Quickshot II Joystick Returns With Modern USB Revival

The Quickshot II, one of the most widely used joysticks of the 1980s and 1990s home-computer era, is making a return. Retro Games Ltd. has announced the Quickshot II, a modern re-release of the classic controller, priced at £29.99 (~$40 USD) and launching on Jan. 30, 2026, with pre-orders now open.

The original Quickshot II was a staple for players on the ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, Commodore Amiga, Atari ST, and Amstrad CPC, particularly across the UK and Europe, where joysticks were the standard way to play computer games. 

Its flight-stick profile, red fire buttons, and auto-fire switch made it a common sight throughout the 8-bit and 16-bit era.

Retro Games Ltd., which has previously released modern recreations of the ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, Amiga 500, and Atari 400, as well as controllers and gamepads, is bringing the joystick back as part of its expanding retro hardware lineup. 

The release also aligns with the company’s upcoming A1200, a full-size Amiga 1200 replica with a working keyboard, 25 pre-installed games, and USB ROM support.

Quickshot II USB Joystick Features and Compatibility

The Quickshot II retains the look and core feel of the original while updating it for modern systems, featuring two red fire buttons on the stick and six function buttons on the base to support games beyond the one- or two-button layouts common in earlier decades. 

The joystick also keeps its auto-fire function and suction cups for stability on flat surfaces.

All directional and fire inputs use microswitches for improved accuracy, while the legacy DE-9 connector has been replaced with a USB-A connection for compatibility with Retro Games Ltd.’s systems, PCs, and other USB-supported devices such as Raspberry Pi setups. A 1.8-meter cable supports modern living room use and larger displays.

“The original Quickshot II is one of the most recognizable controllers of the home-computer era,” said Paul Andrews, managing director at Retro Games Ltd., describing the re-release as a balance between authenticity and modern reliability.

As younger generations embrace 1990s fashion, design sensibilities, and analog aesthetics, the joystick’s return highlights the continued interest in classic hardware that allows retro games to be played as they were originally designed, while fitting seamlessly into today’s gaming setups.