Retro Rocket is retro in philosophy, not in hardware. It’s designed to feel like a classic 1980s computer, but it runs on modern enough PCs so you don’t have to fight with obscure legacy quirks. We draw the line at 2012-era hardware: if your machine is newer than that, you’re in safe territory.

Minimum

CPU: 64-bit processor from 2012 or later (e.g. AMD FX-4300, Intel Core i5-3570)
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Boot Device: CD-ROM/DVD-ROM or UEFI USB stick
Storage: 32 GB SATA or NVMe hard drive/SSD (Retro Rocket itself fits in <1 GB, but smaller disks are impractical)
Graphics: Built-in/onboard graphics (Intel or AMD) are fine - no special card required
Input: PS/2 or USB keyboard (mouse optional)

Memory: 8 GB RAM or more
Boot Device: CD-ROM/DVD-ROM or UEFI USB stick
Storage: 120 GB+ SSD
Graphics: Intel HD 4000 integrated graphics or newer, or any discrete GPU
Network: Ethernet adapter (Intel e1000, Realtek 8139, Intel 82541PI) for downloads and updates
Sound: Built-in PC audio (HD Audio or AC’97) for music and sound output

Note: IDE/PATA drives and very old BIOS-only PCs are not supported. Anything older than 2012 may still boot, but is outside the target. Retro Rocket doesn’t aim to support vintage hardware - it’s about the retro experience on practical modern machines.

Minimum

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