ZX Spectrum revived through crowdfunding

Gaming pioneer Clive Sinclair is working with company called Retro Computers to revive the classic console

Clive Sinclair is bringing the classic Sinclair ZX Spectrum back to life, funding the revival through crowdfunding site Indiegogo.

The computer is being re-launched as the Sinclair Spectrum Vega, which re-builds the original console released in 1982 but using cheap, modern parts. It will be able to run all 14,000 of the games that were released while the original console was being sold and will be played through a TV.

The device is being marketed by Retro Computers, a Luton-based company which Clive Sinclair, the console’s creator, is a shareholder in.

Development of the product is complete. The Indiegogo campaign, which is looking to raise £100,000, will fund the development.

Rewards on Indiegogo begin with thanks, for £5 donations, and go all the way to receiving the only 3D model of the Vega for £1,000. The latter reward has already been claimed.

Backers of £100 or more can choose to become the owner of the one of the first 1,000 limited edition consoles. At the time of writing, 244 of the first 1,000 had been claimed.

The company is working with the owners of the rights to the software that will be available in the game to donate part of the royalties to Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children. The hospital will receive 10% of the selling price of each computer.