchused them.

I have already completed several BBC Micro projects, including:

  • Repairing and inspecting the machines

  • Re-Capping the power supplies

  • Installing a Sideways ROM board

  • Installing Sideways RAM

  • Using MMFS for SD-card storage

  • Experimenting with DFS

  • Installing and testing utility ROMs

  • Programming in BBC BASIC

Another BBC Model B with Sideways Ram

There are still plenty of BBC Model B projects planned, including hardware builds, programming tutorials, storage accessories, and possibly a home-built second processor.

I also have some old school joysticks for this which need repairing, the return springs are broken

Joysticks to repair

Commodore 64

Quantity: Two

I currently own two Commodore 64 computers.



One has been repaired after some minor power issues, basic recapping and cleaning. This loads and stores games well from a Tape drive.

The second Commodore 64 is currently waiting to be repaired, it has a memory address fault and requires in depth diagnosis.

The Commodore 64 is an important part of home-computer history and provides an interesting contrast with the design of the BBC Micro.

Atari 520 STFM

The Atari 520 STFM represents the next generation of home computers after the BBC Micro and Commodore 64.

Atari 520 STFM


When I first got this, the floppy disk drive wasn't working, I took it all apart and cleaned it up. Found a few missing screws and connections. Put everything in its correct place and it worked first time.

With its Motorola 68000 processor, graphical operating environment, built-in floppy drive, and strong connection with music production, the Atari ST family remains an interesting system to explore.


Sega Master System II

The Sega Master System II is one of the earliest dedicated games consoles in my collection.

Sega Master System 2


I have a lot of games for this and also the light gun, however I don't currently have a CRT TV to use this

Sega Mega Drive II

The Sega Mega Drive II is one of Sega's most recognisable 16-bit consoles.

Sega Mega Drive 2

Again I have a lot of games for this and also the light gun, however I don't currently have a CRT TV to use this. Maybe in the future I'll be able to get one again.

Sony PlayStation

PlayStation 1

The original PlayStation marked a major change in console gaming, helping to popularise 3D graphics and CD-based games.

PlayStation 1
This was in a poor condition when I pulled it out of the garage as I had forgotten about it. But I cleaned this up and got it working again making a nice edition to my collection.

PlayStation 3

The PlayStation 3 is a much more modern system, but it is now old enough to be an interesting restoration and preservation project and every now and then needs a little maintenance.

PlayStation 3

PlayStation 4

The PlayStation 4 is one of the newer consoles in the collection and is still practical for everyday gaming.

PlayStation 4

I also have the VR headset and equipment for this

Xbox Series X

The Xbox Series X is currently the newest and most powerful console in my collection.

XBox Series X

Although it is not a retro console, including it provides an interesting comparison between modern systems and the older computers and consoles that came before it.

The enormous difference in processing power, storage, graphics, networking, and physical design shows how much home gaming technology has changed.

Nintendo Wii

The Nintendo Wii took a very different approach from many competing consoles by focusing on motion controls and accessible multiplayer gaming.

Nintendo Wii

A few different accessories I have for this console include: -

  • Wii Fit Balance Board
  • Steering wheel

Future Additions

There are several other systems I would eventually like to add to the collection.

Possible additions include:

  • ZX Spectrum

  • Atari 2600

  • Nintendo Entertainment System

  • Super Nintendo Entertainment System

  • Nintendo Game Boy

  • Sega Saturn

  • Sega Dreamcast

  • Original Xbox

  • PlayStation 2

I am particularly interested in machines that can become practical electronics, restoration, programming, or 3D-printing projects rather than simply sitting on a shelf.

Final Thoughts

My collection is still relatively small compared with some dedicated retro collections, but every machine has been chosen because it is interesting to use, repair, modify, or learn from.

For me, retro computing is not just about nostalgia. It is a practical way to explore electronics, programming, engineering, design, and the history of technology.

As the collection grows, I hope to document each machine in more detail and share everything I learn along the way.




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