The goal here is simple: help people actually use and experience older computing systems today, rather than just read about them.

Background

I started on a ZX Spectrum in the early 1980s — BASIC first, then Z80 machine code once the limits became obvious. From there came Amstrad PCs, DOS machines, and a long run of tinkering with whatever was around.

More recently that’s meant a ZX Spectrum Next, an RC2014, a few retro handhelds, and a lot of time getting DOS games running reliably on modern hardware. The interest has always been in what you can actually do with the machines, not just owning them.

There is also an ongoing interest in hardware projects and system-level programming, particularly around older architectures.

What this site covers

Retro Compute focuses on practical, hands-on retro computing topics, including:

  • Running DOS games on modern systems
  • Compatibility and setup guides for classic PC titles
  • Retro computing systems (ZX Spectrum, Amstrad, etc.)
  • Emulation setups on modern hardware and handheld devices
  • Software and game preservation through accessible tools
  • Occasional programming and system-level exploration

The emphasis is always on what still works today and how to get it running.

Games and software

A significant part of this site covers classic PC and console software, particularly DOS-era games.

Where relevant, articles may reference modern digital distribution platforms such as GOG, which provide legal ways to run many classic titles on current systems.

Some pages may include links to external stores or platforms (such as GOG or Amazon). These links may generate a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This helps support hosting and ongoing work on the site.

Note

This is a personal project and is not affiliated with any of the companies or platforms mentioned on the site.

Elsewhere on the web

If you’re looking for more retro games to play, oldgame.cz has a large archive of classic titles playable straight in the browser.

Contact

If you have questions, corrections, or suggestions, feel free to get in touch:

hello [at] retrocompute.co.uk