For those interested in the early days of home computing, there's one for you. U.K.-based Retro Games will be releasing the Atari 400 Mini, a modern take on the Atari 400 home computer that replicates the classic Atari CX-40 joystick. The beauty of this system is.

The system is a miniaturized version of the classic 8-bit Atari 400, released in 1979 and in many ways the first gaming PC. It had dedicated graphics and sound co-processors, upgradeable memory, plug-and-play peripherals, and a membrane keyboard. It was hailed as ahead of its time, but strong competition from Apple, Commodore, and Tandy prevented widespread adoption. In addition, the software ecosystem was largely closed, which prevented development by third-party programmers. As a result, Atari's 8-bit system rapidly declined in the early 1980s.

The 400 Mini can emulate Atari's entire 8-bit series and the 5200 console; it comes preloaded with 25 games, with more to be added via USB. Preloaded games include classics such as Berzerk, Boulder Dash, Lee, Millipede, Miner 2049er, M.U.L.E., and Star Raiders II.

It can output 720p video at 50Hz and 60Hz via HDMI and has five USB ports. The keyboard would be too small for real typing, but the system supports an external keyboard so you can fiddle with the BASIC programming language if you want.

According to Retro Games, the 400 Mini supports the latest USB game controllers. There is also a rewind mode, which allows you to rewind 30 seconds of gameplay, giving you a chance to beat a particularly nasty level. Using it is not a crime.

Retro Games has a history of releasing remakes of classic games. They are the company that developed the Commodore 64 Mini and the Amiga 500 Mini. The latter was my first real foray into computing, and I remember arguing with a friend at the time that the Amiga was better than the PC. As history will attest, I ended up on the losing side of that argument.

The 400 Mini will be available exclusively on Amazon UK on March 28 for £100. Nostalgists will appreciate the price.