Recently, the Commodore History Museum shared an exciting unboxing of classic Commodore 64 games, hardware, and rare finds, including a unique piece of software history from New Zealand.
Inside the package, an assortment of Commodore 64 treasures emerged: games, manuals, cartridges, and even a VIC-20 RAM expansion cartridge. From classics like Avenger and Beach-Head to lesser-known gems, every item had a story to tell. A collection of original tapes, some without cases, added to the authenticity and charm of the haul.
One standout was Combat Lynx, a compilation tape that shows the affordability-focused gaming experience. These collections were often a mixed bag of hits and misses, but they brought hours of fun to players on a budget.
For many, names like Lemonade Stand and Ghosts ’n Goblins were a flashback to hours spent mastering tricky controls and cheering for every hard-earned victory.
The real highlight of the haul was a New Zealand-made program called Paint Pick. Described by its creators as “Photoshop before Photoshop,” Paint Pick was revolutionary for its time, offering a creative tool that enabled users to produce striking digital artwork on the Commodore 64.
This rare find wasn’t just software—it represented a piece of New Zealand’s computer history. The museum curator had been on the hunt for this specific program for years. As an added bonus, the package included artwork from the original creators.
Retro collecting is more than finding rare games—it’s about preserving a legacy. This haul wasn’t just a personal treasure; it was a step toward documenting the history of Commodore computers in New Zealand. Every tape, cartridge, and manual speaks to a time when gaming and computing were simpler but no less revolutionary.
Whether it’s the evocative soundtrack of Formula 1 Simulator or the forgotten innovation of Paint Pick, these items keep the Commodore 64’s spirit alive for future generations.
The Commodore History Museum has hinted at future deep dives into its collection, including a dedicated video exploring Paint Pick and the incredible artwork it made possible. Stay tuned for more insights into the history and culture of one of the most iconic computers ever created.
