Maingear has unveiled its Retro98 gaming PC, a nostalgia-driven build that evokes the look and feel of late-1990s towers while packing the hardware necessary to handle modern AAA games. The beige chassis recalls an era of turbo buttons, LED fan-speed displays, and power-lockout keys, making it instantly recognizable to gamers who grew up with systems from that period. The Retro98’s front I/O is concealed behind the Maingear logo, further adding to its vintage appeal. Despite its retro styling, the PC is far from a relic, combining aesthetics with high-end performance.
Inside, the Retro98 features options for up to a Ryzen 9 9950X3D processor, GeForce RTX 5090 graphics, 64GB of Kingston Fury RAM, and a 4TB Kingston FURY Renegade NVMe Gen5 SSD. The top-tier build, described by Maingear as unapologetically overkill, even includes open-loop liquid cooling for optimal temperature management. The base model starts at $2,499, equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 265K processor and GeForce RTX 5070, while mid-tier builds are priced at $3,499 and $4,999. The fully customized Alpha model with liquid cooling commands $9,799. Maingear notes that these PCs are limited in number, with only 32 standard units and six Alpha units available.
Despite the high price tag, Maingear emphasizes the combination of style, performance, and exclusivity. The Retro98 is designed for gamers who appreciate both the nostalgia of late-90s hardware and the capabilities of contemporary gaming components. For those interested in replicating the build, Maingear suggests using the SilverStone FLP02 tower PC case, which the Retro98 is based on, allowing enthusiasts to construct their own version of the nostalgia-inspired tower.
The Retro98 is available for order directly through Maingear’s website. With its blend of vintage design cues and modern performance, it appeals to gamers who want a visually distinct machine without compromising on power. The limited run ensures exclusivity, while high-end specifications provide the performance necessary to handle current and upcoming AAA titles. By combining retro aesthetics with cutting-edge hardware, Maingear’s Retro98 offers a unique option for those seeking a blend of gaming nostalgia and performance efficiency.
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